Is there a recall on 2012 Chevy Cruze oil leaks?
As of February 27, 2025, there is no official recall issued by Chevrolet for oil leaks in the 2012 Chevy Cruze model. However, some owners have reported issues with oil leaks in this vehicle, and Chevrolet has addressed the problem through a service campaign. Let's dive into the details.
The Chevy Cruze Oil Leak Issue
The 2012 Chevy Cruze has been the subject of numerous complaints from owners regarding oil leaks. The most common issue appears to be a leak from the engine oil filter housing gasket, which can cause oil to seep out and potentially lead to engine damage if left unaddressed.
While Chevrolet has not issued a formal recall, the company has acknowledged the problem and implemented a service campaign to address it. This means that Chevy Cruze owners can bring their vehicles to authorized dealerships for inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the faulty gasket.
Chevrolet's Response and Recommendations
Chevrolet has advised 2012 Chevy Cruze owners to be vigilant for signs of oil leaks, such as oil stains on the ground or a low oil level. If an oil leak is detected, owners should schedule an appointment with a Chevrolet dealer as soon as possible to have the issue addressed.
The service campaign covers the cost of the repair, including the replacement of the oil filter housing gasket and any necessary cleaning or other repairs related to the oil leak. Chevrolet has also extended the warranty coverage for this specific issue to ensure that affected owners are not left with the burden of the repair costs.
Staying Informed and Taking Action
While Chevrolet has not issued a formal recall, it's important for 2012 Chevy Cruze owners to be aware of the potential for oil leaks and to take proactive steps to address the issue. Here are some tips for Chevy Cruze owners:
- Regularly check the oil level and inspect for any signs of leaks, such as oil stains on the ground or a low oil level.
- If an oil leak is detected, schedule an appointment with a Chevrolet dealer as soon as possible to have the issue addressed under the service campaign.
- Stay informed about any updates or changes to Chevrolet's response to the oil leak issue by regularly checking the company's website or contacting customer service.
By staying vigilant and taking advantage of Chevrolet's service campaign, 2012 Chevy Cruze owners can help ensure the longevity and safety of their vehicles.
What is the most common oil leak on a Chevy Cruze?
When troubleshooting oil leaks in your Chevrolet Cruze, begin by inspecting the oil level sensor seal, as this is a common culprit located at the top of the upper oil pan. If you notice oil pooling in this area, replacing the seal may resolve the issue.
What's the worst year for a Chevy Cruze?
2011 and 2012 were the least reliable of the years for the Chevy Cruze. The mid 2017 to 2019 models were rock solid in terms of reliability. I personally think that GM should have offered the 2.2 liter Malibu and Cobalt engines for the first gen Cruze.
How do I know if my Chevy Cruze has a recall?
You can check for Chevy Cruze recalls by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or the Chevrolet website. The VIN is a 17-character code found on the driver's side dashboard near the windshield or on the doorjamb. Other options include contacting a local dealership or using other third-party recall check websites.
How to check for recalls
- Use the NHTSA website: Go to NHTSA.gov/Recalls and enter your VIN to check for open safety recalls.
- Use the Chevrolet website: Visit the official Chevrolet website and use the recall lookup tool by entering your VIN.
- Contact a local dealer: A Chevrolet dealership can check for recalls for you, often while you are there for other service.
- Use other tools: You can use third-party sites like RepairPal or subscribe to safety recall notifications to stay updated.
Find your VIN
- On your vehicle: Look on the lower-left corner of the dashboard, visible through the windshield. It can also be on the driver's side doorjamb.
- On documents: Your VIN is also listed on your vehicle registration or insurance documents.
Are there any recalls on a 2012 Chevy Cruze?
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has been subject to several recalls, including a large 2012 recall for a potential fire risk due to a faulty engine shield, an issue with the driver's side airbag not deploying, and a recall for a hydraulic power assist that may have a brake fluid leak. Other recalls address the fuel system, engine and engine cooling, and electrical system components like the ignition.
This video explains a recall on Chevy Cruze models due to fire risk: 59sWXYZ-TV Detroit | Channel 7YouTube · Jun 22, 2012
Major recalls and their issues
- Engine shield fire risk (2012): Over 400,000 vehicles were recalled due to a potential fire hazard. Oil could leak and become trapped in the engine shield, leading to a fire.
- Driver's side airbag (2012 & 2013): Some models have a shorting bar in the driver's side frontal airbag that could contact the air bag terminals, causing the airbag to fail to deploy during a crash.
- Brake system (2013): A recall was issued for a potential brake fluid leak in the power assist system.
- Fuel system (2012): Some vehicles were recalled for a problem with the fuel tank straps that may not have been welded properly.
Other recalls
- Engine and engine cooling: Some vehicles have an issue with the engine coolant leak from the water pump, which can drip onto the engine or the ground.
- Electrical system: A recall was issued for the ignition system.
How to check for recalls
- Online VIN checker: Use the Chevrolet website or NHTSA website to check for recalls on your specific vehicle using its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Contact a dealer: Visit or contact your local Chevrolet dealer to have them check for outstanding recalls on your vehicle.
- Wait for a letter: If your address is up to date, you should receive a letter in the mail if a recall affects your car.
