2012 Hyundai Veracruz

The 2012 Hyundai Veracruz is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous standard features. It was offered with a single engine option: a 3.8-liter Lambda II V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Veracruz for its quiet cabin, smooth ride quality, and value for the price. However, some common complaints include less-than-stellar fuel economy, a somewhat bland exterior styling, and a lack of more modern tech features compared to newer competitors.

Engine

3.8L Lambda II V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often originate from the valve cover gaskets. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Crankshaft position sensor goes bad. Symptoms include the vehicle not starting, random engine stalls, or the check engine light coming on. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P0335, P0336, and P0339 are related to this part.
  • Solution: Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rough or jerky shifting between gears, especially during cold starts or when the transmission is under load.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change may alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150+ for fluid flush; $800 - $3000+ for valve body/rebuild
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering while accelerating, often felt at highway speeds or during light throttle application.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, nose diving during braking, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal. Especially noticeable with weight in the trunk or rear passenger seats.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shocks or springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power door locks. One or more doors may not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose the parasitic draw. Could be a faulty module, relay, or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the undercarriage of the vehicle, especially in areas that are exposed to salt or moisture.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of rusted parts. Application of rust inhibitor or undercoating.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may not open or close properly, may leak, or make excessive noise.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanism. Replace faulty sunroof motor or other components if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning system blows warm air, doesn’t blow cold air, or is intermittent.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the failure, which could be a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or a clogged condenser. Repair any leaks, replace faulty components, and recharge the refrigerant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Hyundai Veracruz, while generally reliable, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine oil leaks, crankshaft position sensor issues and transmission problems like harsh shifting and torque converter shudder can be costly to repair. Suspension issues like worn struts/shocks will require attention. Electrical issues, such as door lock actuator failures and battery drain, are also common. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, it’s wise to have a pre-purchase inspection performed to identify any potential issues and factor repair costs into the purchase price. The severity and cost of these repairs can range from minor inconveniences to significant expenses, so due diligence is essential.