Photo: IFCAR / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons
2012 Honda CR-V: common problems and reliability
An average CR-V year.
403 owner complaints, most about engine. 3 recalls.
Should I buy a 2012 CR-V?The 2012 Honda CR-V has 403 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system.
Safety record for the 2012 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2012 Honda CR-V vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other CR-V years only. How we score it
Is 2012 a good year for the CR-V?
Across the 30 CR-V model years we track, complaint volume runs from 109 (1997) to 2,141 (2018). With 403 complaints, the 2012 CR-V sits below the model's median of 479.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2012 CR-V
equipment:other:labels
Campaign 12V501000Honda 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.
power train:automatic transmission
Campaign 13V143000Honda 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."
latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch
Campaign 12V338000Honda 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 owners say across generations
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, particularly for the latest hybrid models (2023-2026). The vehicle is consistently praised for its exceptional practicality, spacious and high-quality interior, quiet and smooth ride quality, and refined hybrid powertrain.
Owner insights cover all generations of the CR-V. See the full CR-V owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used CR-V listings typically run $15,932–$25,995.
Other CR-V model years
Compare every CR-V year side by side to see how 2012 ranks against the rest.
Compare the CR-V against its rivals
Looking at a specific car?
We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.
One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy