2012 Hyundai Sonata Middle-low level
VIN: 5NPEB4AC2CH437716 | 2012 | Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci) | ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
2012 Hyundai Sonata Middle-low level — 2.4L 4 Cyl, Automatic. Sedan/Saloon.
D
53/100
Safety & Recall Score: Caution
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 8 recall campaigns (high)
⚠ 1558 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: PASSENGER CAR
- Body: Sedan/Saloon
- Plant: ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
8 Recall Campaigns- Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata...
- Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata...
- Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Sonata...
Owner Complaints
1558 filed with NHTSA- I am reporting a total manufacturer parts shortage. My...
- The passenger side curtain and front airbags popped with...
Fuel Economy
26 MPG Combined- City: 22 MPG
- Hwy: 33 MPG
- Combined: 26 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
5NPEB4AC2CH437716
Model Year
2012
Make
Hyundai
Model
Sonata
Trim
Middle-low level
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
Not reported by manufacturer
Seat Rows
Not reported by manufacturer
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
2.4L 4 Cyl
Manufacturer
Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci)
Plant Location
ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
5 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
N → Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci)
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
P → PASSENGER CAR
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
EB4AC → Sonata Middle-low level
Position 9 — Check Digit
2 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
C → 2012
Position 11 — Plant Code
H → ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
437716 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
DOHC GDI
Cylinders
4 Cyl
Displacement
2.4 L
Displacement CC
2400.0
Displacement CI
146.45698582735
Valve Train
Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Fuel Injection
Stoichiometric Gasoline Direct Injection (SGDI)
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
26 MPG
City MPG
22 MPG
Hwy MPG
33 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,450
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$12,250
CO₂ Emissions
341.8 g/mi
Barrels/Year
11.44
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not reported in manufacturer data
ESC
Not reported in manufacturer data
Traction Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Departure Warning
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Keep System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Not reported in manufacturer data
Pedestrian AEB
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Daytime Running Lights
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto High Beams
Not reported in manufacturer data
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Curtain Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Knee Airbags
Not reported in manufacturer data
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Steering Location
Not reported in manufacturer data
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci)
Manufacturer ID
1034
Make ID
498
Model ID
2459
Plant Company
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama
Plant State
ALABAMA
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Vehicle Descriptor
5NPEB4AC*CH
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
8
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
8 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Hyundai dealer.
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Hyundai dealer with this VIN to confirm all 8 recalls are resolved.
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NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 8 recall campaigns as leverage for a lower price.
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Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$3,800–$6,000
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
5 Stars
Front Crash Rating
4 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
5 Stars
Safety Recalls
ENGINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport vehicles previously repaired under recall numbers 15V-568 and 17V-226. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned,...
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019....
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrid vehicles previously repaired under recall campaign 17V-152. The seat belt linkages for both front seat belts may detach from the seat belt anchor pretensioners.
Risk: If the seat belt linkage detaches from the seat belt anchorage, it can not properly restrain the occupant in the event of a crash,...
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will again verify the connection between the seat belt linkage and the pretensioner and additionally install a warning...
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Sonata and 2011-2012 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. On February 27, 2018, Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) notified NHTSA that they were recalling 154,753 model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. On April 18, 2018, Hyundai expanded...
Risk: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle...
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install an external wire filter kit, free of charge. The recall began October 15, 2018. Owners may...
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the seat belt linkages for both front seat belts may detach from the seat belt anchor pretensioners.
Risk: In the event of a crash, if the seat belts detach from the anchor pretensioners, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners and dealers will inspect the connection between the seat belt linkages and the seat belt anchor pretensioners, repairing them as...
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2011-2012 Sonata vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.
Risk: If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may...
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on...
ENGINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, to April 12, 2012 at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and equipped with either a 2.0 liter or 2.4 liter Gasoline Direct injection engine. In...
Risk: Engine failure would result in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the engine assembly, as necessary, free of charge. Additionally, Hyundai Motor America...
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, through May 29, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the transmission shift cable may detach from from the shift lever pin.
Risk: If the transmission shift cable detaches, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended...
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, repair the connection between the shift cable and shift lever, free of charge....
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata passenger cars, manufactured from January 24, 2012, through June 21, 2012. The curtain side airbags on these vehicles may inflate without deployment command due to an error during manufacturing.
Risk: The curtain airbag may inflate without deployment command and increase the risk of injury to occupants of the vehicle. Additionally, an unexpected deployment would...
Remedy: Hyundai dealers will notify owners, and dealers will replace the curtain side airbags free of charge. This recall began on August 31, 2012. Owners...
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2012 Hyundai Sonata
$1,700/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$8,500
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$12,250
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$2,700
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Hyundai Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Hyundai dealer.
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Run Free NICB Check for 5NPEB4AC2CH437716 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
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Common:
Owner Complaints
I am reporting a total manufacturer parts shortage. My...
I am reporting a total manufacturer parts shortage. My 2012 Hyundai Sonata GLS is part of the Hyundai Anti-Theft Customer Satisfaction Campaign P33 (Ignition Cylinder Protector). Hyundai launched...
The passenger side curtain and front airbags popped with...
The passenger side curtain and front airbags popped with no crash or reason, yes Hyundai will be able to inspect upon pick up. My safety risk was fortunately...
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata. The contact...
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, the engine started knocking, and smoke...
Vehicle engine caught fire in April 2026! Tow company...
Vehicle engine caught fire in April 2026! Tow company sold for parts without my permission! Immediately after gaining possession of my car. I didn't have comprehensive insurance, only...
Diagnosed 07/20/2026 with catastrophic oil ring failure requiring engine...
Diagnosed 07/20/2026 with catastrophic oil ring failure requiring engine replacement. Engine can stall due to oil degradation/absence of causing uncontrolled vehicle handling and fire. This would put myself...
See attached document for complaint.
See attached document for complaint.
As I was merging onto the interstate I put...
As I was merging onto the interstate I put my foot on the gas pedal to give it a little more gas then usual to get pulled out...
Around the end of May 2026, my vehicle stalled...
Around the end of May 2026, my vehicle stalled without warning while traveling at highway speed. The engine light and EPS warning light illuminated simultaneously. The engine cranks...
Showing 8 of 1558 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Hyundai recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
Due Now
Timing Belt/Chain Service
Every 60,000–105,000 mi (belt) or per manufacturer schedule (chain)
CRITICAL if belt-equipped — timing belt failure destroys engine. Confirm whether this engine uses a belt or chain (chains typically don't require scheduled replacement) before assuming this interval applies.
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$4,900
+1 yr
$4,300
-12%
+2 yr
$3,800
-22%
+3 yr
$3,300
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,700/yr
26%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
23%
Fuel/Energy
$2,450/yr
38%
Depreciation
$540/yr
8%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,440/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
7.6
/ 10
Rank #8 overall
32 issues / 100 vehicles
Hyundai Reliability
Hyundai has improved dramatically since 2010. The Theta II engine recall (GDI engines) was a notable concern on some models.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Dec 28, 2018
Apr 10, 2017
Feb 27, 2018
Aug 3, 2017
Nov 16, 2015
Oct 9, 2015
Jul 18, 2014
Jul 24, 2012
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$3,300–$5,500
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$4,000–$6,600
Some warranty · Financing available
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 8 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Hyundai Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
10yr/100k
Has likely ended
Corrosion / Rust
7yr/unlimited
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Hyundai dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
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🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 8 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 1558 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
🔔 NHTSA SaferCar Alerts
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VIN 5NPEB4AC2CH437716:
8 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,700/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 5NPEB4AC2CH437716 decode to?
VIN 5NPEB4AC2CH437716 decodes to a 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata Middle-low level, assembled in ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata have?
NHTSA shows 8 recall campaigns associated with the 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a HYUNDAI dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a HYUNDAI dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata Middle-low level is estimated at $3,800–$6,000. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata get?
According to EPA data, the 2012 HYUNDAI Sonata gets approximately 26 MPG combined (22 city / 33 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,450.
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