2012 Honda Fit Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2012 Honda Fit has an 'Average' reliability verdict, influenced by significant recall activity.
- Critical recalls involve passenger frontal airbag inflators and potential driveshaft issues, demanding verification of completed repairs.
- Despite numerous recalls, consumer complaints logged with NHTSA are notably absent.
- Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG.
2012 Honda Fit
Critical Failure Risk
The driveshaft can be susceptible to coating defects, particularly in areas with road salt, potentially leading to breakage. This can result in a loss of propulsion or control.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 117HP
- Torque
- 106 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Commuters seeking an economical and fuel-efficient vehicle.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Those prioritizing top-tier reliability without question.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Honda Fit Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Honda Fit.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 117 hp
- Torque
- 106 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Manual 5-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- MSRP Range
- $15,325 - $19,690
- EPA Combined MPG
- 29
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Most Common Issues
1. Driveshaft Failure
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Airbag Inflator Malfunction
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Honda Fit reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Honda Fit is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 24. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2012 Honda Fit for daily use?
Practicality score is 6.7/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 583 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Honda Fit?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Honda Fit is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 6.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Honda Fit?
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: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Driveshaft (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).
What is the MSRP range for the 2012 Honda Fit?
MSRP range is $15,325 - $19,690.
What engine is in the 2012 Honda Fit?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.5. Output is 117 hp • 106 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2012 Honda Fit use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Fit, transmission is Manual 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Honda Fit?
EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Honda Fit?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Honda Fit?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Fit, fuel economy range is 27-33 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2012 Honda Fit?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Fit, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2012 Honda Fit?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Fit, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Honda Fit use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Honda Fit, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 5-spd.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Honda Fit?
This model year has 24 official safety campaigns listed.