Hyundai Veloster Problems: 12 Common Issues (Explained)

Hyundai has been a popular car brand for years, offering a variety of models that are both stylish and affordable. One of their popular models is the Hyundai Veloster, a sporty car that has been on the market since 2011.

While the Veloster has received positive reviews for its unique design and performance, it has also been plagued with some issues.

In this article, we will delve into some of the most common problems with the Hyundai Veloster and provide guidance on how to deal with them.

Owners of the Hyundai Veloster have reported various problems with the car over the years. Some of the most common issues include connecting rod failure, loss of power, and electrical and mechanical problems.

These problems have resulted in costly repairs for many owners, and have caused frustration and inconvenience.

If you own a Hyundai Veloster or are considering purchasing one, it is important to be aware of these issues and understand how to address them.

Before we start, make sure to familiarize yourself with the best and worst years for Hyundai Veloster.

The Main Problems

The Hyundai Veloster is a sporty, three-door hatchback that has been in production since 2011. While it has enjoyed above-average reliability, there are some common problems that owners should be aware of.

Here are some of the main problems:

Engine Problems and Connecting Rod Faults

One of the most common issues with the Veloster is engine problems and connecting rod faults. This problem started in 2012 and escalated for the 2013 model year.

The connecting rod is a crucial component in the engine, connecting the piston to the crankshaft. If the connecting rod fails, it can cause catastrophic engine damage, resulting in costly repairs.

This problem is most prevalent in the 2012 and 2013 models.

Transmission Issues

Another common problem with the Veloster is transmission issues. The dual-clutch transmission can cause problems, including slipping, stalling, and shifting issues.

This problem is most prevalent in the 2016 and 2017 models.

Electrical Problems

The Veloster is also prone to electrical problems. These can include issues with the electrical system, such as the battery, alternator, and starter.

This problem is most prevalent in the 2012 and 2013 models.

It’s important to note that not all Velosters will experience these problems, and some model years are more reliable than others.

However, if you are considering purchasing a used Veloster, it’s essential to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure that it is in good condition.

Other Smaller Problems

While the Hyundai Veloster has above-average reliability, there are still some smaller problems that owners have reported.

Here are some of the most common ones:

• Bluetooth connectivity issues: Some owners have reported difficulty connecting their phones to the car’s Bluetooth system, or issues with dropped connections.
• Noise from sunroof: A few owners have reported hearing rattling or other noises coming from the sunroof area.
• Loose interior trim: Some owners have reported that interior trim pieces, such as door handles or dashboard trim, have come loose or fallen off.
• Wind noise: A few owners have reported excessive wind noise at highway speeds.
• Paint chipping: Some owners have reported that the paint on their Veloster has chipped easily, especially on the front bumper or hood.
• Weak air conditioning: A few owners have reported that the air conditioning system is not powerful enough to cool the car adequately on hot days.
• Cracked windshield: Some owners have reported that the windshield has cracked easily, even from small stones or debris on the road.
• Sticky shifter: A few owners have reported that the manual transmission shifter can sometimes feel sticky or difficult to shift. This is typically because the surface gets worn and starts to tear – which I have also personally tried on other similar models.
• Weak headlights: Some owners have reported that the headlights are not bright enough, especially on dark roads.

While none of these problems are major, they can be frustrating for owners who expect their car to be trouble-free.However, it’s worth noting that many of these problems are relatively rare, and most Veloster owners report being very satisfied with their cars overall.

General Pros and Cons with the Models

When it comes to the Hyundai Veloster, there are both pros and cons to consider.

Here are some of the general pros and cons of the different models:

Pros

• The Veloster has a unique and sporty design that stands out from other compact cars.
• It comes with a lot of standard features, including a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a rearview camera.
• The Veloster offers good fuel economy, with an estimated 30 mpg combined.
• It has a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for daily commuting.
• The Veloster N model offers impressive performance, with a turbocharged engine and tight handling.

Cons

• Transmission problems have been reported by some Veloster owners, including slippage, high RPMs, and poor acceleration.
• Some drivers have experienced issues with the engine, including stalling and loss of power.
• The Veloster’s cargo area is small, making it difficult to transport larger items.
• The rear seats are cramped and may not be comfortable for taller passengers.
• Visibility can be an issue due to the car’s unique design, particularly in the rear.

What’s the Resale Value?

The resale value of a car is an important factor to consider when buying a new vehicle. The Hyundai Veloster has a good resale value and only depreciates by 30% in five years.

This means that after five years, the car’s value will still be around 70% of its original price.

The Hyundai Veloster enjoys above-average reliability, which is one of the reasons why its resale value is good. RepairPal gave it a rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 19th out of 36 for all car brands.

If you’re looking to buy a used Hyundai Veloster, it’s important to consider the resale value of the specific model year and mileage. Here are some examples of used Hyundai Veloster prices:

As you can see from the table, the depreciation of the Hyundai Veloster is relatively low, which means that it retains its value well.

This is good news for buyers who are looking to sell their car in the future.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The Hyundai Veloster has received mixed reviews from automotive experts. While some praised its unique styling and fun-to-drive nature, others criticized its lack of rear-seat space and mediocre fuel economy. RepairPal gave it a rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 19th out of 36 for all car brands. US News & World Report also ranked the 2021 Hyundai Veloster fifth out of the 12 vehicles in the compact cars market rated that year.

According to Edmunds,

“The 2022 Hyundai Veloster is a fun and affordable compact car with a unique three-door design that sets it apart from the crowd. It’s a good choice for those who want a car that’s stylish, sporty and practical.”

Car and Driver also praised the Veloster, saying,

“The Veloster is a quirky and fun compact hatchback that stands out from the crowd. It’s not the most practical or fuel-efficient car in its class, but it’s a blast to drive and has an impressive list of standard features.”

GO BACK: See problems for all Hyundai models.

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.