2020 Hyundai Elantra - Intermittent No Start / No Crank

Question

Randomly, my 2020 Elantra won't start. I turn the key and nothing happens—no clicking, no cranking. All the dash lights come on and the battery is brand new. If I wait 5 minutes and try again, it might fire right up like nothing was wrong.

It seems to happen more often when the car is hot after a short trip to the grocery store. I've tried starting it in Neutral instead of Park, but that doesn't seem to make a difference. The dealer couldn't find anything because 'it started for them'.

AudiAlex22 · Accepted Answer

✅ Confirmed fix: The problem is a faulty starter motor solenoid. There was a batch of these starters where the internal contactor would heat soak and fail to bridge the connection.

When it happens again, have someone tap the starter with a screwdriver while you turn the key. If it starts, the solenoid is failing. I replaced the starter assembly (Part #36100-2E250) and the intermittent no-start is gone. This is a common failure on the Smartstream engines.

RegenRogerD · Answer

Check your brake light switch. If the car doesn't see that the brake is depressed, it won't allow the starter to engage. See if your brake lights are actually turning on when you press the pedal during the no-start event.

2020 Hyundai Elantra - Intermittent No Start / No Crank

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