How common are engine problems in the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?

Engine issues make up 79 of 154 total complaints for the 2012 model year, or 51% of all complaints filed with NHTSA.

Is there a recall for the 2012 Sonata Hybrid engine?

Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers the 2011-2013 and 2016 Sonata Hybrid for premature connecting rod bearing wear; Hyundai inspects the engine and replaces it if bearing damage is found.

At what mileage do engine problems usually appear?

NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 88,000 miles at the time of failure for engine-related complaints on this model year.

Have engine problems caused fires or crashes?

NHTSA lists 5 fire reports and 2 injuries tied to complaints in this engine category, with 0 crashes reported.

Is the 2012 engine complaint rate higher than other Sonata Hybrid years?

The 51% share for 2012 is roughly in line with most other years, though 2016 (60%) and 2017 (64%) show higher shares of engine-related complaints.

2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Engine Problems

Engine complaints account for 79 of 154 total complaints (51%) for the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, with a median failure mileage of 88,000 miles. A related recall (20V746000) covers premature connecting rod bearing wear that can lead to engine failure.

Engine complaints: 79; 51% of 154
Crashes reported: 0
Fires reported: 5
Injuries reported: 2
Median mileage: 88,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Some owners report the engine losing power or stalling while driving, sometimes followed by smoke or fire from the engine compartment.
Owners describe sudden loud clanking or knocking noises from the engine that preceded a full engine failure requiring replacement.
Several complaints describe the vehicle hesitating or jerking violently when shifting into drive or reverse, accompanied by a warning to stop the vehicle.
Some drivers report unexpected acceleration, either from a stop or while using cruise control, without corresponding pedal input.
A few owners mention a gas pedal that stuck in the accelerated position and required manual adjustment.
Multiple complaints tie engine smoke or fire directly to the connecting rod bearing issue named in NHTSA recall 20V746000.

When 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid engine complaints were filed

First complaint Dec 13, 2012, latest Sep 4, 2025.

79 complaints filed with NHTSA from 2012 Q4 to 2025 Q3; peak 2018 Q3 (8).

Engine recalls for the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

NHTSA 20V746000Dec 1, 2020Engine128,948 vehicles
Engine
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.

Engine complaints by Sonata Hybrid model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

201143 (45%)
201279 (51%)
201345 (42%)
201412 (44%)
201523 (43%)
201679 (60%)
201751 (64%)
20185 (56%)
20192 (50%)
20208 (50%)
202124 (44%)
20222 (11%)
20238 (53%)
20243 (33%)
20251 (9%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?: Engine issues make up 79 of 154 total complaints for the 2012 model year, or 51% of all complaints filed with NHTSA.
Is there a recall for the 2012 Sonata Hybrid engine?: Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers the 2011-2013 and 2016 Sonata Hybrid for premature connecting rod bearing wear; Hyundai inspects the engine and replaces it if bearing damage is found.
At what mileage do engine problems usually appear?: NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 88,000 miles at the time of failure for engine-related complaints on this model year.
Have engine problems caused fires or crashes?: NHTSA lists 5 fire reports and 2 injuries tied to complaints in this engine category, with 0 crashes reported.
Is the 2012 engine complaint rate higher than other Sonata Hybrid years?: The 51% share for 2012 is roughly in line with most other years, though 2016 (60%) and 2017 (64%) show higher shares of engine-related complaints.