2012 Honda Civic Hybrid Sedan Problems And Complaints

2012 Honda Civic Hybrid User Complaints and Problems

Safety Complaints

• Improper functioning of the airbags: In the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid problems list, buyers of the compact sedan have reported multiple issues with the airbag system. While some buyers have recorded the failure of the airbags to deploy in case of a crash, others have complained about injuries due to improper inflation. However, the most common complaint relates to the random illumination of the airbag warning light, which can interfere with the proper deployment of the airbags, and increase the risk of a crash.

Electric System Complaints

• Issues with the battery and alternator: The 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid’s battery problems deal with its drainage. In several cases, buyers have reported the charging system warning appearing on the dash screen, which in some cases requires a replacement for the battery.

Mechanical Complaints

• Problems with the powertrain: In the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid common problems list, the powertrain has two listed issues. While the first issue deals with the manual transmission registering high RPMs, the other concern is related to the automatic transmission failing to register “Park”, which results in a rollaway. Both issues can result in erratic performances.
• Failure of the braking system: Buyers of the 2012 Civic Hybrid have reported their braking systems failing inadvertently. In a number of cases, complainants have recorded the brake pedal traveling to the floorboard, which results in an increased halting distance and time. This happens due to the excessive wear and tear of the rotors and pads and it increases the risk of a crash.
• Malfunctioning power steering: The 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid power steering problems are a common recurrence. In several cases, complainants have recorded the power steering light illuminating on the dash screen and the steering wheel locking up. As a result, the vehicle becomes difficult to control, which can increase the risk of a crash.

Structural Complaints

• Peeling paint: In more than one place across the body, buyers of the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid have reported the paint peeling. While there is no reason for the problem, it does indicate a substandard build quality.

2012 Honda Civic Hybrid Recalls

S. No	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues Noticed	Additional Remarks	Remedy
1.	10th Dec 2020	20V770000	Failure of the drive shaft	Due to improper application of the protective coating, the drive shaft may get damaged from road contaminants and other salts, resulting in a possible leak.	Upon inspection, dealers will replace the left or right drive shafts, if necessary, free of cost.
2.	21st Nov 2012	12V548000	Incorrect steering column	The affected vehicles might have been installed with an incorrect steering column, which might not have the correct energy absorbing characteristics.	Upon inspection, dealers will replace the steering column, free of cost.
3.	4th June 2012	12V256000	Detachment of driveshaft	During the assembly process, the driver’s side driveshaft might not have been set with the retaining clip, which can result in the driveshaft separating.	Upon inspection, dealers will replace the driveshaft, free of cost.
4.	18th May 2011	11V288000	Possible fuel leak	Due to a misaligned O-ring in the fuel feed line, a small fuel leak might occur.	Dealers will replace the fuel feed line, free of cost.

Should you buy the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid?

The 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid is a blistering choice in the compact sedan market. It is highly frugal and for an accessible option, even its driving dynamics and interior setup feel highly dignified. The vehicle reeks of dependability and with a cogent safety list and high-reliability ratings, there is not much that buyers might have to worry about. The ownership experience is hassle-free and though there are around 400 complaints, the problems are highly concentrated. So, for us, the Civic Hybrid makes for a sensible choice. However, if you want to keep your options open, even the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid is an enticing alternative.