Is the 2012 Honda Accord Coupe a good car?

Yes—if you want a reliable, comfortable, and still-engaging two-door with reasonable running costs, the 2012 Honda Accord Coupe is generally a good used car. It delivers strong dependability, a roomy cabin, and excellent V6 performance, though shoppers should verify airbag recall completion, watch for potential V6 oil-consumption/VCM issues, and budget for a timing belt service on V6 models.

What it is

The 2012 Accord Coupe is the final model year of Honda’s eighth-generation Accord two-door. It emphasizes comfort and everyday usability over outright sportiness, while offering a genuinely quick V6 option and a manual transmission for enthusiasts. Trims typically include LX-S, EX, and EX-L, with the EX-L available with the 3.5-liter V6.

Powertrains and transmissions

Engines include a 2.4-liter four-cylinder (about 190 hp) and a 3.5-liter V6 (about 271 hp). The four-cylinder pairs with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. The V6 pairs with a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual (the latter is the enthusiast’s pick and does not use Honda’s cylinder-deactivation system). Front-wheel drive is standard across the range.

Driving and comfort

Performance

The four-cylinder is smooth and adequate for daily driving, with fuel economy that remains competitive for its age. The V6 notably elevates the experience—especially with the 6-speed manual—delivering brisk acceleration (mid-5 to low-6 seconds 0–60 mph in independent tests when new) and confident passing power.

Ride and handling

The Accord Coupe rides comfortably and feels composed, with steering that’s precise if not razor-sharp. It’s less hardcore than dedicated sport coupes of its era, but more refined and practical, with decent highway quietness and a rear seat that adults can actually use for short trips.

Reliability and known issues

Overall reliability is a strong suit, particularly for the four-cylinder models, which tend to be long-lived with basic maintenance. The V6 is robust too, but it introduces a few model-specific considerations.

The following list highlights common issues owners and mechanics report more often on this generation:

• V6 with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM, mainly on automatics): possible oil consumption, vibration, and fouled spark plugs over time. The V6 6-speed manual doesn’t use VCM and is less prone.
• Timing belt service (V6): required roughly every 7 years/105,000 miles; budget for belt, water pump, and seals. The 2.4L four-cylinder uses a timing chain (no routine replacement).
• Engine mounts and suspension bushings: wear can lead to vibration or clunks; front compliance bushings are a known wear item.
• Brake and rotor wear: earlier years had premature wear complaints; by 2012 this was largely improved, but pad/rotor quality and driving style still matter.
• Power steering seepage/noise: occasional rack or pump issues; listen for groans and check for leaks.
• A/C compressor clutch or condenser issues: intermittent failures reported on some cars as mileage climbs.
• Paint/clearcoat degradation: more common on darker colors exposed to harsh sun; inspect roof, trunk, and hood.
• Door lock actuators and window regulators: sporadic failures with age.

None of these are universal, but they are the areas most worth inspecting on a pre-purchase test drive and during a professional inspection.

Safety and recalls

For its era, the 2012 Accord performed well in crash testing. IIHS recorded strong results in the tests conducted at the time (moderate-overlap front and side; small-overlap was not yet introduced). NHTSA testing for 2012 Accord models returned solid overall ratings under the updated protocols. Standard safety equipment includes stability control, anti-lock brakes, front and side airbags, and active head restraints.

There have been important safety recalls—most notably the Takata airbag inflator campaign that affected many 2008–2012 Hondas, including the Accord Coupe in certain build ranges.

• Takata front airbag inflator replacement: verify by VIN that all inflator recalls were completed; many had multiple phases.
• Software and component-related service bulletins: occasional updates addressing drivability or infotainment quirks.
• Region-specific corrosion or component recalls: check history if the vehicle spent time in road-salt states.

Always run the VIN through the NHTSA recall lookup and Honda’s owner site to confirm recall completion and any outstanding campaigns before purchase.

Ownership costs and fuel economy

EPA fuel economy when new varied by configuration: roughly 22–33 mpg for the four-cylinder and about 17–30 mpg for the V6, with automatics typically edging the manuals for efficiency. Real-world reports still align closely with those ranges. The car runs on regular unleaded fuel.

Routine costs are reasonable: oil and fluid services are straightforward, and parts availability is excellent. Budget extra for the V6 timing belt service and for higher tire costs if the car wears the larger 18-inch wheels found on V6 trims.

Features and trims

The 2012 Accord Coupe can be comfortable and well-equipped, especially in EX-L form. Even mid-trim cars typically include power features, alloy wheels, and a decent audio system; higher trims add leather, heated seats, a premium audio system, and available factory navigation. Bluetooth phone/audio and a USB port are common in upper trims, though infotainment is basic by modern standards.

Here’s a quick guide to typical equipment by trim level (content can vary by market and options):

• LX-S (2.4L): cloth seats, manual or automatic transmission, alloy wheels, power accessories, basic audio with AUX/USB (Bluetooth availability varies).
• EX (2.4L): adds sunroof, upgraded audio, larger wheels/tires, and sometimes dual-zone climate control.
• EX-L (2.4L or V6): leather, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, premium audio; navigation optional; V6 brings more power and larger brakes/wheels.
• EX-L V6 6MT: performance-oriented with the 6-speed manual, stronger acceleration, and no VCM.

If you value modern tech like advanced driver aids or smartphone mirroring, you may find the 2012 system dated—but many owners retrofit aftermarket head units to modernize connectivity.

How it stacks up today

Against peers like the Nissan Altima Coupe and Scion tC, the Accord Coupe trades some edge for build quality, space, and long-term durability. If you want a sharper-driving alternative, consider a used Hyundai Genesis Coupe or a Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86—though those are smaller and less practical. If your budget allows, the 2013–2017 Accord Coupe improves efficiency, refinement, and safety tech while preserving the formula.

Buying checklist

If you’re shopping for a 2012 Accord Coupe, the following checklist can help you target a good example and avoid hidden costs:

1. Run a VIN recall check (NHTSA and Honda) to confirm Takata and any other recalls are completed.
2. Service records: look for regular oil changes and, on V6 models, evidence of completed timing belt/water pump service.
3. Engine health: check oil level/condition; on V6 automatics, ask about oil consumption history (VCM); scan for misfire codes.
4. Transmission: ensure smooth shifts; on automatics, confirm fluid changes; on manuals, check clutch engagement and any synchro grinding.
5. Suspension and mounts: listen for clunks, feel for vibration at idle and under load; inspect front control arm bushings.
6. Brakes and tires: check pad/rotor life and even tire wear; mismatched tires can hint at alignment issues.
7. HVAC and electronics: verify A/C performance, window/lock operation, Bluetooth and audio inputs.
8. Body and paint: look for clearcoat fading, especially on dark colors; check for rust in salt-belt cars and signs of crash repairs.
9. Pre-purchase inspection: a trusted mechanic’s inspection is inexpensive insurance on a used performance-leaning coupe.

Prioritizing cars with documented maintenance and clean histories will usually save you money and hassle over the long term.

Verdict

The 2012 Honda Accord Coupe remains a smart buy if you want a dependable, comfortable two-door that still feels special—especially with the V6 and manual transmission. The four-cylinder is the low-stress, low-cost choice; the V6 adds genuine muscle. Do your diligence on recalls, V6-specific concerns, and maintenance history, and it’s a car that can deliver years of satisfying service.

Summary

Overall, the 2012 Accord Coupe is a well-rounded, reliable used coupe with strong safety scores for its time, solid fuel economy, and standout V6 performance. Verify recall completion, inspect for common wear items, and favor well-documented cars—particularly if you’re eyeing a V6—to get the best experience and value.

What are the best years for a Honda Accord Coupe?

If your budget allows, you should consider the 2012 and 2015 Accord are some of the best years for reliability. 2020 and 2021 are also strong contenders but the used car price on these demand a premium.

How many miles does a 2012 Honda Accord usually last?

200,000 to 300,000 miles
On average, these vehicles can go anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles, as noted by CoPilot, a third-party evaluator of vehicles. With consistent maintenance and timely repairs, many Accords can exceed these expectations without needing significant work.

Are 2012 Honda Accords reliable cars?

Very reliable and comfortable.
Rating breakdown (out of 5): Comfort 5.0. Interior 5.0. Performance 5.0.

Are 2012 Honda Accords any good?

Overall, we still think the 2012 Honda Accord is a good pick for a family sedan. But we certainly suggest shopping the competition before settling for this Honda icon.