🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Honda Model: CR-Z Year: 2012 Codes Chassis Code: ZF1 Engine Code: LEAF (1.5L i-VTEC with IMA) Generation Generation: 1st Generation (ZF1) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The 2012 Honda CR-Z occupies a unique niche as a compact, sporty hybrid hatchback. It appeals to environmentally conscious buyers seeking an engaging driving experience and fuel efficiency, often positioned as a more affordable and less practical alternative to larger hybrids and a sportier option than traditional compacts. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Competes with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Mini Cooper, and other sporty compacts, while also drawing interest from hybrid segments due to its fuel economy. Its unique styling and hybrid powertrain set it apart from traditional segment players. Key Features Key Features: Distinctive 2-seater coupe-like hatchback design, combination of a 1.5L i-VTEC engine and Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system, selectable drive modes (Sport, Normal, Econ), excellent fuel economy, sharp handling. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: Comprehensive service and repair for all major vehicle systems. Page Count Page Count: Extensive digital content, equivalent to thousands of printed pages. Manual Type Manual Type: Official Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Online Software/Web-based access 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Engine, Hybrid System (IMA), Transmission (Manual & CVT), Drivetrain, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS, EBD, VSA), Steering, Suspension, Electrical System (including charging and starting), Body Electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Body and Chassis, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Procedures Included Procedures Included: Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair and Replacement of Components, Component Removal and Installation, Electrical Circuit Diagrams, Wiring Harness Schematics, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Specifications, Special Tool Requirements, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, Hybrid system diagnostics and service, Battery pack servicing (with safety precautions). Technical Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhaul procedures. Includes detailed repair steps, system explanations, and diagnostic strategies. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Web-based, accessible via any modern web browser. Print Quality Print Quality: Digital content optimized for screen viewing, can be printed page-by-page. Binding Type Binding Type: Not Applicable (Online Access) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Online Access) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Primary Engine: 1.5L Inline-4 i-VTEC with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) Hybrid System Performance Horsepower Combined: 122 hp @ 6000 rpm (Engine: 110 hp @ 6000 rpm; Electric Motor: 10 hp) Torque Combined: 128 lb-ft @ 1000-2000 rpm (Engine: 107 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm; Electric Motor: 58 lb-ft) Fuel System Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) Engine Details Engine Displacement: 1497 cc Bore X Stroke: 73.0 mm x 89.4 mm Compression Ratio: 10.5:1 Engine Type: SOHC i-VTEC, Aluminum Block and Head Hybrid Battery Type: 10-module, 100.8V, 5.5 Ah IMA Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 6-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Optional Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters Features Transmission Features: SportShift paddle shifters available with CVT, hill start assist (standard on manual). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 167.5 inches (4255 mm) Width: 68.9 inches (1750 mm) Height: 52.9 inches (1345 mm) Wheelbase: 98.9 inches (2510 mm) Front Track: 59.4 inches (1508 mm) Rear Track: 58.5 inches (1485 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: 2,762 lbs (1253 kg) Curb Weight Cvt: 2,842 lbs (1290 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume: 15.1 cubic feet (rear seats up) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars (for 2012 model year) IIHS Top Safety Pick: Yes (for 2012 model year) Active Features Active Features: Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist. Passive Features Passive Features: Front airbags, Side airbags, Side curtain airbags, Active head restraints. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Available Honda premium audio system with CD player, MP3 compatibility, USB interface, and auxiliary input jack. Navigation system was optional on higher trims. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance: Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Cruise Control. Connectivity Connectivity: Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, USB Audio Interface, Auxiliary Audio Input Jack. Display Display Technology: Multi-Information Display (MID) with fuel economy, trip computer, and IMA system status. 3D intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended). Tire Rotation Interval: Every 7,500 miles Engine Air Filter Replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles. Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles. Spark Plug Replacement: 100,000 miles (Platinum-tipped) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil (API Certified) Engine Oil Capacity: 3.7 US qt (3.5 L) with filter change Coolant Type: Honda Genuine All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Blue) Transmission Fluid Type Manual: Honda Genuine Manual Transmission...
The 2012 Honda CR-Z occupies a unique niche as a compact, sporty hybrid hatchback. It appeals to environmentally conscious buyers seeking an engaging driving experience and fuel efficiency, often positioned as a more affordable and less practical alternative to larger hybrids and a sportier option than traditional compacts.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Mini Cooper, and other sporty compacts, while also drawing interest from hybrid segments due to its fuel economy. Its unique styling and hybrid powertrain set it apart from traditional segment players.
Key Features
Key Features:
Distinctive 2-seater coupe-like hatchback design, combination of a 1.5L i-VTEC engine and Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system, selectable drive modes (Sport, Normal, Econ), excellent fuel economy, sharp handling.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Page Count
Page Count:
Extensive digital content, equivalent to thousands of printed pages.
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Official Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Online Software/Web-based access
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems Covered:
Engine, Hybrid System (IMA), Transmission (Manual & CVT), Drivetrain, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS, EBD, VSA), Steering, Suspension, Electrical System (including charging and starting), Body Electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Body and Chassis, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair and Replacement of Components, Component Removal and Installation, Electrical Circuit Diagrams, Wiring Harness Schematics, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Specifications, Special Tool Requirements, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, Hybrid system diagnostics and service, Battery pack servicing (with safety precautions).
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhaul procedures. Includes detailed repair steps, system explanations, and diagnostic strategies.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Web-based, accessible via any modern web browser.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Digital content optimized for screen viewing, can be printed page-by-page.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Online Access)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Online Access)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine:
1.5L Inline-4 i-VTEC with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) Hybrid System
Performance
Horsepower Combined:
122 hp @ 6000 rpm (Engine: 110 hp @ 6000 rpm; Electric Motor: 10 hp)
10-module, 100.8V, 5.5 Ah IMA Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery pack
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters
Features
Transmission Features:
SportShift paddle shifters available with CVT, hill start assist (standard on manual).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Height:
52.9 inches (1345 mm)
Wheelbase:
98.9 inches (2510 mm)
Front Track:
59.4 inches (1508 mm)
Rear Track:
58.5 inches (1485 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
2,762 lbs (1253 kg)
Curb Weight Cvt:
2,842 lbs (1290 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
15.1 cubic feet (rear seats up)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2012 model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2012 model year)
Active Features
Active Features:
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Passive Features
Passive Features:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Side curtain airbags, Active head restraints.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Available Honda premium audio system with CD player, MP3 compatibility, USB interface, and auxiliary input jack. Navigation system was optional on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance:
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Cruise Control.
Connectivity
Connectivity:
Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, USB Audio Interface, Auxiliary Audio Input Jack.
Display
Display Technology:
Multi-Information Display (MID) with fuel economy, trip computer, and IMA system status. 3D intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (Platinum-tipped)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.7 US qt (3.5 L) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Honda Genuine All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2 (Blue)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Honda Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
Transmission Fluid Type Cvt:
Honda Genuine HMMF (Honda Multi Matic Fluid)
Brake Fluid Type:
Honda Genuine DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Intermittent issues with the IMA system (battery degradation, charge/discharge faults), occasional clutch wear in manual transmissions, premature wear of suspension components, and potential for condensation in the rear light housings.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Honda has a long-standing reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and innovative engineering, particularly in the compact and hybrid segments with models like the Civic and Insight.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The CR-Z was conceived as a spiritual successor to the CR-X, aiming to blend sporty styling and driving dynamics with hybrid technology. Introduced for the 2011 model year, the 2012 model year saw minor updates, with a more significant refresh occurring for the 2013 model year.
Production
Production Years:
2010-2016
Manufacturing Location:
Suzuka, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
A recipient of positive reviews for its sporty handling and fuel efficiency, though criticisms often focused on its limited practicality and powertrain refinement compared to other hybrids. Recognized for its unique design and niche appeal.