Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Hyundai Veloster
The 2012 Hyundai Veloster has a substantial number of owner complaints, mainly involving engine, visibility, and steering issues. Multiple recalls have been issued, focusing on the braking and electrical systems, and sunroof assembly. The evidence is limited for some issues; thus, they should be verified during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Hyundai Veloster has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 296 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V651000 ABS Unit May Cause Engine Compartment Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V132000 Parking Sensor May Short Circuit and Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V393000 Accessory Power Outlet May Overheat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V051000 Sunroof may Shatter due to Installation Error NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V568000 Sunroof may Shatter due to Installation Error NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V567000 Parking Brake Components may Bind NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 61 complaints
- Visibility 55 complaints
- Steering 42 complaints
- Unknown or Other 39 complaints
- Electrical System 38 complaints
- Power Train 31 complaints
Of the 296 complaints on file, 15 report a crash and 8 a fire; across all 296 complaints, owners report 29 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Reverse Park Aid leak
How to check: Inspect RPAS for signs of moisture or corrosion.
ABS module fluid leak
How to check: Look for brake warning lights or unusual sounds.
Panoramic sunroof weakness
How to check: Examine sunroof edges for cracks or gaps.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any loud engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Multiple warning lights stay on
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Test steering for any stiffness or noise.
Red flag: Steering binds or makes noise
- 04
Full stop from low speed
What to check: Feel for any vibrations or pulsing brakes.
Red flag: Brakes vibrate or feel inconsistent
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration without engine misfire.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking
- 06
Parking brake use
What to check: Ensure parking brake engages smoothly.
Red flag: Brake does not hold car
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the sunroof been replaced or repaired?
- Any recent electrical or ABS issues?
- When was the last brake service done?
- Have you experienced steering problems?
- Are there any pending recalls?
- What maintenance has been completed recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Full service history
- Recall repair records
- Accident history report
- Warranty information
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Hyundai Veloster at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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