2012 Hyundai Accent

The 2012 Hyundai Accent is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. The standard and only engine option is a 1.6-liter inline-4 cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Accent’s good gas mileage, value for the money, and relatively spacious interior for its class. Common dislikes include the somewhat basic interior materials, road noise, and occasional concerns about long-term reliability.

Engine

1.6L GDI Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Pinging
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine produces knocking or pinging noises, especially under acceleration. Can be caused by carbon buildup, lean fuel mixture, or faulty knock sensor.
  • Solution: Use higher octane fuel, clean fuel injectors, check for vacuum leaks, or replace the knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the valve cover. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation, slipping, or harsh shifts between gears. May be accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. Perform a transmission fluid flush. If the issue persists, the valve body may need to be replaced or the transmission rebuilt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, poor handling, and clunking noises over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Noisy Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise coming from the front or rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace the worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies frequently, even after being fully charged.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws (e.g., lights staying on, faulty accessories). Replace the battery if it’s old or faulty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Motor
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows will not roll up or down, or roll up very slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handles Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles break, particularly in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard cracking, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag light on
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light comes on.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the airbag system. Most likely a bad clockspring, but other issues are possible.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Hyundai Accent generally experiences issues with engine knocking, automatic transmission shifting, and wear on suspension components. Electrical problems and interior issues are also somewhat common. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. While some problems are relatively inexpensive to address, transmission or engine-related issues could lead to significant repair bills.