The 2012 Honda Accord is a midsize car offered as both a coupe and sedan with a price range of $9,418 to $14,855. Fewer mechanical problems than other cars in the same price range, and a spacious cabin are a winning combination for the Accord.
2012 Honda Accord: Quick Overview
- New features for 2012 include a rearview camera, and standard USB connectivity. There’s a complete redesign for the 2013 model.
- Reliability ratings are great according to J.D. Power, but there are more complaints than the 2011 model.
- Two engine options are available, including a powerful V6 for the class.
- Fuel economy is good, and is in 5th place out of 15 midsize cars with a combined rating of up to 27 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are excellent, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- The 2012 Honda Accord ranks 4th out of 15 midsize cars based on owner reviews. A combination of reliable engine choices and excellent passenger room help the Accord stand out as a great choice.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Honda Accord Have?
The 2012 Honda Accord has an average number of problems compared to other midsize cars on the market. There are fewer issues than the redesigned 2013 model.
Uncomfortable seats are the number one complaint from owners. The seats do not have enough cushioning for some people. Some owners have installed aftermarket seats, or added pillows to the stock seats to make them more comfortable.
Engine problems, including hesitation while accelerating, are another issue. The drive-by-wire system in the Accord has a delay occasionally when releasing the brake and moving to the gas pedal. There’s currently no solution to the problem.
Premature brake wear is another common problem, according to owners. The pads and rotors may wear out quickly depending on how heavily they are used. Replacing the rotors and pads costs about $350, depending on local labor rates.
There are 8 recalls, which is worse than some other midsize cars from the same era. All 8 of the recalls are for air bag problems, and are important to address for passenger safety in the event of an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Honda Accord is more expensive than other midsize cars, with a price range of $9,418 to $14,855, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $21,480 to $32,030. Depreciation is better than average, dropping only about 35% in value over the first 5 years of ownership.
- LX is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power windows, cruise control, manual driver’s seat, and an AM/FM/CD 6-speaker stereo system with AUX and USB connections.
- LX-P is next in the lineup, adding 16-inch alloy wheels, and an 8-way power driver’s seat.
- EX offers improvements including 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated exterior mirrors, a sunroof, and a 6-CD changer.
- EX-L is the flagship model with leather seating, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, a rear view camera, and a 7-speaker premium stereo system.
How Long Will the 2012 Honda Accord Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Honda Accord will last over 250,000 miles, which is better than average for a midsize car. Regular annual maintenance costs are more affordable than the competition. Repair Pal estimates the costs to be $412 per year.
No problems. We are up to date on oil changes,& regular maintenance. We have replaced the battery & had brake job done within the last year.
It is very reliable. I do not have any problems with my Honda accord. Honda makes reliable cars that last for years!
Yes, it is a reliable vehicle. For the most part I have only had routine maintenance services. I recently had corrosion around my battery which caused some damage but it was the original battery and the repairs were less than $1k.
Yes. It's reliable. It just needs tires, batteries,,gas and oil changes.. It is very easy to maintain and is quite reliable.
Yes it is very reliable I have driven the car for more than 7 years. I am almost guaranteed it will last another years.
Yes it is. Rarely needing maintenance. But since its old sometimes the check engine light comes on even though no maintenance is required.
Very reliable, only issues I had were due to previous owner doing it themselves instead of going to professionals.
The Honda accord sometime have problems with some code the sensors of the car. That is the only problem that I can say.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is decent in the 2012 Honda Accord compared to other cars from the same year, but improves in the 2013 model with a lot of new features.
- Base technology includes a 6-speaker stereo system, with AM/FM/CD playback as well as USB and AUX connection points.
- Upgrades include a 6-inch touchscreen navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and an improved 7-speaker stereo system.
- Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, as well as stability and traction control systems. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is very good in the 2012 Honda Accord compared to some other midsize cars in the same price range. The upgraded V6 engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.3 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 190 horsepower.
- An optional upgrade to the 3.5L V6 has 271 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Accord?
The 2012 Honda Accord is a midsize car available as either a coupe or sedan. Passenger room is cramped in the back seats of the coupe, but is comfortable and class-leading in the sedan. Cargo space is a bit smaller than some competitors with 14 cubic feet of room in the trunk. There’s enough space to fit 3 to 4 full size suitcases.
How Does the 2012 Honda Accord Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 4th out of 15 midsize cars, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Honda Accord is near the top of the class.
A very close competitor is the slightly more expensive Toyota Camry. The Camry offers an easier-to-use stereo system, and has slightly better long-term reliability ratings. Where the Accord comes out ahead is with a more engaging driving experience, and a roomier cabin. Both options are great midsize cars and the choice comes down to personal preference.
Another rival is the more affordable Volkswagen Passat. The Passat has a higher-quality interior with luxurious materials, and is more fuel efficient. Long-term ownership costs are much lower on the Accord, and the technology is easier to use. Overall, the Accord is a longer-lasting vehicle and earns our recommendation over a Passat.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Honda Accord a Good Car?
Yes, the 2012 Honda Accord is a good car based on information including 953 verified owner reviews and 16 government and automotive websites. Where the Accord stands out is with great reliability, and a spacious cabin with plenty of room for adults in the sedan. Some downsides are cheap interior materials compared to some rivals, and an outdated stereo system. Overall, the 2012 Accord is a good choice for shoppers looking for a midsize coupe or sedan.