2012 Hyundai Elantra Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine compartment fire risk due to ABS module leak is a primary concern.
- Frequent complaints about the engine, electrical system, and airbags require careful inspection.
- The vehicle earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, but recalls and complaints warrant attention.
- Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 32 MPG.
2012 Hyundai Elantra
Critical Failure Risk
Widespread complaints include sudden power loss, stalling, and failure to start. These issues can stem from complex electrical or powertrain control module problems, or internal engine wear.
Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 148HP
- Torque
- 131 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel economy over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Hyundai Elantra Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 148 hp
- Torque
- 131 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Wagon
- EPA Combined MPG
- 32
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 134 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 121 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $180
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Hyundai Elantra reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra is 5.6/10. Reliability score is 5.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 907.
How practical is the 2012 Hyundai Elantra for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.9/10. EPA combined economy is 32 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 419 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Practicality 5.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
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 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $5,000+).
What engine is in the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.8. Output is 148 hp • 131 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2012 Hyundai Elantra use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
EPA combined estimate is 32 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra, fuel economy range is 28-38 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra, body style is wagon.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Hyundai Elantra use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
Top complaint category: engine (134 reports, 14.8% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Honda Civic and 2012 Toyota Corolla.