IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Chevrolet Cruze

The 2012 update added the Cruze Station Wagon estate in the UK, along with a 1.7 VCDi diesel engine and a lightly revised front end, creating the most practical and best-priced Cruze for families.

What changed for 2012

  • •Estate body introduced, with around 500 litres of boot space and nearly 1,500 litres with the seats folded.
  • •1.7-litre VCDi diesel added to the range, alongside the established 2.0 VCDi.
  • •2012 update (Geneva) brought a revised front bumper, grille and headlamp details; confirm the car's registration date.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear suspension bushes and shock absorber wear on estates used for loaded family trips.
  • !Diesel emissions or DPF failures where the car has mainly done short journeys.
  • !Worn front suspension arms and drop links causing knocks and uneven tyre wear.
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Diesel Oil Dilution and DPF Clogging

SeriousEngine

Incomplete DPF regenerations lead to fuel entering the oil sump. If not caught, this can lead to engine "runaway" or bearing failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £150 (Oil change) to £2,000+ (DPF replacement)
Warning Signs:

Rising oil level on dipstick, DPF warning light, Frequent "active" regenerations (high idle)

What to Inspect:
  • Check the oil level; it should not be above the "Max" mark
  • Ask about the car's typical usage (motorway vs town)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

M32 Gearbox Bearing Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Like its Vauxhall cousins, the 6-speed manual gearbox can suffer from bearing wear, eventually leading to total failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Whine in 5th or 6th gear, Gear lever movement under throttle, Notchy gear selection

What to Inspect:
  • Motorway test drive to listen for transmission noise
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Cooling System Thermostat and Water Pump Failures

ModerateCooling System

The thermostat housing and water pump are common failure points. The plastic thermostat housing can crack, and the water pump can develop leaks, leading to overheating.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£500
Warning Signs:

Temperature gauge rising, Coolant smell from engine bay, Heater blowing cold, Low coolant level

What to Inspect:
  • Check the temperature gauge during the test drive
  • Inspect the thermostat housing for cracks
  • Look for coolant stains around the engine
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Electrical Sensor and Warning Light Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Various sensors including crankshaft position, oxygen, and mass air flow sensors can fail, triggering warning lights and causing poor running. The electronic boot release is also a known failure point.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£400
Warning Signs:

Engine management light, Rough running or stalling, Electronic boot release not working, Multiple warning lights

What to Inspect:
  • Check for stored fault codes
  • Test the electronic boot release
  • Ask about sensor replacement history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012 Chevrolet Cruze

  • Check for a documented DPF-friendly usage history on the 1.7 and 2.0 VCDi diesels.
  • Test the boot load-area latches and rear seat folding mechanism on the Station Wagon.
  • Look for a full service book as the 1.7 VCDi's timing and cooling systems rely on regular maintenance.
  • Confirm you can source Chevrolet-specific body panels before buying a car with accident damage.
20112013–2015
Check a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze by Registration