2012 Honda CR-V: common problems and reliability

The 2012 Honda CR-V has 397 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. Owners most often flag narrow front seats with pronounced bolsters causing initial discomfort (breaks in over time). frequency: recurrent.

Safety record for the 2012 model year

397
Owner complaints
3
Recalls
27
Crash reports
4
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2012 Honda CR-V vehicles (US, public record).

Is 2012 a good year for the CR-V?

Across the 18 CR-V model years we track, complaint volume runs from 138 (1999) to 2,076 (2018). With 397 complaints, the 2012 CR-V sits belowthe model's median of 527.

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

engine
89
electrical system
67
power train
48
steering
35
air bags
30

Recalls affecting the 2012 CR-V

equipment:other:labels

Campaign 12V501000

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, "Certifi

power train:automatic transmission

Campaign 13V143000

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 sel

latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch

Campaign 12V338000

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

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…

  • Narrow front seats with pronounced bolsters causing initial discomfort (breaks in over time). Frequency: recurrent.
  • Hybrid powertrain noise and struggle on steep highway inclines, with significant engine revving and reduced fuel economy. Frequency: recurrent.

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 $16,479–$25,125 across 2010 to 2026 model years.

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