2012 Chevrolet Cruze Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Owners report significant issues with the engine, electrical system, and brakes, indicating potential for costly repairs.
- The vehicle has a below-average reliability rating, underscoring the need for careful inspection.
- Safety ratings are strong, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests, but critical system complaints warrant attention.
- Fuel economy is a strong point, achieving an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze offers a competent chassis and respectable fuel economy, but its ownership experience is significantly marred by a high volume of reported issues. With 8 recalls and over 1300 complaints logged with NHTSA, buyers should be aware of potential long-term reliability concerns. The most frequent problems reported by owners center on the engine, electrical system, and service brakes. While it achieved a 5-star overall safety rating, the prevalence of critical system complaints suggests a need for thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Critical Failure Risk
The 1.8L engine is susceptible to overheating, often due to coolant leaks or thermostat failures. This is a critical issue that can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and willing to accept higher maintenance risks.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 264 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 194 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is 5.6/10. Reliability score is 5.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 1,342.
How practical is the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 413 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Cooling System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What engine is in the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.8.
What transmission does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
Top complaint category: engine (264 reports, 19.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Honda Civic and 2012 Toyota Corolla.