Used 2012 Honda CR-V SUV Consumer Reviews
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Best CR-V
wab1, 02/17/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Navigation (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
69 of 69 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2012 CR-V EX-L with the navigation system 3 weeks ago. This vehicle is much better than the 2009 model I traded in. For those who say the CR-V needs a 6 cylinder engine I totally disagree. This vehicle has plenty of pep and power. The steering is improved, it's quieter, and rides better. This vehicle handles like a much bigger and heavier model. Mileage around town has been averaging 23.5 MPG, all stop and go driving for the most part. This is a great vehicle and I highly recommend it.
After 3.5 years, finally realized I like this car
Michelle, 09/26/2015
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
79 of 80 people found this review helpful
I had a Mazda CX-7 prior to this purchase and had SO many mechanical issues. They all seemed to happen right after I went over 60k, so they weren't covered by the warranty, go figure. I was anxiously waiting for the 2012 Honda CR-V to come out so I could get rid of it and say hello to reliability! I bought the CR-V in January 2012 and have just finally realized that I REALLY like it. Took me long enough! Coming from a turbo-charged engine, it was somewhat disappointing to drive at first. Very little pickup and I felt like I couldn't even get out of the way. Had to adjust driving style, but I just kept reminding myself that I no longer had to worry about it not starting or breaking down on the side of the road...trade-offs. I had Bose speakers in the CX-7, and the sound system was also less than par comparatively, although decent for what it is. The bluetooth was a nice new addition and the back-up camera is awesome. I had the battery issue everyone else seems to have, but it never completely died on me. It took a while to turn over a few times, which worried me because of the CX-7 fiasco, but it always started. We make periodic long drives so maybe the battery was able to get a good charge then? When I took it to the dealership for regular maintenance last winter, they told me I needed to replace the battery because the charge was really low. I didn't replace it b/c I thought they were just trying to upsell me something I didn't need. I mean really, who needs to replace the battery after only 2.5 years and 40k miles?! I wasn't aware of the battery issue 2012 CR-Vs were having at the time... At my last oil change they did a software update to fix the issue. I haven't had any problems, but then again, it's summer, I guess we'll what happens as it gets cold again. That brings me to the AWD...or rather, the RWD, since that's what it feels like. I haven't gotten stuck in the snow yet, hopefully never will, but when driving in the snow it feels like the rear-end wants to come around and it's a little scary having to compensate. And, DO NOT drive it in sand...we DID get stuck in sand, even after letting air out of the tires. We finally had to almost completely deflate them before we got traction and were able to get out. Overall, this is not an AWD vehicle, I tried. :) If you want that, I suggest buying something known for that, just be prepared for the gas mileage to adjust accordingly. The cargo space with the seats folded down is incredible. My family moved this past summer and I was able to do much of the small stuff on short trips. It fit so much stuff that I was more concerned about the weight limits than I was on the space available. Overall, this is perfect for what we need and the gas mileage is pretty good. On long trips we get 30-31 mpg and city I get about 24-25. Just what's advertised. I plan to keep it at least until our 10-year old starts driving...she can take it and then I will probably get something with real AWD capability and low gas mileage. :) Hope this review helps in the decision making!
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Best I've had in 50 years of driving
Frank, 09/17/2015
updated 03/20/2017
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
63 of 64 people found this review helpful
Not enough superlatives. At 140k original brake still good. Replaced battery at 120k. Oil change every 5 with synthetic. Update: 160,000k and still the best car I've owned. Currently 208,000
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Battery problem update
KittyKat, 03/08/2020
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
22 of 22 people found this review helpful
Some owners have reported dead battery problems with this model. All trim levels. It has been found that a real common fix is the A/C relay that keeps the A/C clutch engaged even with the switch off..This causes a 2-3 AMP parasitic drain. Replace with factory relay.
Saved My Life
a nn, 10/26/2015
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
30 of 31 people found this review helpful
This car was smashed by a truck and totalled. And I lived.
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Honda got this one right
jhonda82, 05/21/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
26 of 27 people found this review helpful
This one softens the blow a bit for all those who just need a bigger family friendly car. I've been a sedan guy all my life but it was time to get something with some more cargo space and good on gas for those long road trips. My wife and I spent months researching both new and used vehicles in the crossover segment. Ultimately the redesigned 2012 CR-V is IMO a huge step forward over previous model years. It was certainly worth the extra few bucks to get the 2012. Many new features are now standard. My smart phone integration is flawless. Album art from Pandora/Ipod shows on display. Bluetooth quality is good too if you dont want to use the USB cable.
Dead Battery
ggage, 07/18/2015
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
25 of 26 people found this review helpful
i love my CRV except for the battery going dead occasionally for no reason at all. Have had it checked. Dealer did an update , but it still happens. They also checked the battery and it is ok. I am tired of calling friends to jump start my car when I go out and it won't start. COme on Honda, admit you have a problem and fix it.!!!
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Enjoying it and Loving it
anydia, 01/15/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
34 of 36 people found this review helpful
I purchased my new CR-V Friday the 13th, but it turned out to be my lucky day. I am very pleased with it. I upgraded from a 2003 CR-V. Today I took it for a long drive (2 hrs away) for my hockey game. It has great cargo space for my gear and the seats fold easily. The ride was smooth and quiet. Seats felt comfortable even after the long drive. I used the Econ mode, but I didn't notice a difference in performance. I have received many positive comments on its looks because there aren't any basque red color CR-V's around here yet. I ordered a spoiler which will be added later next week for a sportier look although it looks fine the way it is and that's just my personal preference.
Honda Denying Electrical Problem
Enrico T Bruschi, 02/19/2015
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
31 of 33 people found this review helpful
Despite overwhelming evidence of an electrical system issue causing the cars battery to die a slow death between two and three years, including a recall to address the software causing the problem, Honda will not do the right thing and replace the battery that their design destroyed. I have never had to replace a battery in a new car at 33 months. I am finding this is Honda's typical approach to problems - denial until forced otherwise by the government. Ridiculous. This was my very first Honda, and possibly my last. It's not that I hate the car, but I definitely did not observe the reliability I had heard about do much.
An even better CR-V
bongo1945, 02/13/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
26 of 28 people found this review helpful
This is my 4 th new CRV.since 2005. I got hooked on them with the first. Bought a new 97 because of the newer body style, then again in 2010 because I never keep a car over 3 years. I loved my 05 and 07 . Bought a 2010 and wad disappointed in it from the get-go. No power,rode rough, just didn't mister up. Took it in to my dealer to have a software recall completed and walked out with a new 2012. I have had it only 2 weeks and about 1500 miles bunt the love affair has started again. What a great car. Lots of new improvements. I'm a sucker for creature comforts hence the EX-L fits my needs. Love the new dash design with new Bluetooth feature, great audio and just plain easy controls.
Battery/air conditioner is problematic
Carol, 09/26/2015
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
32 of 35 people found this review helpful
I've already replaced my battery one at year two. The mechanic said something about my driving, idling, extra usage of phone charging. I've not changed my driving style in 40 years, and I've never had to replace a battery before 4-5 years. The air conditioner has gone out every year. They don't say it's a normal occurrence, but they don't admit that something may be wrong either. I've always been a Honda girl, but after this car...I will research other cars.
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Can't go wrong with this CR-V
shadow303, 06/02/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
After deciding that it was finally time to quit repairing older cars and just invest in something new, I researched, drove, looked at, and considered just about every manufacturer in the compact SUV market, and the choice was the 2012 CR-V EX-L, (no nav). This drives like a car, turns on a dime, well, maybe a nickel..but incredible turning radius, the inside is ridiculously roomy, and the dash and controls are laid out in a simplistic and easy to use manner. It's still less than a month old, so I will try to update any issues again later. Go drive one, go drive the competition, and see for yourself. The ultimate review? After owning one for two weeks, I bought a second one. It's that fun.
Perfect Family Car
chapelthrill23, 08/19/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought the CRV because I needed a family car and it has not disappointed. It is smooth, quiet, handles like a car, is spacious, and is fuel efficient. A lot of what makes it wonderful cannot be found on a spec sheet. I cross shopped more expensive cars (TSX Wagon, XC70, etc) but the packaging is what made me buy a CRV. The interior design is fantastic. I'm not sure how they were able to build a small car with such a huge amount of space. It also has many details that make it work for families. The huge center console is wonderful, the conversation mirror/sun glass holder is useful, the easy fold seats are handy, the big buttons are nice, and I love that the rear floor is flat.
I'm a Honda Convert
rudismom523, 01/12/2013
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
After listening to my mechanic husband constantly moan and complain abt working on my Jeep Grand Cherokee and seeing both my kids drive their used Hondas for well over 100,000 miles with little or no problems, I gave in and bought the Honda CRV. I have to admit..I love it !!! I test drove many other vehicles in the same class and no one comes close to Honda for standard options, reliability and price for what you get. I got mine in the Urban Titanium Metallic and black leather interior and it is VERY sharp looking. I get many compliments on the color. The thing I appreciate the most is the handling, very tight steering, the ride is smooth, big open windshield, gas mileage is great !!
great vehicle until it's not
mark weiss, 11/01/2015
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
40 of 45 people found this review helpful
My 2012 CRV developed a very common widespread problem in Honda 4 cylinder engines, at about 49000 miles. A defective vtc actuator which causes a loud grinding noise at start. This is clearly something that should be covered by Honda's 5 year 60k power train warranty. Honda claims they having been researching how to repair it for four years without success. Meanwhile my vehicle is worthless in trade. just google crv makes noise at start
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Best Purchase Ever
denant, 06/04/2012
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
I love my 2012 Honda CRV! I had a 99 Civic for 11 years and I wanted to get a SUV. I was affaid that a SUV would be a completely different driving experience, but to my surprise the CRV drives has a similar feel to my civic, I dont feel like i am driving a bigger car.
Better than expected
crawfolk, 07/09/2012
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
Love this car. Got 34.1 mpg on first highway trip. Averaging above 26 mpg around town. Comfortable Honda ride. Like the Bluetooth connection for my IPhone and other included technology. Enjoyed my 2003 Honda Element and wanted to retain as much cargo space as possible. CRV gives me enough. Good visibility in driving rain. Good price and trade-in value from Honda dealer.
Love this car much more than expected
ernie29, 07/29/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I had a lease coming due on a BMW328xi coupe. I thought the crv would be economical and practical but I never dreamed I would love the car, but I do. You get so much for your money. The fuel economy is amazing (getting 31.5 in Econ mode during my first 150 miles/2days of driving the car). The features are great, love the Bluetooth and Pandora streaming...you can even access your Pandora channels and do the like dislike on the imid screen. only complaints are iPhone is unsupported on USB (isn't this the most popular phone?) and wiper blade inserts suck but that's an easy fix. So much easier to load this car up than BMW's pricey options! Recommend body side moldings. Look great!
Our third Honda CRV
harvest, 04/02/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
41 of 47 people found this review helpful
We've had our 2012 Honda CRV EX for about 2 months now and have put about 3000 miles on it. Compared to the 2004 CRV we previously owned it is quieter, rides smoother, looks more modern, and has more electronic features such as hands free bluetooth for your cell phone. We chose it over a 2012 Toyota RAV4 because the CRV had more comfortable seats and my wife, as the primary driver, liked that there was a flat space between the seats to put her purse (or even stuff it down in the storage area between the seats). The fabric on the seats is softer than the coarser RAV4 fabric. We had one long trip and got 28 mpg at 70 mph but around 31 mpg at 60 mph on rural highways.
OK, but some issues
t55, 12/12/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Navigation (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
We purchased this car new. Fairly comfortable and rear seat has adequate room and I'm 6'1". Road noise not bad on good roads but irritating on slightly rough highways. Hard to hear conversation on these roads. Engine noise is mild when cruising, but noticeable under acceleration and strained and a bit slow. This is fine as I drive usually for economy and many 4 cylinders are similar. Gas mileage is good; on a trip with completely packed car going around 70, we got 29.5 mpg. Issues: weird chirping noise from rear at low speed. Breaks are very touchy. Navigation does not know some old roads. Have to talk very loud for voice activated phone and navigation system commands to work.
Good but not great
jax19, 08/25/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
27 of 31 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2012 CRV-EX L and have been driving it for about 3 weeks. So far, I like it but have found a few things that could use improvement. I test drove several SUV's such as the Chev Equinox, Mazda CX5, and the Nissan Rogue. All were good, but I really liked the Honda engine and the ride. I needed a vehicle where I could put two bikes inside (don't like bike racks), and with the back seats down, it's a very easy fit. I expect to get several years of good performnace from this Honda.
Love it
centaur74, 01/13/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
27 of 31 people found this review helpful
Just bought the 2012 CRV EX (two wheel drive) today and so far I'm loving it. Got it in the dark gray/silver-looking color. This is my first Honda. Ride is smooth and quiet. I needed a family car, not a roadster and it seems perfect. Drove with the econ feature and didn't even notice a performance change. The cloth seats have a nice velvety feel to them. I'd considered getting a EX-L for the leather seats but actually preferred the cloth. Plus the EX came standard with a sun/moonroof. Cool option to pull a lever and the back seats simply fold down. The bluetooth is awesome. The car read me a text on the way home from the dealership. Tons of room in the trunk too!
Awesome 2012 CRV
rnwong, 02/02/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
25 of 29 people found this review helpful
We owned a 2003 CRV EX for 9 years and traded in for a 2012 EXL AWD. To begin with, the trade in price is amazing. We got 30% back after 9 year!! Honda Power. We got this black EXL in mid-Jan for $200 above invoice price and can't be any happier. This car is stylish, roomy, functional and easy to drive. My wife doesn't care too much about cars but now is in love with this car. It offers so so much more than our old CRV. At the end, it drives really well and with some power. Not too much, just enough for a small family car. It's now also quieter and feels more upscale. Gas mileage isn't great yet, but winter mileage is usually lower. Highly recommended.
We Still Love Our CR-V even after 75,000 miles
jeff gray, 03/03/2016
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Rear Entertainment (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
My wife and I still love our Honda CR-V even after 79,490 miles. Safety, reliability, comfort, and style are all features we enjoy with this car not to mention the great visibility this car has. We leased this car new in 2012 and then purchased the car in 2015 which helped avoid $4000 in over mileage fees. Considering we are also a Subaru family (both of our children drive Subarus) , we recently looked into trading in our CR-V for a 2016 Outback. After test driving the Outback, we decided to keep our 2012 CR-V and plan on keeping it well beyond the 100,000 mile mark. Surprisingly......we are still on our original brakes with nearly 40% left on the brake pads which is a good indicator of how many highway miles this car has been driven". Our car has all suggested maintenance as indicated on the Maintenance Minder done at our local Honda garage. WE ARE VERY HAPPY to have the current CONVENTIONAL AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION rather than the newer CVT transmission on some of the newer Honda CR-V models. Both the Subaru Outback and the Honda CR-V has had issues with CVT transmissions..... with the Outback having a delay of the transmission when placed in reverse. While I believe CVT is or will be great technology in both the Honda CR-V and the Subaru Outback.....I prefer to wait until all the 'bugs" are worked out before I invest in a new car. For now, my wife and I will be enjoying our comfortable, reliable, safe 2012 Honda CR-V as many others have experienced. High mileage does not concern me on this Honda as it would on many other vehicles....
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Bad electrical system.
shinhoo, 11/08/2013
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
Car has had a lot of issues with recurrent dead batteries. Strange since the car otherwise works fine, but having to jump start car every 2-3 weeks. Found out that there was a software glitch that affected the way the car was charging the battery, required an update under Honda service bulletin 12-041, this has apparently been a common issue. However, even since the update, have had to jump start 3 times. Have taken to 2 different Honda dealers, they have no idea what to do. They are telling me to drive with the radio, lights, fan, etc. all off. Quite absurd.
Thoroughly Disappointed. Sold it. Bought a Subaru
wh_labrador, 01/14/2015
updated 01/16/2017
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle for my Wife to replace a 2005 Chevy Equinox. We live in a very cold climate and since the Equinox had failed to start a few times, I thought I'd get her the "Best of the Best" to replace it. It's now on it's third battery, the steering wheel locks up so that you have to fight to get the key to turn, the electric power steering fails at cold temperatures and last week, it blew the oil pressure sensor out of it when it was being warmed up. All the oil pumped out and now the engine is ruined. My F150 starts fine as does the Neighbor's new Chevy Equinox. It may be okay in Florida but it fails miserably here. I will say though, that their roadside assistance is great.
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We love our CR-V EX!!
sgilbert, 10/03/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
We purchased our silver CR-V EX in June and now have 5500 miles on it. We took it on a 2400 mile trip, which included 3 days of driving around Denver, and for the entire trip got a terrific 32.1 mpg driving between 65 -70 mph. We find the vehicle to be of very high quality in design and manufacture. Haven't been back to our dealer for a single problem. We love the tight solid body, the backup camera, the handling, and my wife loves the maneuverability aound town, as well as the ease of lifting the rear hatch. Some have said they'd like more power, but we find performance to be quite adequate. We really couldn't be more satisfied with the vehicle. Fit and finish are excellent.
Close to perfect!!
quintus1, 05/27/2013
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Navigation (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
We absolutely love this car. I bought the touring edition and had the sport mats and a tow package installed on it. Went with black on black leather and I am SO glad I bought this car over the many many others I tried out. After test driving all of the other SUV's in it's class, this car is absolutely the best choice. It looks really cool and serves it's function as being a family/dog carting/get me to work/hauling vehicle. The fold down seats and the handling were what sold me. Once you take it out of eco mode it actually has some fairly good power. Great job Honda!!
Redesigned CR-V
jjohnw, 01/13/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
52 of 66 people found this review helpful
Examined, drove, negotiated, and bought a 2012 CR-V EX-L in White Pearl. We've been driving BMWs - X3 & 325Xi Wagon - but Mom's 2002 CR-V soldiers on with nothing but a new battery & tires along with routine maintenance over 10 years. It's still a great vehicle, right size, and enjoyable to drive. Our opinion is the new 2012 CR-V at $29k drive out instead of a X3 at $46k drive out is just as enjoyable and dare I say - a better driver as it doesn't pogo/bounce over rough roads as does the X3. Sure the CR-V won't win any drag races but 31 mpg highway is much more relevant.
Love my CRV
wab1, 02/18/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Navigation (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
18 of 22 people found this review helpful
I purchased my CRV EXL 3 weeks ago and love this vehicle. I traded in my 2009 CRV EXL and it is a very big improvement. Driving is fun, it steers better, rides better, much quieter, more comfortable, and I am getting 23.5 mpg around town driving. The new design is absolutely beautiful inside and out. For those critics who claim the CRV needs a 6 cylinder engine, I highly disagree. This car has plenty of power and pick up for for most purposes.
Bad Honda CRV Experience
kimimimi, 07/25/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV w/Navigation (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
79 of 102 people found this review helpful
I did a lot of reserach to before buying this Honday CRV and was confident that I was buying a more energy efficient vehicle that requires little maintenance. I purchased the car new in February. At under 2,000 miles the battery had to be replaced. At under 2,000 miles I started hearing a "chirping" noise. First visit they replaced a belt. Chirping noise persisted. Second visit that replaced a pulley and the alternator. Third visit they replaced the water pump. All of this engine work done on a vehicle with under 4,000 miles on it. The black rubber door molding around passenger doors started drooping and the final straw was the mirror on the passengers visor just fell off!
Don't buy a Honda CR-V
dfdinnc, 03/26/2014
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
46 of 59 people found this review helpful
The battery does not charge and Honda cannot fix the problem. We bought this car new because I wanted my wife to have reliable transportation. It has failed to start 8 times in 18 months. The dealer seems to have given up fixing it. I will pursue compensation under our state lemon law and someone should start a class action lawsuit against Honda.
great car--I am now buying a new Honda
Nanny, 11/07/2018
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
A fantastic, reliable car. Could not be happier with it. Only upgrading to get more luxury feature. Hope my new one is this good. You will be happy with this car. I am a senior citizen who has had a lot of different cars and this is one of my most favorite. Liked it from day one and bought it used. Found a note inside the car that said "this is a great car" and I feel the same way. I am selling it to my granddaughter and certainly would not sell her a car I did not really care for.
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Great Small SUV
spin24, 11/28/2013
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Purchased June 2012. Driven over 10,000 miles. Fun to drive, comfortable, safe, reliable, with good gas mileage and lots of storage room for tools and spare parts.. I use it for personal transportation and as a work vehicle for real estate maintenance. Back up camera and maintenance minder are nice features. Replaced weak OEM headlight bulbs with X-treme power Phillips bulbs and @ 10,200 miles replaced surface cracked rear brake rotors with new , manufactured in Italy, brake rotors and new brake pads.
Disappointment
mtnance, 07/15/2019
updated 07/23/2020
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car May 2012 and just traded in July 2019. 113K miles. Mid-level trim, AWD. Disclaimer: From the start (in 2012) I wasn't a fan of this car. Sounded like a tin can when you closed the doors, though I think it had okay safety reviews. I also felt is was noisy when at 45 miles per hour or higher. Especially if you're in the back seat. The fuel mileage rarely got to the highway "estimate" on the window sticker but it wasn't all that bad either. Had the car for seven years and on about year five, I noticed a slight vibration around 55 - 70 mph. Had tires re balanced, no difference. Checked axles, etc. no difference. Even had new tires eventually put on,...still had an issue and no one (even the dealer) could find anything, though they did tell me they experienced it too. (Dealer isn't about to admit any defect). So, never did find out about that issue. Around the same time, noticed a shudder when depressing accelerator with light to medium pressure at low speed, mostly easing into second at a low rate of speed. Didn't matter if uphill, downhill, etc. just the light pressure. The shudder would go away if accelerator pressure was lifted or depressed harder. After months of research, found out it was a common problem. (Google it) Honda would say there was a known problem and it ranged from having to have a computer reprogrammed to replacing the transmission. Having a tranny issue on any car that has had proper maintenance,...under 100K miles is not acceptable. Side note: This car has had 5 batteries in 7 years. (some replaced free, some not). Apparently Honda knows about an issue with that as well. The car eats batteries. Google either of these two complaints before you buy. Buyer beware. Traded at $8,500 and I feel like a weight is off my shoulder.
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OK, but features not up to high price
jenson23, 12/01/2014
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
A bit disappointed after reading so many stellar reviews. Lots of blind spots. Doors come up higher than my older cars (can't easily rest my arm on windowsill); probably for better safety, but that makes it very hard to see the 4 corners of the car, or see potholes by front passenger side, or see where the driveway edges are when I'm backing up. Also very disappointed at the lack of lights. No light in glove box! No lights anywhere on outside door or mirror. When I open the door on a dark street at night, other cars can't see that it's open! Very dangerous. Worst is getting in car at night and can't see button to quickly lock door, and have to feel / fumbling w/ key!
Love this CRV - right on GAS too!
granyjany, 07/14/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Rear Entertainment (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Had my CRV just 3 days now and love it! My first fill up showed me getting 29 mpg.. I honestly expect more once the car has a chance to build an average. It handles well in the curves and it has so many toys on it! Maybe one of the coolest things is the way i can flip those back seats down with one finger! A great value for just shy of $30K !!
First Honda, now 6 mo. old
janemy, 01/06/2013
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my first Honda and I love it. I test drove a lot of cars 6 months ago and narrowed it down to 2, the CRV and the equinox. I'd driven the Equinox on a long road trip so I knew well how it handled. I ended up with the Honda as it felt better sitting inside, more open. Also, I loved that it had more cargo room. After 6 mo. of driving I'm still extremely happy with the car. I have 15,000 mi on it so far, and no issues. I drive both city, highway and mountains. I average between 28 - 31 mpg driving about 70 mph. Less if I'm doing street driving only (22 - 24). My 6'2" husband can sit and drive comfortably.
C-RV for You and Me
David, 02/21/2016
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
We have nothing but praise for this vehicle. The only things we would like to see improved is the keyless remote and the road noise. You need to be very close to the car for it to work and the road noise is very loud.
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Three very serious issues
Not Impressed, 10/18/2019
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought this car brand new with the hopes that it would be as reliable and problem free as The reviews suggest. Starting the first winter at 2,000 miles, the battery needed replaced, the second winter brought a leaky roof and the all wheel drive going out at low temperatures. 6 years later I’m now on the fourth roof repair (the dealer will no longer work on it), second all wheel drive relay (about $2k) and third battery. It has 54,00 miles on it. I’ve had at least one major repair requiring a full day at the shop a year since I bought it. I am selling it at a huge loss and will never buy a Honda again.
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Heater core issues in 2012-2014 model years
Christopher Ryan, 12/15/2017
updated 12/28/2020
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Rear Entertainment (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I would highly recommend avoiding purchase of a CRV 2012, 2013 or 2014 model unless you very closely verify the driver side heating works. I purchased a used 2012 EX-L in January 2014. SInce it was a vehicle we were mainly using for travel trips, it did not get much use during that winter and again during the winter of 2015. When I started to use it more in 2016, I found that when winter came that the driver side heat did not work well at all. I went online to research and there seems to be a known problem with the CRVs from these model years with the heater core getting clogged, mainly it seems on the driver side. So while the heat works fine on the passenger side, the driver side blows relatively cool air which is quite a problem in the winter. The fix I was quoted be service was $395 for what is specified in the associated tech bulletin 14-063 to be a 1 hour job. On top of that, I was told that the problem could occur again. In this case, I got burned as the buyer of the 2012 model year. So before you consider buying any CRV from these years, take the time to research this issue. I am very disappointed that Honda USA has chosen to do nothing about this problem when they know the issue occurs unless it happens during the warranty period. Of course buying a 2012 to 2014 model more than likely means the car is already out of warranty for this issue.
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6th Honda 1st CR-V
Sherri Kennedy, 08/15/2016
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
After driving Accords both sedan and coupe for over 20 years, I bought my first CR-V. I am so happy with this vehicle for its overall performance and technology perks. I have the Economy version front wheel drive, which is perfect for a semi-retired educator. It is roomy and comfortable with more cargo room when the back seats are laid down. I've had on a road trip and short trips. I am very pleased with my purchase.
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Very Satisfied
cwbarrett, 07/12/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I purchased a white ex-l 3 weeks ago. I'm getting about 27 mpg. I haven't established the value in the eco feature yet. That aside, the car is comfortable and I know I won't have any major repairs for several years. It handles very well. I like how honda simplifies the options. I would like to do a dna test to see if this is really leather. As a four cylinder it gets all it can out of it. I think I would prefer a six but the four will do. Sound system is ok but I have a 9 year old highlander with JBL that sounds better. I wish I had bought this years ago instead of a different AWD that uses a boxer engine.
First and Last Honda
milkshake, 11/30/2013
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
13 of 18 people found this review helpful
I bought this car to replace a loved but worn out 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Drove a 2012 Kia Sorrento, a 2012 Chevy Equinox, and a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan (which was really my 1st choice) in addition to this. Settled on this because of the price and because it had the most space of any of those cars. This was my first-ever brand new car purchase. I've never loved this car, and I was never truly excited about it, but I've come to totally hate it due to how uncomfortable it is. You feel every bump, pebble, and crack in the road. My dad has been a truck driver for 40 years and has complained about how uncomfortable it is. Owned less than 2 yrs, looking to trade or push off a cliff soon. Mistake.
Battery and AWD issues
sdhanson, 01/02/2014
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
11 of 15 people found this review helpful
We have two cars - a RAV4 and a CRV. Pretty much identical vehicles except - The AWD handles like rear wheel drive when driving in snow. The rear end wants to come around when cornering on snowy roads. The RAV doesn't do this. I much prefer the RAV when driving on snow. The battery goes dead about twice a month. I had the battery and alternator checked by the dealer and was told everything is "OK." The alternator does not charge at idle and if all your trips are short your battery will go dead. Carry a battery pack and put it on a trickle charger once a month. This is a HUGE shortcoming to me! PS I live in a very cold region where we can go months below 32 degrees.
2012 Honda CR-V LX
indigo1, 04/28/2012
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
22 of 32 people found this review helpful
Just got my new crv lx model today. Love It!! The dealership was very pleasant to work with. I purchased mine for $23,200 it was $463 lower then the TMV for my area. It drives so very smoothly, I can not hear the road noise and going over imperfections in the road is smooth riding. The only thing I need is to locate a retractable shield cover to hide any items in the back. Love the back up camera and the fact that the back head rest do lay down when not in use, this allows for more vision through the back windows. Love being able to talk hand free with my Galaxy S phone paired to the imid. Great car this is my second Honda purchase.
Great SUV, but underpowered
jhesselbein, 04/18/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
18 of 26 people found this review helpful
The 2012 CR-V has a lot to offer. Ergonomically, it is very practical - everything is within the driver's reach, including climate controls, radio controls (which are redundant on the steering wheel), bluetooth, etc. The instrument cluster is a fresh design and its fuel economy is certainly respectable for a small SUV (I average about 26-29 depending on type of driving: city v. highway). There is ample room in the rear seats for average-sixed adults. The powertrain operates very smoothly and the vehicle, overall, have a very car-like driving demeanor.
Mostly love it but there's an issue with the battery
jefferson2014, 08/03/2013
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L 4dr SUV AWD w/Navigation (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
My 3rd CRV so I'm sold on Honda and I mostly love this one. However, there was an issue with the battery - had the car seven months when the battery died. Very strange but it was the middle of winter where we had a string of below zero days. Replaced it and went along until 6 months after that when the battery died again. Triple A could not even jump it so had it slow charged and then took it to the dealer. There is a battery drain issue with these models (Honda Service Bulletin 12-041). Dealer upgraded software and so far so good.
My Third CR-V
jay2012, 11/21/2012
2012 Honda CR-V LX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I brought this Black CR-V about four months ago and its been a great vehicle. Great gas mileage much better than my other two CR-V which was a 2002 and 2006. I have been getting 24 to 27 mpg in city and 29 to 34 mpg on highway sometimes as high as 37 on highway. Its drive very well and very smooth. Its fun to drive too, more fun to drive than my older CR-V. I took the steel wheels and tires off and added a much nicer 17 inch Alloy wheels with 225/65R17 sizes tires and its looks much nicer from Discount Tire Co The Honda Dealerships are so expensive to buy new Alloy wheels.
Where's the "SU" in SUV Crossover?
ksonnenberg, 06/18/2012
2012 Honda CR-V EX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
16 of 23 people found this review helpful
It is a nice vehicle in that it drives & handles well, comfortable interior & some nice luxury features. However, Honda removed much the "Sport Utility" and now looks and feels more like a Hatchback/Minivan Crossover. We needed to replace our '02 CRV but we suppose got spoiled by it. The '02 w/ the tire on the back door left extra room in the spare tire compartment to store emergency supplies like blankets and tire pump, but not anymore. I miss the table that was a feature of the '02 trunk base handy for camping & picnics. The new CRV has 2" less of ground clearance & no longer lets you pop open the hatch window which was great for access to our dogs or supplies w/o open whole hatch.