Q
Which one is better, Elantra or Corolla?
Both Elantra and Corolla have their own advantages, making it difficult to simply judge which one is better. The Elantra features a rather aggressive exterior design. For example, its front face adopts a shark-inspired bionic design with sharp lines, which is quite appealing to consumers who pursue individuality. It performs well in terms of interior space. The imitation leather seats support electric adjustment for the driver's seat and support front seat heating. The rear legroom is spacious, and there are also independent air - conditioning vents and USB ports. In terms of price, it's often more competitive, with rich standard configurations and relatively low maintenance costs.
On the other hand, the Corolla has a long history and high popularity. Its exterior design is both steady and fashionable. The interior uses high - quality materials, and the seats are soft and comfortable, offering a great riding experience. It is equipped with a wide range of safety features, such as a pre - collision safety system and a lane departure warning system. It also offers multiple power options, including a hybrid version, which can meet different needs.
If you pursue individuality and value cost - effectiveness, the Elantra is a good choice. However, if you focus more on stability, comfort, and safety, the Corolla would be more suitable.
Special Disclaimer: This content is published by users and does not represent the views or position of PCauto.
Related Q&A
Q
What oil filter does a 2021 Hyundai Elantra take?
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra (known as Hyundai Elantra or Avante in the Malaysian market) typically uses an oil filter with the original part number 26300 - 35505. This is a model specifically designed for Hyundai Gamma series 1.6L and 2.0L engines and is compatible with mineral oil, semi - synthetic, and fully synthetic oils.
In Malaysia, car owners can also choose certified aftermarket filters from well - known brands such as MANN Filter W811/80, Fram PH9688, or Bosch 3330. These products are easily available at local auto parts stores or e - commerce platforms like Lazada and Shopee.
When selecting an oil filter, pay attention to its filtration efficiency (it is recommended that the β value be ≥ 20), burst pressure resistance (≥ 200 psi), and the material of the rubber seal ring (fluororubber is more durable). These parameters directly affect the engine protection effect.
It is recommended to replace the filter every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every 6 months (depending on the type of oil and driving conditions). In tropical climates like Malaysia's hot and dusty environment, the replacement cycle can be appropriately shortened.
If you replace the filter yourself, you need to use a filter wrench with a 74 - 80mm specification. Also, remember to apply a thin layer of oil on the seal ring of the new filter to ensure a good seal.
Hyundai's authorized service centers in Malaysia, such as Hyundai - Sime Darby Motors, also offer original maintenance packages that include filters and oils that meet the specifications, which is suitable for car owners who pursue original warranty services.
Q
Does a 2021 Hyundai Elantra need synthetic oil?
For the 2021 Hyundai Elantra in the Malaysian market, synthetic oil is recommended. The original manufacturer suggests using 5W - 20 or 5W - 30 full - synthetic oils that meet the API SP or ACEA C2 standards. This type of oil can better adapt to the high - temperature working conditions in the tropical climate, providing excellent anti - wear protection and cleaning performance. At the same time, it can extend the oil change interval to about 10,000 kilometers or 6 months.
Hyundai's Smartstream engines use precision components. The high - temperature stability and low - temperature fluidity of synthetic oil can fully protect the turbocharger and GDI fuel system, preventing sludge buildup in Malaysia's stop - and - go traffic conditions. Car owners need to pay attention to choosing oils with ILSAC GF - 6 certification to ensure fuel economy. The hot and humid local environment may accelerate oil oxidation, so regularly checking the oil level is more important than the intervals specified in the manual.
If you often drive short distances or idle for long periods, you can consider shortening the oil change interval to 8,000 kilometers. However, there's no need to deliberately pursue higher - grade oils. Just follow the viscosity range specified in the manual. Some repair shops may recommend mineral oil to reduce costs, but long - term use may affect the engine's lifespan, especially for models equipped with CVVT technology.
Q
How to check oil life in 2021 Hyundai Elantra?
To check the oil life of the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, first start the vehicle and enter the dashboard menu. Use the control buttons on the right side of the steering wheel to find the "Oil Life" option, then press the "OK" button to view the remaining percentage. This system estimates the oil condition by integrating data such as engine running time, RPM, and temperature through an algorithm. It is recommended to change the oil every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers or every 6 months, whichever comes first. However, considering the hot climate in Malaysia and the frequent start - stop driving conditions, the actual interval should be appropriately shortened.
It's worth noting that Hyundai's intelligent oil monitoring system can more accurately reflect the actual oil consumption, which is more scientific than traditional fixed - interval maintenance. Nevertheless, you still need to regularly check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is between MIN and MAX. If the oil warning light appears on the dashboard, immediate maintenance is required.
For Malaysian car owners, it is recommended to choose fully synthetic oil that meets API SP or ACEA C2 standards to cope with the high - temperature environment. At the same time, develop the habit of manually checking the oil every month when the vehicle is cold. This is especially important for turbocharged models, as it can effectively prevent engine wear caused by oil film rupture.
Q
How often does a 2021 Hyundai Elantra need an oil change?
According to the official recommendation of Hyundai, for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra in Malaysia, under normal driving conditions, it is recommended to change the engine oil every 10,000 kilometers or 12 months, whichever comes first. If you often drive in high - temperature, dusty or short - distance congested road conditions, you may consider shortening the interval to every 5,000 to 7,500 kilometers to protect the engine. The hot and humid climate in Malaysia may accelerate the deterioration of engine oil performance. Therefore, it is also important to regularly check the condition of the engine oil (such as color and viscosity). At the same time, it is recommended to use fully synthetic engine oil of API SP or ACEA C2/C3 grade recommended by the original manufacturer to ensure the best lubrication and cleaning effects. The Smartstream engine technology equipped in the Hyundai Elantra is quite sensitive to the quality of engine oil. Following the maintenance schedule can effectively extend the engine's lifespan and maintain fuel economy. Car owners can also track the next maintenance time through the in - vehicle maintenance reminder system or the MyHyundai app. It should be noted that there may be slight differences in Elantras of different years or versions. For specific information, you can refer to the vehicle handbook or consult the authorized service center in Malaysia for personalized advice.
Q
What transmission is in the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Preferred?
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra Preferred available in the Malaysian market is equipped with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). This gearbox is an advanced technology independently developed by Hyundai. By mimicking the shifting logic of traditional automatic transmissions, it offers a smoother driving experience and higher fuel efficiency, making it particularly suitable for the frequent stop - and - go traffic conditions in Malaysian cities.
The IVT gearbox features a chain - drive design. Compared with the steel - belt structure of traditional CVTs, it is more durable. Additionally, it comes with multiple driving modes (such as Eco/Sport) to meet different driving needs. It's worth mentioning that Hyundai offers a 5 - year or 300,000 - kilometer warranty (whichever comes first) for this gearbox, giving Malaysian car owners more peace of mind when using their vehicles.
Among models in the same class, Elantra's IVT technology is well - known for its low maintenance costs. You just need to regularly change the transmission fluid to keep it in good condition. It is more suitable for the hot and humid climate in Malaysia compared to dual - clutch transmissions.
If you have higher requirements for the driving experience, you can also consider the 7 - speed dual - clutch transmission offered in the Elantra N Line version. However, the Preferred version is mainly targeted at family - use comfort, and the IVT remains a more cost - effective and practical choice.
Q
What battery does a 2021 Hyundai Elantra take?
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra in the Malaysian market typically uses a 12V lead - acid battery. Specifically, it is recommended to use the 55D23L (suitable for the 1.6L and 2.0L gasoline engine versions) or a maintenance - free battery with a capacity of 60Ah or more. The cold cranking amps (CCA) are recommended to be above 500A to ensure starting performance in tropical climates. When choosing a battery, pay attention to whether the terminal position (positive on the right) and battery size (approximately 232mm×173mm×225mm) match the original factory. It is recommended to give priority to original - equipment brands such as Hyundai Mobis or well - known third - party brands such as Panasonic and Varta.
For the hybrid version, a dedicated lithium - ion battery pack is required. In such cases, it is recommended to go directly to a Hyundai authorized service center. In daily use, it is recommended to check the battery's health every two years. Especially in the high - temperature and high - humidity climate of Malaysia, the battery life may be shortened to 2 - 3 years. Regularly cleaning the electrode terminals and avoiding long - term short - distance driving can extend the battery life. If you notice slow starting or dimming headlights, check the voltage immediately.
Hyundai's intelligent power management system will actively optimize the charging efficiency, but installing too many electronic devices may increase the battery load. When purchasing, you can consider high - performance batteries with EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) or AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology to meet higher power demands.
Q
What oil does the 2021 Elantra use?
For the 2021 Hyundai Elantra in Malaysia, it is recommended to use fully synthetic engine oil with a viscosity of 5W - 20 or 5W - 30 that meets API SP standards or higher. The specific choice should refer to the instructions regarding climate conditions and driving habits in the user manual. In hot climates or during aggressive driving, 5W - 30 can be prioritized to provide better high - temperature protection. Hyundai usually recommends using Hyundai Premium engine oil or products of certified brands such as Shell and Castrol with the same specifications. It is advised to change the oil every 10,000 kilometers or 12 months, whichever comes first.
It's worth noting that in the oil viscosity numbers, the "W" stands for winter performance. The smaller the first number, the better the low - temperature fluidity; the larger the second number, the stronger the high - temperature protection. In Malaysia's year - round high - temperature environment, proper attention can be paid to the high - temperature viscosity index. Turbocharged models have higher requirements for oil cleanliness and anti - shear performance. Be sure to choose fully synthetic oil and strictly follow the maintenance cycle.
If the vehicle is still under warranty, it is recommended to use the engine oil specified by the manufacturer to avoid warranty disputes. Meanwhile, regularly checking the oil level can help detect potential engine problems in a timely manner.
Q
Does the 2021 Elantra have CVT?
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra models available in the Malaysian market are indeed equipped with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This transmission is renowned for its smooth shifting experience and fuel efficiency, making it particularly well-suited for urban driving environments. CVT technology continuously adjusts the gear ratio, keeping the engine consistently within its most efficient RPM range. This enhances fuel efficiency while minimizing the jerky shifts associated with traditional automatic transmissions. While CVT is the primary transmission option in Malaysia, certain overseas markets may offer alternatives like dual-clutch transmissions (DCT) or manual transmissions. For drivers prioritizing daily commuting comfort and fuel economy, the CVT represents an ideal choice. Hyundai has tuned this transmission to balance responsiveness with reliability. When considering a used or new vehicle purchase, verify specific configurations through official channels and schedule a test drive to experience the CVT's performance firsthand. Additionally, regular transmission fluid maintenance and adherence to manufacturer-recommended service intervals will extend the CVT's lifespan.
Q
Is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra 2.0 L?
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra does offer a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine version in the Malaysian market. This engine has a maximum output power of 149 horsepower and a peak torque of 179 Nm. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, focusing on a smooth driving experience and fuel economy, which is suitable for daily commuting needs. The model adopts Hyundai's latest "Sensuous Sportiness" design language, making its appearance more sporty. At the same time, it comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and the Hyundai SmartSense active safety system, showing outstanding cost - effectiveness.
It's worth mentioning that the Elantra in the Malaysian market is different from the 1.6-liter turbocharged version in some overseas markets. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine is more suitable for the local road conditions and fuel quality, and its maintenance cost is relatively low. In recent years, Hyundai has been continuously making efforts in the Malaysian market. As its main sedan product, the Elantra is more competitive than Japanese models in the same class in terms of space performance and technological configuration. Especially, the five - year unlimited - mileage warranty policy can make consumers use the car more at ease.
If you value practicality and the richness of configurations, this car is worth considering. Of course, it is recommended to take a test drive to see if the power performance meets your personal expectations.
Q
What kind of engine is in the 2021 Elantra essential?
The 2021 Hyundai Elantra Essential is equipped with a 1.6-liter Gamma naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. It has a maximum output power of 123 horsepower and a peak torque of 154 Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic manual transmission (6AT). This engine is well - known for its reliability and fuel economy, making it suitable for both urban commuting and long - distance driving in Malaysia.
Compared with turbocharged engines, naturally aspirated engines have a simpler structure and lower maintenance costs, which is ideal for consumers who value practicality. Moreover, this engine meets the emission standards of the Malaysian market. As an entry - level model, the Elantra Essential's power configuration strikes a balance between the smoothness of daily driving and fuel efficiency. It's a great choice for Malaysian consumers with limited budgets but a preference for brand reliability.
The linear power output of the naturally aspirated engine in the high - speed range is also well - suited to the mountainous road conditions in Malaysia. The shifting logic of the 6AT transmission has been optimized to ensure both comfort and response speed.
Latest Q&A
Q
why battery light on in car
When that battery warning light pops up on your dashboard, it's usually a heads-up that something's off with the charging system. Could be the alternator isn't properly juicing up the battery, or maybe the battery itself is starting to kick the bucket. Here in Malaysia's hot and humid climate, batteries tend to have a shorter lifespan than they would in temperate regions, so you’ve got to stay on top of it. Common culprits include a loose or broken alternator belt, a faulty voltage regulator, corroded battery terminals, or sketchy wiring connections. It’s best to get it checked out ASAP—otherwise, you might end up with a car that won’t start when you need it most.
And let’s not forget the rain—Malaysia gets plenty of it, which means battery terminals are prone to oxidizing from all that moisture. A little regular maintenance goes a long way here: clean the terminals every so often and slap on some Vaseline to keep them in good shape and extend the battery’s life.
If the battery light starts flashing or if other warning lights join the party, you’re probably looking at a more complicated electrical issue. That’s when you’ll want to bring in a professional technician to diagnose it properly.
Day to day, you can get a rough idea of the battery’s condition by noticing if your headlights seem dimmer than usual or if the engine cranks sluggishly when you start the car. But for the most accurate check, grab a multimeter. When the car’s off, a healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts. Once the engine’s running, that number should jump to between 13.8 and 14.4 volts. If it’s lower than that, your charging system isn’t working like it should.
Q
why my car engine light is on
When your car's check engine light comes on, it usually means the vehicle's electronic control system has detected an issue. This could be caused by something as simple as a faulty oxygen sensor, worn spark plugs, a problematic ignition coil, abnormalities in the fuel system, issues with the exhaust system, or even a loose gas cap. It's advisable to use an OBD - II scanner to read the trouble codes as soon as possible to pinpoint the exact problem, ignoring it for too long might lead to more serious damage down the line.
Here in Malaysia, the hot and humid weather can speed up circuit aging or cause sensors to get damp, so regular circuit checks and keeping the engine bay clean are especially important. If the check engine light starts flashing or is accompanied by noticeable abnormalities like loss of power or strange noises, stop the vehicle immediately and contact a repair shop. This could indicate serious issues such as engine knocking or a damaged catalytic converter.
During regular maintenance, make sure to use engine oil and fuel that meet the manufacturer's specifications, and replace the air filter regularly. These simple measures can effectively lower the likelihood of the check engine light being triggered. For newer models, the engine light might also be related to the emissions system; if left unresolved, it could cause you to fail your vehicle inspection, so prompt repairs are essential.
Q
how far can a car go when the fuel light comes on
When your car's fuel warning light comes on, it typically means you've got roughly 10% to 15% of fuel left in the tank. How far you can actually go depends on factors like your vehicle model, driving style, and road conditions. Generally speaking, most cars can squeeze out another 50 to 80 kilometers after that light pops on, but it's smart to refuel soon to avoid damaging the fuel pump from running dry.
Here in Malaysia, real-world range can vary a bit, thanks to city traffic jams versus highway stretches. For example, cruising at a steady speed on the highway is more fuel-efficient, so you might eke out an extra 10 to 20 kilometers compared to stop-and-go city driving. Also, different car brands have slightly different setups – some models actually display an estimated remaining range on the dashboard, which takes the guesswork out of it.
To stretch your fuel efficiency, try driving smoothly – avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking. Regular vehicle maintenance helps too, keeping the engine and fuel system in top shape. If you’re often caught low on fuel, maybe look into a fuel-tracking app or keep a small reserve can handy for emergencies.
Q
why my car battery light is on
When your car's battery light comes on, it's usually a sign that there is a problem with the charging system. The most common cause is that the alternator isn't properly charging the battery. It could be a loose or broken alternator belt, a faulty alternator itself, or maybe the battery has just gotten old and can't hold a charge anymore. Loose or corroded electrical connections can also disrupt power transmission, so that's another possibility.
I recommend having the alternator's output voltage checked immediately. It should normally read between 13.5 - 14.5 volts. If it drops below 12 volts, your charging system is basically not functioning, and you're running solely on battery power. This increases the risk of stalling out, especially here in Malaysia where the hot weather speeds up battery drain.
A useful tip: Regularly maintain your battery terminals to prevent oxidation. If you've got a non - sealed battery, keep an eye on the electrolyte levels too. Modern cars are packed with electronics these days, placing greater stress on the electrical system. Addressing problems at an early stage can save you from bigger electrical headaches down the line.
And if the battery light comes on and your headlights are dimming or your electronics are acting up? Don't delay; get it checked immediately. In this situation, long - distance driving is not advisable to avoid being stranded.
Q
what is abs light in a car
Alright, car lovers. That ABS light on your dashboard? It stands for Anti-lock Braking System, and if it's glowing, your car's telling you something's off. Could be a wonky sensor, a wiring hiccup, or maybe the hydraulic module needs a once-over. Best bet? Swing by a repair shop soon so they can hook up a diagnostic scanner and figure out exactly what's going on.
Now, what does ABS actually do? When you hit the brakes hard, it stops your wheels from locking up, letting you still steer. Super crucial, especially on Malaysia's slippery roads during the rainy season. But here's the thing: it doesn't make your stopping distance shorter. It's all about keeping you stable and in control.
If the ABS light pops on along with the handbrake light? That's more serious. Maybe your brake fluid is low, or there's a bigger issue with the braking system. Don't mess around—pull over safely and check it out right away.
For day-to-day care, keep those wheel speed sensors clean. Dirt and grime can throw them off, making the ABS light come on when it shouldn't. And don't forget to check your brake fluid regularly. ABS relies on hydraulic pressure, so fresh, clean fluid is a must.
One last thing to remember: even if the ABS light is on, your regular brakes should still work fine. You just won't have that anti-lock safety net. So, give yourself extra space between you and the car in front—better safe than sorry, right?
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