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2012 Buick Verano Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·3 Critical Recalls
2012 Buick Verano Report

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant engine issues, including stalling and power loss, are the most prevalent complaints.
  • The airbag system has been subject to recalls and ongoing owner complaints.
  • Expect below-average overall reliability, demanding a meticulous pre-purchase inspection.
  • Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 24 MPG combined.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Buick Verano

The 2012 Buick Verano offers a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy for its class, but its below-average reliability verdict warrants careful consideration for used car shoppers. The primary concerns revolve around the engine, with frequent reports of stalling, power loss, and excessive oil consumption. The airbag system also presents issues, including persistent warning lights and recall-related repairs. With 145 complaints and 3 recalls, potential buyers should prioritize thorough inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant number of complaints cite engine stalling at various speeds and sudden power loss, often without warning lights. This can be linked to electrical system faults or fuel delivery issues.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

145
Engine48
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.0/ 10

Practicality

5.1/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing a quiet, comfortable ride over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand top-tier reliability and minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Buick Verano Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Buick Verano.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Gasoline or E85
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 48 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 27 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Belts and Hoses

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Buick Verano reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Buick Verano is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 145.

How practical is the 2012 Buick Verano for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 405 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Buick Verano is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Buick Verano?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Belts and Hoses at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 95,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What engine is in the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2012 Buick Verano use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Verano, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 Verano require Gasoline or E85 gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2012 Buick Verano?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Verano, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Verano, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Buick Verano use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Verano, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the most common engine problems on the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

Top complaint category: engine (48 reports, 33.1% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Buick Verano?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Honda Civic and 2012 Toyota Corolla.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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