NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 142 owner complaints for the 2013 Hyundai Accent. Most complaints involve engine (35) and service brakes, hydraulic (24). The EPA rates it 31–32 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 4 stars overall.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
Complaints for each Accent model year we’ve synced.
| Model year | NHTSA complaints |
|---|---|
| 1996 | 102 |
| 1997 | 59 |
| 1998 | 48 |
| 1999 | 66 |
| 2006 | 43 |
| 2007 | 88 |
| 2008 | 101 |
| 2009 | 101 |
| 2010 | 87 |
| 2011 | 38 |
| 2012 | 153 |
| 2013 | 142 |
| 2014 | 80 |
| 2015 | 70 |
| 2016 | 102 |
| 2017 | 68 |
| 2018 | 19 |
| 2019 | 31 |
| 2020 | 12 |
| 2021 | 16 |
| 2022 | 17 |
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Accent. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a connecting rod bearing failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the extended warranty program might cover the repair. The contact was informed that the repair was not eligible because the vehicle had a salvage title. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.”
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Accent. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to come to a complete stop as intended while the brake pedal was fully depressed. The brake warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact used the parking brake to pull over to the shoulder of the road safely. Upon further inspection, the contact noticed brake fluid leaking from a rusted brake line. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to the residence and remained at the residence for additional investigation. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.”
“My name is [XXX] and I am filing a complaint against The Auto Factory in [XXX] . In December 2024 I purchased a 2013 Hyundai Accent (VIN: [XXX] ) from this dealership. I financed the vehicle and have been making my payments on time every month. Recently the car developed a serious engine problem and is no longer drivable. While looking into the situation I discovered that my vehicle has been under an active federal safety recall since November 2023 — more than a year before I bought it. The recall (NHTSA Campaign #23V651000) involves a brake system defect that can cause an engine fire while the car is parked or being driven. Owners are advised not to park near homes or buildings. The dealership never told me about this recall. It was never fixed before they sold it to me. I had no idea I was buying a car with a known fire risk. When I called the dealer to address this, the representative told me they are “not responsible for the car after this long.” The defect existed over a year before I even purchased the vehicle. I am now making loan payments on a car I cannot drive and cannot safely park near my home. I have sent the dealer a formal complaint in writing…”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accent Man 6-spd, 4 cyl, 1.6 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 28 | 37 | 32 | $1,950 | 276 |
| Accent Auto 6-spd, 4 cyl, 1.6 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 28 | 37 | 31 | $2,000 | 285 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
1 safety recall as of Nov 9, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 142 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are engine (35), service brakes, hydraulic (24), electrical system (18). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2013 Hyundai Accent at 31–32 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2013 Hyundai Accent 4 out of 5 stars overall.