2012 Chevrolet Cruze 1.6L Petrol · BF12 GXZ
2012 Chevrolet Cruze (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01 Mar 2012. Recorded mileage 144,871 miles. MOT valid until 20 May 2027. Taxed until 01 Nov 2026.
- Make & Model
- CHEVROLET CRUZE
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Birmingham
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 20 May 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Nov 2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 144,871 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
BF12 GXZ Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 21/05/2026
- 144,871 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (6 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
BF12 GXZ MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (BF12 GXZ) between May 2024 and May 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 21 May 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (6 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (3 issues), Brakes (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 10 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Rear Coil spring fractured or broken and corroded (5.3.1 (b) (i))”; “Nearside Front Tyre tread depth below requirements of 1.6mm Both edges (5.2.3 (e))”; “Nearside Rear Tyre tread depth below requirements of 1.6mm (5.2.3 (e))”.
BF12 GXZ Mileage History
- 22/05/2024127,400 mi
- 20/05/2025133,814 mi+6,414 mi
- 20/05/2025133,817 mi+3 mi
- 21/05/2026144,869 mi+11,052 mi
- 21/05/2026144,871 mi+2 mi
Average of roughly 8,753 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Chevrolet Cruze
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This 2012 Chevrolet Cruze presents notable risks due to repeated MOT failures and high mileage, making it a cautious purchase unless significant discounts are negotiated.
Prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection focusing on the exhaust system, suspension components, and tyre condition. Verify service history for consistency with recorded MOT defects. Negotiate aggressively due to the high mileage and repeated failures. Be wary of hidden corrosion or repeated repairs, particularly around the rear axle and exhaust. Check for rust in the underbody, as this model is prone to corrosion in UK conditions.
The 1.6L petrol engine offers average fuel economy of 35-40 mpg, resulting in £800-£1,000 annual fuel costs for 8,000-10,000 miles. Road tax is £140 annually (petrol, 2012 registration). Insurance group likely falls in the mid-range (group 15-20). Maintenance costs are elevated due to frequent repairs, with exhaust and suspension work potentially costing £200-£400 each. Estimated annual running cost: £1,200-£1,500.
Focus on the rear exhaust system for leaks and corrosion, as multiple MOTs cite this issue. Inspect the nearside rear coil spring for further damage or rust. Check all tyres for uneven wear or cracking, particularly the offside rear tyre mentioned in multiple failures. Examine the front bumper for damage and assess brake functionality. Look for oil leaks under the engine and inspect the suspension for play or rust.
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has a mixed MOT history with repeated issues including tyre damage, exhaust leaks, and a fractured coil spring. At 144,871 miles, the mileage is well above average for its age, and no model-specific reliability data is available. While it passed one MOT in 2025, recent failures highlight potential maintenance concerns.
No aggregate reliability data available for the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, but this vehicle's MOT history suggests potential vulnerabilities in suspension and tyre management systems.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
Common Problems: CHEVROLET CRUZE
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- Diesel Oil Dilution and DPF Clogging(Serious)
Incomplete DPF regenerations lead to fuel entering the oil sump. If not caught, this can lead to engine "runaway" or bearing failure.
- M32 Gearbox Bearing Failure(Serious)
Like its Vauxhall cousins, the 6-speed manual gearbox can suffer from bearing wear, eventually leading to total failure.
- Cooling System Thermostat and Water Pump Failures(Moderate)
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.
- Electrical Sensor and Warning Light Faults(Moderate)
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.
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CHEVROLET CRUZE Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- Diesel Oil Dilution and DPF CloggingSerious
Incomplete DPF regenerations lead to fuel entering the oil sump. If not caught, this can lead to engine "runaway" or bearing failure.
- M32 Gearbox Bearing FailureSerious
Like its Vauxhall cousins, the 6-speed manual gearbox can suffer from bearing wear, eventually leading to total failure.
- Cooling System Thermostat and Water Pump FailuresModerate
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.
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