If you own a 2012 Hyundai Sonata, you should be aware of some common mechanical problems that may arise with this car. Knowing what these problems are can help you avoid costly repairs or even worse, a total engine failure.
One of the most common issues is a fuel leak caused by a damaged fuel pipe. This is an especially dangerous problem because it can lead to an engine fire.
Engine Stalling
Your 2012 Sonata uses a lot of different sensors to report back on what’s going on with the air and fuel mixture, and if any of them go bad, it could lead to your engine stalling.
For example, the MAF or MAP sensors that measure the air and fuel mix will sometimes go bad. That will make the engine stall because it’s not getting enough air to get that air/fuel ratio correct.
This is why it’s so important to schedule your 2012 Sonata for tune-up service at Firestone Complete Auto Care regularly.
Then, if you have trouble with your engine stalling, the mechanics can read any of your check engine lights to narrow down what’s going on. They can also help you understand why the problem is happening, so you’ll know what to do next.
Engine Knocking
Engine knocking is a sound that you may hear while driving your vehicle. It feels like a series of light taps that get louder over time, and it can be a sign of an engine problem.
One of the common causes of engine knocking is an issue with fuel. When fuel is mixed properly, it burns in even waves that are timed to the engine’s cycles.
It’s important for this to happen in order for the engine to run efficiently and safely. It also helps to prevent overheating, which can be damaging to your car’s components.
Hyundai is recalling certain 2012 hyundai sonatas because they might be affected by a metal debris problem in the crankshaft area. The company says that this debris can cause connecting rod bearings to fail and make a metallic knocking noise.
Engine Seizes
Many owners have reported that their engines seized while driving. The problem usually occurred at an average of 85,300 miles, and the typical repair cost was $4,920.
Some Sonata owners have filed a lawsuit against Hyundai alleging that the automaker concealed the engine failure issue from consumers. They have also alleged that the company has implemented a system of denying warranty claims for failed engines.
According to the lawsuit, Sonatas with the 2.4-liter Theta II engine have an undiagnosed defect that can cause them to fail at around 60,000 to 90,000 miles. This hidden defect can lead to a loss of power, brakes, and steering.
Battery Draining
If you find that your 2012 hyundai sonata is hard to start, the engine cranks slowly or makes clicking noises, this may be a sign of a drained battery. A drained battery can be caused by a faulty alternator, a loose electrical connection or corrosion on the battery terminals.
A good way to check if your battery is working properly is to use a multimeter. A healthy battery should have a voltage of 12.6 volts or more when it’s fully charged.
If your battery is not working properly, you should have it tested by a technician at Courtesy Hyundai of Tampa. They can test for any other signs that it might need to be replaced.
Engine Noise
Engine noise emitted from the front of your car could be a sign that something is wrong. The sound is most often caused by a failed lifter, rocker arm or valve spring.
Hyundai is recalling more than a half-million midsize Sonata sedans in the United States to replace engine parts that may fail due to metal debris during manufacturing. If the debris gets into the connecting rod bearings, it can restrict oil flow and cause them to break.
The Sonata competes with Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion in the midsize sedan market. Its 2.0T turbocharged four-cylinder is more powerful than the V6s in its class and also has better EPA fuel economy ratings.