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2012 Honda Fit Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.47
Based on 80 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2012 Honda Fit is a subcompact hatchback, known for its exceptional versatility and fuel efficiency. Part of the second generation (2009-2013), it's available in base and Sport trims. The Fit stands out with its "Magic Seat" system, allowing for numerous cargo configurations. Pricing ranged from approximately $15,000 to $17,000 when new. Its popularity stems from its practicality, reliability, and surprisingly spacious interior for its size.
The Good

The 2012 Honda Fit boasts impressive reliability and excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers. Its "Magic Seat" system offers unmatched cargo flexibility. For emotional appeal, its zippy handling and surprisingly spacious interior make it fun and practical for daily use. The Fit provides great value for its price.

The Bad

The 2012 Honda Fit's weaknesses include a somewhat noisy cabin, especially at highway speeds. The ride can be firm, and the base model lacks some desirable features. Potential buyers should watch for oil consumption issues and check the air conditioning system, as some owners have reported problems. The paint quality can also be prone to chipping.

2012 Honda Fit: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 1.5-liter i-VTEC inline-4
  • Horsepower: 117 hp @ 6,600 rpm
  • Fuel Economy:
    • Manual: 27 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
    • Automatic: 28 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 9.5 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base:
      • Standard Features: Air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, CD player with MP3/WMA playback, USB audio interface, 15-inch steel wheels.
      • Safety: Anti-lock brakes (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), side curtain airbags.
    • Sport:
      • Upgrades: Fog lights, rear spoiler, side sills, alloy wheels, cruise control, upgraded audio system with more speakers, leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters (automatic transmission only).
      • Enhanced Aesthetics: Sportier exterior styling.
  • Specific features by trim:
    • The base model is fairly basic, focusing on essential features and affordability. The sport trim adds a touch of style and some comfort/convenience features.
    • The automatic transmission option is available on both trims.
    • Neither trim offers advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning. These features were not common in this vehicle class at the time.
  • Magic Seat: Available on all trims, this feature allows the rear seats to fold flat into the floor or the seat bottoms to flip up, creating a tall and versatile cargo area.

2012 Honda Fit Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2012
Make Honda
Model Fit
Trim -
Style 5-Speed Manual
Type Hatchback
Category Small Station Wagon
Manufacturing Details
Made In China
Manufacturing City EAST LIBERTY
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 2496 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 60.00 inches
Overall Length 161.60 inches
Overall Width 66.70 inches
Wheelbase Length 98.40 inches
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.5-L L-4 SOHC 16V
Engine Size 1.5L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Manual
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $15,175
Invoice Price $15,701
Delivery Charges $770

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What Problems Does the 2012 Honda Fit Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Honda Fit include excessive oil consumption, particularly in higher mileage examples. This issue can lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed. Some owners have also reported problems with the air conditioning system, such as the compressor failing prematurely. The 2012 model year has a few recalls, typically related to airbag inflators that may rupture during deployment, posing a safety risk. Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the latest recall information specific to your VIN. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the potential for rust, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt usage. Regular washing and rustproofing can help mitigate this. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) in later model years of the Fit (though the 2012 primarily used a traditional automatic), so it’s worth checking the transmission fluid condition. Overall, the 2012 Fit is generally considered reliable, but addressing these potential issues proactively can help ensure a long and trouble-free ownership experience. Regularly checking fluid levels (especially oil) and addressing any unusual noises or behaviors promptly are crucial.

How long will the 2012 Honda Fit last?

With good maintenance, a 2012 Honda Fit can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 10-15 years of service. Long-term durability hinges on consistent oil changes, timely replacement of wear items (brakes, tires), and addressing any emerging issues promptly. Weaknesses over time can include increased oil consumption, potential rust issues, and eventual wear of suspension components. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance are key to maximizing its lifespan. Cars driven primarily in city environments may see more wear and tear on brakes and suspension components than those used mostly for highway driving.
Positive Owner Reviews
Feddie_1972
Excellent, just what I was looking for to move from point A to point B, from work to Home and vice versa and though looks small has plenty space inside.
Jeffrey
I just drove this Honda fit home from the Dealer and everything was great. I think this car will be great. Enjoyed driving so far.
Quick
I love the Honda fit it's quick and runs fantastic runs smooth for a used car Honda stands up to its name for reliability I would love to buy another Honda fit
Negative Owner Reviews
Stephen E.
We bought the 2012 Honda Fit as a commuter car, and we are getting what we expected. The gas mileage is good (around 32-33 in town and up to 36 mpg while driving mostly highways). The control panels are easy to access, and the large trunk is very useful. The Fit also offers a lot of headroom, so unless you are 6'5'' or taller, you should have enough room. However, there is nothing exciting about this car either. It has slow, plodding acceleration, and getting up to speed on the highway takes awhile. The fuel tank is also small, so expect to fill up often. I usually get about 300 miles on a tank. The ride is decent on shorter commutes, but on longer trips, I was wishing for more comfort. On the base model, there are also no armrests; this may sound minor, but on longer rides, their absence is notable. We have had the car for about three months, and while there is no major problems with it, I would look more carefully at other cars--such as the more elegant and exciting Hyundai Elantra or the Mazda 3--if I had to do it again.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2012 Honda Fit offers a fairly basic level of built-in tech and entertainment compared to modern vehicles. Standard features include a CD player with MP3/WMA playback and a USB audio interface. The Sport trim upgrades the audio system with more speakers. There are no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning available on this model. Safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), front airbags, and side curtain airbags. Optional features were limited, mainly consisting of accessories like floor mats and cargo organizers. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA are generally good. The 2012 Fit earned "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests. NHTSA gave it an overall rating of four out of five stars. The lack of advanced tech is a sign of its age. However, the inclusion of VSA and standard airbags across all trims contributes to a reasonable level of safety for its time. The USB audio interface was a welcome feature for connecting and charging portable devices. The sound quality of the base audio system is adequate, while the Sport trim offers a modest upgrade. For modern buyers, aftermarket upgrades like Bluetooth connectivity and a touchscreen head unit are common and relatively affordable.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Alabaster Silver Metallic
Crystal Black Pearl
Polished Metal Metallic
Taffeta White
Blue Raspberry Metallic
Orangeburst Metallic
Interior Colors
Black
Gray

2012 Honda Fit Prices and Market Value

The 2012 Honda Fit had a starting MSRP of around $15,000 for the base model and about $17,000 for the Sport trim. Current used market prices typically range from $6,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Fit has depreciated considerably, but its reputation for reliability helps maintain resale value better than some competitors. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, service history, mileage, and whether it has the more desirable Sport trim. Models with clean titles and comprehensive service records command higher prices. Low mileage examples are premium-priced as well.

2012 Honda Fit Cost of Ownership

The 2012 Honda Fit is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its safety ratings and value. Fuel efficiency is excellent, contributing to low running costs. Maintenance is relatively inexpensive, with readily available and affordable parts. Repairs are generally infrequent and straightforward. Long-term ownership costs are therefore considered low, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, proactively addressing potential issues like oil consumption is crucial to keeping repair costs down.

2012 Honda Fit Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 10.60 gallons
City Mileage 28 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 35 miles/gallon

2012 Honda Fit Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2012 Honda Fit Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2012 Honda Fit Insurance

Insurance for a 2012 Honda Fit is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2012 Honda Fit Compare to Other Hatchback?

The 2012 Honda Fit competes with subcompacts like the Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, and Ford Fiesta. In terms of performance, the Fit offers a more engaging driving experience than the Versa, though the Fiesta can be more fun. The Yaris is similarly reliable but less versatile. Feature-wise, the Fit's "Magic Seat" gives it a significant advantage in cargo space over all rivals. Reliability is a strong point for the Fit and Yaris. Price-wise, the Versa is typically the most affordable, while the Fit and Fiesta tend to be slightly more expensive. Alternatives to consider include the Mazda2 (if handling is a priority) or the Hyundai Accent (for a balance of features and value). The Scion xD is another similar option offering reliability and quirky styling. The Fit stands out with its superior interior space and clever design, making it a top choice for those prioritizing practicality. The Fiesta offers better handling. The Versa is the budget choice. The Yaris rivals the Fit in terms of long-term dependability but lags in features and space. Ultimately, the Fit's blend of space, reliability, and decent driving dynamics makes it a compelling choice in its class.

Ranks #57 Hatchback

1 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback (0.0★)
2 2023 Honda Civic Type R (1.0★)
3 2023 BMW i4 (0.0★)
4 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (0.0★)
5 2016 Ford Focus Electric (0.0★)
6 2023 Audi A7 (0.0★)
7 2023 Nissan LEAF (0.0★)
8 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV (4.0★)
9 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid (0.0★)
10 2023 Jaguar I-PACE (0.0★)
11 2023 Tesla Model S (5.0★)
12 2022 Porsche Panamera (0.0★)
57 2012 Honda Fit (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Honda Fit a Good Hatchback?

The 2012 Honda Fit is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable, versatile, and fuel-efficient subcompact. It's ideal for city dwellers, small families, or anyone needing flexible cargo space. It's definitely worth buying used, provided it has been well-maintained. Look for examples with comprehensive service records and no signs of excessive oil consumption. The Sport trim is preferable for its added features, but a well-cared-for base model is still a good value. Consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic to identify any potential issues. Overall, the 2012 Fit offers a compelling combination of practicality, reliability, and affordability.

2012 Honda Fit Owner Reviews

4.47
Consumer Rating, Based on 80 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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BP on August 24, 2024

I love the car.

I love the car. Bought it new. 104K miles. Super reliable. Only downside is a/c can be troublesome and mileage is subpar for being so small. I only get 23/23 mpg in normal commuting. Very fun to drive. Tons of space. Very nimble.

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James L on March 30, 2021

A reliable little car

I bought the 2012 Fit brand new. Got rid of it at 33K miles for a larger car for the family. It was very reliable. It was made in Japan. They don't make cars like this anymore. I think many new Hondas are built in multiple regions, like Mexico and Japan. BTW, it wasn't the most comfortable car since it was tiny. And since the tires were thin and low, I definitely had to replace them several times during the years because I would hit potholes and bubbles would develop.

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Feddie_1972 on February 3, 2021

No the best one but economic

Excellent, just what I was looking for to move from point A to point B, from work to Home and vice versa and though looks small has plenty space inside.

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Fitso on October 29, 2020

Fit life

Love my car. Can load 8' lengths of lumber, water heater, bags of concrete, and big chubby drivers. It's super agile and the cockpit is like the Millennium Falcon. Thing rules!!!BOOM!!!

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Jeffrey on October 23, 2020

Like so far

I just drove this Honda fit home from the Dealer and everything was great. I think this car will be great. Enjoyed driving so far.

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Quick on September 26, 2020

Fantastic car reliable

I love the Honda fit it's quick and runs fantastic runs smooth for a used car Honda stands up to its name for reliability I would love to buy another Honda fit

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murph on July 29, 2020

nice car very reliable good value for the money

great car runs great easy to service gets great gas mileage.This car handles like a go cart and is roomy inside the interior is plush. I also think it will last wwell into the 300,000S as far as mileage.

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Adventurous on June 2, 2020

Fuel efficient and good handling plus cargo capabl

I have a 1300cc. In plains very zippy but high altitudes you run out of power. I shall prefer a 1800cc vehicle.l modified the ground clearance by changing springs. It was too low.

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Fitfan on May 20, 2020

Genius design

I love this car. It's great for commuting , parking , shopping. Huge amounts of space. It's been reliable too. I can't think any other car that can compete with it's value and versatility.

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SmDevine on April 28, 2020

Everything fits in the FIT!

From English Mastiffs, St. Bernards and Burnese Mountain Dogs to double-mattresses, everything fits in the Fit. As a hatchback with 60/40 flat fold down seats, the Fit is more roomy that you can imagine. The price point (sub $20,000) and the gas mileage (32-38 MPG) the Honda Fit is very economical to own. But there's more, it is also a kick to drive, being very zippy around town, easy to park and holds its own cruising down the interstate. Looking forward to my next one!

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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.