What are the most common problems with the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

The 2012 CR-Z features a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering an impressive 34 MPG combined.

How many recalls does the 2012 Honda CR-Z have?

The 2012 Honda CR-Z currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Honda CR-Z a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2012 CR-Z features a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering an impressive 34 MPG combined. Two critical safety recalls were issued for the driver's frontal airbag inflator module, requiring confirmation of completion. Despite a lack of owner complaints, the airbag inflator recalls highlight a significant potential safety risk that necessitates pre-purchase verification. The vehicle's NHTSA safety ratings are not available, underscoring the importance of verifying recall status. While reliability is generally considered average, the airbag issue is the dominant concern for used CR-Z shoppers. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Honda CR-Z.

2012 Honda CR-Z Report

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

Updated Jun 6, 2026Ethan Miller2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2012 CR-Z features a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering an impressive 34 MPG combined.
Two critical safety recalls were issued for the driver's frontal airbag inflator module, requiring confirmation of completion.
Despite a lack of owner complaints, the airbag inflator recalls highlight a significant potential safety risk that necessitates pre-purchase verification.
The vehicle's NHTSA safety ratings are not available, underscoring the importance of verifying recall status.

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Overview

2012 Honda CR-Z

The 2012 Honda CR-Z presents a distinctive blend of sporty styling and hybrid efficiency, aiming for a niche market of eco-conscious drivers who still appreciate engaging driving dynamics. Its compact size and unique two-seat configuration set it apart. However, potential buyers must be aware of significant safety recalls concerning the airbag system. While owner complaints are absent in the data, the recall history warrants careful consideration and inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Two safety recalls address the driver-side frontal airbag inflator module due to potential moisture intrusion or propellant degradation, which can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment. This poses a severe risk of injury or fatality.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns2

Service Bulletins15

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a distinctive, fuel-efficient car with a manual transmission.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing top-tier safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Honda CR-Z Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 2
Transmission: Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Coupe
EPA Combined MPG: 34

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Most Common Issues

1. Driver-Side Frontal Airbag Inflator

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Hybrid Battery Cooling Fan

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

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

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Honda CR-Z reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Honda CR-Z is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Honda CR-Z for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.9/10. The score is mainly limited by limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 34 MPG. Seating capacity is 2. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 711 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Honda CR-Z is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Honda CR-Z?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Driver-Side Frontal Airbag Inflator (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What engine is in the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.5.

What transmission does the 2012 Honda CR-Z use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda CR-Z, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

EPA combined estimate is 34 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

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

How many people fit in a 2012 Honda CR-Z?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda CR-Z, seating capacity is 2.

What body style is the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda CR-Z, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Honda CR-Z use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda CR-Z, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Honda CR-Z?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.