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    Honda CR-V

    EPA MPG: 25 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    We expect the 2025 CR-V will be more reliable than the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2023 and 2024 models.

    The 2012 Honda CR-V has been recalled 3 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2012 Honda CR-V owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Steering And Suspension

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Alignment

    "alignment was recommended after tyerod replacement"

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "It seems a front end alignment is needed every few years. I don't consider this a Honda issue."

    Anonymous, CA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Bushings

    "Had to replace sway bar bushings due to wear."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Power steering

    "1st year for electric steering which is very sensitive, steering tends to wander slightly causing regualr correction compared to our 2010 CRV with 150000 miles"

    Anonymous A., TX (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Shocks or struts

    "The issue occurred once this past year. There was a noticeable squeaking/ rubbing sound. The disappointing part is I have replaced the struts multiple times since I purchased the vehicle with 117000. In a little under 40000 miles, I have replaced struts 3 times."

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Car was exhibiting signs of worn shocks, like a rougher ride. Steering wheel was also vibrating. These signs had been building for about the last 12 months. Finally took car in and had front shocks and struts replaced, steering realigned. Problem solved. I chalked it up to eventual wear and tear on a car that had about 150,000 miles."

    Anonymous, TX (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "The rear struts reached end of life and required replacement."

    Anonymous A., TN (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Tie rods

    "Noise in front end occurred when driving over bumps. Tie rods on both sides were worn and were replaced."

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "making a clunking noise over bumps"

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Came into dealer for standard maintenance and inspection revealed need to replace sway bar links and outer tie rod boots, front lower ball joint boots that were cracked, and front/rear strut assys."

    Anonymous, CA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Clunking noise could be heard when driving over bumps in road. Has issue assessed during routine oil change and it was determined noise was one outer tie rod, but other outer tie rod was leaking. Both were replaced."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Wheel bearings

    "wheel bearings have some noise when driving, was told by mechanic that it would be around 2000$ to replace them, he just greased them for now."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "air coming out of vents was warm,not cold.started 6 weeks ago.dealer tested car and found compress not working. They ordered a new one and installed it 2 weeks ago."

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "A/C failed to cool. There was evidence of a coolant lead and both the compressor and condensor needed to be replaced ($1745). It has worked well since (in 100 degree GA heat)"

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "When ambient temperature is above 90 degrees, the A/C stops cooling and blows warm air. When outside temp drops below 90, the A/C begins cooling again. My service center has been unable to find the cause of this problem."

    Anonymous, WA (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "failure to cool"

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "AC Compressor began making noises and ultimately stopped cooling air after 8 months. It slowly declined in performance over this time."

    Anonymous, AZ (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "This year (2024), I noticed a tapping noise coming from under the hood after a 400 mile road trip. It turned out to be an issue with the air compressor - the while thing needs replaced."

    Anonymous, IL (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Automatic climate control

    "Apparently if there is a problem with the AC system, the entire engine starts to malfunction"

    Anonymous, VA (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Blower (fan) motor

    "The air conditioner quick blowing cold air had to be replaced"

    Anonymous, SC (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Condenser

    "Happened in conjunction with compressor referenced earlier."

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Evaporator

    "Evaporator keaked and had to be replaced at cost of $1200!"

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "Cracked/worn hoses."

    Anonymous, WA (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Calipers

    "Rusted"

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Left caliper stuck had to take it in twice"

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "We do mostly city driving, but it seems we have frequent break work on this vehicle. Recently had to replace both rear calipers"

    Anonymous, NY (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Premature brake wear

    "Driven on dirt roads May contribute"

    Anonymous, VT (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Rotors

    "The breaks always feel sticky and loud. There is a noise when driving in reverse."

    Anonymous, NY (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "the brakes made a grinding sound when stopping"

    Anonymous, (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Because the calipers stuck when rusted, I had to replace rotors, which is costly"

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Normal wear & tear"

    Anonymous A., GA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Catalytic converter

    "Check engine light came on, no symptoms. Honda dealer stated it's catalytic converter. Waiting 1 week for parts"

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Other/unsure

    "4 wheel drive suspension"

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "The cost to replace the cars directional compass."

    Anonymous, DE (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "The VTC actuator needed to be replaced, and I changed the timing chain at the same time"

    Anonymous A., MI (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Starter went out."

    Anonymous, GA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "starter replaced, expensive."

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Car had a VCT actuator problem the day we bought it. It was fixed initially, became a problem again 2years later, fixed under warranty, became a problem again 2 years later, fixed by Honda out of warranty at their expense, problem has arisen again and Honda refuses to address it. It is a known problem and multiple lawsuits and class actions are underway in the US, but not Canada."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Noises And Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Air or water leaks

    "When it rains, water seeps in somehow through the roof in the rear of the car. The interior roof is stained as a result. I havent had resources to have it looked at."

    Anonymous, IL (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Water pump was leaking a bit. Oil filter was leaking a bit. Had them both replaced"

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Other noises & leaks problem

    "Terrible rattle when starting car cold. Got fixed at dealer but can't remember what caused it"

    Anonymous, ME (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Squeaks or rattles

    "Upon starting the engine there is sometimes a grinding rattle from under the hood. This has been going on for about 2 years and while at first it was only in cold weather, it has gotten most frequent over time and now can happen at any time of year. This usually only happens if the engine is cold and hasnt been driven for a little while. Apparently it is a known problem, at least that is what San Francisco Honda told us, but since it is deep in the engine and not crucial to the engines functioning they told us not to worry about it. They also said that even if they fixed it, the issue would recur. Because it is an intermittent issue we have had trouble getting another repair shop to identify the source of the problem in order to provide a second opinion. Interestingly, I was in a parking lot and heard the same noise from another car as it started. When the car pulled out of their space, I could see it was a Honda CR-V of about the same age as ours."

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Makes a bad noise at start up. Mainly morning cold start. Sometimes have to try up to 3 times to get the car to start and keep running."

    Anonymous A., MI (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Backup or other camera/sensors

    "Camera mount broke and was pointing in wrong direction. Display is very dim and not very usable in daylight conditions"

    Anonymous, DE (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

    "Menu will not allow access to bluetooth"

    Anonymous A., WA (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Blue tooth stopped working and Honda could not suggest a fix"

    Anonymous A., OH (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    12V battery

    "We have had to replace the battery about once a year since 2012. The car drains all the power out of the battery if it is parked for more than two days. We invested in higher quality batteries, a battery charger to try and deal with the problem but they are only a temporary fix. The car practically tears up the battery."

    Anonymous, AL (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Other electrical system problem

    "Since we bought this car there is an electrical drain of power on the battery. When the car is off and all electrical items are turned off and parked it is constantly draining electricity. We have had to replace the battery every year because if it is parked for more than two days the battery will be dead. The dealership has been unable to diagnose the cause."

    Anonymous, AL (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Alternator died. Killed battery too."

    Anonymous, TN (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "Oil leaked when I purchased"

    Anonymous, IL (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "The Honda Service center stripped a part under my car during regular maintenance. A leak manifested a month or so later. They originaly said I had to pay for it until I made them pull up the recent maintenance history. They acknowledged they damaged it."

    Anonymous, NY (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Several oil leaks fixed May 2023."

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    Driveshaft or axle

    "One of the driveshaft seals is leaking."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "was noise, and mechanic replaced drive axel on right hand side."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Other major engine problem

    "The VTC Actuator adjusts valve timing as engine temp changes. When it fails to reset after engine cool-down, it makes a horrendously loud rattling noise as it attempts to reset when cranking the starter. The part was replaced once under warranty, but failed again at about 110,000 miles. It is quite an expensive repair."

    Anonymous, WA (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Timing belt or chain

    "Timing belt stretched one inch and would have destroyed the engine if it broke. Also, had to replace the VTC Actuator for the second time."

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Honda CR-V LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Locks and latches

    "Cables to release rear seat backs broken"

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    "Rear seats wont let down"

    Anonymous A., SC (2012 Honda CR-V 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Other major transmission & clutch problem

    "(Not technically Transmission/clutch) Starter motor causing noise, needs to be replaced. Known issue according to mechanics."

    Anonymous, CO (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    "Seems to be slipping in low gears"

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Honda CR-V EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Paint And Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose exterior trim or moldings

    "Moulding around door handle fell off. Glued back on"

    Anonymous, AB (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    What Owners Say

    Starter

    "Starter made noise in cold weather and eventually failed"

    Anonymous, AB (2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    2012 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Honda vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Steering and Suspension
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2024 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical accessories. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    POWER TRAIN
    Apr 15, 2013
    If the gear selector is moved from the park position without pressing the brake pedal it can allow the vehicle to roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Honda is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 CR-V, Odyssey, and model year 2013 Acura RDX vehicles. During sub-freezing temperatures, the brake-shift interlock blocking mechanism may become slow and allow the gear selector to be moved from the Park position without pressing the brake pedal. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
    What should you do:
    Honda will notify owners and instruct them to take their vehicle to a Honda or Acura dealer. The dealer will install an updated brake shift interlock blocking mechanism free of charge. The recall began on May 13, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009. Honda's campaign recall numbers are S96, S97, and S98.
    For more information:
    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.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 13V143000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 204169
    EQUIPMENT
    Oct 16, 2012
    A misprinted label could lead to improper vehicle loading. Improper loading could result in a tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Honda is recalling certain model year 2012 CR-V, equipped with the LX trim level and manufactured from August 30, 2012, to August 31, 2012. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification." The incorrect values for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, Gross Axle Weight Rating front and rear, tire size, and rim size were specified on the safety certification label.
    What should you do:
    Honda will notify owners, and dealers will apply the corrective label free of charge. The safety recall began on November 14, 2012. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
    For more information:
    Honda's recall campaign number is S62.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.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V501000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 264
    LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
    Jul 19, 2012
    If the door is not fully latched, the door may open while driving or in a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the vehicle occupants.
    Summary:
    Honda is recalling certain model year 2012 Honda CR-V and model year 2013 Acura ILX vehicles. If the manual or power door lock is activated while an interior front door handle is being operated by an occupant, the cable connecting the interior door handle to the door latch mechanism may become loose and move out of position. There is a possibility that the cable can move far enough out of position to prevent the door from properly latching.
    What should you do:
    Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front door latch assemblies in the affected vehicles, free of charge. Additionally, the interior front door handles in certain Honda CR-Vs will also be replaced, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on, or about, August 16, 2012. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
    For more information:
    Honda recall campaign numbers S45/S46/S47.Customers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V338000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 172837
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