2012 Hyundai Sonata: Specs, Prices, Ratings, and Reviews (2024)

FAQs

Is the Hyundai Sonata 2012 a reliable car? ›

A properly cared for 2012 Hyundai Sonata will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for the class. Expensive engine failures are very common, around 100,000 miles, which may mechanically total the car if the warranty has expired. Regular annual maintenance costs are average for a midsize car.

Hyundai Sonata

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.

"A worn connecting rod bearing will produce a metallic, cyclic knocking noise from the engine and possible engine failure. Engine failure would result in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash." There are no accidents or injuries linked to the recall, Hyundai told federal safety regulators.

Avoid: 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata

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. Meanwhile, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is also another stinker for this generation.

Hyundai is one of the most well-known and well-regarded brands in the auto industry when it comes to reliability and overall customer satisfaction in the long term. While we're fans of every Hyundai model, we'd argue that Hyundai's most reliable car is the Accent based on information from JD Power and RepairPal.

Hyundai shines through as the top brand when comparing its vehicle performance, technology, and fuel economy to those of Toyota models. Hyundai offers V6, V8, and four-cylinder engine options in its vehicles, while Toyota only offers V8 engines on its larger vehicle models.

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 is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata passenger cars, manufactured from January 24, 2012, through June 21, 2012. The curtain side airbags on these vehicles may inflate without deployment command due to an error during manufacturing.

Is Sonata A Good car to buy? ›

Yes, the 2024 Hyundai Sonata is a good midsize car. It's efficient, comfortable, well-suited for daily driving and packed with excellent features for the price. It's not particularly engaging to drive, but the sportier N Line trim provides a peppier 290-horsepower engine for a little more excitement.

In 2022, Korean outlet Chosun, reported a source inside Hyundai claiming the company at the time wasn't working on a next-generation Sonata. Sources told Chosun that it's an open secret in the company that the Sonata will be discontinued as Hyundai makes room on its production lines for its electric vehicles.

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. Compared to its competitors, annual repair and maintenance costs for the Sonata were below average.

The annual maintenance cost of a Hyundai Sonata is $458. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.

Hyundai Sonata Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Hyundai Sonata Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 5th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $458 which means it has excellent ownership costs.

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.

Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata passenger cars, manufactured from January 24, 2012, through June 21, 2012. The curtain side airbags on these vehicles may inflate without deployment command due to an error during manufacturing.