Faults:

The black paint on our 2004 Hyundai Elantra is developing a bad spot where the paint is coming off.

General Comments:

It appears Hyundai has a black paint problem. We contacted the dealer about the paint coming off in spots, and we too got the story the paint coming off is due to bird dropping, tree sap, etc. It is funny our 2003 Hyundai Elantra is not having the paint problem, and both are exposed to the same environment. I appears Hyundai's three year paint warranty will need to be shortened if they do not want to live up to their warranty claims.

We contact Hyundai’s office that is to arrange their factory representative to review paint damage, but for the last two weeks have not had a response. Next step is to contact Hyundai's conflict office.

Faults:

It developed a antifreeze/coolant leak in 2005 at about 40,000 miles. I've had to take it to the dealer 3 times for the same problem. They have replaced the hoses once, and the clamps 2 other times, but it still loses about a quarter cup per week. Taking it in again next week. If that doesn't fix the problem permanently, I'll take legal action against the dealer under the MD lemon law. Other than this, no other engine/trans. problems, however, the paint isn't very good quality. It started to chip a few months after I bought it. I notice a few more chip spots every year now. Seems to be a common flaw with these models. Beware of this if you're a 'meticulous body' type owner.

General Comments:

Still has great acceleration, and drives well in all kinds of weather. It has never broken down or left me stranded. Could do better on the gas mileage around town (gets 23mpg, or 21-22mpg with the a/c running during the summer months), but does great on the highway (30-33mpg). I would still buy another one.

Faults:

Heated seat were both not working when I got the car.

Sunroof liner squeaks off and on constantly.

Brakes squeak after a washing or heavy rain until the liners dry during next drive.

Paint chips very easily it seems.

Rubber seal around drivers door cracking.

General Comments:

This car is very comfortable and has plenty of room for me (6'3") and my volleyball buddies (i.e. 6 footers +) and gets great gas mileage (30mpg city).

Lots of great creature comforts and extras for the price and a great engine that's smooth as silk, but just a bit too little torque in the low rpm range.

I understand the newer versions are better quality and I wish that my car had the quality that my Honda had, but in this great package that I have now.

Faults:

Actually, nothing. The tires were showing wear and need replacing within 7500. The numerous speed bumps I go over at work have taken a toll on the ball joints, but not to the fact they yet need to be replaced under warranty.

General Comments:

A great solid commuter cat. I broke in the engine correctly and I get 36.5 to 37.5 miles to the gallon averaged out between city and highway driving. I don't baby this car at all. They did a splendid job of mating the engine to the transmission and the drive train. Handling is not there, but the other items are. The interior is much better than I would have thought. Gold stars.