How common are engine problems in the 2016 Hyundai Veloster?

NHTSA lists 143 engine complaints for the 2016 Veloster, which is 64% of the 222 total complaints filed for that model year.

Is there a recall for the 2016 Veloster engine?

Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers premature wear of connecting rod bearings inside the engine, which can lead to engine damage; dealers inspect and replace the engine if bearing damage is found.

At what mileage do 2016 Veloster engine problems usually appear?

NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 81,000 miles for engine-related complaints.

Have there been crashes or fires linked to engine complaints?

Among the 143 engine complaints, NHTSA records 7 crashes, 3 fires, and 4 injuries.

2016 Hyundai Veloster Engine Problems

NHTSA lists 143 engine-related complaints for the 2016 Hyundai Veloster, 64% of all 222 complaints filed for that model year. A related recall (20V746000) covers premature connecting rod bearing wear that can lead to engine damage, with a median failure mileage of 81,000 miles.

Engine complaints: 143; 64% of 222
Crashes reported: 7
Fires reported: 3
Injuries reported: 4
Median mileage: 81,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Owners describe the engine stalling or entering limp mode without warning, sometimes leaving the car stranded.
Several report sudden lunging or lurching forward when releasing the brake or accelerating from a stop, tied to the dual-clutch transmission.
Multiple complaints describe a loud booming or knocking sound from the engine followed by white smoke and, in some cases, fire.
Some owners report the engine revving high without a matching increase in road speed, described as a lag or dead spot in acceleration.
A few complaints mention loss of power during acceleration when the engine is not fully warmed up, requiring the driver to lift off and reapply the throttle.

When 2016 Hyundai Veloster engine complaints were filed

First complaint Feb 10, 2016, latest Jun 12, 2026.

143 complaints filed with NHTSA from 2016 Q1 to 2026 Q2; peak 2021 Q1 (20).

Engine recalls for the 2016 Hyundai Veloster

NHTSA 20V746000Dec 1, 2020Engine128,948 vehicles
Engine
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.

Engine complaints by Veloster model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

201271 (24%)
2013181 (43%)
201436 (42%)
201580 (59%)
2016143 (64%)
201727 (54%)
201921 (50%)
20209 (38%)
20213 (27%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2016 Hyundai Veloster?: NHTSA lists 143 engine complaints for the 2016 Veloster, which is 64% of the 222 total complaints filed for that model year.
Is there a recall for the 2016 Veloster engine?: Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers premature wear of connecting rod bearings inside the engine, which can lead to engine damage; dealers inspect and replace the engine if bearing damage is found.
At what mileage do 2016 Veloster engine problems usually appear?: NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 81,000 miles for engine-related complaints.
Have there been crashes or fires linked to engine complaints?: Among the 143 engine complaints, NHTSA records 7 crashes, 3 fires, and 4 injuries.