271 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.
Most common 2012 Honda Accord problems
62 of the 373 complaints (17%) are about the seats.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Seats
62
0
0
13
Air Bags · airbags
52
23
0
12
Steering
33
1
0
1
Engine
32
2
1
4
Service Brakes · brakes
29
4
0
1
Electrical System
23
1
2
1
Power Train · transmission
17
0
0
0
Unknown or Other
16
1
1
0
Structure › Body · body and frame
14
5
0
6
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration
11
5
0
2
2012 Honda Accord seats problems
17% of all complaints
62 of the 373 complaints are about the seats.
Share of the 62 seats complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.
Typical mileage
300 mi
median of 46 reports
Peak year of filing
2012
36 seats complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 0 · 13
in these complaints
Recalls on the seats
None
“The driver seat in my 2012 honda accord is so uncomfortable that I now have to seek medical attention for my neck shoulder lower back and leg pain. I bought the car used a couple of years ago and try to take it back 2 days later but I cannot afford to buy another car I owned a saturn for 16 years and never had a problem like this I was sitting on 3 inches of foam rubber for my back and the bottom of the seat but the …”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 31, 2018 at 35,000 miles
“The seats in my 2012 honda accord are causing back problems. I drove the saturn for 15 years and never had an issue with my shoulder or my lower back. The pain is getting so bad that I have to sit on two and a half inches of foam rubber and put my left foot on the dashboard to relieve the pressure.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 12, 2017
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the seatsRecall (red: the seats)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2012 Accord peaked in 2012, with 72 filed that year. No recall on file covers the seats, the subject of 17% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 8 so far.
8 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V502000
Filed Jun 27, 20199,555 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2014 TSX Sport Wagon, 2010-2013 ZDX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic and Civic Hybrid, 2008-2010 Civic GX NGV, 2012-2015 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2014 Fit EV, 2010-2014 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are F5F and Q5E.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V378000
Filed May 16, 201919,138 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2013 TSX Sport Wagon, and 2010-2012 ZDX and 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV, 2012-2014 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2013 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The front passenger air bag inflator may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
Risk. An incorrectly installed air bag inflator may not properly deploy the passenger frontal air bag in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the inflator installation and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 5, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are M4O, P4R, T4Q, and W4P.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V661000
Filed Sep 27, 20181,355,406 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014 Honda Insight and Acura TSX and TSX Wagon, 2014-2015 Honda Crosstour and Pilot vehicles nationwide, as well as certain 2014 Honda FCX Clarity and Fit EV vehicles in Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan) and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Honda is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Acura TSX, TSX Wagon and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Insight, Fit and Pilot vehicles, 2011-2012 Honda Accord and 2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Lastly, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2013 Acura TSX and ZDX, Honda Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot, 2011-2013 TSX Wagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord and 2010-2011 Honda Civic NGV, Civic, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are M2J and S2K.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V268000
Filed Apr 26, 20181,335 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.
Risk. An incorrectly installed air bag may deploy improperly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began June 22, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are K1P, and M1O.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V042000
Filed Jan 9, 2018691,726 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Acura TSX, ZDX, Honda Accord Crosstour, Fit, Insight and Pilot vehicles, 2011-13 Acura TSX Sportswagon, 2010-2012 Honda Accord,, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid and CR-V vehicles and 2013 Honda FCX Clarity and Fit EV vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2012 Acura TSX, Honda Accord, Accord Crosstour, Fit and Pilot, 2010-2011 Honda Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid and CR-V, and 2010 Acura ZDX and Honda Insight vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Unless included in Zones A or B above, Honda is recalling certain 2009 Acura TSX, Honda Accord, Civic, Civic NGV, Civic Hybrid, CR-V, Fit, and Pilot vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 16, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are B0K and L0J.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module17V545000
Filed Aug 31, 20173,257 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2008-2012 Accord, 2010-2012 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2012 Fit and Pilot, 2010-2012 Insight, and 2009-2012 Acura TSX vehicles that received replacement passenger frontal air bag inflators. One dealership may have incorrectly installed the replacement air bag inflators.
Risk. In the event of a crash, an incorrectly installed passenger frontal air bag inflator may deploy the air bag improperly, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module assembly, free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are O07, Y0A, N06, G05, M04, Y01, and O09.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module17V030000
Filed Jan 10, 2017977,708 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Acura TSX, 2011-2012 Acura TSX Wagon, 2010-2012 Acura ZDX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2012 Honda Accord Crosstour and Honda Insight, 2009-2012 Honda Fit, 2009-2012 Pilot, 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2012 Honda FCX Clarity and 2006-2011 Honda Civic, Civic Hybrid, Civic NGV vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain 2009 Acura TSX, Honda Fit and Pilot, 2008-2009 Honda Accord, 2006-2009 Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV, and 2007-2009 Honda CR-V vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, if not included in "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling certain 2008 Honda Accord, 2006-2008 Honda Civic, Civic Hybrid and Civic NGV and 2007-2008 Honda CR-V vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The manufacturer has mailed an interim notification, and will send a second notification when parts are available. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KE1 and KE2.
Filed Feb 1, 2012347 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ACCORD AND CROSSTOUR VEHICLES. THE DRIVER-SIDE OR PASSENGER-SIDE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG INFLATOR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED ACCORDING TO CORRECT SPECIFICATIONS.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG MAY FAIL TO DEPLOY, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy. HONDA WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER'S SIDE OR PASSENGER'S SIDE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG AS NEEDED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 24, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.
All 8 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2012 Accord.
Autoliv Air Bag Propellant MixtureInvestigation EQ12002Closed
Opened Feb 14, 2012Closed May 8, 2012airbags
The summary for this investigation, labeled EQ12-002 Autoliv Closing Resume, can be found attached separately to this resume.This EQ is closed.
Technical service bulletins
50 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2012 Accord. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
engine 23airbags 7equipment 5electrical system 4transmission 4suspension 3tires 2body and frame 1
A20-016Warranty extensionMar 10, 2020airbags
Service Bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement front passenger's airbag inflator only.
19-003-1Warranty extensionAug 13, 2019airbags
Warranty Extension: Customer Support Program For Front Passenger's Airbag Inflator for 2010-12 Accord and Other Listed Years and Models (Expires September 30, 2028)
A19-002Warranty extensionJan 18, 2019airbags
Service bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement front passenger's airbag inflator only.
A13-078Warranty extensionDec 20, 2018engine
"Service bulletin - American Honda is announcing a powertrain warranty extension as a result of a settlement of a class action captioned, Soto et al.v. American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Case No. 3:12-cv-1377-SI (N.D. Cal.). The piston rings on certain cylinders may rotate and align, which can lead to spark plug fouling. This can set DTCs P0301 No. 1 cylinder …
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2012 Honda Accord 2 DR FWD
—
—
—
★★★★★
9.7%
2012 Honda Accord 4 DR FWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
9.5%
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Aug 13, 2026170,762 milesGA
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Accord. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 124,414, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 170,762.
Power Train
Filed Jul 22, 2026100,000 milesMA
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH and turning left onto a secondary road, the vehicle abruptly stopped in the middle of the road. The vehicle was pushed off to the shoulder of the road with help from other motorists who had stopped to aid. The vehicle was later towed to the local mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the front passenger’s side CV axle was fractured from corrosion. The CV axle and the rear brakes and rotors were replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V769000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Tires
Filed Jun 19, 2026PA
The suspected failed component is on 3-4 General Altimax GT45 tires. After approximately 15,000 miles of use and regular tire rotations every 5,000 miles, a steering wheel vibration developed immediately following a tire rotation. Multiple tire balances and a road-force balance did not identify a problem or correct the condition. Multiple, independent mechanics advised that the vibration may be caused by an internal tire belt defect, such as a shifted belt or belt separation. After the tires were rotated again, the vibration changed in character and became worse, further suggesting that the condition is related to a tire rather than the vehicle's suspension or alignment. The tires are still available for inspection upon request. The vehicle develops a noticeable steering wheel vibration at highway speeds between approximately 60 and 70 mph. The vibration affects steering feel and driver confidence while operating the vehicle at normal highway speeds. If caused by an internal tire defect, there is concern that the condition could worsen and potentially affect vehicle control or lead to tire failure. Yes, the problem has been reproduced. The vibration has been repeatedly reproduced during normal driving and has been evaluated by multiple independent service centers. The tires were rebalanced multiple times, including road-force balancing, without resolving the vibration. Multiple mechanics advised that the condition appears consistent with a possible internal tire belt defect.
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed May 19, 2026238,639 milesCT
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase the vehicle mileage wa47,000,p=and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 238, 629. A Carfax report was obtained with the same mileage. The contact sent a message and left a voice mail message but there was no response. The contact received an unusual high quote from the insurance company. The contact's son sent a text to the seller but they did not respond. There was no other agency contacted.
Suspension
Filed Mar 17, 2026IL
This car needs CV AXLE ASSEMBLY REPLACED as published under 'honda news' attached as i am in one one the 22 states that uses road salt. Honda dealer claims to have no knowledge of this , I need you to escalate please. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Wheels
Filed Feb 10, 2026RI
I have bought three Hondas and leased one, I still have a 2012 Sedan and 18 months ago the car stopped in the middle of the road, thankfully no one hit us. The axle was broken and had to be repaired. Today [XXX] the car just stopped driving in a horrible round about [XXX] . The police and fire men, thank God helped to push the car out of the way into a parking lot. Talk about stress, the round abouts are a horror show, with more accidents than ever and a car just STOPS driving. Well now we are being told the axle is broken. What in [XXX] is wrong, I looked on-line and many people have made complaints about broken axels on their Honda's. You have to do something, someone could have gotten killed and I would like a call back. [XXX] [XXX] . [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Feb 5, 2026NJ
Purchased a car from JKJ Auto on 01/17/2026 for $5000 + tax. Car was sold "as-is" with no dealer warranty. Vehile was only driven for 12 days before the car caught fire while my son was driving to school. He was trapped inside until a person ran over to help him out of the car. Police came to the scene and towed the vehicle. It was later examined by DSM Auto Repair who deduced that the battery was defective and overheated. This caused all other electrical cables to ignite along with the rest of the car. There were no warning lamps, messages or audio alerts. My son first noticed when there was white smoke coming from the hood as the car shut off, followed shortly by flames.
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Jan 7, 2026200,000 milesMD
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 64,163. It was later discovered, upon checking the Carfax report that the mileage was 200,000.
Wheels
Filed Nov 12, 2025MN
I just saw the new Honda Civic recall for wheels falling off and it reminded me to report this. On January 6, 2022 I was driving down I-29 from Grand Forks to Fargo and about 60 miles into my trip I thought I had a flat tire. I pulled over at the next exit and found I was missing 3 lug bolts and nuts, 1 lug nut with the bolt still attached, and my wheel was hanging on by just 1 lug bolt + nut. It looked like 3 or the bolts sheared off while I was driving. There was absolutely no prior warning or indication before this happened. I was doing about 75 mph and, from what I remember, it was about -20f outside. I had my car towed to a local mechanic, Tuffy Tire and Auto Servicr, and they fixed it. If my tire fell off at 75 mph I almost certainly would’ve ended up hitting another car or going into the ditch. The problem hasn’t been reproduced by a local dealer, but the Tuffy Tire and Auto Care in Fargo, ND should still have records/invoice about my service. My Honda accord has been inspected by Rydell Honda in Grand Forks, ND and they should have records of my lug nuts coming loose because I brought it in multiple times and I think they had to order a part for it. Another time, I think in late 2022 or 2023, I had my tires rotated at Rydell Honda in Grand Forks, ND and I drove about 90 miles and my lug nuts came loose on one wheel. I had to pull over and tighten them, but there was damage to the wheel. I believe Rydell Honda has records about this incident as well.
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Oct 14, 2025248,870 milesAZ
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Accord. While attempting to sell the vehicle, a potential buyer showed the contact a vehicle history report; the report showed that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was purchased by the contact through a private sale on Facebook Marketplace. Additionally, the contact discovered a crash report in the glove box. The contact was not made aware of any prior accidents on the vehicle prior to sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximately 135,000, and the report discovered that the mileage was 248,870.
Power Train
Filed Oct 3, 2025193,000 milesCT
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed and coming to a stop, the driver heard an abnormal sound, and the vehicle suddenly stopped in the middle of the road. The contact stated that the driveshaft had separated from the vehicle and had fallen on the road. The vehicle was towed to Ron's Automotive Center Inc, where it was diagnosed that the driveshaft had failed and damaged the oil pan. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a related recall. The failure mileage was approximately 193,000.
Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Oct 1, 2025CA
While driving to work and out of nowhere i began to smell a burning smell thought it was engine. I had AC on so I turned it off and that’s when I noticed that my center console was on fire. Was driving on freeway so took the first exit and immediately pulled over tried to put out fire but couldn’t. Luckily a couple from the car in front of me that was waiting for light came to help and put fire out. Have no idea what the cause of the fire was. Definitely a scary situation and safety issue.
Service Brakes
Filed Aug 16, 2025NJ
The VSA/ABS module has failed. It is available for inspection. My safety and the safety of others are being put at risk due to the fact that the brakes may lock up or give out with this faulty module. Yes the problem has been confirmed by my local Honda dealer. The vehicle had only been inspected by the Honda dealer. The lights that appeared on the dash are, ABS, brake and traction control. There has already been a recall on this exact issue for my exact trim. I believe my car should be included in the recall due to the fact that I only hadn't 105k miles and hadn't had EVERY service done that was ever recommended. I keep my car in excellent condition. This should not be happening. Thank you
Power Train
Filed Jun 26, 2025SC
Car cut off
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed May 21, 2025129,994 milesMD
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while attempting to trade in the vehicle at a local dealer, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was purchased through a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 127,699 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 129,994.
Engine
Filed Mar 1, 2025NY
1) When starting the car ( cold ) it makes a rattling sound that goes away after a few seconds and does not make this sound again until the car cools off 2) sometimes when driving the steering wheel shakes during acceleration
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 25, 2024MA
ABS, Traction Control and Brake lights on. Diagnosed by 2 mechanics told ABS module is bad, which affects braking and is hazardous. Also told this should not be happening with so little mileage on vehicle 50K. There needs to be a recall for this issue!!!!
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 13, 2024MD
ABS,Traction Control, Brake Light steady stay on. Have taken vehicle to numerous mechanics. ISSUES can NEVER BE RESOLVED. Lights will stay on no matter what. I HAVE TO CHANGE THE BRAKES LIKE EVERY 4-6 months. Alignment also has to keep getting done. I don't know if that's because the issue with whatever is causing the braking issues haven't been resolved. Also the oil has to be changed like every 4,000 miles. 🤯. I also was driving down the road one day and heard this LOUD bang almost like a gunshot and out of the blue the trunk torque rods and the clips broke spontaneously.
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 21, 2024PA
My ABS, TRACTION CONTROL, BRAKE & TPMS LIGHTS have been ON for the past few months. My tire air pressure is fine. The dealer claims I need to replace the VSA MODULE at the cost est @ $1900. After my personal investigation, I have learned Honda has had numerous customer complaints of these same issues on 2012-2013 Honda Accords.
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 18, 2024MA
ABS Module has failed and brake, ABS and traction control lights remain on; causing braking issue. This component has failed in many vehicles of this type per mechanic and should be recalled. There is very little mileage on the vehicle around 50K. A safety recall is apparent as if injury occurs Honda is liable, as an elderly person owns the vehicle. Vehicle does not stop as it should and will not receive an inspection sticker. This should not be on the consumer given the amount of low mileage.
Power Train
Filed Sep 6, 2024KY
Transmission is fluttering going into 2nd to 3rd gear.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 24, 2024GA
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that upon cold starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal rattling noise detected. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was leaking oil. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the solenoid switch, VTC activator, and gasket needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined the solenoid, VTC solenoid, and gasket needed to be replaced. The parts were replaced, and the vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
Air BagsCrash
Filed Feb 29, 2024CT
AIR BAGS FAILED. IT IS AVAILABLE. LUKILY I'M SAFE. I DON'NT KNOW. NO ONE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, EXCEPT THE POLICE AT THE INCIDENT LOCATION. NO WARNING LAMPS OBSERVED PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT.
Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 3, 2024MD
It is no reason why my car got stolen. My car has a Anti theft system in it and it was not triggered when it was stolen. I had to file a police report and the police are out looking for my vehicle right now. I went to a nail salon I come back out my car is gone. Its no reason why the alarm did not go off. Honda Accords and other Hondas are being stolen and it is ridiculous. Times are hard it is expensive to maintain there has to be something yall can do to stop these thieves from stealing peoples cars.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 16, 2024AZ
Check Engine Light Due to Low Engine Oil Level, Radio/Climate Control Display May Go Dark, major issue is "No Start" Due to Ignition Switch Failure and fuses keep blowing so many issues and problems
Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft
Filed Jan 2, 2024120,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to move or respond. The vehicle was restarted but the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was inspected by the contact’s neighbor who is a mechanic, and the contact was informed that the driveshaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage 120,000.
Air Bags
Filed Oct 27, 2023PA
I have attempted to notify multiple people numerous times that I no longer own the VIN attached and yet I continue to receive recall notices. A simple check of any standard vehicle history report will show where the vehicle was last known to have been serviced. Please discontinue sending these notices to me.
SteeringCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 13, 2023GA
Sudden loss of steering control causing vehicle to veer from the intended path of travel.
Electrical System
Filed Oct 2, 2023CT
Car has frequent issues with starting and power loss inside and outside the car. This is my second time having a issue with my car not starting that did not have to do with the battery or alternator. I have 135xxx miles and keep up with maintenance so this is frustrating and expensive, happening months apart. The first time I had to have a new starter put in. The car also looses brightness on the dash board and in the headlights. The car stalls while starting since Ive had it.
Service Brakes
Filed Sep 6, 2023CA
Problem: When the ABS computer system (ABS) fails, the balance between front and rear brakes becomes abnormal even for a vehicle without ABS, it becomes rear biased. Making it unsafe to stop quickly. (90% of the brake force is to the rear). The cost of this part is too expensive for most people to replace and this means that most will drive the car as is without replacing the ABS module. What I expect: I expect that the balance of brake force, is that of a vehicle without ABS (60-70% front).
Air BagsCrash
Filed Aug 24, 2023TX
At around 7:25am this morning I was driving to work in traffic and I was needing to stop, but my brakes were not working properly. They went all the way to the floor, no pressure, and I rear ended another person going 35mph. My entire front-end of my vehicle is totalled and my airbags did not even deploy. After the wreck I pumped my breaks to try to move it off the freeway and the breaks started to work again. This is a serious problem because had I been going any faster and even had my other family in the car we all could have been seriously injured or died!!
Structure › Body
Filed Jun 29, 2023CA
The trunk release mechanisms of my Honda Accord EXL coupe failed, both manual cable and electrical trunk release. My trunk does NOT open and when I need to access my spare tire in the trunk - I will NOT be able to. A real danger since I live in Canyon Country and often phone reception is poor. The only Honda Model that does NOT have any external nor internal emergency trunk release option. There is no "Valet" button, no decklid access, no external hidden key lock nothing that can release my trunk so I can gain access to my spare tire. Federal Law 49CFR571.401 mandates an emergency internal trunk release. In this Honda Model the ONLY way to get into the trunk from inside is by unlocking and pulling down back seats to access the trunk. BUT the ONLY way to unlock back seats is by pulling a cable that unlocks them which is INSIDE THE TRUNK! So the safety design flaws in the Honda Accord EXL coupe are: there is no emergency access to release the trunk to gain access to the spare tire AND there is no emergency way to unlock back seats to gain access to the trunk since the only way to unlock back seats is IN THE TRUNK. A Mechanical Engineer needed to dismantled the seats to get into the trunk and he tried to release the truck with the Emergency Trunk Release but it is obvious that the latch has failed. if there was ever a person stuck in the trunk that person would NOT be able to free themselves. I do have a video showing the Emergency Trunk Release not working if you like to see it
Suspension
Filed Jun 27, 2023116,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at a very slow speed, there was a loud sound coming from the front passenger’s side before the vehicle abruptly stopped driving forward. The vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the front passenger’s side axle had fractured. The mechanic also discovered that the driver’s side axle was also unsafe. The driver’s and passenger’s side front axles were replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 116,000.
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Trunk Lid › Latch › Emergency Mechanical Release
Filed Jun 16, 2023178,000 milesCA
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while attempting to use the remote key fob to unlock the trunk, the trunk failed to release. The contact then stated that she attempted to manually unlatch the trunk, but the latch failed to release from the cable. The contact stated that the vehicle was inspected by had an independent mechanical engineer that was able to fold the seating, but the trunk release failed to open. The contact stated that she was concerned for her safety during an emergency. An undisclosed dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 178,000.
Seat Belts
Filed May 19, 2023CA
The Driver's side seat belt does not latch. The problem started 3 months ago. We contacted Honda Dealer and was told it is not part of the Honda Seat Belt Recall as the recall relates to Honda models 2018-2020. However please note it is the SAME EXACT PROBLEM with the seat belt in my car. I have been using the PASSENGER SIDE LATCH to buckle the seatbelt. I contacted Honda Corporation and was told to have the car inspected by local Honda Dealer and provide them with a Inspection report. Honda corporation is not willing to fix the seatbelt issue. I am informing your agency so you can take appropriate action and include the older models of Honda with the same seat belt problem as the current recall on Honda before someone get injured due to the fact they are using passenger seat belt latch. Also we are unable to use the passenger seat. Please give this matter urgent attention as it is a BIG SAFETY issue.
Electrical System
Filed May 9, 2023NC
I’m not sure exactly when everything started but it’s been a 2ish years. The lights on my steering wheel started blinking randomly. Then the cruise control stopped working. Then the lights went out entirely. Now the horn only works occasionally. It slowly got worse over time.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 28, 202368,000 milesNC
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact stated that the "check oil" warning light was illuminated. The contact slowed the vehicle down and drove it to the dealer. The contact stated that when she pulled into the parking lot, she heard a loud popping sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact had the vehicle towed to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine had sustained internal damage and required a major overhaul. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 22, 2023NC
Was driving down the highway and the sunroof glass exploded for no apparent reason.
Air BagsCrash
Filed Jan 2, 2023GA
2012 Accord exl - Engine Seizure! I had the air-bag recall done about 5 years ago. None of the air-bags deployed when the 2012 exl hit a telephone pole at 20 mph and broke the telephone pole in half. I finally found out about the class action lawsuit for the excessive oil consumption yesterday (1 Qt per 1,000 miles), 2 years after the engine seizure. I spoke with Honda headquarters (1919 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, ca 90501) today for an hour and a half. mostly on hold waiting for [XXX] to get her stupervisor [XXX] to come to the phone. Honda Seemed to think my 2012 v6 exl is not part of the lot of cars they were supposed to fix in the excessive oil consumption class action lawsuit. If you have any advice on how I could recover any funds spent on my engine repair or if there is any recourse I could take with the airbags not deploying when I had the recall done 5 years ago at my local Honda dealer. Thanks [XXX] PS.. Cherokee Auto in North Atlanta Georgia has the car for sale with the faulty airbags… CarMax repossessed it, sold it for more than I owed them, wrote off $6500 as bad debt, and still say I owe them 750 and staying on my credit report. Pls help! TF INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Air Bags
Filed Dec 7, 202280,000 milesMD
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle drove over a pothole, causing the driver's side air bag to deploy. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that he needed to pay out-of-pocket for the air bag replacement. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 19, 2022NJ
Sun visor snapped. It does not stay in place. It blocks my frontal view when I am driving which is very unsafe. I have looked online and multiple drivers with Hondas complaining of the same issue. I have tried multiple DIY’s to make it stay up and nothing works
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Sep 28, 2022NY
While stopped at a red light, I stepped on brake and without warning, the car accelerated uncontrollably, at a high speed. It crashed into a parked vehicle and was a total loss. i had my 17 mos. old granddaughter in a rear facing carseat, in the rear passenger side. Luckily, the Upa Baby carseat protected her and she was not hurt, nor was anyone else. Airbags did not deploy. Now i have to get a new car which is very costly, using the little I will get from insurance payout. The car was well maintained with less than 50,000 miles without any other prior incidents. I do see that other motorists have had similar experiences with this make and model. It should be investigated further, in order to avoid serious injuries to others.
Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2022GA
My 2012 Honda Accord is using oil in between my 3000 mile oil changes and it should not be using that much, in between changes I put 1.5 quarts of oil in the engine. I have read that some Hondas are having this problem I only have 125000 miles on my car and take really good care of my vehicles the inside still looks new. Also the air conditioner isn’t blowing cold enough air. I purchased it in May of 2014 I love my car, my mechanic says it’s the rings in the engine, I don’t drive car erratically. Hope you can help get my car fixed correctly, My Machanic noticed this the last couple of oil changes
Engine
Filed May 6, 2022120,640 milesOH
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated while in a drive-through with the vehicle in idle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the piston rings had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer also informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under an extended warranty associated to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,640.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 10, 2022ND
Twice in the past couple of months my car has turned off while in drive and I lost power steering/braking. Both times were luckily in my apartment parking lot. They occured about 10-15 seconds after backing out and putting it in drive. The second time I almost slid into a car driving by since I wasn't able to brake.
Steering
Filed Jan 15, 2022AR
I bought my Honda 2012 as a used vehicle about 1 1/2 ago. I have had the tires replaced all the way around almost twice. I have had it in the shop multiple times for a vibration and noise that starts at about 60 mph and seems to lessen when I get to around 75 mph. I also have had to get the tires aligned multiple times, once within 2 weeks time and the steering seems to get looser and looser. Still been unable to figure out why this is happening by my mechanic.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Nov 18, 202119,377 milesKS
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the driveway, the contact attempted to start the vehicle, but the vehicle would not start. The contact self-diagnosed the vehicle with a code reader which showed that the MAP sensor needed to be cleaned. The contact cleaned the MAP and mass airflow sensor, however, the failure recurred. Upon inspection, the contact noticed that the fuel pump relay in the driver's side cabin was in a stuck position. The contact replaced the main PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injector) fuel pump relay. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 07V097000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 19,377.
Service Brakes, Air › Antilock › Control Unit/Module
Filed Nov 15, 202175,071 milesCA
The contact owns a 2012 Honda Accord. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the ABS warning light illuminated. The contact pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road and called an independent mechanic to describe the warning message on the vehicle. The independent mechanic informed her that she could continue to drive the vehicle to her residence. The following day the contact took the vehicle to the independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the ABS module needed to be replaced however, the replacement part was on backorder. The contact then took the vehicle to the local dealer who inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,071.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 22, 2021NM
2012 HONDA ACCORD. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO A LOANER VEHICLE WHILE HAVING THE SAFETY RECALL REPAIR COMPLETED.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 11, 2021CA
I don't have a air bag due to someone stealing the whole air bag
Complaints 1-50 of 373, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the Accord years to avoid. Owners filed 373 complaints, against about 543 for a typical Accord year. The most common complaint is about the seats (17%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.
What is the most common problem with the 2012 Honda Accord?
The seats: 62 of the 373 complaints (17%) are about it. The typical report comes at 300 miles.
How many recalls does the 2012 Honda Accord have?
8 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 27, 2019. The largest, 18V661000, covered 1,355,406 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2012 Honda Accord problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 25,284 miles. For the seats the midpoint is 300 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2012 Honda Accord?
Yes, once. EQ12002 ("Autoliv Air Bag Propellant Mixture") was opened Feb 14, 2012 and closed May 8, 2012.
Are there service bulletins for the 2012 Honda Accord?
The manufacturer filed 50 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (23), the airbags (7) and the electrical system (4). They include a warranty extension, A20-016, filed Mar 10, 2020. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jun 27, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.