The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is a compact car with a price range of $6,347 to $10,261. Costly engine and transmission problems make us question long-term reliability, and we recommend shoppers stay away from the Cruze.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model year are minimal including Autumn Metallic, Blue Topaz Metallic, and Victory Red paint choices, and new wheel options.
- Reliability ratings are good, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the older 2011 model.
- Two engine choices are available, including an efficient turbocharged version.
- Fuel economy is excellent, tying for third place out of 36 compact cars with a combined rating of up to 32 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than other compact cars with a perfect five-star rating in government crash tests, and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2012 Chevy Cruze ranks 26th out of 36 compact cars, based on owner reviews. There are just too many problems to recommend the Cruze in the competitive compact car class.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Have?
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has more complaints than other small cars on the market, and most of the issues are serious as well. There are more problems than the newer 2013 model. The 2012 Cruze problems encompass potential engine fires, airbag failure, and electrical glitches.
Transmission problems, including complete failures, are very common. The transmission fails around 80,000 miles in many instances, costing about $3,400 to replace depending on local labor rates.
Engine problems which lead to a loss of power are a frequent issue. One of the most common sources of the problem is a throttle body failure. Replacing the assembly is about $450, but there can be more expensive issues inside the engine as well.
Coolant leaks are another common problem. There are a few sources to the problem including the water pump, thermostat housing, and damaged hoses. Prices for repairs vary depending on the source ranging from $170 to about $750.
There are seven recalls, which is worse than average for a car from 2012. The recalls include the fuel tank welds, oil spilling from the engine, airbags, loss of braking assist, and the key can be removed while not in park. The most serious is the ability to remove the key, which leads to rollaway situations.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
Pricing for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze falls in the middle of the class, with a range of $6,347 to $10,261, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $16,800 to $23,190. Depreciation is average for the class, dropping about 45% in the first five years.
- LS is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, a six-way manual driver seat, OnStar, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with six speakers and a 3.5mm AUX input.
- Eco focuses on efficiency with a turbo engine, alloy wheels, narrower tires, more aerodynamic body panels, and a smaller gas tank.
- LT is next in the lineup with 16-inch alloy wheels, leather steering wheel, cruise control, power mirrors, remote starter, as well as Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
- LTZ is the flagship model with 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, keyless ignition, and rear parking sensors.
How Long Will the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Last?
With proper care, a 2012 Chevy Cruze can last up to 200,000 miles, which is a bit shorter than some other compact cars on the market. Regular annual maintenance costs are more expensive than the competition. Repair Pal estimates them to be $575 per year.
Very reliable! Just keep and eye out for the heat going. I have had three issues in regards to the heat in my car not working.
Yes I have had no problems with my Cruze. I keep the oil changed and all fluids up to full and it rises smooth and great in gas.
It is reliable. The only thing I have felt is that there is sometimes a delay in the shifting from 1st to 2nd. IT appears the car has to be in use for several miles before this problem disappears. It does sometimes happen again when I stop for a stop sign or stoplight and accelerate again.
The car is very reliable, it has no issues at all. Easy to change if a tire is caught on flat. All tools for tire change are by the spare included with the car.
I have very little problems with my car. However, in the few instances that I have, it is very inexpensive to repair and has not been any problems that would be of major concern.
It is starting to have issues because of its age and the high mileage it has on it now had many round trips of 2500 miles.
Occasionally there are engine problems, with shutting off and speeding up but take it to your dealership and it is an easy fix.
It is reliable and does not have many major problems to worry about, at least for the first 100,000 miles of day.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is average for a compact car in the entry-level 2012 Cruze models, and improves in the higher-end versions.
- Base technology includes a six-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, and an AUX input.
- Optional upgrades include Bluetooth, USB connectivity, a seven-inch touchscreen navigation system, and a nine-speaker stereo system.
- Standard safety features include stability control, airbags, antilock brakes, and OnStar communications. Available upgrades include parking sensors.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2012 Cruze is weak, even for a compact car. Going from 0 to 60 miles per hour takes 9.2 seconds with the turbocharged motor.
- The base engine is a 1.8L four-cylinder with 136 horsepower.
- An available upgrade is the 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder which has 138 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Cruze?
The 2012 Chevy Cruze is a compact car, and is similar in size to most rivals. Passenger room is decent in the front seats, but some owners complain the seats are too narrow. There’s an average amount of legroom in the back seats, and some taller adults may feel cramped. Cargo space is good for the class, fitting four suitcases in the 15.4 cu. ft. trunk.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 26th out of 36 compact cars, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Chevy Cruze is near the bottom of the class.
One of the higher-rated competitors is the Toyota Corolla, which is a more expensive choice. The Corolla has better reliability ratings, and a roomier cabin. Where the Cruze comes out ahead is with a higher-quality interior, and more technology available. The Corolla is a better choice for shoppers, though, since there are fewer mechanical issues.
Another rival in the same price range is the Nissan Sentra. The Sentra offers more power with the upgraded engine, and a better, more-connected steering feel. Where the Cruze comes out ahead is with less hard plastic trim in the cabin, and better safety ratings. Neither car is a good option though, since they both have expensive mechanical problems leading to high ownership costs.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze a Good Car?
No, the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is not a good car based on information including 1,076 verified owner reviews, and 16 automotive and government websites. The positives include a nice interior for the money, and a quieter cabin than some competitors. Where the Cruze misses the mark is with some serious mechanical failures, and less passenger room than other compact cars. Overall, the Cruze is a car buyers should stay away from.
