2012 Honda Civic Problems And Complaints

2012 Honda Civic User Complaints and Problems

Honda cars are known for their tough and long lasting build quality and low maintenance costs. And while the 2012 Civic is no exception, but it too has had quality control issues in the past. While some of the complaints registered by the users were minor ones, there are a handful of them that can cause large amounts to fix. Check out the list of problems faced by the users in detail below. 

Safety Complaints

• Improper functioning of the airbags: In a considerable percentage of the units sold, buyers of the Honda 2012 Civic have reported the airbag detection warning light to remain illuminated. It fails to identify a passenger in the front seat, which can interfere with the functioning of the airbag. As a result, in the event of a crash, the airbags might not deploy.

Mechanical Complaints

• Failure to crank up: Among the 2012 Civic issues, buyers have reported that the vehicle might not start when the ignition is turned on. As a result, the sedan cannot be moved from its place. However, the issue of the engine stalling has also been attributed to the unexpected failure of the battery as well, which can only be solved by jumpstarting it.
• Chewed soy-based wiring: The soy-based wiring used in the engine compartment can attract rodents to eat it. As a result, buyers have noticed the failure of the engine and the power steering among other electric components.
• Problem with the fuel system: Among the 2012 Honda Civic problems, buyers have also reported fuel leaks, due to the rodents chewing on the pipes. As a result, there is a strong gasoline odor that enters the cabin, which can be dangerous for the occupants. Additionally, it has also been noted that the fuel violently shakes inside the tank, which can also be hazardous.
• Service brake failure: In some cases, buyers of the 2012 Honda Civic have also reported a reduced braking power or complete failure of the braking system. While no cause is known, there have been no injuries reported as of the date we write this article.
• Failure of power steering: A rather rampant concern, buyers of the 2012 Honda Civic have also complained about the failure of the power steering system. Buyers have reported the steering unit becoming excessively stiff, which makes it difficult to maneuver the vehicle.
• Other mechanical concerns: The other mechanical complaints of the 2012 Honda Civic include unexpected hesitation and stalling of the vehicle. Additionally, some buyers have also reported a knocking sound when the vehicle is in operation, while others have observed the vehicle rolling away when parked.

Interior Complaints

• Uncomfortable front seats: Several buyers of the Honda Civic sedan have reported the front seats to lack a comfortable position. Due to an oddly-placed headrest, low-lying seats, and a curved seatback, complainants have reported pain in their legs, head, and back.

Exterior Complaints

• Chipping paint: The 2012 Honda Civic's paint problems are a grave cause of concern. Buyers have reported the paint chipping across the body of the vehicle, with a major concentration around the hood and rear doors.

2012 Honda Civic Recalls

If a particular problem faced by any vehicle is widespread across the model and is not restricted to being one-off case, the United States Department of Transportation calls for a recall through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Cars recalled are to be fixed by the manufacturer with no expenses being charged from the owners. In this regard, the Civic 2012 has done rather well, having been recalled only thrice in its 10 years of existence. 

S. No	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues Noticed	Additional Remarks	Remedy
1.	21st Nov 2012	12V548000	Incorrect steering column installed	Certain vehicles produced between 26th-30th October 2012 may have been installed with incorrect steering column assembly.	Upon inspection, dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge.
2.	4th June 2012	12V256000	Driveshaft may detach	Due to a missing step in the assembly process, the driveshaft may detach	Upon inspection, dealers will install a new driveshaft, free of charge.
3.	18th May 2011	11V288000	Possible fuel leak	Due to a misaligned O-Ring in the fuel feed line, there might be a chance of a fuel leak.	Dealers will replace the fuel feed line, free of charge.

Should you buy the 2012 Honda Civic?

The 2012 Honda Civic is a comprehensive option in the compact sedan market. It is craftily built and carves a niche for itself with its intuitive setup. But amidst its strengths, CarHP recommends the vehicle for its high dependability quotient. Adhering to the Japanese standards of reliability, the Honda Civic 2012 recalls and complaints lie in tandem with its sales volume. While there have been some widespread complaints, the sedan’s ownership experience has been rather trouble-free. So, if you are in the market for a compact option, there are very few options better than the 2012 Civic.