How Long Does It Take Hyundai to Replace the Engine? Our Research

Hyundai has rebuilt its reputation after getting a bad rap for defective engines in some of its models. The problem left so many drivers stranded that class action lawsuits compelled Hyundai to offer an extended warranty for all affected models. If you own such a model, you may qualify for a free engine replacement.

Engine replacement problems highlights

• Level of urgency:High
• DIY inspection:Impossible
• DIY repair:Impossible
• Cost of repair:$3,000 - $6,500
• Can you drive?No
• Commonreasons:Fatal engine failure, timing belt/chain jumping, overheating, poor lubrication
• Ways to fix:Professional engine replacement

How Long Will It Take to Replace Your Engine?

Some drivers report getting their vehicles back within a couple of weeks. Though you may be part of the lucky few that get their cars back from Hyundai in under a month, we must you against getting your hopes up. Many Hyundai owners tell horror stories of waiting for more than six months to get their vehicles back.

Before you panic at the thought of losing your car for half a year or applying bright-eyed optimism, it is wise to contact the dealership. The staff may be able to give you a rough time frame of how long the entire engine replacement problem will take. Experienced staff will weigh the multitude of variable factors affecting the replacement duration and give you a figure you can reasonably rely on.

Usually, the process takes at least a month but rarely more than three months. Whatever time estimate you get, try to get it in writing e.g. on your quotation, or via email correspondence. It will be easier to account for the time passed versus work done on your vehicle if you have proof of all communication. This way, if you feel aggrieved enough to sue the company, you will rock solid evidence of how you were wronged.

What is Going On With Hyundai Engines?

No one wants to hear that their engine is at risk of stalling without warning or worse, spontaneously catching fire. This is why Hyundai caught well-deserved flack for their 2.4L and 2.0L Turbo Theta II engine models. The Theta II engine seemed to have had a malfunctioning gasoline direct injection engine which caused the vehicle to stall and in some instances burst into flames.

Drivers of the 2010 and 2012 Santa Fe models were most affected by the terrifying feeling of feeling their vehicles gradually become unstable before the engine stalled, and probably caught fire. Some engines (in Sonata sedans) were recalled due to the presence of metal shavings in crankshaft oil passages. These shavings would block cause oil blockage that results in the premature wear of the rod bearing and eventual seizing of the engine.

After it became apparent that drivers across the country had been sold lemons, Hyundai lost a class action lawsuit. Not only was Hyundai forced to recall the engines in question, it had to offer a lifetime warranty on them. Even after the legal settlement arrangement, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had to open an investigation into the company because of the public danger posed by its sluggish pace when recalling the million-plus vehicles affected.

Does Your Hyundai Qualify for a Free Engine Replacement?

Owners and lessees of certain Hyundai models manufactured from 2010 to 2019 may qualify for the lifetime warranty that was negotiated during the class action lawsuit. The models include Elantra, Santa Fe, Kia Sonata, Kia Sportage, Kia Optima, and Tucson.

Lemon laws have ensured that anyone affected by the Theta II manufacturing defect is liable for a free engine replacement. The lifetime warranty Hyundai committed to holds them responsible to repair your vehicle without making an unreasonable number of repair attempts. These laws differ slightly from state to state. However, the gist of it all is to protect consumers against poorly manufactured products.

This is why Hyundai is liable to offer a refund, replacement, or cash settlement so long as the defect is covered under warranty, and the vehicle was repaired at an authorized repair dealership. The only fly in the ointment is that the lifetime warranty does not apply to vehicles that have not been serviced and maintained as recommended. This means that if your Theta II engine fails due to problems like overheating which isn't directly linked to the manufacturing defect, Hyundai will not be liable to offer you a free engine replacement.

The easiest way to figure out if you qualify is by calling the dealership and providing your VIN. The staff can run this number to confirm your vehicle's recall history. Drivers who maintain good records of their vehicle's servicing and maintenance history are most likely to get their claim approved. There have been stories of dealerships finding flimsy excuses to deny consumers their free engine replacement as mandated by the class action lawsuit.

Is Your Hyundai Safe Drive?

It is natural to be on edge after hearing over a million vehicles like yours have been recalled by the manufacturer. However, if you haven't detected any unusual behavior from your engine, there is no need for immediate concern. Though a few engines have caught fire the most commonly reported problems were limited to knocking and stalling.

As you plan to contact the dealership with your VIN information, these symptoms will let you know if your engine is in need of dire attention:

• Your engine suffers from hesitation or power reduction
• Your engine makes banging sounds which increase alongside the RPM
• Your engine pressure light is illuminated
• Your vehicle has strange vibrations
• Your check engine light is illuminated

Does Hyundai's Standard Warranty Cover Engine Problems?

You are not the only consumer to be drawn by Hyundai's attractive warranty. Anyone who purchases a brand-new Hyundai benefits from the gas powertrain warranty which lasts for 100,000 miles or ten years. Drivers can get free repairs for their engine, transmission, and drive train malfunctions. Unfortunately, this cover is only extended to the vehicle's original owner.

Hyundai cleverly offers drivers free maintenance for 36,000 or three years. On top of this, Hyundai has a limited warranty bumper-to-bumper cover that lasts 60,000 miles or five years. These cover and all the rest apply to second vehicles that qualify. It deals with all other components except the powertrain, these include electronics, bodywork, paint, and workmanship. Hyundai goes the extra mile with five-year roadside assistance covers for drivers who were not off-roading or involved in accidents.

What to Do if Turned Down for Free Engine Replacement

If your car qualifies for the recall, but you wind up getting the short end of the stick at the dealership, you have two options; sue them or pay out of pocket. Either way, it will cost you money. Once you weigh the cost of suing the dealership in the interest of justice versus getting your engine replaced at another licensed and insured shop, you can decide what is best for you.

Cost of Replacing a Hyundai Engine

If you decide to fix your engine elsewhere, the total bill will depend on your location, type of engine, and cost of labor. On average you can expect to spend between $5000 and $7000 to replace your Hyundai engine. Considering you are freeing yourself from the dealership, you could cut costs significantly by purchasing a refurbished or used engine.

When choosing a body shop to replace your engine, you must find the sweet spot between attractive hourly rates and high levels of professionalism. Replacing an engine typically takes around ten hours or slightly longer. Most reputable shops charge over $100 an hour. Remember that you are not planning to replace your engine anytime soon.

Avoid being pennywise and pound-foolish. Paying an eye-popping amount for labor is worth having the peace of mind that the job was done by licensed and insured professionals. Just be warned that getting your Hyundai engine replaced at any shop that isn't authorized by Hyundai will automatically void your warranty.

Conclusion

Whatever has gone wrong with your Hyundai engine, you can bet it will likely take the dealership more than a month to replace your engine. No matter how long the process is, it is best to have your Hyundai engine replaced at the dealership to avoid voiding your warranty. If your car was affected by the recalls, you should consider consulting a lawyer who is well-experienced at lemon law for professional advice.