The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is a compact sedan designed to offer a blend of fuel efficiency and comfort. Introduced as a replacement for the Cobalt, it was available from 2008 to 2019. Key trims included the LS, LT, LTZ, and Eco. Its popularity stemmed from its modern styling, comfortable interior, and available features. New, it ranged from approximately $16,000 to $23,000. It stood out with its relatively upscale interior for its class and available turbocharged engine.
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 | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Australia |
| Manufacturing City | ELIZABETH |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LFW |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| 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
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Have?
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is known for several frequently reported problems. A common issue is coolant leaks, often stemming from the water pump or the coolant reservoir tank. These leaks can lead to overheating and potential engine damage. Another frequent problem involves the turbocharger in the 1.4L engine, which can fail prematurely. Owners have also reported issues with the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, which can cause vacuum leaks and rough idling.
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.
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?
With good maintenance, a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze can potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or last 10-15 years. However, reaching these figures depends heavily on consistent maintenance, including regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and addressing any issues promptly.
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.
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
mills43
Simply a great car - very reliable, fun to drive with awesome gas mileage. Used as a commuter car and with the front wheel drive, had no issues in the snow. Highly recommend the Cruze!
JerseyBoy
Bought for my 17yo son who just got license. Just turned over 200k but got for great price. Top safety ratings. Came loaded with sunroof and all the electronics needed. So far runs great. Good on gas also.
MCHasty
Extremely smooth steering. Abundant trunk space. Great features. Super reliable and well made. I’ve owned mine for 5+ years and with regular oil/filter changes, I haven’t had any mechanical problems.
Negative Owner Reviews
BeniB
I 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
Kim
Head 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.
Sara D
On the diagram for the psi it's backwards... so when you put air in or take it out it shows on the wrong tires, vice versa. Exhaust comes into car when windows are closed. No trunk button and the turbo makes a ticking sound thats not ok.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze offered a reasonable amount of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included a six-speaker audio system, OnStar, and an auxiliary audio input. Higher trims featured Chevrolet MyLink, a touchscreen infotainment system that allowed smartphone integration for music and apps. Optional features included Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, and satellite radio.
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.
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
Black Granite Metallic
Summit White
Silver Ice Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Blue Ray Metallic
Autumn Bronze Metallic
Cyber Gray Metallic
Eco Green Metallic
Interior Colors
Jet Black
Medium Titanium
Kalahari
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ranged from approximately $16,000 for the base LS model to around $23,000 for a fully equipped LTZ. As of today, used market prices typically range from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
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.
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
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze generally falls into the economical range for insurance costs. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the Eco model. However, maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to the potential engine and transmission issues.
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.
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
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
30 gallons
City Mileage
26 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
38 miles/gallon
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:mounting
Recall date
2012-06-22
Recall no.
12v289000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011 and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Vehicles Manufactured From October 2, 2009, Through MAY 14, 2012. Attachment Welds FOR THE Fuel Tank Strap Secondary Brackets MAY Have Been Omitted.
Consequence
THE Fuel Tank Could Come Loose IN A Crash, Possibly Allowing Fuel TO Leak From THE Tank. A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicle FOR Missing Welds. IF THE Vehicle IS Missing Welds, Dealers Will Secure THE Bracket Attachments With Fasteners. Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 9, 2012. Owners MAY Contact THE Chevrolet Owner Center AT 1-866-694-6546.
Notes
Gms Campaign Number IS 12133.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags
Recall date
2012-10-31
Recall no.
12v522000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 Buick Verano, Chevrolet Cruze, and Chevrolet Sonic Vehicles. THE Driver Side Frontal AIR BAG HAS A Shorting BAR Which MAY Intermittently Contact THE AIR BAG Terminals.
Consequence
IF THE BAR and Terminals ARE Contacting Each Other AT THE Time OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal Airbag, That Airbag Will NOT Deploy, Increasing THE Driver's Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
General Motors Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Steering Wheel Airbag Coil, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON January 11, 2013. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-521-7300.
Notes
This IS General Motors Recall Number 12261.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date
2012-06-22
Recall no.
12v288000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011 and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Vehicles Manufactured From October 2, 2009, Through MAY 31, 2012. Spilled or Dripping OIL (Such AS After AN OIL Change) MAY Collect IN THE Engine Shield (bellypan) Near HOT Engine or Exhaust System Surfaces. AS A Result, THE OIL and THE Engine Shield MAY Ignite and Burn.
Consequence
Either Condition Could Result IN AN Engine Compartment Fire, Possibly Causing Injury or Death.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Modify THE Engine Shield TO Prevent Fluid From Contacting THE Shield. Also, ON Vehicles With A Manual Transmission, Dealers Will Apply A Protective Tape TO THE Electronic Power Steering Wire Harness. Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge TO THE Owner. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 10, 2012. Owners MAY Contact THE Chevrolet Owner Center AT 1-866-694-6546.
Notes
Gms Campaign Number IS 12081.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags
Recall date
2013-01-24
Recall no.
13v023000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 Chevrolet Camaro, Cruze and Sonic, and Model Year 2012 Buick Verano Vehicles. THE Driver Side Frontal AIR BAG HAS A Shorting BAR Which MAY Intermittently Contact THE AIR BAG Terminals.
Consequence
IF THE BAR and Terminals ARE Contacting Each Other AT THE Time OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, That AIR BAG Will NOT Deploy, Increasing THE Driver's Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Steering Wheel AIR BAG Coil, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON February 13, 2013. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-521-7300.
Notes
This IS General Motors Recall Number 12261 and IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall 12v-522.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
Recall date
2013-08-15
Recall no.
13v360000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2012 Chevrolet Cruze Vehicles Equipped With 1.4l Dohc Gasoline Turbo Engines and 6t40 Front Wheel Drive Automatic Transmissions and Equipped With AN Electric Vacuum Pump TO Provide Supplemental Vacuum FOR Brake Assist, When Needed. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Pump MAY NOT Activate, Resulting IN AN Intermittent Reduction or Loss OF Brake Assist.
Consequence
A Loss OF Braking Assistance Will Require Extra Pedal Force And/Or Distance TO Bring THE Vehicle TO A Stop, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
General Motors Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace A Microswitch IN THE Power Brake Vacuum Pipe Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 7, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Recall Number IS 12213.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2014-06-06
Recall no.
14v300000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 Buick Verano Vehicles Manufactured December 2, 2011 TO July, 16, 2012, Chevrolet Cruze Vehicles Manufactured December 7, 2011 TO July 25, 2012, Chevrolet Sonic Vehicles Manufactured December 5, 2011 TO August 2, 2012, and Chevrolet Camaro Vehicles Manufactured December 1, 2011 TO June 11, 2012. THE Driver Side Frontal AIR BAG HAS A Shorting BAR Which MAY Intermittently Contact THE AIR BAG Terminals.
Consequence
IF THE BAR and Terminals ARE Contacting Each Other AT THE Time OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, That AIR BAG Will NOT Deploy, Increasing THE Driver's Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Steering Wheel AIR BAG Coil, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 25, 2014. Chevrolet Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-222-1020. Buick Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-521-7300. Note: This IS AN Expansion OF Recalls 12v-522 and 13v-023.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date
2016-07-05
Recall no.
16v502000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu AS THE Electronic Park Lock Lever MAY Allow THE Ignition KEY TO BE Removed Without THE Transmission Being IN Park. Also, Certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain Vehicles MAY Have Been Serviced With Similar Defective Replacement Electronic Park Lock Levers. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS Removed Without THE Transmission IN Park, THE Vehicle MAY Rollaway AS Occupants ARE Exiting, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and IF Necessary Replace THE KEY Cylinder Lock Housing, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 50490 and 50491.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Recall date
2016-07-05
Recall no.
16v502000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu AS THE Electronic Park Lock Lever MAY Allow THE Ignition KEY TO BE Removed Without THE Transmission Being IN Park. Also, Certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain Vehicles MAY Have Been Serviced With Similar Defective Replacement Electronic Park Lock Levers. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS Removed Without THE Transmission IN Park, THE Vehicle MAY Rollaway AS Occupants ARE Exiting, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and IF Necessary Replace THE KEY Cylinder Lock Housing, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 50490 and 50491.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Compare to Other Hatchback?
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze competed against the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Mazda3. In terms of performance, the Cruze's turbocharged engine offered decent acceleration, but it wasn't as sporty as the Mazda3 or Ford Focus. Feature-wise, it held its own with available MyLink infotainment. However, its reliability record lags behind the Civic and Corolla, which are known for their dependability.
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.
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 Hatchback?
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze can be a decent option for budget-conscious buyers seeking an affordable and reasonably equipped compact car. However, it's not ideal for those prioritizing long-term reliability. It's worth buying *only* if you find a well-maintained example with a documented service history and have it thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic *before* purchase.
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.
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
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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
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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
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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.......
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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
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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.
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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.
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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!!!
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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 !!
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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.
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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.