Why does my Hyundai Elantra jerk at low speed?

Short answer: Some 2021–2024 Elantras feel jerky at low speed, especially in Smart/Eco mode. Ask the dealer about IVT software updates. If it slips or keeps getting worse, the dealer should inspect the IVT under warranty.

Symptom: A jerk or bump when you lift off or lightly press the gas around town, sometimes with a slight surge.

What to check first

1. Try Normal mode instead of Smart/Eco for a few days and see if it changes.
2. Ask a Hyundai dealer whether any IVT software campaign (such as 967) is open on your VIN.
3. Write down exactly when it jerks: lifting off, light throttle, or coming to a stop.
4. Get stored transmission codes read.

Likely causes

1. IVT ratio changes at low rpm. Hyundai's IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) is a belt-type CVT. A new owner noticed jerks when lifting off or pressing the gas at low speed, more in Smart (Eco) mode.
2. Software that needs an update. Hyundai has issued IVT software campaigns for some 2021 Elantras, including campaign 967. Ask whether any update applies to your VIN.
3. Internal IVT problem. Some owners report a full transmission replacement at low mileage when the problem doesn't go away.

What it usually costs

Software campaigns and warranty repairs are free on qualifying cars. No owner here posted an out-of-warranty price.

Is it safe to keep driving?

Mild low-speed jerkiness is usually not dangerous. If it surges toward the car in front, stalls, or slips, get it checked before driving much more.

DIY or shop?

Changing drive mode is DIY. Updates and diagnosis are dealer work.

Recalls, bulletins and complaints in plain words

• Related recalls: NHTSA lists these recalls touching this area of the Hyundai Elantra: 23V526000 (2023-2023 model years, power train:automatic transmission:fluid/lubricant:pump). Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. If your car is part of this recall, the dealer fixes it for free.
• Plain words: The complaint count below shows how often owners reported problems that mention these words to NHTSA. A count is not proof of a defect.
• NHTSA complaints: 33 keyword-matched complaints for Hyundai Elantra 2021–2024 (of 391 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-11-08; keywords: IVT, CVT, transmission, hesitation, jerk, slip, surge). This counts complaints that mention these words. It is not a defect finding.

What owners report

• In Jerky CVT(?) at low speed/rpm, 2022 Elantra on Reddit r/Hyundai, a new 2022 Elantra owner with about 500 km said the car was jerky in city driving when lifting off the gas or pressing it lightly, and more in Smart (Eco) mode. They asked whether it was normal or worth a dealer visit.
• In cvt replacement at 20k miles on Reddit r/Elantra, an owner posted about a CVT (IVT) replacement at about 20,000 miles.

Quick tip

Go to the dealer early and get the complaint on record while the car is under warranty.

Vehicle focus: Hyundai Elantra seventh generation (2021–2024) with the 2.0L engine and IVT. The Hybrid and N have different transmissions.

Safety / mechanic note

A surge or stall at low speed can cause a crash. Verify with a mechanic.