The 2012 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car with a price range of $7,050 to $10,512. More mechanical issues and less passenger room than rivals make the Elantra a car buyers should avoid.
2012 Hyundai Elantra: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model year include transmission software updates, and steering system improvements.
- Reliability ratings are average, according to J.D. Power, with more complaints than the older 2011 model.
- One engine is available, with less power than other compact cars.
- Fuel economy is great, tying for 4th place out of 36 compact cars with a combined rating of up to 32 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are excellent, getting a perfect 5 star rating in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2012 Hyundai Elantra ranks 24th out of 36 compact cars based on owner reviews. A lot of powertrain problems and a weak engine are reasons to go with a different compact sedan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Hyundai Elantra Have?
The 2012 Hyundai Elantra has more serious and costly problems than other compact cars on the market. There are fewer owner complaints than the newer 2013 model.
Engine problems, including the engine ticking, are the most frequent issues with the car. Excessive noise is a sign of damage to the bearings which may cause the engine to fail. There was a class-action lawsuit offering a warranty extension to 120,000 miles and reimbursement for previous repairs. If the car you’re looking at has had the bearing service, or a replacement, then the engine life should be better. More information can be found here.
Electrical issues, leading to the engine being unable to start, are also common. The most common sources are the starter motor, inhibitor switch, and loose battery leads. Repairing the issue costs $50 to $400 depending on the cause.
Steering problems including pulling to one side are another frequent complaint. Usually the issue is caused by a failed yaw rate sensor. Replacing the sensor costs about $350, and happens around 20,000 miles.
There are 4 recalls, which is better than some other cars from 2012. The recalls include headliner support brackets, ESC malfunction, and accessory power outlet overheating. The ESC malfunction and accessory outlet overheating are both dangerous since they can lead to a loss of control or a potential fire.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Hyundai Elantra is more expensive than many other compact cars, with a price range of $7,050 to $10,512, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $15,345 to $20,595. Depreciation is average, dropping around 40% in value over the first 5 years.
- GLS is the entry-level model and comes with 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power locks and mirrors, as well as a 6-speaker stereo system with USB and AUX inputs.
- SE is in the middle of the lineup with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, fog lights, improved cloth seating, steering wheel stereo controls, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Limited is the flagship choice and has 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front and back seats, a sunroof, keyless ignition, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
How Long Will the 2012 Hyundai Elantra Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Hyundai Elantra will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for the class. Engine failures are relatively common around 100,000 miles, and may mechanically total some cars when they are out of warranty. Regular annual maintenance costs are average for a compact car. Repair Pal estimates them to be $473 per year.
It has been mostly stress free, but yes I have had an issue. The first very cold nice this winter the tire pressure warning showed up overriding the miles to empty icon. I have yet to figure out how to get it back 2 miles to empty despite checking the pressure of all four tires.
No I have had many years of safe, reliable driving it had no problems and was very happy with its performance and safety.
Very reliable. I have only experienced a couple of issues with the brake pads and the tire pressure in the winter time.
My car has been very reliable. I haven't had any major issues. My airbag light has been on for a while, so I need to get that looked at. But other than that, it has been a really good car.
My Elantra is very reliable and safe. I haven't had any real problems with it. That being said, I do make sure to maintain it quite well.
Yes very reliable. Purchased new in the 2012 and so far no issues. We do the maintenance at regular intervals also.
Not really any particular issue. There was a recall to have the instrument panel. Looked at and I believe they had a minor sensor indicator malfunction which they fixed the same day
I have had problems with the tires, the push start, the head gaskets. There have been issues. Push start is the worst
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology in the 2012 Hyundai Elantra is average for a budget-friendly compact car, but the optional infotainment system is highly-rated.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with USB and AUX ports, satellite radio, and 6 speakers.
- Upgrades include a more powerful stereo system, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Standard safety features include antilock brakes, air bags, traction and stability control. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera included with the navigation system.
What Engine Options are Available?
Only one engine is available in the 2012 Hyundai Elantra and is a 1.8L 4-cylinder with 148 horsepower, which is a bit lower than other compact cars. Performance is very weak, taking 9.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Elantra?
The 2012 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan with room for up to five people. Leg room in the back seats is cramped for adults, but is still better than some smaller competitors. The sloping design also limits headroom in the back. The Elantra also fits 3 to 4 suitcases in the 14.8 cubic foot trunk, which is more cargo space than its rivals.
How Does the 2012 Hyundai Elantra Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 24th out of 36 compact cars based on owner reviews, the 2012 Hyundai Elantra is in the lower half of the class.
A higher-rated competitor is the slightly more expensive Honda Civic. The Civic is a more reliable choice, and has better passenger room in the sedan. Where the Elantra stands out is with a more luxurious interior, and better standard technology. The Civic is the winner since there are fewer mechanical problems.
A closely rated competitor is the more affordable Nissan Sentra. The Sentra has better styling than the Elantra, and is more engaging to drive. There’s a better infotainment system, and higher quality materials in the Elantra. Overall, both cars are poor choices, though, since the Nissan has transmission failures, and the Elantra has engine problems.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Hyundai Elantra a Good Car?
No, the 2012 Hyundai Elantra is not a good car based on information from 600 verified owner reviews and 16 government and automotive websites. Positives of the car include better interior materials than other budget-friendly compact cars, and great safety scores. Where the Elantra loses a lot of points is with serious mechanical problems including engine failures, and cramped back seats with limited headroom. As a used car from 2012, many Elantras are falling out of warranty, leaving owners on the hook for costly repairs. Overall, if you’re in the market for a compact car, there are better choices than a 2012 Elantra.