1998 Hyundai Elantra SE review from North America

Right axle seal leaking at 132k.

Right axle seal found to be bent at 136k.

Had car inspected at Hyundai and Honda dealers before buying at private sale. Both found right axle seal leaking slightly. After buying I decided to get the leak fixed, but probably didn't need to bother.

One week after getting seal replaced the car is pouring out transmission fluid and getting it all over the side of the car. I was really upset and almost ran out of tranny fluid and worried that the tranny itself my have been damaged due to the mechanic's poor install.

I took the car right back and they told me it was a bent axle causing the new seal to tear apart probably due to previous owner's incompetent driving skills. I asked why it was not found on the inspection, but they said they weren't looking for it even though the part is supposed to be checked.

Anyway they went good for replacing the seal and refunding inspection, but I had to pay for the new axle of course. This happens 2 weeks after spending my last cent on the car (previous car was a 92 Accord and ironically enough the engine died!).

Handling is very nimble and precise when cornering.

Lots of low end pep from 0-60. Acceleration is very good.

Car is basically gutless on the highway and takes a long time to shift to overdrive.

For the size of the engine the gas milleage is poor, only 24/32.

I really think that I got a good deal on this car but I just hope that this isn't a sign of things to come. Hyundai used to have a horrible reputation but I've been told by everyone that they've come a long way in quality, even rivaling Honda. That remains to be seen with my 98 Elantra.