Is the 2002 Hyundai Accent reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2002 Hyundai Accent is rated "worse than typical".

What are the most common problems with the 2002 Hyundai Accent?

The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 18% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2002 Hyundai Accent have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2002 Hyundai Accent

◆ Worse than typical

2002 Hyundai Accent
RENDERED 2026-11-01T14:45:54.456Z

This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than this model's typical year.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 134
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Power train

Complaints per year

2002: 134 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1991	2
1993	1
1995	142
1996	101
1997	55
1998	47
1999	61
2000	92
2001	112
2002	134
2003	37
2004	33
2005	49
2006	43
2007	88
2008	101
2009	101
2010	87
2011	38
2012	153
2013	141
2014	79
2015	70
2016	103
2017	68
2018	19
2019	30
2020	12
2021	16
2022	17

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Power train

18% · 24 reports

Most commonly citing automatic transmission and clutch assembly.

INJURY

Fuel system, gasoline

13% · 18 reports

Most commonly citing filler pipe and cap and tank assembly.

Service brakes

12% · 16 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASH

Air bags

11% · 15 reports

Most commonly citing frontal and sensor/control module.

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owned a 2002 Hyundai Accent. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became unconscious and crashed into the rear of another vehicle.

NHTSA ODI report, 2017-08-10

Also filed under Seat belts

In a frontal collision none of the air bags deployed on impact.

NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-11

Was driving 40MPH and hit a large puddle of water in the road vehicle slid and did 360 degree turn. Hit a light pole, off center and then a fence. Upon impact, neither air bag deployed. Driver/ front and rear passengers suffered injuries.

NHTSA ODI report, 2002-03-04

Vehicle speed control

9% · 12 reports

Most commonly citing accelerator pedal.

CRASHINJURY

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

▮
2002Complaint volume 134 complaints filed for this model year.
R

2002-10-28Structure02V167000 Certain passenger vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 201, "Occupant protection in interior impact." During testing, the 3-door hatchback…

Remedy: Dealers will install new energy management brackets to support the a-pillar covers and increase the energy absorbing performance of the a-pillar in the relevant area. Owner notification began…

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2002 Hyundai Accent — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Power train: 24 reports on file for this year.
Fuel system, gasoline: 18 reports on file for this year.
Service brakes: 16 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 02V167000 · Structure

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years3 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2002 Hyundai Accent reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2002 Hyundai Accent is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2002 Hyundai Accent?: The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 18% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2002 Hyundai Accent have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.