Accent (5th)
Engine Reliability Ratings
DOHC GDI GAMMA
1.6LView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2 additional engine variants with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Hyundai Accent regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (3)
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2012 Hyundai Elantra and Sonata Hybrid, 2012 Accent and Veloster vehicles. The 12V accessory socket outlet may have been over-tightened during installation, possibly disabling the thermal fuse and allowing the outlet to overheat with prolonged use, such as by using the Tire Mobility Kit air compressor to inflate a tire.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015 Accent vehicles manufactured September 15, 2014, to February 10, 2015. In very cold temperatures, the occupant detection system (ODS) may not be able to determine if a child restraint seat is in the front passenger seat.
All Generations
Alternatives in Compact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent problems?
The 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent has accumulated 1,032 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Brakes, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Hyundai Accent engine is most reliable?
The 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent was offered with 3 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 1.6L ?-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent a good used car?
The 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 1,032 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent have?
The 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent has 1,032 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent?
There are 3 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Hyundai Accent?
Before buying a used Hyundai Accent, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Brakes, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the Accent have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 1,032 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.