CarRecallWatchThe 2012 Hyundai Elantra has 4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 654 complaints with NHTSA, including 47 crashes, 12 fires, 44 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Engine (139 reports).
NHTSA rates it up to 5 stars overall for crash safety, depending on the version.
2012 Hyundai Elantra recalls
ABS Module Can Leak Fluid and Short Out, Causing Fire Risk
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module in these Hyundai vehicles may leak brake fluid internally.
12V Outlet May Overheat and Cause a Fire
The 12V accessory socket outlet may have been over-tightened during installation.
Brakes May Apply Unexpectedly, Risking Loss of Control
Certain 2011-2012 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built between October 29, 2010, and October 25, 2011, may have an electronic stability control (ESC) sensor malfunction.
Most common 2012 Hyundai Elantra problems
Problem areas named in the 654 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Engine | 139 |
| Electrical System | 126 |
| Air Bags | 124 |
| Steering | 88 |
| Unknown Or Other | 66 |
| Service Brakes | 60 |
| Suspension | 45 |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 44 |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 41 |
| Power Train | 40 |
What owners report
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke coming from under the hood. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road, and the contact exited the vehicle. The contact noticed fire coming from the engine compartment. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. The contact had previously scheduled an appointment with the dealer; however, three months prior to the fire, the dealer informed the contact that the parts were unavailable. The dealer stated a follow-up call would occur to reschedule once parts be
Rear metal brake line is heavily corroded and leaking. Failed approaching intersection and had to use emergency brake to avoid crash.
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The check engine warning light illuminated after the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed with a failed crankshaft sensor. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, and the contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer. The contact was informed of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall associated with the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the brake pedal felt spongy while depressed. After parking the vehicle, the contact later restarted the vehicle, and the brake pedal extended to the floor while depressed. While inspecting under the hood, the contact discovered that there was no brake fluid inside the brake fluid reservoir. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC), and a fuse was replaced. The manufacturer and the local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 59,000.
Apparently a VERY common crankshaft angle sensor malfunction caused the engine to stall out at a stoplight, putting me in harm's way
2012 Hyundai Elantra safety rating
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 Hyundai Elantra 4 DR FWD Later Release | ★★★★★ 5-star | 4 | 5 | 4 (10.9% rollover risk) |
| 2012 Hyundai Elantra 4 DR FWD Early Release | ★★★★ 4-star | 3 | 5 | 4 (11.0% rollover risk) |
| 2012 Hyundai Elantra 2 DR FWD | Not rated | n/a | n/a | n/a |
2012 Hyundai Elantra questions
Does the 2012 Hyundai Elantra have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 4 safety recalls for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra: ABS Module Can Leak Fluid and Short Out, Causing Fire Risk; 12V Outlet May Overheat and Cause a Fire; Brakes May Apply Unexpectedly, Risking Loss of Control; Air Bags:Side/Window; Structure. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
Based on 654 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (139), Electrical System (126), Air Bags (124).
How safe is the 2012 Hyundai Elantra?
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings program gives the 2012 Hyundai Elantra up to 5 out of 5 stars overall; ratings vary by version, see the table above.
How do I check if a recall on my 2012 Hyundai Elantra has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.