My 2012 Hyundai Elantra Wont Start

Asked by 2012ElantraGBG Jul 30, 2013 at 09:12 AM about the 2012 Hyundai Elantra GLS FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My 2012 hyundai Elantra GLS would not start this morning.  I was home at 5 pm on the 29th of July  and my car sat till 6:59 am on the 30th of July.  I hit my door unlock on mt Key fab and the doors unlocked fromt here I proceeded start my car. Everything statred but the car. I turned back to the starting position and tried again. Same results. I went in to the house to grabed the number for my dealership to get ready to call them. As I came back out a friend of my neighbor was outside and said that he knew of someone that had the same problem. I tried to start the car and still would not turn over. The Guy that was outside said. "My friend had to push the car and it would start." So i got out of the car and the gentleman push the back of my car. I then got back in the car and try to start it. Amazingly it started. What is going on with my car? This has happen before.  When the tow truck driver tried the car it wouldnt start. We then pushed in nuetral so he can put it on the flat bed. Once moved into the position the key was turned (to get the Milage) and the car started right up. Again what is wrong with my car?

101 Answers

940

My daughter's 2012 elantra limited has had problems the last month randomly not starting and then after a day or two would start. Today after being towed to the dealership it started?!! They said they can find nothing wrong with the car??

94 people found this helpful.
610

My 2012 elantra has run like a champ. No problems until this morning and like you described I got in car as normal everything started except the car. I turned everything off tried again even got the battery jumped by a neighbor's car, nothing? After reading the gently push the car from the rear amazingly the car started. I'm relieved but does Hyundai need to have a recall or something is there a safety issue???

61 people found this helpful.
600

I have been having the same problem with my 2012 Elantra and took it into the dealership for the second time this week. They called their engineers and they said they are just starting to get these complaints in and they have determined most of the time the issue is with a faulty rain sensor, but sometimes it can be the shifter assembly or the shifter assembly cable. My dealership is going to replace all 3 items to be on the safe side since my car is still under warranty. I will let you know if this does not work.

60 people found this helpful.
1,080

I have been having the same problem. The first time it happened, the dealership could find nothing wrong. Tonight, it wouldn't start but then I tried it again and it started, just like the first time. Only, now, I was dropping a friend off at her house and we were sitting for a few minutes while the car was idling. During our conversation, I put it in park and, when I tried to take it out of park, it wouldn't budge. I turned the car off and it acted normally. UGH. I just know that, when I take it in tomorrow, they'll tell me they can't find anything wrong. However, I will tell them about the possibility of a faulty rain sensor, the shifter assembly and the shifter assembly cable. I hope my car is still under warranty at 65K miles!

22 people found this helpful.
210

I had the same problem today. I drove it this morning, reached work. Wanted to go out for lunch and the car just wudn't start. I tried ignition at least 10 times but no response. All the peripherals were getting power i.e. lights, dash, audio system, but no reaction from the engine. I called the dealership, they said I needed a boost. Before doing that, I scratched my head and thought of all peripherals that I can remove that might be taking power from the battery. The first thing that came to my mind was my USB that I use for music. I unplugged the USB and tried one more time and it worked. Took a couple of rounds and now its fine.. Working as normal.

21 people found this helpful.
1,040

My 2012 Hyundai Elantra would not start this morning and this was the third time this has happened starting in May 2014. I hit my door unlock on my Key fab and the doors unlocked from here I proceeded start my car. Everything started but the car. I turned back to the starting position and tried again same results. I waited a few minutes and tried again amazingly it started. What is going on with my car? This has happen before the first time called a tow truck driver and by the time he arrived it started . This was followed by a visit to North County Hyundai in Carlsbad,Ca. Of course the dealership found nothing wrong . Again what is wrong with my car?

64 people found this helpful.
1,080

When my car didn't start and it wouldn't go out of Park, the service dept. figured out it was the transmission range switch. Here is what it says on my receipt: "Removed and replaced the range switch per TSB 12.AT.022.1" I hope this helps!

49 people found this helpful.
2,365

This is a very common issue in the 2011 - 2013 model years of the Elantra. It is almost always an issue with the shift interlock. Check the NHTSA website for a long list of complaints for this specific issue.

58 people found this helpful.
380

I am having the same problem the dealer has the car now and has for a week. My car do not start two times within a week. Hyundai Elantra 2013, they said it could be a "range switch" problem and they are replacing this part. Very scary!

16 people found this helpful.
180

I have now experienced the problem twice. The first time, 3 weeks ago, I tried several times (pushing the ignition button) and it finally started. This morning was different. I had to use a different car to get to a meeting. I spoke today with the dealership and they have heard of the problem but don't know what to do about it. It they can reproduce the problem then they will diagnose it under the warranty, and fix it. However if they can't reproduce the problem, I can pay them $200 to diagnose the issue, with no guarantee that the problem will be fixed. They are willing, if I leave my car at the dealership, to try it a hundred times, pushing the button to see if by chance one of those times it won't start. Has anyone tried to do that to see how reproducible the problem is?

18 people found this helpful.
380

Insist on keeping the loaner until the problem is fixed, mine was the range switch ask them to look at this. Google this with Hyundai and you will see its a common problem.

11 people found this helpful.
1,080

I have not had one problem since they replaced the range switch.

17 people found this helpful.
40

I also have this issue. I find that when I start from the 'engine on' (the second ignition position) the problem is gone. But if I start from the zero position on the starter it doesn't start on the first try (always starts on second try).

4 people found this helpful.
120

My 2012 Elantra - 61000 miles on it, has the same problem. Randomly won't start from the park position (P), but it will from the neutral (N). Took it to the dealer for an oil change and tire change and did it again (while the service person tried to take around for a low tire pressure sensor check). They could not reproduce it but found that my battery was very low. Changed the battery and 3 days after I had the same problem.

12 people found this helpful.
300

I agree with many on this post. I had the issue of my 2012 Elantra not starting. It was the RANGE SWITCH. They really need to do a recall if so many people are experiencing this.

30 people found this helpful.
40

I've been having this same problem with my 2012 Elantra for over a year now. What I have to do to get mine started is yank my parking break up and then put my car into neutral and then start it. And sometimes that doesn't even work and I'll have to wait a few minutes and try it all over again and then it will. I went to AAP and they told me my battery needed replaced but I go to the dealership earlier this week to get my battery changed and they said that the test came back fine and nothing was wrong. I've had to have it towed before too and as soon as my car got to the lot and the employee went to see what was wrong, my car started. I have no idea what it is.

4 people found this helpful.
1,040

Trip up the Central Coast of California and had the starting problem 3 more times. As soon as we made it back home had the car back at Hyundai.This time they replaced THE RANGE SWITCH ,as of right now its been ten days and no problems.........Hope this helps guys and gals

17 people found this helpful.
1,080

Yes, it appears to be the range switch (whatever that is!) that is the problem. Hyundai replaced mine a few weeks ago and I've had no problem since.

17 people found this helpful.
130

My car has been doing this randomly over the past 2 months. I had it in the shop 2 weeks ago and they couldn't figure it out or get it to duplicate. Then last week 2 nights in a row it wouldn't start right away...one of the times I put the E-brake on and off then it started, the other time I jiggled the shifter then it started. But on the 3rd day it didn't start at all! I get it towed to the dealer and it started right up for them the next morning. It is there right now for the second day in a row and still no answers. I even told them I looked online and said a lot of people were having issues and it was the RANGE SWITCH. But he said they just can't change a part out without it leaning in that direction of what is wrong with it. So frustrated and ready to trade this thing in....I haven't even had it a year!!

8 people found this helpful.
110

Sad to say my 2012 Huydai Elantra is currently at the dearlership with the same problem. 3rd failed start, they've had it for two days so far and it starts right up. They don't know what the problem is. The first two times it failed to start on me I waited 3 minutes and it restarted, this time it took a couple of hours and towed to the dealer just to start right up once there. With dozens of people having the same pronlem, they should recall.

10 people found this helpful.
1,040

Make sure you file a complaint with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration !!!!!!!!!

13 people found this helpful.
1,040

It was covered by my warranty ..............

3 people found this helpful.
130

So instead of replacing the range switch two weeks ago they replaced the ignition switch. Haven't had any issues until this morning. .. wouldn't start! Then after a couple minutes it miraculously started but then it was locked in park! I shut it off and restarted it then I was able to get it out of park. So it's back at the dealer for the 3rd time and I have a rental. Let's hope they change the range switch this time! If not I'm ready to trade this thing in!

5 people found this helpful.
1,040

Make sure you file a complaint with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration !!!!!!!!!

7 people found this helpful.
110

Update changed my battery, changed my range switch it stallled the sameday, now changed a electric component in the enegine. I've had it for two days but dosnt feel smooth friving it so far. I wait and see.

1 people found this helpful.
10

I have started having this problem over the last month. I noticed a few days ago that there was a hesitation in the car cranking. I got a call from my wife this morning saying her car won't start. Now I guess after reading this, I will wait it out and make sure I start the car everyday.

1 people found this helpful.
80

Got my share this morning. My 2013 would not start. I did notice hesitation and delay start leading up to this but thought that maybe it was because the car was cold as it was leading to the winter months. After reading comments here I now have a good idea what seems to be the problem. I cannot afford this to happen. They should make a recall and fix the problem because its a good car.

8 people found this helpful.
100

Ha! Exactly same issue happened with my 2013 Hyundai Elantra today morning - I try to start it and it does not crank. Battery is fully charged (lights, horn all work fine). But all three check lights remain on (battery + oil + engine) in 'ACC' position and then when I try to crank the engine, it does not attempt to crank at all. After luckily finding this thread, I tried these things - pushed the car hard from the rear (it hardly budged), shook the gear a few times (it was in Park anyways), kicked the front wheels and also removed a newly added USB drive (actually it was an SD card in disguise of a USB stick). And then tried starting again and Voila it started!!! I dont know what worked, I think it was the pushing that worked and maybe the car was in 'P' but did not think it was in 'P' till i nudged it a little from the rear. Lets hope this never happens again, I will check with the dealer about the 'RANGE SWITCH' issue and get it replaced incase they know about it.

10 people found this helpful.
80

Iam from Dubai and Ive an Elantra 2013 1.8. Iam also facing the same problem, that my car will not start (not always) in "P" position but when I put to "N".... it starts. I understand from above that its a RANGE SWITCH problem. My car is going for the service after few weeks, please advice what all information Ive to give the dealer regarding this issue. Any one got permanently fixed for this issue?

8 people found this helpful.
40

2012 Hyundai Elantra LE. I had the battery replaced in September 2014, beginning November 2014, the car would not start some mornings. Interestingly enough, this seemed to coincide with the colder mornings (those in which the temperature dropped below 40 degrees - i live in TX). I am super frustrated with the dealership. They told me it was a loose negative cable. I asked them when the car doesn't start tomorow, i jump it and bring it back, what they are going to do..they said, if the battery tests positive...nothing. Great service there Eckart Hundyai (Denton, TX).

4 people found this helpful.
10

My 2013 Hyundai was running ok until last night. It was turned on by remove star, and later won't be able to turn off the engine. Called road side support, they could do nothing. The car is still running after 10 hours, as gas is full. Need Waite another 24 hours until gas runs out. As dealer will be open on Monday. :(

1 people found this helpful.
245

so I had the same problem that all of you are having with my Elantra GLS 2012, the problem is in the shift lock, you have to open it up and push the white button in then your car will start. This is a quick fix and will save you money and time fighting with the dealer

18 people found this helpful.
50

I have had the same problem with my 2013 Elantra Limited. Intermttently, the car wouldn't start. I push the starter button and it just keeps on clicking for a few seconds, and that's it. I took it in to the dealer, and they did a battery check. They said (of course) there's noting wrong with it, and handed me the key. The problem has grown progressively worse, and I have to jump it to get it started.

5 people found this helpful.
245

The car is reading that the car is not in park , your best solution would be to release the shift lock and put it in park and restart the car .it should start

6 people found this helpful.
120

I have the EXACT problem most of you had. I tried to start my 2013 Hyundai Elantra this morning and the Battery was clearly fine, nothing. So I get my handbook and still couldn't find nothing. I thought there might an emergency shut off switch but no switch. I couldn't call anyone because today is Sunday and my Dealership is closed. So I came to this forum and WOW! The first thing I do is put my car in neutral without any pushing of the car and it starts right up then I put it in park and shut it off. I tried to start it again and it started right up in park, go figure. I only have 6,000 miles on this car. I am still going to take it to the Dealership because most of you said it is the RANGE SWITCH or SHIFT INTERLOCK. I don't know what those are yet but I will. I also know this though, in my 2013 Owner's Handbook Supplement guide has a LEMON LAW where Hyuandai offers customers' resolution through AUTO LINE a program by the BBB to resolve your concerns free of cost. In some cases they even would have to give you a new car if this problem continues to happen after repairs have been made. First you would have to call Hyuandai Customer Connect Center: 1 (800) 633 - 5151 and then BBB Auto Line at 1 (800) 955 - 5100 to get more information. Thank you everyone for the tips and good luck to everyone. Like I said though I just put my car in neutral and it started right up of course don't forget to turn the key until all the light come on so you can put it neutral.

12 people found this helpful.
10

My 2013 élantra had the same problem. It won't started twice in this week. So many people complain the same issue, talk about the quality of the car, Hyundai car company really have to solve that problem

1 people found this helpful.
140

I have a 2011 Elantra with 89,000 miles with same issue. Dealer thought it was either the starter or something else that didn't make sense. They couldn't get me in for 5 days and it was going to cost me $200 to fix what they think it is. . I read this thread and someone mentioned to google "Range switch and Hyundai" and I got this link: http://www.autoserviceprofessional.com/article/92993/hyundai-no-start-or-funky-shifts .It shows what it is and how to replace it. I went to an auto parts store but said the part is only available at a Hyundai Dealer. So I wernt to the dealer and purchased the Inhibitor Switch (Range Switch) Part 42700-26500 for part was $36.26, within an hour I had the part in and car starts like it should.

14 people found this helpful.
20

This happened to me while a friend and I were off-road and no tow- trucks were willing to come help us. A kind stranger worked on my battery for an hour before it finally started! I'm trading it in.. I never want to be stranded late at night like that ever again!

2 people found this helpful.
70

I have the same problem, it's happened three times now, today it started after turning the key about six times. I did take it in to the dealer after the second time and of course it didn't do it so they did nothing. The assistant manager said well at least you have roadside assistance so when it doesn't start at all you can have it towed in. Really??? What kind of service is that? I filed a complaint with the National Highway Safety department asking them to push to have a recall so everyone can get the range switch replaced.

7 people found this helpful.
215

This just happened to me on 6/7/2015. All alarm and interior electronic functions worked as expected, but the car would not turn over. Tried multiple times, finally gave up. Thought I would google it, to see if others had this experience. I luckily found this thread, went to garage and just wiggled the shifter, car started right up. I also found this on YouTube, which demonstrates my problem 100% https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sx4hJhiiL3Y After getting the car started, I remembered I had just received a service notification, so went to this website, as directed by the notice: www.HyundaiUSA.com/Campaign933 Once there, I entered my VIN number, to verify my vehicle qualified for this service campaign. This was the result: Your Vehicle is Affected. Your vehicle is affected by the Elantra Shifter Cable service campaign. To schedule an appointment with your preferred Hyundai Dealer, please enter your zip code below. Hyundai is conducting a service campaign to verify the connection between the shifter cable and gear selector’s shift lever on certain 2011-2013 model year Hyundai Elantra vehicles. Your Hyundai dealer will verify the connection between the cable and shift lever pin and install a clip on the shift lever pin as a supplemental method of securing the cable. This procedure will be performed at no charge to you. Hope this info helps you.... Steve T

14 people found this helpful.

My 2013 has not started twice now Taken to the dealers twice It's starts after they keep it and they have no idea what is wrong. My warranty ends in a few hundred. I know it will do it again. Last time the tow guy put it in nueteral to tow it.... I guess I'll try that next time it won't start.

10

My 2012 Elandra GS would not start. Printed out all the posts from otherswith the same problem to the Calif local dealer. They could not find the problem but they changed this and that, 3 things, including the range switch, etc.. all mentioned here anyway. Next day my car didn't start again! Then I got a bright idea maybe it was the battery in the 'proxmity key'. I changed it and my car worked for about 3 months. Now today my car won't start again! The buttons on my key remote won't light up. I read there is no key hole to use the key inside the black fob. Then I read push the button with the black key fob. Nothing works. TIME FOR RECALL HYUNDAI!!!

1 people found this helpful.
20

I have had this problem off and on with my 2013 Elantra. Sometimes I use the key fob next to the push button and it starts, I've also had a new battery placed in my key fob. It did better for a couple if months. It wouldn't start again this morning and I had to get a ride to work. Totally screwed my day! I'm curious to see if it will start when I get home. The dealership can never find anything wrong. Totally frustrated!! I'll try sharing this information on here with them and see what happens. I agree that it's time for a recall.

2 people found this helpful.

Hi there, I have a 2013 Veloster that I bought July 31, last year. I have had this problem now for about 2 weeks with it eventually starting. Yet this morning - nothing. I guess it would/could be the same issue? Are these things covered under the original warranty?

215

Follow up to my post from 2 months ago. I have not had any issues with the car not starting since I had the repair done for: www.HyundaiUSA.com/Campaign933 For those of you that are having starting issues; when you turn the key, does the letter of the gear you are in display (P, R,N, D,etc). When I was having this issue, the gear would not display even though everything else was lit. I would turn off the key, wiggle shifter, turn the tires, etc. then try the key again and the gear would display. Once the gear displayed, the car would start. I have not had to do this since Hyundai installed the clip mentioned in the campaign. All repairs were covered under warranty.

7 people found this helpful.
10

My car is doing the same thing as everyone mentioned. it stopped starting on last night and after 2 or 3 tries it started. It did the same thing this morning and after a few tries it started again. I did follow the instructions from JHAWKZ and went to the campaign link and my 2012 Hyundai Elantra Limited is affected. I just set my appt up. We'll see what happens.

1 people found this helpful.
10

It happened to my car as well, Hyundai Elantra 2012. My car experience all those (car not starting, won't start, shifter stuck on N D only, the letter of the gear not showing on display (P, R,N, D,etc), even now experiencing rattling loud sound under dashboard on driver side. Now i'm at the dealer to see what they said. I told HyundaiUSA have Campaign933, funny they said is only campaign not RECALL!!!.....TIME FOR RECALL HYUNDAI!!! don't let driver&passanger crash, die because of this!!!! Take action now HyundaiUSA!!!

1 people found this helpful.
20

i have called the towing company twice with my Elantra 2011...It is a trick with the start button...I think you push it in and hold it , and do it 3 times and then it starts....The first tow person showed me and of course I forgot, so the second time I did it by mistake...I would like to know the exact process so I dont get caught in 107 degree weather again

2 people found this helpful.

I have a 2013 Hyundai Elantra Limited. Left it with jValet parking for a couple days and they had to jump it to start it. I had this happen a couple times before. I replicated the problem on purpose. Shut the car off, stepped on the brake a couple times and got out. Next morning it wouldn't start. Jumped it and it started. Did this test two days in a row. I have an apt with the dealer next week. It will probably help to know how to replicate the problem. Something is drawing on the battery overnight.

20

Just brought my car to the dealer and they say it's a faulty inhibitor switch...needed to be replaced. $325. Look online for You Tube video 2013 Elantra Hyundai and you will see what you are experiencing and it also was diagnosed as the inhibitor switch.

2 people found this helpful.
10

I am having the same problem with my 2012 Hyundai Elantra not starting. It has happened to me 3 days in a row now, when I get in it to leave for work in the morning. I also keep my shiftlock cap off and have a screw driver I stick inside and hold it down to pop it into neutral, and I move it just a little and it starts right up. Know I know what to tell the dealer when I take it in. Range switch or shift interlock is what I'll tell them. Next time I'll try just popping it into neutral and without moving it, see if it starts then.

1 people found this helpful.
120

Our 2012 Elantra has been having this starting problem for 3 years. The dealer can't find the problem to resolve it. I went online as suggested to hyundaiusa.com/campaign933 and when I entered my VIN it replied "Your vehicle is NOT affected." I would have thought all 2011-2013 Elantras would be affected, since so many of us are having the same issue. We have generally been able to get it started after forcibly wiggling the gear shift from park to neutral. Not an easy task & most stressful. I am going to send out complaints to try to instigate a recall!

2 people found this helpful.
20

Since I replaced the inhibitor switch I have not had any problems aka relay switch. I'm telling you that is the issue and Hyundai should have a recall

10

I own a Hyundai 2013 Elantra and I've had the same issue several times already. The whole point of buying a new car is to avoid the lemon car issues. I'm now stuck with making payments towards it and spending extra money trying to fix this very common issue. I have written to corporate asking them to recall the car, because it poses a safety issue. I suggest that all of you write to corporate as well and maybe if they hear from several of us we can get them to recall these cars. https://www.hyundaiusa.com/contact-us-thanks.aspx? fname=peggy&email=peggy_ferrer@yahoo.com&zip=92801&sel ectedModel=N&subject=recalls%20campaigns

1 people found this helpful.
20

Just had this problem two times of my 2012 car not starting. Took it to the dealer and when I described the problem and how when I just happened to knock the gear shift when it was in park and it started, the tech immediately thought he knew what the problem was. After the car was inspected, he was right. The Transmission Range Sensor malfunctioned. The car wasn't recognizing that it was in park therefore wasn't starting. One of the things to look for with this issue is checking to see if the gear lights are lighting up on the dash. Mine was not and I never noticed. Fortunately my issue was still under warranty

2 people found this helpful.
20

I just took it to the dealer for the same thing! Last month they told me it was the battery, even though everything worked except starting the car. Now I took it back in today for the EXACT same thing 5 weeks from putting in the new battery. NOW they say it is the starter. I tell them everything it is doing, and how people are talking about the Range Switch, and they told me No it is the starter. They are trying to hide this problem and not facing up to it. They will not even give me a credit on the Battery That I did not need. NOT HAPPY!!

2 people found this helpful.
120

We finally contacted the Hyundai Customer Connect Center, consumeraffiars@hmusa.com ... and they did seem willing to help with the issue of non-starting. They assigned a case manager, who ended up going to battle with me over my complaint. I emailed videos of our vehicle not starting, showing the dashboard and our attempts to futilely start the car. In the end, Hyundai did follow through and insisted the dealership replace both the range shifter & shift interlock. The car has not stranded us since, although we notice that the brake has to be pumped hard on occasion to get it started. The most important thing is to video your incidence to show the dealership, so they can't come back at you with "there doesn't seem to be a problem when we start the vehicle."

5 people found this helpful.
20

Bought a 2013 elantra gls last night has 16000 on it and was well taken care of you could tell we got into the car to head home with it didnt even get it out of park and i noticed the battery light blinking like crazy then traction control light blinked on then eps lit up and my radio screen went black and wouldnt come on again and the car stalled i have no clue what happened then last night its scaring me to keep this deal now i am warrentied b to b for 200000 so idk what to do plus there trying to say its a bad battery cable possibly makes no sense on a car with 16000 on it when they got it jumped the guy i was buying the car off of the dealership guy took it for a test drive and the powersteering went out on it im just appaulled i have family that have kias they never have issues and im scared of issues ive owned a ford before is all i need to say and im not sure what to do

2 people found this helpful.
380

I will never buy another Hyundai car again. There is clearly a problem with the electrical aspects of the car and Hyundai should have a mass recall. I would buy a Ford next time.

2 people found this helpful.

Tge solution to the problem is to turn the car on and as you keep the key on switch to Nuetral pressing the brake at the same time. That so far has worked for me every time I get this problem. I own a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. No one knows why this is happening but a friend of mine told me it is due to hot weather.

60

2012 Elentra - in most cases is the Shift Lock Release. 1) Use a tiny screwdriver , gently pry open the small cover for the Shift Lock release - found to the left of the shift gear (Park, Drive, Nuetral ,etc.) . 2) Use the same tiny screwdriver to go down until you touch the tip of the soft part (not the hard part). 3) Use the foot to step on the brake while genle pressure down the soft part of the shift lock release with the tiny screwdriver. 4) Use the other hand to shift the gear slowly - from park to drive to neutral , to first gear, then back to PARK. 5) Make sure the car is in Park, while the foot is in pressing the brake, then start the car. 6) When the car started and the gear is in Park position, release the foot off the brake. Let the car run warm up for a minute before shifting to drive or reverse. The above steps solve the "car won't start" and "won't shift" - get stuck - to Park position problem. Dealership won't suggest you to do this, but my tow truck driver tried it and it worked. I had several more experiences - both the shift gear lock up and won't shift and start ignition turned, but engine won't start. The reason the engine won't start because the shift gear didn't sense the car is Park position. It is a safety feature.

3 people found this helpful.
20

My 2012 Hyundai Elantra is doing this now. It has over 100,000 miles but runs great. However, 2 0r 3 times this happened so I replaced it since it was 4-5 years old. Haven't had any problems until this morning. All lights came on as usual, gear letters showed up, etc. Hooked it up to the charger and it still would not start. Used the suggestion to put car in neutral and start and guess what? It started right up! I don't know what the problem really is but I know I can't afford to fix it if is is costly. I have always had Hyundais because I have found them to be reliable. If this is a problem on lots of cars it seems to me this should be a recall issue and they should look into the cause. Kim

2 people found this helpful.
1,080

I started having what seemed like the same problem I'd had a year ago with my 2012 Elantra not starting intermittently. The dealer had it for 3 days, each day reporting that it was starting just fine. It was suggested I drive it until it does it again, then have it towed in so they could catch it doing it. That seemed like a dumb idea because most likely it would start for them. It was starting after I tried it 2 or 3 times. I decided I'd had enough and traded it in for a Honda Accord. I didn't want to chance it not starting at all in the middle of winter and me getting stuck somewhere. I don't understand how a company can build a car but not know how to solve a problem with it when it comes up. BTW, I love my new Accord.

2 people found this helpful.
60

Elantra have a recall for the problem. Call 8006335151

6 people found this helpful.
1,080

It's about time...well, not for me. I traded my Elantra in last month for a Honda Accord. My Elantra started having the same problem after a year of not having the problem. I couldn't see going into winter here in MN with a car that was on an intermittent schedule of not starting. I didn't want to risk being stranded in the frigid cold.

1 people found this helpful.
10

Since I posted my problem with my 2012 Elantra, by some miracle, knock on wood, it has been starting with no problem. I keep my little screwdriver with me just in case, and I'll know what to do, however the problem I'm having now is my engine light keeps coming on and this the 4th time I've taken it to the dealer and all they do is just "reset" it. After I've driven it for 20-25 miles, the engine light comes back on. They don't know what's wrong with it. I'll never buy a Hyundai again. I'm buying a Honda next time.

I have just had this problem for the first time today on my 2012 Hyundai Elantra and I called Hyundai and they do not have a recall on that. The only recall they have is for a Headliner Bracket.

This happened on us for the third time today. It also drained our battery and nowe the low beams don't work. Calling dealership tomorrow.

10

Same problem for me. I have a 2011 hyundai elantra and for months I have had the same problem, not starting. Went to hyundai dealer ship and they had not heard of this problem. They suggested a diagnostic, for $200.00. Since this is a major issue with THEIR vehicles you would think they would eat the cost of the diagnostic, I think they just use this as another way to make more money. I liked the car but after continued problems I will NOT buy another hyundai or kia, same company I have heard.

1 people found this helpful.

My 2007 Accent just did exactly what the Elantra owners have described in -10degC weather - and mine is a manual 5 speed! After 10 minutes of wiggling gear shift and key, pushing clutch pedal and re-seating all the relays under the hood - it started. No idea why.

I have a 2014 Elantra that does not like to start in the cold. This is the 2nd winter doing this. When I take it to the dealer, that cannot find what is wrong, or nothing comes up on the computer. The last time I took it they got it to act up, but still don't know whats wrong with it. It will not turn over or start, black smoke comes out, if I turn the heat or radio on when I get in the car, it will shut off, etc. Very frustrating. I ready to trade it....but not for another Hyundai.

My son's Elantra would not start. The problem appeared to be the battery did not have enough charge to start the car. The NRMA were called. All the technician did was to put his foot on the accelerator pedal to the floor then release it. The car started immediately.

Omg guys, what do you know. My car just did this to me as of Saterday morning now it's Monday I have had my car jumped started 3 times. I now have to cancel a job interview today. Happy to know I'm not the only one and I see all these comments. When's my car's paid off and trading it in this is not ok. Will call Hyundai now, I have a Hyundai Elantra 2011 EL

You can take your fob and hold it against the blue start button and push and it will start ,hence the range issue ?

My 2007 Accent (manual) would not crank after arriving home after a day of shopping with many stops and starts. I jumpered the clutch switch, pulled off battery connections and re-seated all fuses and relays - nothing worked. Then I noticed that the RAD COOLING relay was exactly like the IGNITION relay (95224-2D000), so I switched them and PRESTO, the car cranked. I replaced the misbehaving relay and have not had a problem since.

180

BAD IGNITION COIL CONNECTION TO WIRING HARNESS!!! It seems that the connector gets old and brittle after time. Becomes an intermittent problem. It is probably common and why there are so many posts about this. It was a devil to figure out. I had a similar issue on my 1998 Hyundai GL (stick shift). After replacing the battery, fuel pump, fuel filter, checking all the sensors, and paying a lot of different mechanics who couldn't figure it out I decided to try replacing the ignition coil. After that is seemed to work, then went a little funky. I discovered that it was running on just 2 cylinders. When I wiggled the wires to the ignition coil it resolved the problem which then came back. Upon swapping back the original ignition coil to test I found that the connector from the wiring harness was very brittle and after fiddling with it I realized that this was a problem. Not able to find a replacement connector easily I drove it around on 2 cylinders with on of the leads hard wired. I then hard wired the other 2 yesterday. That seems to have fixed the issue. It was as simple as that. Intermittently bad connection to the ignition coil. Thought I would share.

3 people found this helpful.
10

We have 3 Hyundai's one is a 2013 Elentra. We totally love this car. 74,000 miles not one issue. Until last eve Sat Aug, 5th. My wife uses this car mostly it was sitting in the driveway since Friday. I had to move it but it would not start at all. It was dead silent, very surprised. All the lights, radio/windows worked. I had no clue what was going on. I called the dealer who I go to all the time. They said to have it towed over. I called AAA, hoping it was the battery, still the original battery in there. The AAA guy tried to start the car, nothing. He did the battery test, it's almost perfect. He thought the starter was the issue. He ordered a tow for me. He came , he tried to start it, nothing at all. Then he did something-it started! What did you do? I put it in neutral. No shit . Then he said it's the neutral safety switch. Oh, ok I have the extended warranty no problem. He towed it there last night. I'm sure they will not give me a hard time. I've been going there for years and do not trust anyone else to work on the cars.I will only do oil changes locally. So, I will post what comes of this. I will also mention this seems to be a common issue.

1 people found this helpful.

I took mine in and they replaced something but I heard that if you put the Fob on the starter it will work...Its a defect but call before u go in because to see if they know what you are talking about and have the part..I have a 2011 Elantra and love the car

Im gettinf this issue on my elantra 2012 too! And i have a brand new baterry! So seems like its the range switch? Ill call them! Ive had so many issues with this car.. Car makes noises (plasticy noise) at any type of movement.. is this a toy car? When driving over a bump, the car pulls to the side as much as it does up and down.. never seen this Taillight bulbs go out all the time (i see other elantras always with one bulb out..) Car all of a sudden started smoking from the exhaust twice and never did it again And now this "no start" issue.. Never buying a hyundai again.. unbelievable

20

Easy! It is your phone. Bluetooth is broadcasted at 2.4GHz same as fob. Put away your phone far from ignition and that should solve the problem. Usually if your phone is in a back pocket or a bag far enough then there is no problems. Also, as the fob gets older the fob probably don't send a strong signal - change fob battery

20

I have a 2011 Hyundai Sonata, automatic transmission. Here's what worked in my case: The car was parked so that the front wheels were in contact with the curb. No matter how I turned the steering wheel right and left, also while dancing with the ignition key, it was not possible to turn the key to start the engine. The steering wheel was completely frozen. In front of the shift stick, is a small covered box to override the shifter. Inside I could see what looked to be two wires towards the bottom of the cavity. No matter, I stuck a flat-bladed screw driver inside, and gently but firmly pressed downwards. This immediately released the shifter away from "park" Be ready, and so you should have already engaged the emergency brake. In my case, the car then rolled back from the curb, and it became possible to turn the ignition key.

20

I am having similar issues. The dealer replaced the starter, ignition switch and I also removed my remote starter cost of $700. Happened again took to dealer and they sat on it for 4 hours and told me cannot determine the problem. I was told without the car not starting in their bay they cannot help me. I asked them to take the car for as long as they like to reproduce the problem and was told will charge me $120 /hour for this....Yikes

2 people found this helpful.
110

I have a 2013 Elantra and about 2 years ago this happened right after Hyundai had done an oil change. I would go out to the car after work or whenever and it wouldn't start. Someone suggested I turn the key to on and leave it a few minutes to see if power gets to the starter & that worked. Got it to the dealer & of course it never happened to them. It kept getting worse and never knew when it would not start. I was glad to still be under warranty so they would tow my car & work on it. After another oil change it didn't happen for months until last night. It wouldn't start after work and a co-worker tried jumping my car. Dead as a doorbell. Nothing worked except 3 light showing malfunction, oil, and battery lights lit up. Got it towed to Hyundai and this morning it started right up for them. Now my car is no longer under warranty. I told them this is an ongoing problem and they have all my records when I brought it in but they refuse to do this under warranty. They never have a car for me to use while they take days to weeks trying to figure this out. Now I have to pay for a rental car while they mess around. I have reported them to BBB, just hope it does something. I just spent $1000 last week putting on new tires and doing a 60,000 check (including a coolant flush that cost $200). Now I don't feel comfortable with this car as it is not covered under warranty any longer and don't want to get stranded in the snow somewhere. I decided to google and see if others were having problems and it is obvious these vehicles should be recalled. I don't know what I am going to do at this point. The dealer has my car and I can't get to work. I can't afford to pay a rental car for days/weeks. Just wanted to report another person having the same issues. Hyundai should be made responsible for this. It is not right to make customers pay for problems that are obviously caused because of defects in the cars. Also, they are causing many people to be stranded and not able to get to work or anywhere.

5 people found this helpful.
110

I just posted a message a few minutes ago and after that the Hyundai dealership called & said that they checked with Hyundai and were told there is a defect in the inhibitor switch and they replaced it and not charging me. I pray this works and will be back here and will post again if it doesn't work.

1 people found this helpful.

I have a 2011 Hyundia Sonata with the same issues with my car not starting. It first began in 2017. I had my car towed numerous times to the dealership. March 2017 I had the starter replaced. April 2017 issue not resolved and they replaced the starter again (claiming it was a bad starter). No issues with non-start until October 2017 where the shifter assembly was replaced. One year later (October 2018) the non-starting is back. A "fix" that has previously worked for me is "wiggling" the shifter when the car did not start. Like magic, my car started every time I wiggled the shifter. This "fix" is the reason they replaced the shifter assembly. A year later and that "fix" is no longer working for me. This time I have to shift the car into another gear (drive) then back to park. After doing this, the car has started each time It's headed back to the shop for more diagnostic testing. All I see is cha-ching, cha-ching! I have also reached out to Hyundai Consumer Affairs so that they document the non-start issues. So my advice to anyone out there with a non-start, (1) don't bother w/ a jump start as it most likely won't help; and (2) before calling the tow truck try wiggling the shifter or shifting down to another gear such as Drive (and back to park).

10

Check out this video - haven't tried it yet but makes sense: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=XkrJOw8oeLw

1 people found this helpful.
20

I have a 2011 Sonata and a few months back, paniced because the steering wheel froze and it wouldn't start. But the fix was easy: if the front wheels are pushed against a curb, then this will activate the anti-theft lock. So now look at the shift stick. Above it is a slot, and that slot unlocks the shift stick. Stick something in there, while depressing the brakes. Now the ignition key should turn, and the engine will start. Move the shift stick into reverse, carefully lift your foot from the brakes, and then you're good.

10

Same problem as most of you. For some random reason, the push button 2011 Hyundai Elantra just doesn't start. Lights come on, dash lights , etc... but it just doesn't start. The first couple times rocking the car and working the steering wheel seemed to break something loose and it would start. We noticed it usually happens in cold weather. The last time (early January 2019), it wouldn't start and nothing worked. It just wouldn't start. Was actually pushing the car around an empty parking lot hoping to trigger something that would let it start. Nothing. Had it towed to dealer about 50 miles away ($200). Followed the tow truck to the dealer because it was after hours. Researched various techniques on the phone on the drive over, and tried them all after the tow truck dropped the car at the dealer. Nothing. Jiggled this, jiggled that. Moved this, moved that. Held bWouldn't start. Went home and called dealer first thing in the morning. She said it started fine for her. She tried it several times and it started each time. We pressed for a solution but basically was told it didn't throw any codes and if they could recreate it, they couldn't fix it. Kept pushing and wife called Hyundai customer service. They were nice enough and they called and spoke with the mechanic at the dealership who checked various things, but found nothing. We had found the "range switch" / "inhibitor switch" (think they are one and the same part) online and told them about it. They installed new "range switch". Hyundai provided the part without cost, but no reimbursement for towing and still had to pay for labor. Anyhow, car would start so we got over it. Car worked fine for a couple weeks... now it's Tuesday, January 29, 2019 .... car won't start. Exact same symptoms. It is also cold outside. ?? Here we go again. I don't think there is any doubt Hyundai knows what the problem really is, but has to maintain some level of feigned ignorance to avoid responsibility. That way it can deal with it on a case by case basis and get by with as little cost and liability as possible.

1 people found this helpful.
40

Happen to my 2015 Elantra starting this February, first time on one of the coldest day at minus 15 degree C in Ontario. Thought it was a low battery, wait for two days, it starts again. Try many of what other people did; put it to neutral or shift to all positions and back to park, have the key in the second position for couple seconds before crank, turn off the radio and fan. Sometimes it works some time don't. Mostly happens on a very cold morning or parking outdoor. Yesterday it would not starts again and no luck at all. Tonight I swapped the start relay with a fan replay then it starts! No conclusion yet! But I know is not the battery, most likely a bad (intermittent) connector to the starter which I haven't locate yet.

1 people found this helpful.
110

This happened to my 2013 Elantra around a dozen+ times in a 2 year period. I would always have to have it towed to the dealer as it wouldn't start for me & the dealer could never find anything wrong. In fact, as soon as the car got to the dealer it would start right up. Last November was the last time this happened and I insisted on the dealer replacing the inhibitor switch as I found in this thread that this was a common fix. The dealer did it under warranty even though I had just past the warranty period. I told them this has been a ongoing problem and expected them to fix it. The dealer did some research and found that Hyundai realizes that the inhibitor switch is defective on many vehicles. I have not had a problem since. Get your dealer to replace the inhibitor switch and hopefully you won't have any more problems. Best wishes!!!

5 people found this helpful.
20

Hi, Thanks for all of the answers to my question. As it turned out, the problem that I experienced resulted from the anti-theft system which is built into my Sonata. When the front wheels are pushed up against a firm surface - such as a curb - it is activated. The anti-theft system locks the ignition and prevents the key from turning. The solution to this situation is to disengage the automatic shifting, so that the car can roll back from the curb. 1. To do this, look at the surface _in front of_ the shift stick. You will see a small, black circular hole, with a slot inside of it. 2. Stick either a flat-bladed screw driver or even your ignition key into this slot. 3. The shift stick will now freely move. Place the stick into "neutral". 4. Now you can either roll or push the car away from the curb. 5. Use the emergency brake to control this motion. 6. Now place the stick into either "drive" or reverse. 7. Engage the emergency brake. 8. Now the engine will turn over, and the shift stick will be re-engaged. 9. Release the emergency brake, and you're good.

2 people found this helpful.
20

It is a plastic ring (antenna) around the ignition key housing. The problem is that the key detector produces a very small current. The connector from the antenna to the car's electric can be slightly corroded and the current is not strong enough to overcome that. The solution: unplug the antenna - clean the connector (plugging and unplugging several times will do that - or use a smal screwdriver) - apply some di-electric paste (not essential) and replug. It is a relatively easy job but the lower casing below the streering wheel needs to be removed.

2 people found this helpful.
40

Thanks Cheval for the info. It seems explain the cause. Someone also say about the fob battery, so it might all link together. I use the same key set for just over four years, the fob (assume is the remote lock/unlock) battery may be low, signal may be even lower in a cold day. Since I read above the fob, I'm using the second set of remote unit, it works for two cold morning. Will keep monitoring and report.

1 people found this helpful.
40

Hoping no need to revisit here for solution, but no luck. My 2015 Elantra wouldn't start this morning at above zero temperature. Here is my founding; Sure is not a weak battery. The 7.5A start fuse is good, if removed, no replay sound. Swapped the start relay with other 35A three times, so no a bad relay. If I removed the starter replay, no more relay activation sound. so the replay is active (give me moving sound) I'm going the check the inhibitor switch. Im going to jump start by removing the start replay and directly from the replay socket to see what happen. My gut feeling is a poor contact issue, the connector at starter side from the replay socket to the starter solenoid. But I am not able to locate it. Would someone give me some advice where is the starter/ located without go under the hood? Thanks,

1 people found this helpful.
40

when I turn the key slowly, I can hear two different click sounds; first is a small click, I guess is from the start replay (activation) second is a louder one, a very much mechanical moving 'tac' sound, I guess is the shifting of the starter gear by the solenoid (the gear that move up to engage with the engine, not the starter motor rotating) So I believe there is no signal (power) to the starter motor. Would some one advice me where is the starter motor signal or power coming from? Is it the same signal driving the shift gear solenoid? If yes, then I might have a bad starter, as the starter gear seems shifting (second louder 'tac' sound) Any one help? Thank You.

40

I'm back. my Elantra 2015 fails again couple times, one time after I shift the stick back and fore couple times it starts. Make me believe it is the ignition (or call range) switch, but this morning no matter how many time I shift the stick, it would not help. I repeat hearing the first relay activation little noise, follow by the loud 'tac' noise which I believe is the starter shift gear engaging noise. But no luck. Until the last try I keep longer on start position, usually I dare to keep too long to avoid too long on cranking. then put back to ACC position. This time it try crank, since I already moving back to ACC, so it would not continue running. I immediately realize something here. Next I keep on whole on the start position and slowly release it or move back and fore around the start position. Now it start! If it keep behaving like this way, it lead me to believe it is a intermittent ignition switch issue. Anyone could comments on this? If it is the issue of ignition switch, changing it might need key reprogramming or not? May be part of the switch could be replace without key re-program? Anyone once could advice? Thanks. Phi

1 people found this helpful.
20

Sorry, no answers. Got a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. New batteries , driven it over 150 miles but it will not pass the state inspection. Dealership was good . they checked on all the recalls but told me to drive for another 50 miles or more to pass the state inspection. What is happening to the electrical system in the vehicle that is cannot pass the state inspection . Third attempt to do state inspection. Third failure with the state inspection. Any ideas what to do next? Thank you for your time !

2 people found this helpful.

Anyone have an answer of what's going on. Once again its winter 2020 same problem. Car wont start in the morning. But once u get it going and warm up no problem. Starts at one click. I just need a few more month of this car then I can rid of it. Lol

Your Answer:

Elantra

Looking for a Used Elantra in your area?

CarGurus has 3,056 nationwide Elantra listings starting at $3,300.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    G. Jacob Durbin
    Reputation
    3,550
  • #2
    Taku Zhou
    Reputation
    2,940
  • #3
    Pirdman
    Reputation
    2,870
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Hyundai Sonata
51 Great Deals out of 824 listings starting at $3,995
Used Honda Civic
190 Great Deals out of 4,208 listings starting at $2,916
Used Toyota Corolla
137 Great Deals out of 2,258 listings starting at $3,495
Used Toyota Camry
44 Great Deals out of 1,140 listings starting at $3,900
Used Honda Accord
59 Great Deals out of 1,026 listings starting at $2,995
Used Kia Forte
87 Great Deals out of 1,658 listings starting at $3,495
Used Nissan Sentra
63 Great Deals out of 1,899 listings starting at $2,288
Used Hyundai Accent
28 Great Deals out of 409 listings starting at $2,550
Used Nissan Altima
32 Great Deals out of 714 listings starting at $654
Used Hyundai Elantra GT
21 Great Deals out of 277 listings starting at $3,977
Used Mazda MAZDA3
82 Great Deals out of 1,272 listings starting at $2,966
Used Hyundai Tucson
93 Great Deals out of 2,515 listings starting at $2,450

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.