2012 Honda Crosstour

2012 Honda Crosstour

Overview

The 2012 Honda Crosstour is a crossover vehicle that aimed to blend the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car. It was offered with a choice of two capable powertrains and a standard all-wheel-drive system on higher trims. While generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any model, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

2.4L i-VTEC (K24Z7)

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil burning between oil changes, potentially leading to low oil levels.
• Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Timing Chain Tensioner

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, indicating wear on the tensioner.
• Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the chain itself.
• Cost: $500 - $900

3.5L V6 i-VTEC (J35Z2)

Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Issues

• Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, rough idling, or engine misfires, often related to VCM system components.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of VCM actuators, oil control jet, or spark plugs.
• Cost: $400 - $1000

Spark Plug Fouling

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, reduced engine power, often linked to oil consumption.
• Solution: Replacement of spark plugs. Addressing underlying oil consumption issues is crucial.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (5AT)

Hesitation/Shuddering

• Symptoms: Jerking or shuddering during gear changes, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In more severe cases, internal transmission repairs may be needed.
• Cost: $300 - $1200

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, or delayed engagement of gears.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $700 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Electrical

Standard Electrical System

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Exterior

Standard Exterior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Standard Interior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

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Summary Verdict

The 2012 Honda Crosstour generally presents a good reliability record, especially considering its age. The most frequently cited issues revolve around the engines, particularly oil consumption in the 2.4L and VCM-related problems in the 3.5L V6. Transmission issues, while not pervasive, can occur and may require attention. Other systems like suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components are typically robust and do not present widespread concerns. Regular maintenance, especially monitoring oil levels and addressing any early signs of transmission trouble, is key to ensuring long-term reliability for this model.