CHEVROLET CRUZE (2012)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 2,774 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,197
£183/month
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Average
Road Tax
£315
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1796cc Petrol
Check Carefully
75% pass rate, £2197/year to run. 7 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~36 mpg
Based on 1796cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%.
At 14 years old, 75% of CHEVROLET CRUZEs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 2,774 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 84,522 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
84,522
Average miles
103,600
Expected for age
The average 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE has 84,522 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 103,600 miles for a 14-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 79% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2012 sits between the two at 75%.
CHEVROLET CRUZE by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE
The 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 2,774 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 80% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 84,522 miles at 14 years old, CHEVROLET CRUZE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE Fuel Costs
The 1796cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,197 (£183/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £315 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
CHEVROLET CRUZE Reliability Trend
The CHEVROLET CRUZE has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE
At 14 years old, the CHEVROLET CRUZE is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2014 model has the highest pass rate at 79%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 14 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 85k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEVROLET CRUZE(2012) | 75% | £1327 | £315 | Grp 18-32 | £2197 |
| VAUXHALL CORSA(2014) | 76% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£475 |
| FORD FOCUS(2013) | 78% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£370 |
| NISSAN QASHQAI(2013) | 72% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£370 |
| MERCEDES C(2012) | 79% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £2017-£180 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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