Dealer visit checklist

2025 Hyundai Elantra checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

Inspect the car

Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)

Oil consumption reports on the 2.0L Nu engine lineage have surfaced in prior Elantra generations — monitor oil levels between changes
Infotainment connectivity glitches (Bluetooth dropping, Apple CarPlay freezing) have been reported on 2024-2025 units via NHTSA complaints
Brake dust accumulation and premature brake pad wear noted by owners around 25,000-35,000 miles
Paint and clear-coat sensitivity — small chips and scratches appear more readily than on competitors, raising long-term appearance costs
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist false alerts in certain lighting or weather conditions flagged in owner forums

Know the typical price: about $21,500 for this model year
Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away