Photo: Bull-Doser / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons
2012 Hyundai Tucson: common problems and reliability
One of the weaker Tucson years.
255 owner complaints, most about engine. 3 recalls.
Should I buy a 2012 Tucson?The 2012 Hyundai Tucson has 255 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and service brakes.
Safety record for the 2012 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2012 Hyundai Tucson vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Tucson years only. How we score it
Is 2012 a good year for the Tucson?
Across the 22 Tucson model years we track, complaint volume runs from 18 (2009) to 3,155 (2016). With 255 complaints, the 2012 Tucson sits above the model's median of 185.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2012 Tucson
engine and engine cooling:engine
Campaign 19V063000Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Tucson vehicles. The engine oil pan may leak and, if not addressed, the loss of oil may result in engine damage.
air bags
Campaign 14V245000Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Hyundai Tucson vehicles manufactured January 3, 2011, through December 23, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the air bag assembly installed in the steering wheel may come loose from its mounting.
service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/module
Campaign 23V651000Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is mixed and varies significantly by model year and powertrain.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Tucson. See the full Tucson owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Tucson listings typically run $14,189–$22,499.
Other Tucson model years
Compare every Tucson year side by side to see how 2012 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Tucson against its rivals
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