2012 Hyundai Equus problems
The Hyundai Equus (Korean: 현대 에쿠스; RR: Hyundai Equus) was manufactured and marketed by Hyundai Motor Company from 1999 to 2016 over two generations, as a full-size car, four-door, five passenger luxury sedan with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The nameplate deriving from the Latin, equus, meaning "horse."
In 2009, Hyundai released the second generation with a rear-wheel drive platform. As of August 2014, the second generation is sold in South Korea, Russia, China, United States, Canada, Central America, and South America — as well as in the Middle East under the Hyundai Centennial nameplate.
On November 4, 2015, Hyundai officially announced it would move the Genesis model to Hyundai's new luxury vehicle division, Genesis Motor. The 2016 successor to the Hyundai Equus was rebranded as Genesis G90 (EQ900 in Korea until 2018).
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Common 2012 Hyundai Equus problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2012 Hyundai Equus, several common problems have been reported:
- Leather Dashboard Warping: Another common problem with the 2012 Equus is related to the leather dashboard. The leather dashboard is prone to warping, peeling, or separating, especially due to heat and sun exposure. While this issue is not a deal-breaker, it can be quite annoying for owners.
- Suspension Issues: Complaints have been made about the suspension system of the 2012 Equus. Some owners have experienced a rough ride due to suspension problems, with reports of the car's front suspension unexpectedly failing. This can lead to the front of the car sinking, causing stability issues and scraping against the ground, particularly on hilly terrain.
- Brake Problems: Owners have reported issues with the brakes of the 2012 Equus. Some complaints include the brake pedal going all the way to the floor when applied, and in some cases, outright brake failure has been reported. These brake issues can pose serious safety concerns for drivers.
These common problems with the 2012 Hyundai Equus highlight various reliability issues that owners have faced, ranging from suspension and brake problems to issues with the struts and leather dashboard. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to ensure the safety and performance of the vehicle.
Is The Hyundai Equus a reliable car?
For example, according to repairpal.com, the average reliability of the Hyundai Equus is only two out of five. It is ranked 21st out of 30 full-size luxury cars. In other words, it is a very unreliable vehicle prone to mechanical mishaps and maintenance requirements.
Is the Hyundai Equus expensive to maintain?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Hyundai Equus is $976, compared to an average of $976 for luxury fullsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
Why will my Hyundai Equus not start?
The most common reasons a Hyundai Equus won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How many miles can you put on a Hyundai Equus?
On average, they have a life expectancy of 100,000 to 200,000 miles. However, a well-maintained Hyundai can easily exceed the 200,000-mile mark.
2012 Hyundai Equus car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Hyundai Equus problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Hyundai Equus vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Hyundai Equus complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Hyundai Equus.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KMHSHB1X8CU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FOLLOWING A SLIP ON THE ROAD I AM THE VICTIM OF AN ACCIDENT ON THE EDGE OF A HYUNDAI SANTA FE. THE CAR STRUCK THE MOUNTAIN, BUT THE AIRBAGS FAILED TO ACTIVATE IN THE ACCIDENT RESULTING IN A FRONTAL IMPACT, WHICH CAUSED ME SERIOUS INJURY. WHY THE AIRBAGS ARE NOT TRIGGERED ?? THE CAR MADE SEVERAL ROTATIONS AND SUFFERED IRREVERSIBLE DAMAGE AND DESPITE EVERYTHING THE AIRBAGS WERE NOT TRIGGERED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-10
- VIN: KMHGH4JHXCU
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FROM THE DESK OF LMI'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: [XXX] I PURCHASED 2012 EQUUS ON MARCH 7, 2012 WITH 108,216 MILES. THE CARS SUSPENSION STARTED GOING BAD AS OF LAST WEEK. I BROUGHT THE CAR BACK ON MARCH 20, 2020 TO HAVE A MIRROR REPLACED AND TO DISCUSS THE SUSPENSION PROBLEM. IT?S BEEN OVER A WEEK AND TODAY THEM AFTER A 45 MINUTE DRIVE I WAS TOLD THEY HAD THE WRONG MIRROR...EVEN THOUGH I SPOKE WITH THE SERVICE PERSON ([XXX]) AND HE ASSURED ME EVERYTHING WAS IN ORDER AND HE EVEN SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT FOR THEM TO REPLACE THE MIRROR. WHILE I WAS THERE I SHOWED [XXX] THE SUSPENSION AND I WAS REFERRED TO THE SALES MANAGER. TALK TO THE SALES MANAGER AND HE SHOWED NO CONCERN...THE SALES MANAGER GAVE ME A LOOK LIKE, SO WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO DO ABOUT IT. I STATED MY CONCERN AND THAT I'VE ONLY DRIVEN THIS VEHICLE 590 MILES (TO WORK AND HOME) SINCE I PURCHASED IT AND THE SUSPENSION SHOULD NOT BE ACTING UP ALREADY. I COULD SEE IF I HAD THE VEHICLE FOR SOME MONTHS BUT I HAD IT ROUGHLY FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS. AGAIN, HE SHOWED NO CONCERN AND RESTATED THE "AS IS" POLICY. I UNDERSTAND THE "AS IS" PART AND I ADMIT I DID SIGN THE DOCUMENT BUT THE VEHICLE SEEMED FINE AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE. MY CONCERN IS THE DEALERSHIPS ATTITUDE AFTER THE SALE. NO ONE SHOULD TREAT CUSTOMERS THAT WAY. I UNDERSTAND WHY THEY HAVE GOOD REVIEWS...IT IS BECAUSE MOST OF THEM COME FROM PEOPLE WHO PURCHASED NEW CARS OR CARS UNDER WARRANTY (MY FAULT FOR NOT DOING SO) HOWEVER A BUSINESS SHOULD BE ABLE TO WORK WITH OR ATTEMPT TO TRY HELP OUT A CUSTOMER (IT'S CALLED MAINTAINING REPEAT BUSINESS AND DEVELOPING CUSTOMER LOYALTY). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-03
- VIN: KMHGH4JH1CU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 HYUNDAI EQUUS. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE JOLTED CONTINUOUSLY AND SHIFTED INDEPENDENTLY INTO ANOTHER GEAR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-02
- VIN: KMHGH4JH1CU
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY VEHICLE SWAYS LIKE A BOAT SIDE TO SIDE NO MATTER MY SPEED, BUT ON THE HIGHWAY IT ALMOST FEELS LIKE I'M LOSING CONTROL. I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP AND AFTER HAVING IT FOR 4 WEEKS THEY RETURNED MY VEHICLE BACK TO ME NOT REPAIRED AND NO ANSWERS TO WHY THE ISSUE STARTED. I WAS TOLD THEY WERE REQUESTING AN HYUNDAI FIELD ENGINEER TO COME OUT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE BUT I HAVE NOT HEARD FROM THEM IN ALMOST 2 MONTHS. *TR
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-05
- VIN: KMHGH4JH2CU
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: AFTER A FEW MONTHS OF PURCHASING CAR THE ECS LIGHT STARTED ILLUMINATING WHICH IN RETURN GAVE CAR A SPONGY, BOUNCY RIDE ETC., HEIGHT FUNCTION WOULD NOT WORK. AFTER REPAIRS WERE DONE 1ST TIME AROUND JUNE-AUGUST OF 2013 SEEM LIKE EVERY FEW MONTHS PROBLEM WOULD OCCUR AGAIN AND AGAIN, LATEST BEING JULY 2014,CAR WAS PLACED IN SHOP JULY 7TH AND CAR WAS JUST RETURNED JULY 31ST IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM THAT I THINK WILL CONTINUE FROM MY EXPERIENCE SINCE PURCHASING CAR, I AM NO TECH OR ENGINEER BUT FOR A FAIRLY NEW CAR THAT'S NOT THAT OLD THIS PROBLEM SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING, IT IS MIND BOGGLING. *TR
2012 Hyundai Equus recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2012 Hyundai Equus.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: Inoperative wipers during inclement weather can decrease driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiper motor cover and seal, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 140.
Negative 2012 Hyundai Equus car reviews
Positive 2012 Hyundai Equus car reviews
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In January 2018, I started driving a car that gets better than 27 mpg across the board. Since then, I have been hesitant to drive a car that gets significantly fewer mpg and requires premium gas. In my neighborhood, the difference between regular and premium has run as high as $1.00 per gallon, which is a 'premium' I don't want to pay. In July 2017, I traded the Equus in on a Toyota Highlander because I needed to have a trailer hitch. Unfortunately, Hyundai said I would void the warranty on several suspension-related systems if I added a hitch to the Equus, so I had to trade it away. I still miss the ride. Now that I no longer need the trailer hitch, I may soon revisit the 2018 issue of the Equus, which is now called Genesis. I heard they finally have an all-wheel-drive version. But I also heard you now have to use premium gas. Hyundai giveth, Hyundai taketh away... In the original review, after looking at luxury sedans for about a year, I traded my Bimmer for the Equus without a second thought. The Equus was the first car I got into for a test ride that I felt was more comfortable than the 745. It uses regular gas, gets comparable mileage, is as quiet, comfortable, and well-equipped as the 745i - for tens of thousands less. Add the superior warranty and valet service (I haven't been to the dealer for service in nearly 4 years!). The only two demerits are the less-than-stellar iPod implementation (on an otherwise outstanding audio system) and handling that's more boat-like than Bimmerish. I'll keep the 2011 until Hyundai delivers an AWD Equus.
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On my way to buy another S class Mercedes, I heard about the Equus. I tried one signature and then bought an Ultimate two days later. The car had all the details and options you can find on a Mercedes or BMW, but it was more convenient, smoother, and more useful, all for a better price. Driving this car is as easy as possible. My only concern is that the braking distances tend to be a little bit longer than on my previous car. I was stunned by the 5-year/60,000-mile valet service/maintenance program, which was a big change from the $400 Mercedes oil change. When I bought the Equus, I was treated in a better way than at my local Mercedes dealer, where the salespeople are mostly arrogant.
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I noticed someone gave this car a 3-star rating, but I have to disagree. In my opinion, this car is truly unbelievable! Let me tell you about my experience. I walked into the Hyundai showroom looking to test drive a few Hyundai products, and that's when I saw a gentleman relaxing quite comfortably in the back seat of this beautiful large sedan. I had test driven the Genesis a year ago, but it didn't have enough headroom for me. However, this car caught my eye and I began to investigate. Within the next 30 minutes, I completely forgot about my former dream car, the BMW 7 series. I truly believe that no other car on the market today surpasses the quality, luxury, and value of this car. Period!
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I recently traded in my BMW 745i for the 2011 Hyundai Signature Series Equus. Despite some minor issues with the i-pod and navigation systems, I am thrilled with the smooth, comfortable, and quiet ride of this luxurious vehicle. Additionally, I am getting great gas mileage, with 27+ mpg on the highway and 20 mpg overall using regular gas. The valet service provided by the Hyundai dealer, where they deliver a loaner Equus to my house when picking up mine for service, is a major plus. The exterior design is reminiscent of the top-of-the-line Lexus, while the interior is similar to the S600 series Benz, complete with a suede-like headliner and an analog clock in the dash. When comparing sticker prices with the competition, the savings are astounding.
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I absolutely love my Equus Ultimate! It's one of the nicest cars I've ever owned. The car is so quiet and handles really well. The design is also very nice. I used to have an S Class Mercedes, but I decided to step out of the box and try the Equus. Some people were skeptical about paying that much for a Hyundai, but after they rode in it and enjoyed the amenities, they were convinced. One guy who even owned a Rolls Royce said he was considering buying an Equus. People often ask me about the wing emblem on the hood and I always tell them about the car. I have not been disappointed with my purchase. The Equus Connect customer service is also top notch, they answer every question and take care of any concerns immediately. I can confidently say that my Equus is a class extraordinaire!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Hyundai Equus problems:
What's Wrong with the Hyundai Equus?
Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 12th in overall reliability out of 25 Hyundai models , with real electrical and engine concerns. 2 Common Hyundai ...
2012 Hyundai Equus Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2012 Hyundai Equus? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Questions about 2012 genesis coupe 2.0t common issues, reliability ...
Nov 1, 2015 ... from car complaints 2012 Hyundai Genesis Problems, Defects & Complaints main issue appears to be the car engine stalling out from jd power
Problems to expect in a Hyundai Genesis (2012 sedan) : r/Hyundai
Feb 4, 2022 ... This was due to a fouled evaporator canister which was restricting air flow as the gas tank was filling. Gasoline wouldn't flow properly into ...
The Hyundai Equus Years To Avoid - CoPilot
Jul 11, 2023 ... According to CarComplaints, the 2012 Hyundai Equus has received 15 complaints and one recall. One user reported that their Equus' struts failed ...
Other years of Hyundai Equus
Are you having problems with your 2012 Hyundai Equus?
Cade Turner 2025-09-26
The car has some great features, but unfortunately, it has been unreliable. I experienced some stalling and the car even died in the middle of turns, which was quite concerning, especially on the highway. The dealer had the car for a month and replaced the wiring harness for the entire car, as well as the transmission and electronic controlled suspension. However, there still seems to be a short somewhere, and the dealer has had the car for two weeks now. I have been trying to get in touch with them, but unfortunately, they have not been responsive. I even reached out to Hyundai's special telephone number for Equus owners, and while they did turn the matter over to a regional representative, I have not heard back from them. While this has been frustrating, I am hopeful that the issue will be resolved soon. I would advise caution when considering purchasing an Equus, Genesis, or any Hyundai vehicle. It's worth noting that the issue has been fixed, but it took a month, and the car was returned with some scratches on the rocker panel and dashboard. Additionally, the engine burns about a quart of oil every 1,000 miles, which is something to keep in mind, especially as the car is now out of warranty (except for drivetrain) and has had three major repairs under warranty.
Kayleigh Haley 2025-06-06
Around a year after purchase, I noticed that the car's performance and gas mileage were not as good as they used to be. Additionally, I began to hear a loud knocking sound from the engine, but there were no warning lights indicating any issues. When I took it to the dealer, they found that the oil was three quarts low and suspected that the engine had already been damaged. After some investigation, it seems that this is a systemic problem that affects Hyundai Equus and Genesis models with the same engine. Unfortunately, Hyundai does not seem willing to take responsibility for the defective engine, especially in the higher horsepower 2012 models. This has been a major setback for their aspirations to compete as a luxury brand. In fact, they have even pulled the plug on the Equus brand. Despite lots of aggravation, they eventually replaced the engine and the car has been good, although the service has been lacking.
Zachary Steuber 2025-05-26
The engine on my 2012 Equus started knocking severely at 62,000 miles, despite the absence of any warning signs such as a check engine light or low oil light. It is worth noting that the warranty on the car expired at 60,000 miles.
Giovanni Fritsch 2024-09-25
Before signing any paperwork, make sure to turn on every light and check every single sensor. Pay special attention to the TPMS sensors and rear vanity reading lights, as I missed the rear reading light and they wanted to charge me $500 to replace it. If I hadn't test driven the car and noticed the TPMS sensor light, it could have cost me a small fortune. Luckily, I caught it in time. However, they keep saying that the part is on back order, so we will have to wait and see what happens...
Devin Sauer 2024-09-14
The comfort of the front seats in the Equus was a serious concern for me during long distance trips. After purchasing the car and taking a 900 mile trip a day later, I experienced significant discomfort and pain in my back, legs, and arms. However, after showing the Hyundai Dealer articles on Autoblog about the seats, I was able to convince them to buy the car back. I then traded up for a Lexus LS460 with 14,000 miles and just completed a 600 mile trip with no pain or discomfort. While I tried to modify the seats in the Equus, they were poorly designed and could not be improved.