Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Hyundai Genesis
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis shows some concerns with engine and brake systems according to owner complaints and recalls. While there have been significant complaints regarding the engine, electrical system, and power train, the model also has recall issues related to the windshield wiper motor and brake fluid corrosion. Though complaints total 260, which is substantial, they are spread across various components, suggesting no single overwhelming issue.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 260 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V117000 Loss of Wiper Function due to Corrosion NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V489000 Brake Fluid may Corrode Brake Module NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 68 complaints
- Electrical System 49 complaints
- Power Train 39 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 33 complaints
- Unknown or Other 31 complaints
- Service Brakes 28 complaints
Of the 260 complaints on file, 8 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 260 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent stalling or misfire
How to check: Listen for rough idling or frequent stalling when idle.
Brake fluid corrosion issue
How to check: Inspect brake fluid color and question previous maintenance.
Intermittent electrical failures
How to check: Cycle through electrical systems; note any anomalies.
Faulty windshield wiper motor
How to check: Test wipers for consistent speed and operation.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for rough idling or odd noises.
Red flag: Engine stalls repeatedly on idle.
- 02
First minute driving
What to check: Test the brakes immediately.
Red flag: Brakes feel unresponsive.
- 03
Low-speed turns
What to check: Check for abnormal steering noise or feel.
Red flag: Unusual noise during steering.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Engine performance and acceleration response.
Red flag: Hesitation or power loss.
- 05
Cruising
What to check: Listen for any electrical issues or warnings.
Red flag: Dashboard warning lights appear.
- 06
Braking from speed
What to check: Brake system feels solid without vibrations.
Red flag: Brakes are soft or vibrate.
- 07
Checking reverse
What to check: Ensure reverse gear engages smoothly.
Red flag: Grinding or reluctance in reverse.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake fluid been changed recently?
- Have there been any engine repairs?
- Any issues with the electrical system?
- Were recalls addressed by a dealership?
- How often is the car serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history records
- Recall repairs completion proof
- Previous owner details
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Hyundai Genesis at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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