2012 Fisker Karma

The 2012 Fisker Karma is a unique plug-in hybrid luxury sports sedan that blended striking design with electric vehicle technology. Its powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, sourced from General Motors, that acts as a generator to power the electric motors. The Karma boasts a combined output of 403 horsepower and a substantial 981 lb-ft of torque from its dual electric motors. What people appreciated about the Karma was its distinctive styling, eco-friendly image, and quick acceleration in electric mode. Common complaints revolved around its reliability issues, software glitches, and limited range compared to fully electric vehicles. The gas engine was primarily there to charge the battery, meaning it was rarely used.

Electric Motor

Dual Electric Motors (403 hp, 981 lb-ft)

• Motor Control Module (MCM) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Motor Control Modules (MCMs), which manage the electric motors, are known to fail. Symptoms include loss of power, the car going into limp mode, or the inability to start. Error messages on the dashboard may indicate an MCM issue.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty MCM. Requires specialist knowledge and equipment to install and configure the new module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Voltage Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery cell failure can cause a significant reduction in range, inability to fully charge, or complete failure of the hybrid system. Warning lights on the dashboard will indicate a battery problem.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the high voltage battery pack. Replacing individual modules is difficult and often requires specialized tools.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $15,000 - $30,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Gasoline Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (Generator)

• Engine Stalling/Failure to Start
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2.0L engine, despite its role as a generator, can experience stalling issues or fail to start. This is often linked to fuel delivery problems or sensor malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of fuel delivery system (fuel pump, injectors), replacement of faulty sensors (crankshaft position sensor, mass airflow sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The central infotainment system can be buggy, experience freezing, or fail to respond to inputs. Navigation errors and screen flickering are also reported.
  • Solution: Software updates, system reset, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Fisker Karma’s complex electrical system is prone to wiring harness issues, causing various electrical malfunctions. This can manifest as intermittent problems with lights, sensors, or other electrical components.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of damaged wiring harnesses. Requires meticulous troubleshooting and specialized knowledge.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the onboard charging system, leading to slow charging, failure to charge, or error messages when plugging in.
  • Solution: Replacement of the charger, repair of charging port connections, or software updates.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators are known to fail which can prevent the doors from locking or unlocking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panel Gaps and Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent panel gaps and alignment issues on doors, hood, and trunk.
  • Solution: Adjustment of body panels, professional bodywork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Delamination/Melting
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material can delaminate or melt in hot weather, causing a sticky or distorted appearance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive and difficult to source) or custom repair/refinishing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Transmission

No Issues Found

Summary

The 2012 Fisker Karma is a beautiful car, but is plagued with reliability issues and potential high repair costs. Electrical problems, particularly related to the motor control modules and high voltage battery, are common and can be very expensive to fix. Interior issues such as dashboard delamination also add to the potential cost of ownership. Given the age of the vehicle, parts availability can also be a challenge, increasing the overall cost and difficulty of repairs. Buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls before purchasing a used Fisker Karma.