2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a sporty rear-wheel-drive coupe known for its attractive styling and engaging driving experience. It offered two engine choices: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 274 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8-liter V6 generating 348 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s affordability, sporty handling, and distinctive design. Common complaints include a somewhat harsh ride, interior plastics feeling cheap, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling noise, especially on startup. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft timing. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or screeching noise from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, often from valve cover gaskets or the oil pan gasket. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, grinding noise when shifting, especially into 2nd or 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the transmission, including replacing worn synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, slipping between gears, delayed engagement. Can worsen over time.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve body, transmission rebuild, or transmission replacement. Flushing of transmission fluid if symptoms are mild and caught early may help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (flush) - $3500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in turns, leaking fluid from the shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected dampers (shocks or struts).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Vague steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the bushings needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery dies prematurely, especially if the car sits for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw (e.g., faulty module, improperly installed aftermarket accessories). Replacement of the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or failing to power on at all.
  • Solution: Software update (if available), or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the chosen solution
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly. Sunroof motor not working.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor and/or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (often very expensive) or covering the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (cover) - $2000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe, while a sporty and stylish vehicle, has its share of potential issues. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely. Engine problems, especially those related to the timing chain in the 2.0T and oil leaks in the 3.8L, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues can also be expensive. Electrical problems, while often less severe, can be frustrating. Suspension and Interior issues are fairly standard for the vehicle. Pre-purchase inspections and thorough maintenance are crucial for prospective owners.