2004 Hyundai Elantra review from North America

The door open light remained on even though all car doors were closed. Problem continued and then caused the car alarm to go off because the alarm thought the car door was open. Faulty sensor was replaced in the front passenger side door after 2 trips to the dealer.

Steering wheel surface (not sure if it's real leather) has started to crack and wear very badly at only 37-38,000 miles.

Was going to have to replace the brakes at 42,000. Is that good or bad?

I was concerned initially about buying a Hyundai, but read many articles raving about the Elantra, saying the company had turned around in 2004.

I bought this car because of all the extra standard features, including air bags, keyless remote and alarm. Also, I researched the car online before buying and read a lot of positive comments. Also, liked the 10 year, 100,000 mile Hyundai warranty (with former concerns about Hyundai's quality, I would have not bought the car with a lesser warranty).

The really good news is that through the first 40,000 miles, this has been a great little car. It has a seriously strong engine with nice pick up on highways. I have had no major problems with the car through the first 40,000 miles.

Bad news is the car was just totalled by a driver going the wrong way on a one way street. Her fault, not mine, but here is the most important thing -- my little Elantra did it's job - the car was totalled, but I walked away without a scratch.

Great car, great value, great extras such as keyless remote included in the standard package, and in my opinion, a safe, reliable car.