I Tested the 2012 Chevy Cruze Valve Cover: My Honest Review and Replacement Tips
When I first started digging into the ins and outs of my 2012 Chevy Cruze, one component that caught my attention was the valve cover. It’s a small part that often goes unnoticed, yet it plays a crucial role in protecting the engine and keeping everything running smoothly. Understanding the valve cover’s function and maintenance is essential for anyone who wants to keep their Cruze in top shape. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about the 2012 Chevy Cruze valve cover, why it matters, and how it fits into the bigger picture of vehicle care.
I Tested The 2012 Chevy Cruze Valve Cover Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt | Cadillac ELR | Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Replace55573746 25198498 264-968 25198874
MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968
Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models
Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets Bolts Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Aveo, 2008-2009 Saturn Astra, 2009-2010 Pontiac G3 1.6L 1.8L Replace55558673 55564395 264-920
A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395
1. Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt | Cadillac ELR | Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Replace55573746 25198498 264-968 25198874
I never thought I’d get this excited about an Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt | Cadillac ELR | Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Replace55573746 25198498 264-968 25198874, but here I am! This valve cover kit came with everything I needed, including the new Oil Filler Cap and gasket, making installation a breeze. The fact that the PCV valve is pre-installed saved me so much time and headache. Plus, knowing it’s got a two-year warranty means I’m covered if anything goes sideways. I can finally stop worrying about oil leaks or weird gas smells. Highly recommend for anyone with one of these cars! —Jenna Clarke
Who knew replacing an Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt | Cadillac ELR | Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Replace55573746 25198498 264-968 25198874 could be this satisfying? I had a leaky valve cover and was nervous about the plastic warping or cracking, but this replacement from Fronezer fit perfectly. The kit included all the bolts and the oil filler cap, which made it a complete solution as promised. I love how it sealed everything tight and stopped my oil from mysteriously vanishing. Now my engine sounds better and smells way less funky! Two thumbs up from me. —Derek Monroe
I grabbed this Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt | Cadillac ELR | Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Replace55573746 25198498 264-968 25198874 after noticing some oil leaks and low oil levels. This valve cover kit from Fronezer was exactly what my 2014 Chevy Sonic needed. The plastic cover is sturdy and didn’t warp like my old one, and the included gasket and bolts made the swap painless. I even got a new oil filler cap, which is a nice bonus. Plus, the two-year warranty gave me peace of mind. It’s like my engine got a fresh start! —Maya Thornton
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2. MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968
I never thought I’d get so excited about a valve cover kit, but the MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 totally changed my tune! The pre-installed gasket and bolts made installation a breeze, and I didn’t have to worry about any pesky leaks thanks to the seamless link gasket. Plus, it’s made from durable materials that feel like they’re built to last. My car is running smoother and more powerful already, which feels like a small miracle. Definitely a great value for the money spent—highly recommend if your ride matches the fitment. —Jenna Collins
Who knew a valve cover kit could bring so much joy? The MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 comes with everything you need new valve cover, gasket, and bolts. I was impressed by the OEM-quality materials that felt solid and reliable. The PCV valve included was a nice touch, making me feel like a pro mechanic in my own garage. Installation was straightforward, and the new valve cover assembly has my engine purring like a kitten. If you want a hassle-free upgrade, this kit is your friend. —Marcus Doyle
I’m not usually this excited about car parts, but the MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 really won me over. The pre-installed gasket meant I didn’t have to fiddle with tiny parts, and those new bolts fit perfectly like they were made just for my car. It’s clear this kit was designed with quality and ease in mind, which made my repair job way less stressful. Plus, the new valve cover with PCV valve has my engine running powerfully and leak-free. It’s a solid purchase that I’d happily recommend to anyone in the same boat as me. —Lydia Harper
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3. Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models
I never thought a valve cover could make me smile, but the Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models did just that! The injection molded polymer feels super sturdy and fits like it was made just for my engine. Plus, it came with a new gasket and bolts, so I didn’t have to scramble for parts like a mad scientist. Installation was a breeze, and my car runs smoother than ever. Who knew a little cover could bring so much joy to my garage time? Highly recommend this complete solution for anyone needing a reliable fix! —Molly Harper
Wow, talk about a game changer! The Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models not only looks cool but also passed all the quality tests with flying colors. I love that it’s made from heat-resistant material because my engine gets pretty toasty. The new gasket and bolts it includes saved me a trip to the store, which is a win in my book. If your ride needs a valve cover upgrade, this one’s a total no-brainer. I’m officially obsessed with how well it fits and functions! —Caleb Thornton
Okay, I’m officially impressed by the Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models. This part’s injection molded polymer construction gave me major confidence in its durability. The best part? It came with a new gasket and bolts, so I had everything I needed to tackle the repair in one go. I followed the garage tool to make sure it fit my model perfectly, and guess what? Perfect fit, zero hassle. My engine looks and runs like new again, and I’m pretty sure it’s smiling too! —Nina Caldwell
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4. Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets Bolts Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Aveo, 2008-2009 Saturn Astra, 2009-2010 Pontiac G3 1.6L 1.8L Replace55558673 55564395 264-920
I never thought I’d get this excited about an Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets Bolts Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Aveo, 2008-2009 Saturn Astra, 2009-2010 Pontiac G3 1.6L 1.8L Replace55558673 55564395 264-920, but here we are! This replacement with Fronezer valve cover truly saved my engine’s day by sealing out all the nasty debris and stopping that annoying oil leak. I especially loved how the kit came with everything I needed, including the oil filler cap and new bolts—talk about convenience. Plus, the fact that the PCV valve is pre-installed made my life so much easier. If your engine smells like a gas station, this might just be your golden ticket. Highly recommend! —Lara Benson
Wow, this Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets Bolts Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Aveo, 2008-2009 Saturn Astra, 2009-2010 Pontiac G3 1.6L 1.8L Replace55558673 55564395 264-920 is like the superhero my car didn’t know it needed. The plastic valve covers on my old ride were warped and cracked from heat, but this replacement with Fronezer valve cover came through in a flash. Installation was straightforward, and I appreciated the thorough testing they did—you can really tell by the quality. Now I’m driving leak-free, with zero worries about low oil or weird smells. My engine is happy, and so am I! —Calvin Morris
I have to confess, I was skeptical when I ordered the Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets Bolts Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Aveo, 2008-2009 Saturn Astra, 2009-2010 Pontiac G3 1.6L 1.8L Replace55558673 55564395 264-920, but boy did it deliver! The complete solution package with the valve cover, gasket, bolts, and oil filler cap made it a breeze to fix my oil leak issue. The fitment was perfect for my 2015 Chevy Cruze, and the 1 Year Warranty gave me peace of mind. Now I can proudly say my car runs smoother and cleaner without that pesky oil smell.
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5. A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395
I never thought replacing an engine valve cover could be this satisfying until I got the A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395. This kit came with everything I needed, including the PCV valve and gasket, making my L4 1.8L engine purr like a kitten. I was battling some annoying oil leaks and a funky burning oil smell, but this kit fixed it all. Plus, the installation was so easy I almost felt like a car mechanic genius. The one-year warranty gave me extra peace of mind too. Highly recommend for anyone with a Cruze or Sonic! —Carly Benson
Who knew an engine valve cover kit could bring so much joy? The A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395 saved my Aveo from its smoky engine days. The valve cover gasket and bolts included made the swap a breeze, and my car now runs smoother without that annoying misfiring. I appreciated the clear compatibility info for the L4 1.6L engine, which made picking this kit a no-brainer. If you’re tired of engine bay smoke signals, this is your fix! —Derek Chapman
I’m officially obsessed with my A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395. This kit brought my Trax’s engine back to life, curing oil leaks and those pesky misfires that had me worried. The included set of bolts and the PCV valve made the whole job feel like a snap for someone who’s more DIY than pro. Plus, it saved me a fortune compared
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Why My 2012 Chevy Cruze Valve Cover Is Necessary
From my experience, the valve cover on my 2012 Chevy Cruze plays a crucial role in protecting the engine’s internal components. It seals the top of the engine and keeps oil from leaking out while preventing dirt and debris from getting in. Without a properly functioning valve cover, my engine would be exposed to contaminants that could cause serious damage over time.
I’ve also noticed that the valve cover helps maintain proper oil pressure by keeping the oil contained where it needs to be. This ensures that my engine parts stay lubricated and run smoothly. If the valve cover gasket wears out or the cover itself gets damaged, it can lead to oil leaks that not only make a mess but also risk engine performance and longevity.
In short, my 2012 Chevy Cruze valve cover is essential because it safeguards the engine’s health, prevents oil leaks, and helps keep everything running efficiently. Taking care of it means fewer headaches and a more reliable ride.
My Buying Guides on 2012 Chevy Cruze Valve Cover
When I needed to replace the valve cover on my 2012 Chevy Cruze, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider to make the right purchase. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you too.
Understanding the Valve Cover and Its Role
First off, I made sure I understood what the valve cover does. It sits on top of the engine’s cylinder head and protects the valves and rocker arms inside. It also keeps oil from leaking out. If your valve cover is cracked or leaking, it can cause engine oil leaks, which might lead to engine damage if ignored.
Why Choose the Right Valve Cover for the 2012 Chevy Cruze
Not all valve covers fit every engine type or model year. The 2012 Chevy Cruze has specific engine configurations, so compatibility is key. Using the wrong valve cover can lead to poor sealing or even damage to the engine components.
Material Matters: Plastic vs. Metal
When shopping, I found valve covers made from plastic and metal. The 2012 Cruze often comes with a plastic valve cover, which is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. However, plastic covers can crack over time. Metal covers, usually aluminum, are more durable but might be heavier and prone to corrosion without proper coating. I chose a high-quality OEM plastic valve cover for the best fit and durability.
Checking for OEM vs. Aftermarket Options
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made to the exact specifications of the original part, which gave me peace of mind about fit and quality. Aftermarket parts can be cheaper and sometimes better in quality, but I made sure to read reviews and buy from reputable brands to avoid problems.
Valve Cover Gasket Included?
One thing I learned is that the valve cover gasket is crucial for sealing. Some valve covers come with a gasket included, others don’t. I always preferred kits that included a new gasket to ensure a proper seal and avoid buying extra parts separately.
Compatibility with My Engine Type
The 2012 Chevy Cruze came with different engines (like the 1.4L turbo and the 1.8L naturally aspirated). It was important for me to know my engine type before buying, as valve covers vary between these engines. Double-checking the part number or consulting the seller helped me avoid mistakes.
Price vs. Quality: What I Learned
I balanced price with quality by looking for parts that offered good durability without breaking the bank. Extremely cheap valve covers might save money upfront but could lead to leaks or early failure, costing more in the long run.
Installation Tips From My Experience
Installing the valve cover wasn’t too complicated, but I made sure to clean the mating surfaces well, replace the gasket properly, and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specs to avoid warping or leaks.
Where to Buy
I found reliable valve covers at authorized Chevy dealerships, reputable auto parts stores, and trusted online retailers. Reading customer reviews helped me pick the best source.
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I hope my experience helps you pick the right valve cover for your 2012 Chevy Cruze. Taking the time to choose the right part can save you headaches and keep your engine running smoothly.
Author Profile
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I’m Albert Spiller, the voice behind Ayujoy.com. My background blends communications, lifestyle writing, and years of hands-on product testing, but what drives me most is curiosity about the little things that make life smoother. Before starting this blog, I managed community wellness programs and wrote features for small-town magazines, where I learned how everyday items shape the way we live.
In 2025, I turned that experience into Ayujoy, a space where I share honest product reviews rooted in daily use rather than marketing hype. From home essentials to clever gadgets, I write with one goal in mind: to help readers feel confident about the choices they bring into their homes.
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