2009 Hyundai Accent review

In a world of economic instability, any new car that can tout a sub-$10,000 starting price has a lot going for it. OK, it has exactly one thing going for it: It's cheap. But that doesn't necessarily mean a horrible driving experience — nor does it mean every trim level of said car is cheap.

That's where the Hyundai Accent fits into the marketplace. It's inexpensive, inoffensive and gets good gas mileage. While that may not sound like a ringing endorsement, the Accent holds its own in a crowded field, and that says a heck of a lot.

I tested a 2009 Accent; 2010 models are arriving at dealerships now with a few changes.

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Steering Gear Box, Linkage & Boots/Lower Arm Ball Joint
With the vehicle stopped and engine off, check for excessive free-play in the steering wheel. Check the linkage for bends or damage. Check the dust boots and ball joints for deterioration, cracks, ...

COMBINATION IGNITION SWITCH
o If your Hyundai is equipped with a manual transaxle, place the shift lever in neutral and depress the clutch pedal fully. o If your Hyundai has an automatic transaxle, place the shift lever in &q ...

Emission control system
Your Hyundai is equipped with an emission control system to meet all requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or California Air Resources Board. There are three emission control sy ...