2012 Honda CR-V Problems And Complaints

User Complaints and Problems

Mechanical Problems

• Engine- The most common engine problem reported by buyers this year has been the grinding noises. This is due to the failure of the VTC actuator and in some cases resulted in the engine stall. Some have also complained about poor engine performance and excessive vibration at low speeds (20-35 mph). In a particular instance, two owners complained of a broken timing chain tooth, which caused vibrations while accelerating.
• Transmission- There have been a few complaints regarding the gearbox this year. Based on customer reviews, slipping gears is the most common problem. Apart from this, people have also complained about rough gear shifting, transmission fluid leaks, and gearbox heating. These occur due to low transmission oil levels caused by oil leakages. Some have also complained about clunky gearboxes.
• Suspension- There were reports about rattling noises while driving caused by broken or faulty rear struts. In a particular instance, two people reported premature wear of the tires because of the misaligned suspension unit.
• Brakes- Many customers have complained about brake problems this year and were dissatisfied with the CR-V’s poor braking response. Most common brake problems this year have been premature brake pad wear and rust in calipers. Some have also complained about the squealing sounds and softening of the brake pads after some use.
• Steering- People have lodged over 30 complaints in regards to the steering system's problems. A few customers have complained about faulty steering column that led to heating, malfunctions, and even locking of the steering column, resulting in difficulty maneuvering the vehicle. Occasional jamming of steering columns and excessive vibrations at high speeds were also reported. A few more customers have complained of electrical malfunctions that have busted the steering column.

Electrical Problems

• Batteries- You’ll get to hear plenty of complaints regarding the battery if you’re a fourth-generation CR-V owner. Although Honda claims to have equipped the new CR-V with an improved battery, there have been multiple complaints regarding the short battery life. According to the owners, the battery dies after 2 years of usage. In rare cases, customers have also reported excessive heating of batteries.
• Edible wiring harness- Many companies nowadays use soy-based wiring harnesses because they're cheaper and eco-friendlier compared to synthetic ones. The soy-based wires often attract squirrels and rats, causing them to chew and damage the wires. A few owners lost control of the power-assisted steering column as a result.
• Climate control unit- Climate control system problems have been a common concern for the CR-V for quite a long time now. Some complained about defective compressors that caused the AC to blow out less cold air and failure of the AC system.
• Warning lights- Several customers have reported that several warning lights popped up on the dash without any visible problem. In a particular instance, a contact stated that the airbag lights suddenly turned on without any collision.

Safety Problems

• Seatbelts- A contact from Mobile, Alabama has stated the premature fraying of front passenger seat belts. Some have also complained about faulty seat belt latches failing to restrain them during a collision.
• Airbags- Some customers stated that the airbags failed to deploy after a collision event, causing minor injuries. On the flip side, a few customers complained that the airbags suddenly inflated without any collision.

Exterior Problems

• Lights- A lot of customers have expressed their dissatisfaction with the CR-V’s exterior lights. According to a customer, the low beam fails to illuminate after activating the high beams. 
• Door locks- Two customers have complained about defective door locks. Based on their reviews, the rear passenger door locks failed suddenly.

Interior Problems

• Seats- Two owners have complained about the CR-V's front seats. Both the customers stated that the headrest is immovable and firm, which has caused neck pain and back problems. A few customers also complained that the seats shook while the vehicle was accelerating.

Recalls

2012 Honda CR-V has been recalled three times this year. Honda notified the owners, and dealers fixed the problem for free.

S no.	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues noticed	Remarks	Remedy
1	July 19, 2012	12V338000	Faulty front door latches	If the door is not fully latched, the door may open while driving or in a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the vehicle occupants.	Honda notified owners, and dealers replaced the front door latch assemblies along with interior door handles in the affected vehicles, free of charge.
2	October 16, 2012	12V501000	Incorrect Safety Certification Label/567	A misprinted label could lead to improper vehicle loading. Improper loading could result in a tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash.	Honda notified owners, and dealers will apply the corrective label free of charge
3	April 15, 2013	13V143000	Brake Shift Interlock/FMVSS 114	If the brake shifter is moved from the park position without depressing the brake pedal, it can cause the vehicle to roll away. This can lead to an accident.	Honda has notified the owners. Dealers have installed an updated brake shift interlock, free of charge.

Should you buy the 2012 Honda CR-V?

There are a bunch of reasons to pick the 2012 Honda CR-V over others. It comes with a redesigned exterior, a sumptuous interior, and a lot of features. It also has scored 82/100 in J.D. Power reliability ratings. That said, if you’re looking for a capable SUV that seats five comfortably and provides loads of features, the 2012 Honda CR-V is a great choice.