2012 Hyundai Sonata Specifications (2024)

FAQs

How many miles does a 2012 Hyundai Sonata last? ›

When it comes to longevity, the Sonata is estimated to last 200,000 to 250,000 miles or 13 to 17 years with regular maintenance. It also has a better reliability rating and lower annual repair cost than most other midsize cars.

In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Hyundai Sonata earned a top rating of "Good" for frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength protection. In Edmunds brake testing, both a Sonata GLS and SE turbo came to a stop from 60 mph in about 120 feet, which are slightly above average for the class.

Hyundai Motor America is conducting a safety recall to inspect, and if necessary replace, the engine assembly in Model Year 2011 and 2012 Hyundai Sonata vehicles equipped with 2.0 liter turbo and 2.4 liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines manufactured at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama.

A feast of available features

The base GLS model of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata has cruise control, power locks, mirrors and windows, side airbags, and traction control. If you're looking for more, the next-level Limited trim adds front seat heaters, a smart key, and a turbocharged engine.

The list is not exhaustive, so stay on the lookout for car models that can stand the test of time (and miles). Or take a different approach and find a reliable car with 100k based on the brand. Lexus, Dacia, Suzuki, Hyundai, and Toyota have a track record for being reliable and durable.

Avoid: 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata

Unfortunately, the reliability woes just kept coming with the 2012 and 2013 Sonata years. The 2012 Hyundai Sonata gathered over 2,000 complaints and eight recalls, so while it's better than the 2011 Sonata, its issues don't inspire much confidence.

Does the 2012 Hyundai Sonata have recalls on its engine? Yes, as of September 2020, there are two recalls that can affect the performance of the engine, causing complaints like: Knocking noise coming from the engine. Engine failure from inadequate oil flow.

Premature Timing Chain Tensioner and Timing Belt Failure

Old and new Sonata model years had similar issues with their timing chain tensioner, which produced rattling noises upon engine startup. Many owners also reported a broken timing belt, which damaged the crankshaft position sensor.

What is considered high mileage for a Hyundai Sonata? ›

If you drive more than 15,000 miles a year, that's considered high mileage for your vehicle. According to theway.com, anything over 200,000 miles is considered high for a Hyundai Sonata. The higher the mileage on a Sonata, the more likely you are to experience a sudden need for repairs and fixes throughout the year.

The short answer is that for most Hyundai cars and SUVs you are perfectly fine opting for that regular unleaded option.

Assuming proper maintenance and reasonable driving habits, a well-cared-for Hyundai Sonata can last well over 200,000 miles. In fact, many Sonatas have been known to last for more than 300,000 miles with the proper care and attention. Of course, there are no guarantees when it comes to the lifespan of any car.

The federal class action lawsuit alleged that Hyundai sold Sonata vehicles with defective rotating assemblies in the Theta II 2.4 L engines that cause sudden and catastrophic engine failure. When the rotating assembly fails, it does so without warning and causes the engine to abruptly seize, according to the complaint.

Hyundai, Kia class-action lawsuit

The class-action lawsuit alleges certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles from model years 2010 to 2020 have a defect that can lead to engine seizure, stalling, failure and fire.

Vehicles recalled: 206,896 Sonata sedans made between Nov. 26, 2012, and Jan. 16, 2014. The problem: The hose that connects the low-pressure fuel pump to the direct-injection fuel pump may crack over time due to heat generated within the engine compartment.

The 2012 Hyundai Sonata won critics over with its long standard features list, excellent fuel economy and attractive interior design.

Your 2012 Hyundai Sonata transmission filter will need to be replaced every 30,000 or 50,000 miles. Be fearless to check your vehicle's maintenance guide for more information on mileage and time intervals.

The GLS and Limited are powered by a 198-hp 2.4-liter gasoline direct-injection four-cylinder engine. The SE features dual-exhaust which increases the engine output to 200 horsepower using the same 2.4-liter gasoline direct injection four-cylinder engine.

Assuming proper maintenance and reasonable driving habits, a well-cared-for Hyundai Sonata can last well over 200,000 miles. In fact, many Sonatas have been known to last for more than 300,000 miles with the proper care and attention. Of course, there are no guarantees when it comes to the lifespan of any car.

Is a Hyundai Sonata a good reliable car? ›

The Hyundai Sonata is one of the easiest and most economical vehicles to maintain. It offers great gas mileage and requires fewer repairs than most other vehicles. The Hyundai Sonata received a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal. It also ranked fifth out of 24 midsize cars.

How long do Hyundai cars last? Hyundais last, on average, about 200,000 miles, comparable to most life spans for mainstream automotive manufacturers. While no records have been broken for miles driven or years owned with a Hyundai, that's not to say none are in progress.