🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Hyundai

Model:

Sonata

Year:

2012

Generation Code:

YF

Generation Years:

2010-2014

Chassis Code:

YF

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sedan

Target Audience Manual:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Hyundai Sonata owners seeking detailed repair information.

Competitors Vehicle:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima.

Competitors Manual:

Haynes, Chilton, aftermarket CD-ROMs, other online repair platforms.

Manual Advantage:

Licensed OE information, digital format convenience, comprehensive coverage, professional accuracy.

Vehicle Selling Points 2012:

Stylish design, fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, value for money, available advanced features for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Format:

Online Software Access

Language:

English

Access Duration:

1 Year

Developer:

RepairSurge

Licensing:

Officially Licensed, OE Material Derived

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system (mechanical components), intake manifold.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM), sensors, actuators, emissions control system.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, gear sets, clutches, seals, electronic control unit (TCU), fluid specifications.

Transmission Manual:

Transmission assembly, clutch system, gearbox, linkages, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, CV joints, differential, axles.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, shocks, springs, control arms, sway bar), alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, tie rods, steering gear/rack and pinion, alignment.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM).

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, compressor, refrigerant, controls, ducting.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim, locks, hinges, glass, sealants.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seatbelts, pre-tensioners, SRS module, crash sensors.

Infotainment:

Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), display units, connectivity features.

Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, battery maintenance, tire rotation and inspection.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnosis, engine performance issues, transmission issues, brake problems, HVAC malfunctions.

Repair:

Component removal and installation (engine parts, transmission, suspension components, brake assemblies, steering components, electrical modules), body panel repair, interior component replacement, HVAC system repair, wiring harness repair.

Diagnostics:

ECM diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring continuity testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, leak down testing.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners across all systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for electronic control systems, including wiring diagrams and pinpoint tests.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Software Type:

Web-based Access

Compatibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (via web browser)

Internet Requirement:

Required for access

Print Capability:

Pages can be printed (subject to licensing terms)

Binding:

N/A (Online Software)

Paper:

N/A (Online Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G4KD (2.4L Theta II MPI)

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16 Valves

Displacement:

2359 cc (2.4 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Horsepower:

198 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

184 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane

Timing Drive:

Timing Chain

Variable Valve Timing:

CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) on intake and exhaust camshafts

Emissions Control:

Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)

Optional Engine Code:

G4KH (2.0L Theta II GDI - China Market)

Optional Engine Displacement:

1998 cc (2.0 Liters)

Optional Engine Horsepower:

165 hp (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

6-speed Automatic Transaxle (H-Matic)

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios available in the manual.

Transmission Fluid Type:

SPIII or SPIV (Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity, e.g., 7.4 Liters / 7.8 US Quarts)

Transmission Type Optional:

6-speed Manual Transaxle (Less common in US market for this year)

Shift Modes:

Driver Selectable Manual Shift Mode (Shiftronic)

Torque Converter Lockup:

Yes, provides improved fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4815 mm (189.6 inches)

Width:

1830 mm (72.0 inches)

Height:

1470 mm (57.9 inches)

Wheelbase:

2795 mm (110.0 inches)

Front Track:

1590 mm (62.6 inches)

Rear Track:

1593 mm (62.7 inches)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 140 mm (5.5 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3300-3530 lbs) depending on trim and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Available in manual.

Towing Capacity:

Not typically recommended or specified for Sonata.

Trunk Volume:

463 Liters (16.3 cubic feet)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Rating:

Good in front, side, and rear impact tests (Top Safety Pick for 2012 model).

NHTSA Rating:

5-Star overall safety rating (Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger, Side Driver, Side Rear Passenger, Rollover)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced front airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, active front head restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touchscreen navigation system with Bluetooth, USB/iPod connectivity, satellite radio, and premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard ABS, ESC, TCS. Optional features may include rearview camera, parking sensors.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for media playback and device charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for Iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect at 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Replace if needed or as per manual's severe duty schedule. Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles.

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. Subsequent replacements every 52,500 miles (84,000 km) or 5 years.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 US Quarts (4.6 Liters) with filter change for 2.4L engine.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual. Likely a specific Hyundai power steering fluid or equivalent. Not typically user-serviceable beyond checks.

Engine Issues:

Some reports of oil consumption in certain Theta II engines. Potential for carbon buildup in direct-injection variants (less common on MPI). Check for engine recall notices.

Transmission Issues:

Occasional complaints about harsh shifting or delayed engagement. Ensure proper fluid levels and condition.

Suspension Issues:

Reports of premature wear in front struts or bushings, especially in models driven on rough roads.

Electrical Issues:

Infrequent reports of battery drain or issues with certain electronic modules.

📚 Vehicle History

Hyundai History:

Hyundai Motor Company, founded in 1967, is a South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer known for its value-oriented, well-equipped vehicles and increasing focus on design and technology.

Sonata Evolution:

The Sonata, introduced in 1988, has gone through multiple generations, evolving from a budget-friendly sedan to a stylish and technologically advanced competitor in the mid-size segment. The YF generation (2010-2014) marked a significant design shift with its 'fluidic sculpture' design language.

Production Location:

Asan, South Korea; Montgomery, Alabama, USA; Beijing, China (for Chinese market).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award:

Recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for the 2012 model year.

Industry Recognition:

Often praised for its design, comfort, and value proposition within the mid-size sedan segment during its launch period.