Genesis (2012)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
Hyundai Genesis Unidentified Engine
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Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
4.6-V8-Gas
4.6L 8-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
1 additional engine variant with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Hyundai Genesis regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (2)
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2012 Genesis vehicles manufactured August 1, 2011, to April 30, 2012, and 2011-2013 Equus vehicles manufactured July 10, 2011, to June 12, 2012. The windshield wiper motor cover seal on the affected vehicles may degrade allowing corrosion on the wiper motor's circuit board. The corrosion can cause intermittent or total loss of wiper function.
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Genesis vehicles manufactured April 30, 2008, through March 28, 2012. The vehicles may contain brake fluid which does not protect against corrosion of the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU).
Alternatives in Compact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis problems?
The 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis has accumulated 51 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Brakes, Electrical System, Engine. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Hyundai Genesis engine is most reliable?
The 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis was offered with 3 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.8L ?-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis a good used car?
The 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 51 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 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis have?
The 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis has 51 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 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis?
There are 2 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2012-2012 Hyundai Genesis 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 Genesis?
Before buying a used Hyundai Genesis, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Brakes, Electrical System, Engine, 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.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Genesis?
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: 5 stars (9.5% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 51 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: moderate. Last updated: 2026-05-20.