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2012 Hyundai Azera Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2012 Hyundai Azera Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The steering system is the most frequent complaint area, with owners reporting issues like clicking noises and looseness, potentially leading to costly repairs.
  • A critical recall addresses a potential fire risk from the ABS module due to brake fluid leaks; verify this recall has been properly remedied.
  • Engine complaints, including noises and power loss, are also notable and warrant close inspection.
  • Airbag system issues and brake problems are reported, though less frequently than steering or engine concerns.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Hyundai Azera

The 2012 Hyundai Azera offers a spacious interior and comfortable ride, aiming for luxury sedan status. However, its appeal as a used car is significantly tempered by documented reliability concerns and critical safety recalls. While its 3.3L V6 engine provides adequate power and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly, potential buyers must be aware of prevalent issues, particularly with the steering system and potential fire risks from the ABS module.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant number of complaints relate to the steering system, often involving a clicking or clunking noise from the steering coupler. This can lead to looseness and potential loss of steering control.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

82
Steering38
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a large sedan who are mechanically inclined or have a trusted mechanic for thorough inspections.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand a high degree of reliability and minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Hyundai Azera Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Hyundai Azera.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 38 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 10 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Hyundai Azera reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Hyundai Azera is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 82.

How practical is the 2012 Hyundai Azera for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Hyundai Azera is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Coupler (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.

What transmission does the 2012 Hyundai Azera use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Azera, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Azera, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Hyundai Azera use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Azera, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

Top complaint category: steering (38 reports, 46.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Hyundai Azera?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Toyota Avalon and 2012 Buick LaCrosse.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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