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Are 2012 Chevy Cruze reliable?

The 2012 Chevy Cruze is generally considered a reliable compact car, with a solid track record for dependability and performance. While no vehicle is perfect, the Cruze has proven to be a competent and affordable option for many drivers.


Reliability Ratings and Assessments


According to industry experts and consumer reviews, the 2012 Chevy Cruze has earned a reputation for being a reliable vehicle. J.D. Power and Associates, a leading automotive research firm, gave the 2012 Cruze a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, indicating "better than average" dependability. Similarly, Consumer Reports rated the 2012 Cruze as "above average" in predicted reliability, praising its well-built interior and smooth powertrain.


Common Issues and Maintenance


While the 2012 Cruze is generally considered reliable, no car is without its share of potential problems. Some common issues reported by owners include:



  • Occasional transmission problems, such as hesitation or jerky shifting

  • Electrical system glitches, including issues with the infotainment system

  • Occasional engine problems, such as rough idling or loss of power


To maintain the Cruze's reliability, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine service. Addressing any issues promptly and using high-quality replacement parts can also help ensure the Cruze's longevity.p>

Comparison to Competitors


When compared to other compact cars from the same era, the 2012 Chevy Cruze holds its own in terms of reliability. It outperforms some rivals, such as the 2012 Dodge Dart, which had a lower reliability rating from J.D. Power. However, the 2012 Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are often considered slightly more reliable options in the compact car segment.p>

Overall, the 2012 Chevy Cruze can be considered a reliable choice for a compact car, with a solid track record and relatively few major issues reported by owners. As with any vehicle, proper maintenance and prompt attention to any problems can help ensure the Cruze's long-term dependability.

What is the recall on the 2012 Chevy Cruze engine?


Engine and engine cooling
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.



What is the most reliable year of the Chevy Cruze?


The best model years for the Chevrolet Cruze in terms of reliability are 2015 to 2019. The 2015 Chevy Cruze has fewer owner complaints and recalls, offers excellent fuel economy, and has no major issues reported.



Is a Chevy Cruze a good car to buy used?


The Chevy Cruze Has Great Reliability
The average cost of repairs is much lower than similar cars of the same size, and the frequency of repairs is lower too. As long as you keep up to date on routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, you will have a dependable car for years.



Is a 2012 Chevy Cruze a good first car?


A: Avoid the 2011 and 2012 Chevy Cruze models due to their significant reliability issues, including problematic transmissions and coolant leaks. The 2014 model also had its share of problems, making it hard to recommend despite being less severe than its predecessors.



How long will a 2012 Chevy 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.



Is a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze a reliable car?


The 2012 Chevy Cruze has great safety scores, an upscale interior, pleasant handling, and refined engine options. However, the Cruze's reliability rating and ownership costs keep it in the middle of the compact car class.



What goes bad on Chevy Cruze?


The top problems that plague the Chevy Cruze include engine problems, cracked pistons, and electrical failures.



What is the disadvantage of Chevrolet Cruze?


RepairPal gives the Chevy Cruze a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 26th out of 36 compact cars. The annual repair and maintenance cost for the model is approximately $545. The top problems that plague the Chevy Cruze include engine problems, cracked pistons, and electrical failures.



What is the most common problem with the 2012 Chevy Cruze?


The biggest issue with the Cruze is that they leak, a lot. They have oil leaks from the engine, the transmission, and oil lines throughout the engine compartment. They also are known to have coolant leaks at the thermostat housing and on the lines that run back to the radiator.



How much is a 2012 Chevy Cruze worth now?


A 2012 Chevrolet Cruze LT Sedan 4D has depreciated $1,570 or 30% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $3,497 and trade-in value of $1,993.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.