The 2001 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car that debuted in its third generation that model year. Available as a sedan and a hatchback, it offered practicality and affordability. Key trims typically included the base GL and the uplevel GLS. New, it was priced to undercut competitors, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its reliability and comprehensive warranty for its time helped establish Hyundai in the US market.
The Good
The 2001 Hyundai Elantra appeals to practical buyers with its fuel efficiency, reliability, and exceptional value for the money. Emotionally, it offered a sense of security with its warranty and a comfortable, if not luxurious, ride. Its improved design over previous generations also added to its appeal.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2001 Hyundai Elantra include its somewhat bland styling and less refined interior compared to rivals. The automatic transmission, while reliable, could feel sluggish. Rust, especially in colder climates with road salt, is a concern. Suspension components can also wear over time, requiring replacement.
2001 Hyundai Elantra: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.0L Inline-4 cylinder
- Horsepower: Approximately 140 hp
- Fuel Economy: Estimated 24-27 mpg city / 33-36 mpg highway (depending on transmission and driving conditions)
- 0-60 Times: Roughly 9-10 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- GL (Base): Standard features included air conditioning, a basic sound system, cloth upholstery, and manual windows and locks. Safety features included front airbags.
- GLS (Uplevel): Typically added power windows and locks, an upgraded sound system, cruise control, and sometimes alloy wheels. Options might include a sunroof and antilock brakes (ABS). Fog lights were also sometimes available.
- Transmissions: Available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Interior: Simple, functional interior with easy-to-read gauges and straightforward controls.
- Exterior: Offered in both sedan and hatchback (5-door) body styles. Exterior styling was conservative but generally well-received.
- Safety: Standard dual front airbags. ABS was often optional.
2001 Hyundai Elantra Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2001 |
| Make | Hyundai |
| Model | Elantra |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | South Korea |
| Manufacturing City | ULSAN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0 L 4-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2001 Hyundai Elantra Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2001 Hyundai Elantra often revolve around age-related wear and tear. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in regions where road salt is used during winter. This can affect body panels, undercarriage components, and brake lines. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, are also prone to wear, leading to a less comfortable ride and potentially affecting handling.
Engine issues are less common but can include sensor failures (e.g., oxygen sensors) and occasional oil leaks. The automatic transmission, while generally reliable, might exhibit sluggish shifting or occasional slipping in high-mileage examples.
Interior components, such as the power windows and locks, can also fail over time. The original paint quality wasn't exceptional, so fading or peeling clear coat can be observed.
It's important to check for any outstanding recalls. While specific recall information can vary, it's crucial to consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to ensure any safety-related issues have been addressed. Long-term reliability largely depends on proper maintenance, but expect to address common wear-and-tear items as the vehicle ages.
Engine issues are less common but can include sensor failures (e.g., oxygen sensors) and occasional oil leaks. The automatic transmission, while generally reliable, might exhibit sluggish shifting or occasional slipping in high-mileage examples.
Interior components, such as the power windows and locks, can also fail over time. The original paint quality wasn't exceptional, so fading or peeling clear coat can be observed.
It's important to check for any outstanding recalls. While specific recall information can vary, it's crucial to consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to ensure any safety-related issues have been addressed. Long-term reliability largely depends on proper maintenance, but expect to address common wear-and-tear items as the vehicle ages.
How long will the 2001 Hyundai Elantra last?
With consistent maintenance, a 2001 Hyundai Elantra could realistically reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners have reported surpassing this milestone with proper care. Key to longevity is regular oil changes, timing belt replacements (if applicable; some models have chains), and addressing any mechanical issues promptly.
However, weaknesses over time include rust (especially in northern climates), suspension wear, and potential issues with the automatic transmission. Interior components can also degrade, and the original paint may show its age. Good maintenance records are essential when considering a used 2001 Elantra.
However, weaknesses over time include rust (especially in northern climates), suspension wear, and potential issues with the automatic transmission. Interior components can also degrade, and the original paint may show its age. Good maintenance records are essential when considering a used 2001 Elantra.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2001 Hyundai Elantra offered relatively basic tech features for its time. The standard entertainment system consisted of an AM/FM radio, and often a cassette player. Upgraded trims might include a CD player. Driver-assistance features were minimal, typically limited to power steering and, optionally, cruise control.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags. Antilock brakes (ABS) were often an optional feature, particularly on the GLS trim. Side airbags were not available. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking, as these technologies were not common in vehicles of this class and era.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be consulted for a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's safety performance. These ratings provide insights into how the Elantra performed in various simulated crash scenarios, although it's important to consider that crash-test standards and methodologies have evolved significantly since 2001. Check these sources for the actual crash-test ratings; they are the best resource for understanding safety.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags. Antilock brakes (ABS) were often an optional feature, particularly on the GLS trim. Side airbags were not available. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking, as these technologies were not common in vehicles of this class and era.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be consulted for a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's safety performance. These ratings provide insights into how the Elantra performed in various simulated crash scenarios, although it's important to consider that crash-test standards and methodologies have evolved significantly since 2001. Check these sources for the actual crash-test ratings; they are the best resource for understanding safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Diamond Pearl
Satin Silver Metallic
Noble White
Regal Red
Interior Colors
Medium Grey
Beige
2001 Hyundai Elantra Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2001 Hyundai Elantra was priced competitively, typically ranging from around $11,000 to $14,000 depending on the trim level and options. In today's used market, prices are significantly lower, often ranging from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The Elantra has depreciated substantially due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust-free examples are worth more), mileage, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options like ABS. High-mileage examples with deferred maintenance will command very low prices.
The Elantra has depreciated substantially due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust-free examples are worth more), mileage, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable options like ABS. High-mileage examples with deferred maintenance will command very low prices.
2001 Hyundai Elantra Cost of Ownership
The 2001 Hyundai Elantra is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and value. Fuel economy is decent for its class. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, and parts are generally affordable. However, age-related repairs, especially those related to rust or worn components, can add up. Overall, it's a budget-friendly option, but potential repair costs should be factored in when considering a purchase.
2001 Hyundai Elantra Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2001 Hyundai Elantra Safety Rating
NHTSA
2001 Hyundai Elantra Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date
2000-10-17
Recall no.
00v332000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Supplemental Restraint System Side AIR BAG Satellite Sensors Installed Were Improperly Manufactured, Causing THE AIR BAG Warning Light TO Illuminate and THE Side AIR Bags TO NOT Deploy AS Intended IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence
Non-Deployment OF THE Side AIR Bags Could Increase THE Risk OF Injury During A Crash Where Side AIR BAG Deployment IS Intended.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Two Satellite Sensors.
Notes
Owner Notificationbegan October 31, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Hyundai AT 1-800-633-5151.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2003-12-03
Recall no.
03v496000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, THE Brake Tubes FOR THE Rear Brakes CAN Contact THE Steering Gearbox Mounting Brackets.
Consequence
Contact Between THE Rear Brake Tubes and THE Steering Gearbox Mounting Brackets MAY Result IN Rear Brake Tube Wear and Corrosion, Increasing THE Risk OF Brake Fluid Leakage. Brake Fluid Leakage Could Result IN Reduced Braking Capability, Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Reposition THE Rear Brake Tubes, Install Brake Tube Clips, and Apply Anti-Corrosion Material TO THE Rear Brake Tubes. Owner Notification Began January 22, 2004. Owners Should Contact Hyundai OF Puerto Rico AT 1-800-633-5151.
Notes
Hyundai Recall NO. 061.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2003-07-22
Recall no.
03v257000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, THE Rear Brake Tubes Pass Behind THE Front Suspension Crossmember. Two Steering Gearbox Mounting Brackets ARE Welded TO THE Crossmember. ON Vehicles Equipped With AN Antilock Brake System (Abs), THE Rear Brake Tubes Could Contact Both Steering Gearbox Mounting Brackets. ON Vehicles That ARE NOT Equipped With Abs, THE Rear Brake Tubes MAY Contact Only THE Left Mounting Bracket. Contact Between THE Rear Brake Tubes and THE Steering Brackets Could Cause Wear and Corrosion That Could Result IN Brake Fluid Leakage.
Consequence
Fluid Leakage Could Result IN Reduced Braking Capability Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Reposition THE Rear Brake Tubes SO They DO NOT Contact THE Mounting Brackets, Install Brake Tube Clips TO Control THE Location OF THE Rear Brake Tubes, and Apply Anti-Corrosion Material TO THE Tubes IN THE Areas Where Contact With THE Mounting Brackets MAY Have Occurred. Owner Notification Began ON October 13, 2003. Owners Should Contact Hyundai AT 1-800-633-5151.
Notes
Hyundai Recall NO. 061.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date
2008-10-14
Recall no.
08v533000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Hyundai IS Recalling Certain MY 2001-2002 Elantra Vehicles. Movement OF THE Side Impact AIR BAG Wiring Harness Mounted Under Each Front Seat, Possibly Caused BY Contact From Materials Placed Under THE Seat, MAY Result IN AN Electrical Resistance That Would Cause Supplemental Restraint System (Srs) Warning Light Illumination.
Consequence
This Condition Only Relates TO THE Driver and Passenger Seat Mounted Side Impact AIR Bags and MAY Prevent Seat Mounted Side Impact AIR BAG Deployment During A Crash Where Such Deployment Should Occur. Non-Deployment OF THE SRS AIR Bags MAY Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Driver and Front Passenger Under Certain Crash Conditions.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install NEW Side Impact AIR BAG Wiring Harness Connector Clips and Revised Side Impact AIR BAG Wiring Harness Attachments Under THE Driver's and Front Passenger's Seats. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During THE Fourth Quarter OF 2008, and Will BE Sent OUT IN SIX Mailings. Owners MAY Contact Hyundai AT 1-800-633-5151.
Notes
Hyundai Recall NO. 088.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date
2008-10-14
Recall no.
08v532000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Hyundai IS Recalling Certain MY 2001 Elantra Vehicles. IF A Liquid IS Spilled IN THE Area OF THE Cupholder ON THE Center Console, IT MAY Seep Through THE Console Opening FOR THE Parking Brake Lever and Then Drip Onto THE AIR BAG Control Module Electrical Connector. THE Spilled Liquid MAY Contaminate THE AIR BAG Control Module and ITS Electrical Connector TO THE AIR BAG Wiring Harness and Cause THE Supplemental Restraint System (Srs) Warning Light TO Illuminate.
Consequence
This Condition MAY Affect THE Driver and Passenger Frontal AIR Bags and MAY Prevent AIR BAG Deployment During A Crash Where Such Deployment Should Occur. Non-Deployment OF THE SRS AIR Bags MAY Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Driver and Front Passenger Under Certain Crash Conditions.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Protective Cover Over THE Vehicle's AIR BAG Control Module Connector. THE Recall Owner Notification Began ON November 30, 2008, and Letters Will BE Sent OUT IN SIX Mailings. Owners MAY Contact Hyundai AT 1-800-633-5151.
Notes
Hyundai Recall NO. 088.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:front:control ARM
Recall date
2009-04-16
Recall no.
09v125000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Hyundai IS Recalling 160,904 MY 2001-2003 Elantra and MY 2003 Tiburon Vehicles Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia. Road Salt Used During THE Winter Months IN These Jurisdictions MAY Result IN Internal Corrosion and Thinning OF THE Steel IN THE Front Lower Control Arms. THE Corrosion MAY Progress TO THE Point Where THE Lower Control Arm's Upper and Lower Panels Become Perforated. A Perforated Front Lower Control ARM MAY Fracture Between ITS Ball Joint Attachment and THE Forward and Rearward Pivot Attachments TO THE Chassis.
Consequence
THE Fracturing OF THE Control ARM Could AN Owner's Control Over Their Vehicle That MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Front Lower Control Arms FOR Corrosion Damage. IF Specified Levels OF Internal Corrosion Damage ARE Found, THE Front Lower Control Arms Will BE Replaced With NEW Front Lower Control Arms Incorporating Additional Holes IN THE Upper and Lower Panels. IF THE Front Lower Control Arms DO NOT Require Replacement, THE Dealer Will ADD Drainage Holes TO THE Front Lower Control Arms and Will Treat THE Front Lower Control Arms With Rust-Proofing Materials TO Arrest THE Internal Corrosion Process. These Procedures Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 17, 2009. Owners MAY Contact THE Hyundai Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-633-5151.
Notes
Hyundai Recall NO. 091.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
2001 Hyundai Elantra Insurance
Insurance for a 2001 Hyundai Elantra is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2001 Hyundai Elantra Compare to Other Hatchback?
The 2001 Hyundai Elantra competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Mazda Protege. In terms of performance, the Elantra was generally adequate but not particularly sporty compared to the Mazda Protege or some versions of the Ford Focus. Feature-wise, it often lagged behind the Civic and Corolla, especially in standard equipment.
Reliability was a strong point for the Elantra, although the Civic and Corolla had stronger reputations. Price was where the Elantra truly shined, undercutting most of its competitors, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives to the 2001 Elantra include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for superior reliability and resale value, albeit at a higher initial cost. The Ford Focus offered a more engaging driving experience, but reliability could be a concern. The Mazda Protege was a sporty alternative, but its practicality might be limited. If reliability and a low price are paramount, the Elantra remains a reasonable choice, but the Civic or Corolla might be better long-term investments if the budget allows.
Reliability was a strong point for the Elantra, although the Civic and Corolla had stronger reputations. Price was where the Elantra truly shined, undercutting most of its competitors, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives to the 2001 Elantra include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for superior reliability and resale value, albeit at a higher initial cost. The Ford Focus offered a more engaging driving experience, but reliability could be a concern. The Mazda Protege was a sporty alternative, but its practicality might be limited. If reliability and a low price are paramount, the Elantra remains a reasonable choice, but the Civic or Corolla might be better long-term investments if the budget allows.
Ranks #1306 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1306 | 2001 Hyundai Elantra | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Hyundai Elantra a Good Hatchback?
The 2001 Hyundai Elantra is ideal for budget-minded individuals seeking affordable transportation. It's worth buying *used* if it's well-maintained, rust-free, and has a clean title. It's a good option for students, first-time car buyers, or anyone needing a reliable commuter on a tight budget. However, be prepared for potential age-related repairs. Opt for the GLS trim if possible, as it offers more features. Thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended before purchase to assess its overall condition and identify any potential issues.
KJ on October 23, 2019
Most reliable car I have ownedThe car met my needs!!! It has great gas mileage. A lot of legroom. Large trunk. Smooth riding car. Loved the car!!! Great car for any age.
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Brad99 on August 20, 2019
For Sale 2001 Hyundai Elantra V6 207,000 milesComes with safety inspection, great AC, good tires, recent tune-up, minor issues are engine light on(oxygen sensor?), drivers side window wind makes a noise, passenger side door handle.
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Tyler on October 13, 2018
Very reliable carPerfect for a starter car. Also good on gas! I would recommend this car to anyone it's also good for a small family car love it!!
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roadrunner on October 9, 2018
265,000 miles and countingA no problem car. Regular preventative maintenance is my "secret". Oil change every 3K. Trans. and radiator service every 20K . Air fikter every 5K
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Russian1985 on August 28, 2018
Starts every timeThis car is been everywhere death Valley California and the Rocky Mountains Colorado offloading or places it says 4 x 4?s only I don?t recommend you do that this car does have high clearance newer cars are lower to the ground. Everything that?s broke on the scar I just YouTube it and fix it myself it gets a little too complicated to ask my buddy like help me fix the AC for like nothing I just had to get the part that I get from the junkyard .One time I left my lunch box inside a bear broken destroyed one of the windows the mirror backseat once again I just went to the junkyard and replaced it all myself YouTube costs was just the parts and time. I have had this car for 10 years . Cheap to maintenance and it?s great on gas.
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Strong on April 21, 2018
Car worth getting around town in.These cars drive well and can handle city driving. It is very good on gas and reliable. This car is worth buying as long as you like them.
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Strong on April 17, 2018
Great commute carThis car soes give you the impression that you dring a much larger car because of its comfortablity. This car will last even past 300,000 miles.
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aa on August 20, 2017
hyundaimeets all my daily driver needs, easy driving, easy parking due to size. 32 mpg gas saver, affordable.
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Semper79 on July 26, 2017
Most reliableI've owned this Vehicle for several years and it has become one of the most reliable cars I've ever owned. I've had to do very little maintenance on it. The only thing negative about this car is t he size, it is pretty small when you have 3 full size kids in the back seat.
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Happy Driver on May 30, 2017
Reliable car choiceIt has 248,000 miles. No problems! Regular preventative maintenance keeps it going. 3K oil changes, 6K alignments, 30K transmission and radiator service.
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Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma