1992 Hyundai Excel problems

hyundai logo

The Hyundai Excel (Korean: 현대 엑셀), also known as the Hyundai Pony, Hyundai Pony Excel, Hyundai Presto, Mitsubishi Precis, Hyundai X2 and Hyundai XL, is an automobile which was produced by Hyundai Motor Company from 1985 to 1999. It was the first front-wheel drive car produced by the South Korean manufacturer. The Excel range replaced the rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Pony.

Background

The Excel was based on the second generation of the Mitsubishi Mirage, but it received its own sheet metal design by Giorgetto Giugiaro. The Excel was available in three- or five-door hatchback and four-door sedan models. The Excel was the first Hyundai car to be exported to the United States.

The Excel was available with either a manual or automatic transmission mated to a four-cylinder engine aspirated by a carburetor or fuel injection system, depending on market and model year.

Originally, the Excel was supposed to be replaced by the Elantra in 1990, but it ended up being sold for four more years until being replaced by the Hyundai Accent in the model year 1995. From 1990, there was a coupé variant called the Hyundai Scoupe, which was replaced by the Hyundai Coupé in 1996.

1992 Hyundai Excel

Social links

Common 1992 Hyundai Excel problems

The Hyundai Excel, produced between 1986 and 1994, was a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers due to its improved design and features compared to previous years. However, like any vehicle, the Hyundai Excel had its share of common problems.

One issue with the 1990-1994 Hyundai Excel models was with the brake system. Drivers reported that the brakes felt spongy or unresponsive, which could lead to difficulty stopping the vehicle. This was often caused by worn out brake pads, a damaged brake rotor, or a malfunctioning brake caliper.

Another issue with these models was with the engine. Some drivers reported that the engine would stall or fail to start altogether, while others experienced issues with the engine misfiring or running rough. These issues could be caused by a malfunctioning fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a faulty ignition coil.

Electrical problems were also a common issue with the 1990-1994 Hyundai Excel models. Drivers reported issues with the dashboard lights not turning on, the radio not working, and the power windows not functioning properly. These issues were often caused by a faulty alternator, a damaged battery, or a malfunctioning power window motor.

Additionally, rust and corrosion were still common issues with these models. The paint would bubble and peel, and the body would rust, particularly around the wheel wells and undercarriage. To address these issues, it's important to stay on top of regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as they arise. Regular brake inspections, oil changes, and fuel system cleanings can help prevent brake and engine issues. Rust and corrosion can be prevented by washing the vehicle regularly and applying protective coatings to the body.

Another common issue was with the fuel system. The fuel pump and fuel filter could become clogged, leading to poor performance and potential engine damage. In some cases, the fuel tank itself could also rust or corrode, leading to leaks or other issues. Owners of older Hyundai Excels may also encounter issues with the electrical system, including problems with the alternator, battery, and starter. These issues could lead to difficulty starting the vehicle, a dead battery, or other electrical problems.

Despite these common issues, the Hyundai Excel remains a reliable and affordable vehicle for those on a budget. With proper maintenance and repairs, many Excel owners are able to keep their vehicles running smoothly for years to come.

It's worth noting that the 1992 Hyundai Excel was also known as the Hyundai Pony, the Hyundai Pony Excel (X1 hatchback in South Korea), the Hyundai Presto (X1 sedan in South Korea), the Mitsubishi Precis and the Hyundai X2 (UK) in markets outside Australia.

1992 Hyundai Excel engine

How reliable was the Hyundai Excel?

Problem cars could be identified by a creaking noise in the body as the car went over bumps. Hyundai checked all cars and riveted the rails to the floor pan to fix the problem. While the recall cast a shadow over the Excel's reputation for a while, mechanics report that it is generally a robust and reliable car.

What happened to the Hyundai Excel?

The Hyundai scoop was a two-door only sporty variant of the Excel. We started getting them for the 1991. Model year the name using the s for sport along with coop Scoops started at 8 500.

What is the mileage of Hyundai Excel?

10 - 12 KM/L

Hyundai Excel Specifications

PricePKR 2.8 - 5.0 lacs
Fuel TypePetrol
Mileage10 - 12 KM/L
Fuel Tank Capacity42 L
Seating Capacity5 Persons

Why won't my Hyundai Excel start?

The most common reasons a Hyundai Excel won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

1992 Hyundai Excel car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Hyundai Excel problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Power train problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Hyundai Excel vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1992 Hyundai Excel

The NHTSA has received 36 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Hyundai Excel. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1992 Hyundai Excel vehicles.

2009-01-27

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-01-21
  • VIN: KMHVD12J2NU
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: DEFECTIVE LOWER CONTROL ARM..1992 HYUNDAI EXCEL..CORRODES AND RUSTS, ESPECIALLY ON PASSENGER SIDE LEADING TO LOSS OF CONTROL OF VEHICLE. *TR
2007-02-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-01-02
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • VIN: KMHVD12J2NU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THERE IS A HUGE SAFETY DEFECT IN THE OLDER HYUNDAI AUTOMOBILE COMPUTERS OR ECU BOXES. THE INTERNAL CAPACITORS (RUBYCON AND NICYCON) FAIL CAUSING ACID TO LEAK OUT ON THE COMPUTER BOARD, LEADING TO COMPLETE COMPUTER FAILURE. THE CAR STALLS OUT WHILE DRIVING UNEXPECTEDLY WITH NO WARNING, LEADING TO A SERIOUS ROAD HAZARD FOR ALL OCCUPANTS OF THIS VEHICLE . THE CAR WILL ALSO IDLE ERRATICALLY, YIELDING NUMEROUS COMPUTER , AND NO START AND STALLING SITUATIONS THAT ARE UNPREDICTABILITY HAVE REPLACED 4 COMPUTERS (ECU'S) IN MY 1992 HYUNDAI EXCEL . THERE ARE SEVERAL INTERNET ARTICLES AND AUTO COMPUTER REBUILD SITES DOCUMENTING THESE DEFECTIVE COMPONENTS IN THE HYUNDAI COMPUTER. I ALSO SENT CLOSE-UP PHOTOS OF THE ECU COMPONENT DEFECTS, AS WELL AS A LETTER FROM THE HYUNDAI SERVICE MANAGER TO HYUNDAI MOTORS, BUT THEY ARE UNCOOPERATIVE. I HAVE TRIED MANY TIMES TO CONTACT HYUNDAI MOTORS AND THEY WOULD NOT OFFER ANY REPLACEMENT OR REBUILD ON THIS DEFECTIVE PART. I FEEL THIS IS A DEFINITE , SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS, ROAD HAZARD THAT SHOULD BE A RECALL IN ALL THESE 1992 HYUNDAI EXCEL AUTOMOBILES. PEOPLE'S LIVES ARE AT STAKE DRIVING WITH THESE DEFECTIVE COMPUTERS IN THEIR CARS. I HOPE YOU CAN HELP~MANY THANKS. *NM
2005-09-21

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-09-21
  • VIN: KMHVD32J9NU
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: DT: THE TIRES WERE LEAKING AIR. THE CONSUMER THOUGHT IT WAS THE TIRE, BUT FOUND OUT IT WAS THE RIM. THIS HAS HAPPENED ONCE EIGHT YEARS AGO, AND ONCE A YEAR AGO, AND ONCE SIX MONTHS AGO. EACH TIME THE CONSUMER HAD THE RIM REPLACED AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE DEALER SAID THEY DID NOT HAVE ANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CALLED AFTER THE LAST TIME, AND THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THAT THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM. THE CONSUMER WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE FORTH ONE FAILING. *AK (11/16/05) THE TIRES WERE HEAVILY UNDER INFLATED. *SC
2001-02-21

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-02-16
  • VIN: KMHVD12J4NU
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 55 MPH FRONT HOOD FLIPPED UP, BLOCKING VISION. KEPT CONTROL OF VEHICLE, DRIVING OFF ROAD. PUSHED DOWN HOOD AND TIED IT WITH A ROPE THEN, LATCH HAD TO BE FIXED. *AK
2000-11-28

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-11-03
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: KMHVD12J7NU
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: VEHICLE WAS HIT BY A VEHICLE IN WHICH THE SHOULDER BELT BELT DID NOT LOCK, THIS CAUSED THE CONSUMER'S CHEST TO HIT THE STEERING WHEEL, THE LAP BELT DID NOT FAIL IN THE ACCIDENT. *SLC
2000-09-14

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-09-23
  • VIN: KMHVF12J0NU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR I HAVE BEEN IN AND OUT OF THE REPAIR SHOP OVER A DOZEN TIMES AND I HAVE THE PAPERS TO PROVE IT THE REPAIR SHOP HAD MY CAR MORE THEN I DID AND I REPLACED JUST ABOUT EVERY THING ON THE CAR BUT I WENT THROUGH 3 TRANSMISSION AND NOW I NEED ANOTHER BEFOR I HAD AN EXSTENDED WARRANTY AND I JUST HAD TO PAY $50.00 NOW THAT MY WARRANTY IS GONE NONE OF THE TRANSMISSION SHOPS WANTED TO FIX IT THEY SAY THAT IT IS TO MUCH TROUBLE AND THE MAKE OF THAT TRANSMISSION FOR THAT YEAR HAS PROBLEMS AND THAT IF I WOULD FIX IT IT WOULD JUST DO IT AGAIN. I REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION 3 TIMES ALREADY AND NOW THE CAR NEEDS ANOTHER TRANSMISSION IT WAS JUST REPLACED IN 1998 WHAT CAN I DO TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THANK YOU LARAY RANSOM. *AK
1999-10-21

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: NOT AVAILAB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ABS LIGHT ILLUMNATED ON THE DASHBOARD. ALSO, WHEN ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A NORMAL STOP THE VEHICLE CONTINUES TO ACCELERATE, CAUSING EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. CONSUMER HAS YET TO CONTACT THE DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
1999-04-11

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-08
  • VIN: KMHVD12J8NU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY
1999-01-15

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-06-22
  • VIN: KMHVF12J4NU
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY FIRST HEADACHE WITH THIS VEHICLE OCCURED WHEN THE GAS PUMP WHEN OUT. I WAS SITTING AT A LIGHT AND I HEARD A LOUD, BUZZING SOUND COMING FROM THE REAR OF MY CAR. AS THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN, I STEPPED ON THE GAS, ONLY TO FEEL A LOSS OF POWER. THE ENGINE STOPPED RUNNING, AND I WAS ABLE TO PULL IT INTO A PARKING LOT AND HAD IT TOWED TO A MECANHIC. AFTER THE PUMP WAS REPLACED, THE MECANHIC SOUNDED ME WHERE THE GASKET ON THE TOP OF THE PUMP HAD SNAPPED IN HALF. THE INCIDENT WITH THIS CAR HAPPEND THIS PAST SUMMER WHEN THE TRANSMISSION GAVE OUT. I WAS ON MY WAY TO WORK AND I HAD JUST PASSED A GREEN LIGHT. I TRIED TO SPEED UP, BUT THE CAR HESITATED REALLY BAD, AND JERKED EACH TIME I TRIED TO GO FASTER. I PULLED OFF THE CAR OF THE ROAD TO START UP THE CAR AGAIN, BUT IT FAILED TO TURN OVER. I HAD IT TOWED TO A TRANSMISSON SHOP. IT SAT THERE FOR TWO WEEKS UNTIL I CAME UP WITH THE $1800 NEEDED TO PAY FOR AN ENTIRELY NEW TRANSMISSION SYSTEM.
1999-01-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-15
  • VIN: KMHVD12J3NU
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE OVERHEATED WITHOUT REGISTERING IT ON TEMPERATURE GAUGE INSIDE INSTRUMENT PANEL, CAUSING VEHICLE TO LOSE COMPRESSION/ ANTI-FREEZE/OIL AND STALL. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
1998-08-07

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-04-27
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: FILL IN
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 40 TO 45 MPH CONSUMER WENT TO AVOID HITTING A DEER AND THE STEERING WHEEL CAME OFF, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT, AND TOTALING VEHICLE. CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
1998-04-17

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-04-15
  • VIN: KMHVF12J1NU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILED 3 TIMES.
1998-03-17

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: PROBLEMS WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (REPLACED 3 TIMES). ENGINE DIED.
1997-12-15

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-11-01
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILED SEVERAL TIMES, A TOTAL OF THREE TRANSMISSIONS HAVE BEEN INSTALLED IN VEHICLE.
1997-12-15

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KMHVD12J9NU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE.
1997-11-12

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KMHVD32JXNU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED CAUSING VEHICLE TO SLIP OUT OF GEAR.
1997-10-20

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-09-21
  • VIN: KMHVEZZJ4NO
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: HOOD LATCH FAILED CAUSING HOOD TO SMASH WINDSHIELD WHILE DRIVING. (NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE REPORT)
1997-06-20

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-02-17
  • VIN: KMHVF22JXNU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED.
1997-05-13

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE IN MOTION VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INTO ANOTHER PARKED VEHICLE. *AK
1997-03-18

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-02-10
  • VIN: KMHVD12JXNU
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: FRONT BRAKE FAILURE. *AK
1997-02-18

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED TWO DAYS EALIER AND BRAKES BECAME INOPERATIVE. *AK
1996-10-25

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-09-01
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ROCKER ARM SHAFT CRACKED IN HALF, CAUSING DRIVER TO LOSE 3 OF 4 CYLINDERS.
1996-09-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-18
  • VIN: KMHVD12J5NU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DURING VEHICLE OPERATION SMOKE WAS NOTICED COMING FROM THE DASH AREA. THE VEHICLE STALLED DUE TO A BLOWN ALTERNATOR FUSE. *AK
1996-08-12

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-12
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AUTO WILL RUN FOR APPROX 20-30 MILES THEN AFTER IT GETS HOT IN NEUTRAL AND WILL NOT RUN. *AK
1996-06-10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KMHZD12J8NU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE IN HOT WEATHER STALLS OUT WITH NO WARNONG AND DEALER CANNOT FIND THE PROBLEM. *AK

1992 Hyundai Excel recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1992 Hyundai Excel.

1993-11-23
  • Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THE VEHICLES FAILED THE LATERAL MOVING BARRIER IMPACT TEST REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." THE FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE GAS TANK EXCEEDED THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE AMOUNT OF SPILLAGE.
  • Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT, THE FUEL SPILLAGE CAN RESULTIN A FIRE IF EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
  • Remedy: HYUNDAI HAS DEVELOPED AN APPROPRIATE COUNTERMEASURE THAT WILL COMPLY WITH ALL REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 301.

Negative 1992 Hyundai Excel car reviews

  1. Nasir Shields 2024-06-16

    Hey there! While I appreciate your interest, I would recommend looking at other options. This car can be quite uncomfortable to ride in.

  2. Lambert Carroll 2024-05-20

    Very reliable with very low expenses. Great value for money.

Positive 1992 Hyundai Excel car reviews

  1. Braulio Roob 2024-11-07

    I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your Hyundai Excel for the past 11 years! Despite being a dealer's demo, it has proven to be a reliable and affordable commuter car that has served you well with almost 200,000 miles on it. While it has required a few repairs, it's still cost you about half as much as the Honda/Toyota/Nissan alternatives over the last decade. It's great to have a car that provides such excellent economy transportation. Thank you for sharing your positive experience!

  2. Oswaldo Thiel 2024-09-28

    It's a good first car, even if you don't mind getting some looks.

  3. Stefan Dickinson 2024-04-02

    I've been driving this car for three months now, averaging about 110 miles a day back and forth to work. To be honest, I prefer taking this car over my minivan because it's so reliable and economical. Every time I turn the key, the engine starts right up without fail! While it may not have the power to go from 0 to 60 in 10 or 15 seconds, it can take me further than any other car I've ever owned. In fact, it can go up to 410 miles with less than...

Leave your review of 1992 Hyundai Excel

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1992 Hyundai Excel problems:

What are the common problems that could cause a 1992 Hyundai ...
What are the common problems that could cause a 1992 Hyundai ...
https://www.justanswer.com/car/2lioc-1992-hyundai-excel-it-just-died-when-driving-on-inspection.html

Sep 29, 2009 ... I got a 1992 Hyundai Excel,it just died when driving.On inspection i found it had no injection pulse(has good spark and fuel pressure) would ...

1992 Hyundai Excel Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
1992 Hyundai Excel Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/hyundai/excel/1992

Get 1992 Hyundai Excel repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Hyundai mechanics near you.

Was the Hyundai Excel a bad car? - Quora
Was the Hyundai Excel a bad car? - Quora
https://www.quora.com/Was-the-Hyundai-Excel-a-bad-car

Mar 15, 2021 ... What are common problems with Hyundai cars? I must say earlier there were a bunch of ...

1993 Hyundai Excel Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
1993 Hyundai Excel Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1993-hyundai-excel/problems

Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1993 Hyundai Excel ... common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1992 Hyundai Excel ...

where is starter relay (exact location) on 1992 Hyundai Excel ...
where is starter relay (exact location) on 1992 Hyundai Excel ...
https://www.hyundai-forums.com/threads/where-is-starter-relay-exact-location-on-1992-hyundai-excel.667174/

May 23, 2020 ... ... common problem on older cars not factory fitted with a relay and obviously your car model had a problem in that area. So a new starter made ...

Other years of Hyundai Excel

hyundai excel 1993 photo
Excel 1993
Hyundai

29

1

10

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai excel 1994 photo
Excel 1994
Hyundai

48

2

14

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai excel 1995 photo
Excel 1995
Hyundai

5

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai excel 1996 photo
Excel 1996
Hyundai

3

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai excel 1997 photo
Excel 1997
Hyundai

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai excel 1998 photo
Excel 1998
Hyundai

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1992 Hyundai Excel?

Add car complaint
1992 Hyundai Excel photo