The Good
The 2012 Cruze offered good fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers. Its stylish design and comfortable interior provided an emotional draw. While not a performance car, the available turbo engine offered decent power. The Cruze provided good value for money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
The Bad
The 2012 Cruze has known weaknesses, particularly with its 1.4L turbo engine, which can experience coolant leaks and turbocharger issues. The automatic transmission could also be problematic. Owners should watch out for these potential issues, and thoroughly inspect the cooling system and transmission before purchasing a used model.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.8L Inline-4: (LS model)
- 1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4: (LT, LTZ, Eco models)
- Horsepower:
- 1.8L: 138 hp
- 1.4L Turbo: 138 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 1.8L: 25 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
- 1.4L Turbo: 26 mpg city / 38 mpg highway (Eco model is slightly higher)
- 0-60 Times:
- 1.8L: Approximately 9-10 seconds
- 1.4L Turbo: Approximately 8-9 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not Recommended for Towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- LS: Base model, includes air conditioning, power windows/locks, keyless entry, and a basic audio system.
- LT: Adds features like cruise control, upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels.
- LTZ: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and remote start.
- Eco: Designed for maximum fuel efficiency with aerodynamic enhancements, lightweight wheels, and low-rolling-resistance tires.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cruze |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Korea |
| Manufacturing City | KUNSAN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LLW |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Have?
Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmission, have been reported, including rough shifting and hesitation. Some owners have experienced issues with the electrical system, such as malfunctioning sensors and issues with the infotainment system.
Recalls for the 2012 Cruze have included issues related to the transmission shift linkage, potentially allowing the car to shift out of park unintentionally. There have also been recalls related to fuel leaks in certain models. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the engine and transmission issues mentioned above. Regularly scheduled maintenance and careful monitoring of coolant levels are crucial for mitigating potential problems.
How long will the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze last?
Long-term durability weaknesses primarily stem from the engine (turbocharger, coolant leaks) and transmission. Neglecting maintenance can significantly shorten the lifespan of these components. Cars with documented and proactive maintenance tend to fare better over time.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It included standard features like anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags. The 2012 Cruze received generally positive crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award. The availability and functionality of OnStar provided an added layer of safety through automatic crash notification and emergency services assistance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Prices and Market Value
Depreciation has been significant due to the vehicle's age and the known reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include the car's overall condition, maintenance history, and mileage. Models with lower mileage and a clean title will generally command higher prices. The specific trim level also impacts value; higher trims like the LTZ tend to hold their value slightly better.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Cost of Ownership
Long-term ownership costs can be unpredictable. If major repairs are needed, they can significantly increase the overall cost. Proactive maintenance is essential to minimize these risks, but it's still not guaranteed to avoid all potential problems. Owners should budget for potential repairs.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Fuel Efficiency
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Compare to Other Sedan?
Price-wise, the Cruze was often more affordable than the Civic and Corolla when new, making it an attractive value proposition. However, the long-term cost of ownership could negate those savings due to potential repairs.
Better alternatives include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for their superior reliability and resale value. The Mazda3 offers a more engaging driving experience. The Hyundai Elantra is another option, providing a good balance of features, value, and warranty coverage. The Ford Focus (avoiding models with the problematic DCT automatic transmission) can be a viable alternative as well.
Ranks #1102 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1102 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze a Good Sedan?
Given the age, buying used is the only option. The LT and LTZ trims offer better feature sets. Be prepared for potential repairs and factor that into your budget. Considering the reliability concerns, exploring alternatives like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be a wiser long-term investment.
Coco66 on December 28, 2024
Everything goes wrong with it.Everything goes wrong with it. I just bought one for 8000 . Very good condition, a few months later trouble with turbo and oil all over the engine needed to change the gasket
BeniB on July 26, 2024
I bought my 2012 Cruze new that year, and it was the veryI bought my 2012 Cruze new that year, and it was the very worst car I ever owned. The Engine Light stayed on more than it was off. When I first took it home, the trunk would not close after being opened. The water pump required replacement twice, as well as the thermostat. After it hit 100K miles, it was in the shop at least every 2 weeks. I could not charge my car phone in it after two months because none of the sockets would work even after multiple fuse replacements. I paid for the car twice with all the repairs required to be made to it. I owned a Ford Taurus for ten years prior to the Cruze, so I know what a car is like when it requires little or no repair with proper maintenance. BEWARE BUYER: DO NOT GET NEAR A 2012 CHEVY CRUZE LT
Bernard on January 12, 2024
Car really need repairsThe alternator went out keeps draining battery .it leaks oil,and the engine knocks.the gas tank is loose.but other than that the car runs great and is good on gas
Discouraged Mammaw on February 12, 2023
I wanted to save gas.....guess I am......I had not hat my pre owned 2012 Chevy Cruz Turbo for a month before I had a blown head gasket and only three months in my starter went out. I sold my mustang and bought the Chevy cruz to save me on gas. I guess I should be more specific when making my wishes. It's been sitting in the same place since December 28th. So I've only put two tanks of gas in it and the last one is still at three quarters. Guess I'm saving on that gas ain't I.......
Thomas Byars on November 29, 2022
Engine overheating problems on multiple unexpectedThis vehicle since purchased 2014 has had multiple engine cooling problems, leaving me stranded on several occasions , water pump, water inlet, thermostat, radiator, cooling fan, overflow reservoir, hoses, have all been replaced before 134,000 miles, and still continues to have cooling issues
Christopher Locklear on November 10, 2022
Complete LemonThis is the absolute worse car I have ever driven. Every mechanic that I have dealt with has told me how terrible this car is. Major, major problems costing a lot of money to repair only to have it break down again. Not worth the money at all.
A young driver on August 3, 2022
Could’ve bought a way better car for what I spentI bought a 2012 Cruze eco 3 months ago. I’ve had nothing but problems. The car came with the abs, brake, traction control light on, the dealership said they didn’t know what it was. Turns out it was the rear speed sensors and the wheel bearings. The cars cooling system was the first hidden issue. The water pump, all of the hoses, the heater core, and the radiator fan relay was replaced. After that, it started misfiring after starting for 5 minutes. The coil pact, plugs, and pcv hose was replaced. The car still misfires to this day. I’m thinking the headgasket is bad and coolant is getting into the engine. Then, it started slipping, I haven’t done anything with the transmission yet because it’s too much money, all I’ve done was use transmission treatment and replace the fluid. After that, the hoses started blowing. The fix to that was the surge tank and the cap. A diagnosis from a mechanic said that the oil cooler, transmission cooling line, and the thermostat housing needs to be replaced. The thermostat housing was already replaced twice. I bought the car for 4k, and then put 7k into repairs, and there’s still probably 4k in repairs to do yet. I can’t sell the car because it’s under shared ownership.
chuck on July 16, 2022
I wish I could afford to get the interior cleanedThe plastic plate across the front of the car comes off and have had to replace it once and now can't afford to put a new one back on!!!! The car has less then 40,000 not bad for 2012 when I bought with 139 miles...LOL! Breaks need to be replaced and the interior of the car needs deep cleaning. I love my Cruze man!!!
Glorua Gillespie on May 13, 2022
LemonTo many problems with car !! The car is comfortable beautiful style , but to much money maintaining car ! Everything breaks down !owned my car for 5 years , just spent another’s 4 thousand dollars fix turbo , breakers , and much more !!
Kim on February 27, 2022
Head gasket blows on the vehicles very eazy an dieHead gasket blows easy on 6 speed manuel an leaking oil with only having 120,000 miles on it.Wouldn't suggest buying car at all especially to transport family.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.