2013 Elantra GLS: Honest Owner Reviews & Insights

So, you're thinking about snagging a 2013 Elantra GLS, huh? Or maybe you've already got one and you're curious to see if other owners feel the same way you do. Either way, you've come to the right place! Let's dive into the real-world experiences and opinions of people who actually own and drive this car every single day. Forget the glossy brochures and the overly enthusiastic car reviews – we're talking straight from the horse's mouth here. We'll cover everything from reliability and fuel economy to comfort and common problems, giving you a complete picture of what it's really like to live with a 2013 Elantra GLS. This is your chance to get the inside scoop and make an informed decision, whether you're buying or just looking for some validation on your current ride.

What Owners Are Saying: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

When it comes to owner reviews of the 2013 Elantra GLS, you'll find a mixed bag of opinions, which is pretty typical for any car. But let's start with the positives. Many owners rave about the excellent fuel economy they get with this car. We're talking highway mileage in the high 30s to low 40s, which is definitely a major selling point, especially with gas prices these days. People also appreciate the car's stylish design, both inside and out. The Elantra GLS has a sleek, modern look that still holds up well even after all these years. And let's not forget the value proposition. This car offered a lot of features for the price back in 2013, and it's still a relatively affordable option on the used car market today.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Some owners have reported issues with the car's suspension, particularly the rear shocks. Others have complained about the engine's lack of power, especially when accelerating or climbing hills. And then there's the dreaded "Hyundai tick," a noise that some owners have experienced with their engines. Of course, not every car will have these problems, but it's important to be aware of them before you buy. We'll delve deeper into these common issues later on.

Reliability: Can You Count on It?

One of the biggest concerns for any car buyer is reliability. How reliable is the 2013 Elantra GLS? Well, the answer is a bit complicated. On the one hand, many owners have reported trouble-free ownership experiences, with their cars racking up hundreds of thousands of miles with only routine maintenance. On the other hand, there are also plenty of owners who have experienced significant mechanical problems, such as engine failures, transmission issues, and electrical glitches. So, what's the deal?

It seems that the reliability of the 2013 Elantra GLS can vary quite a bit from car to car. Some of it may depend on how well the car was maintained by its previous owner (or owners). Regular oil changes, timely servicing, and careful driving habits can all help to extend the life of any vehicle. However, there also seem to be some inherent weaknesses in the car's design or manufacturing that can lead to problems, regardless of how well it's maintained. For example, the aforementioned suspension issues and engine tick seem to be relatively common, even among cars that have been well cared for. Ultimately, the best way to assess the reliability of a specific 2013 Elantra GLS is to have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it.

Fuel Economy: A Wallet-Friendly Ride?

As mentioned earlier, fuel economy is one of the biggest strengths of the 2013 Elantra GLS. The car is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that's designed to sip fuel rather than guzzle it. According to the EPA, the 2013 Elantra GLS should get around 28 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon on the highway. However, many owners have reported even better fuel economy than that, especially on long road trips.

Of course, your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits, the condition of your car, and the type of roads you're driving on. If you have a heavy foot, drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic, or neglect to keep your car properly maintained, you're likely to get lower gas mileage than the EPA estimates. However, even under less-than-ideal conditions, the 2013 Elantra GLS should still deliver respectable fuel economy that's better than many other cars in its class. This can save you a significant amount of money at the pump over the long run.

Comfort and Interior: A Nice Place to Be?

While the 2013 Elantra GLS isn't exactly a luxury car, it does offer a comfortable and pleasant interior for its price point. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing decent comfort on long drives. The cabin is also relatively spacious, with enough room for four adults to sit comfortably. And the car's design is modern and stylish, with a clean dashboard layout and intuitive controls.

However, there are also a few downsides to the interior. Some owners have complained about the quality of the materials used, particularly the hard plastics on the dashboard and door panels. Others have found the seats to be a bit too firm or lacking in lumbar support. And the car's infotainment system is somewhat basic, with a small screen and limited features. Overall, though, the 2013 Elantra GLS offers a decently comfortable and well-designed interior that's on par with other cars in its class.

Common Problems and Issues: What to Watch Out For

Okay, let's talk about the stuff you really want to know: the potential problems and issues that you might encounter with a 2013 Elantra GLS. As we mentioned earlier, some owners have reported problems with the car's suspension, particularly the rear shocks. This can manifest as a bouncy or unstable ride, especially when going over bumps or uneven surfaces. If you notice this problem, you'll likely need to replace the shocks.

Another common issue is the "Hyundai tick," a ticking noise that comes from the engine. This noise is often caused by a problem with the car's hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), which are small components that help to keep the valves properly adjusted. In some cases, the ticking noise may be harmless, but in other cases, it can indicate a more serious engine problem. If you hear a ticking noise coming from your engine, it's best to have it checked out by a mechanic.

Other potential problems with the 2013 Elantra GLS include: engine failures, transmission issues, electrical glitches, and problems with the air conditioning system. Again, not every car will experience these problems, but it's important to be aware of them so you can take appropriate action if necessary. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help to prevent or mitigate many of these issues.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Elantra Happy

To keep your 2013 Elantra GLS running smoothly and reliably for years to come, it's essential to follow a regular maintenance schedule. This includes: changing the oil and filter every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, replacing the air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, rotating the tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, and replacing the spark plugs every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. You should also have your car inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic to catch any potential problems before they become serious.

In addition to routine maintenance, there are also a few other things you can do to keep your Elantra happy. These include: driving carefully and avoiding harsh acceleration and braking, keeping your car clean and protected from the elements, and addressing any minor problems promptly. By taking good care of your car, you can help to extend its life and prevent costly repairs down the road.

Is the 2013 Elantra GLS Right for You?

So, after all of this, is the 2013 Elantra GLS a good car? Well, it depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a fuel-efficient, stylish, and affordable car that's relatively reliable, then the Elantra GLS could be a good choice. However, if you're looking for a car with lots of power, a luxurious interior, or a perfect reliability record, then you might want to consider other options.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2013 Elantra GLS is right for you is to do your own research, read reviews from other owners, and take the car for a test drive. Be sure to pay attention to any potential problems or issues that we've discussed in this article, and have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it. With a little bit of due diligence, you can make an informed decision and find a car that's perfect for your needs.

Happy driving, folks! And remember, whether you end up with a 2013 Elantra GLS or something else entirely, the most important thing is to find a car that you love and that fits your lifestyle. Good luck with your car search!