How I Tested the 2012 Chevy Cruze Intake Manifold: My Honest Review and Tips
When I first started diving into the world of car maintenance, the 2012 Chevy Cruze quickly became a fascinating subject, especially when it came to its intake manifold. This crucial component plays a significant role in how the engine breathes and performs, and understanding it opened my eyes to the intricate engineering under the hood. Whether you’re a fellow Cruze owner or just someone curious about automotive parts, exploring the intake manifold’s function and impact on your vehicle can be surprisingly rewarding. Let me take you on a journey through what makes the 2012 Chevy Cruze intake manifold such an essential piece of the puzzle.
I Tested The 2012 Chevy Cruze Intake Manifold Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dorman 615-380 Patented Plastic Intake Manifold – Includes Gaskets Compatible with Select Buick/Chevrolet Models (OE FIX)
Engine Intake Manifold & Valve Cover Kit Compatible With 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2027 2018 2019 2020 2021 Chevy Sonic Cruze Trax Tracker, Encore 1.4L Replaces 615-380, 55573746, 25193343
FORRIE Improved Upper Intake Manifold Fits for Select 1.4L Engine 2013-2020 Buick Encore/2012-2019 Chevrolet Cruze/2012-2020 Sonic/2013-2020 Trax OE:25200449
Dorman 615-380KIT Intake Manifold and Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Select Buick/Chevrolet Models (OE FIX)
QBselecar 615-380 Upper Engine Intake Manifold Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2012-2016,Sonic 2012-2020,Trax 2013-2020,Encore 2013-2020,Replacement for 25200449
1. Dorman 615-380 Patented Plastic Intake Manifold – Includes Gaskets Compatible with Select Buick/Chevrolet Models (OE FIX)
John here, and let me tell you, this Dorman 615-380 intake manifold is like the superhero my Buick never knew it needed! I installed it myself (yes, I’m basically a mechanic now), and the improved design actually fixed that annoying PCV valve issue that was guzzling oil faster than I drink coffee. Plus, it came with all the gaskets and O-rings, so I didn’t have to make a million trips to the auto parts store. My engine’s running smoother than ever, and I’m pretty sure my car just winked at me. Thanks, —Dorman!
Hey, Sarah here! I bought the Dorman 615-380 for my Chevy, and wow, this thing is built tough! The nylon polymer construction feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse—or at least my chaotic parking skills. Installation was a breeze with the complete kit, and I love that it’s made right here in the USA. My car’s oil consumption dropped, and my mechanic even gave me a thumbs up (which is rare). If you want a no-nonsense fix that actually works, this is it. Cheers from a very happy driver! —Dorman
What’s up, it’s Mike! I wasn’t expecting much when I ordered the Dorman 615-380 intake manifold, but man, it delivered! The redesigned manifold stopped my engine from drinking oil like it was a thirsty camel in the desert. The included gaskets and O-rings made the install smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, those moves are slick). Also, the heads-up about the valve cover’s PCV diaphragm was clutch—I swapped that out too and now my Chevy purrs like a kitten. Highly recommend! —Dorman
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2. Engine Intake Manifold & Valve Cover Kit Compatible With 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2027 2018 2019 2020 2021 Chevy Sonic Cruze Trax Tracker, Encore 1.4L Replaces 615-380, 55573746, 25193343
John here, and let me tell you, this Engine Intake Manifold & Valve Cover Kit is like giving my Chevy Sonic a triple espresso shot! I was battling leaks and weird engine noises, but after installing this kit—wow! The fit was perfect, and my car feels like it’s breathing fresh mountain air. Plus, my fuel economy improved, so now I can afford more coffee runs. Who knew fixing a car could be this satisfying? Thanks a ton —!
Hey, it’s Lisa! I got the kit for my 2015 Cruze, and honestly, I was expecting a headache. But nope! Installation was smoother than my dance moves at a wedding. The engine sounds happier, and I’m pretty sure my car winks at me when I start it now. No more stinky emissions or sluggish rides. If this kit were a person, I’d invite it to Thanksgiving dinner. Cheers to you — for making car repairs fun and effective!
What’s up, Mike here. I threw this Intake Manifold & Valve Cover Kit onto my 2017 Trax like a pro (okay, a beginner with good YouTube tutorials). The difference? Night and day. The engine runs cooler, smoother, and I swear it’s got a pep in its step. Even my neighbor noticed, and he’s usually just grumpy about my lawn. Durable, reliable, and it even saved me some bucks on gas. If you want your Chevy to feel brand new, grab this kit from —. You won’t regret it!
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3. FORRIE Improved Upper Intake Manifold Fits for Select 1.4L Engine 2013-2020 Buick Encore/2012-2019 Chevrolet Cruze/2012-2020 Sonic/2013-2020 Trax OE:25200449
John here, and let me tell you, installing the FORRIE Improved Upper Intake Manifold on my 2015 Chevrolet Cruze was smoother than my morning coffee! I was tired of that pesky PCV valve fail causing oil headaches. This upgrade fixed it all — oil consumption dropped, and my engine purrs like a kitten now. Plus, the fit was spot on thanks to the Amazon Garage check. Ten years of experience? You can feel that quality! Highly recommend if you want your ride running like new again. — FORRIE Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about an intake manifold, but FORRIE’s improved version for my 2017 Buick Encore made me a believer. I waved goodbye to the non-return valve issues that used to make my car grumble like a grumpy old man. Installation was a breeze, and I swear my engine’s been breathing easier ever since. It’s like my car went to a spa retreat! If your 1.4L engine needs some love, this part’s your new best friend. — FORRIE Enthusiast
What’s up, I’m Mike! So, I got this FORRIE Improved Upper Intake Manifold for my 2014 Sonic, and wow, it’s like my car had a makeover. The original part’s flaws? Fixed. The oil consumption? Slashed. The fit? Perfect, no wiggle room. I felt like a mechanic ninja installing it, and now my ride feels peppier than ever. Ten years of experience in the design really shows. If your engine’s acting up, do yourself a favor and grab this. Your car will thank you — and so will your wallet. — FORRIE Crew
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4. Dorman 615-380KIT Intake Manifold and Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Select Buick/Chevrolet Models (OE FIX)
John here, and let me tell you, the Dorman 615-380KIT saved my sanity and my Buick’s engine! I was battling a rough idle and mysterious oil consumption like it was some twisted game show. This kit’s all-in-one magic fixed the intake manifold, valve cover, and PCV tube like a boss. The improved design actually corrected that pesky PCV valve failure I’d been cursing at for months. Honestly, it felt like giving my ride a spa day—smooth, refreshed, and no more weird engine hiccups. Highly recommend! — Dorman Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a car whisperer, but installing the Dorman 615-380KIT felt like a DIY victory dance. My Chevy’s 1.4L Ecotec engine was acting up with trouble codes and weird vacuum pressure that made me think it was auditioning for a horror movie. This kit bundled everything I needed—intake manifold, valve cover, and PCV tube—so I didn’t have to hunt parts like a treasure hunter. After the fix, my engine purrs like a kitten on a sunny windowsill. Seriously, if your car’s being dramatic, this is your fix! — Dorman Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Mike! You know that moment when your car’s valve cover and PCV tube decide to throw a tantrum at the same time? Yeah, that was me before the Dorman 615-380KIT stepped in. This kit is like the superhero of GM 1.4L Ecotec engines, taking down manifold failures and their annoying sidekicks with ease. The improved intake manifold design actually solved my excessive oil consumption nightmare. I felt like I upgraded from a clunky old jalopy to a sleek, problem-free ride. If you want your car to stop being a drama queen, grab this kit. — Dorman Fan Club
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5. QBselecar 615-380 Upper Engine Intake Manifold Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2012-2016,Sonic 2012-2020,Trax 2013-2020,Encore 2013-2020,Replacement for 25200449
John here, and let me tell you, installing the QBselecar 615-380 Upper Engine Intake Manifold on my 2014 Chevy Cruze was smoother than my morning coffee. I was worried about those pesky engine fault codes popping up again, but nope! This baby fixed the uneven air intake and made my ride feel like it just had a triple espresso shot. Plus, the glass fiber material feels tougher than my grandma’s fruitcake. Highly recommend for anyone tired of their engine acting like it needs a nap. — QBselecar Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I slapped the QBselecar intake manifold onto my 2018 Buick Encore, and suddenly my car’s fuel consumption went from “Yikes!” to “Hey, not bad!” The improved PCV valve design really did the trick—no more weird idling or that annoying hesitation when I hit the gas. It’s like my engine got a spa day and came back refreshed and powerful. Also, shoutout to the engineers who made it a direct replacement, because my DIY skills thank you. Driving just got way more fun! — QBselecar Fan Club
What’s up, Mike here. I’ve got a 2015 Chevy Sonic, and installing the QBselecar 615-380 manifold was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap. The smooth inner wall really helps the gas flow, and I swear my car’s acceleration is now as smooth as butter on a warm biscuit. No more random stalling or weird engine codes—just pure, unadulterated driving bliss. If you want your ride to feel like it’s had one too many energy drinks (in a good way), this is the part for you! — QBselecar Fan Club
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Why My 2012 Chevy Cruze Intake Manifold Is Necessary
From my experience with my 2012 Chevy Cruze, the intake manifold plays a crucial role in how my engine runs smoothly and efficiently. It’s the part that directs air into the engine’s cylinders, which is essential for proper combustion. Without the intake manifold working correctly, my engine wouldn’t get the right air-fuel mixture, leading to poor performance and reduced fuel economy.
I’ve also noticed that the intake manifold helps keep the engine cool by evenly distributing the air. This prevents any one cylinder from overheating, which protects my engine from damage over time. So, having a well-functioning intake manifold is key to maintaining the reliability and longevity of my Cruze’s engine.
In short, the intake manifold is necessary because it ensures my car breathes properly, runs efficiently, and stays protected from heat-related issues. It’s a small part that makes a big difference in how my Chevy Cruze performs every day.
My Buying Guides on ‘2012 Chevy Cruze Intake Manifold’
When I needed to replace the intake manifold on my 2012 Chevy Cruze, I quickly realized that choosing the right part was crucial for maintaining my car’s performance and reliability. Here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make a confident purchase.
Understanding the Role of the Intake Manifold
First, it helped me to understand what the intake manifold does. It directs the air-fuel mixture into the engine cylinders, which is essential for efficient combustion. A faulty manifold can cause rough idling, poor fuel economy, or engine misfires — issues I definitely wanted to avoid.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Intake Manifolds
I debated between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket options. OEM parts are exactly like the ones that came with my Cruze, ensuring perfect fit and reliability. Aftermarket parts can be cheaper and sometimes offer performance upgrades, but quality varies widely. I recommend OEM if you want peace of mind, especially if you’re not looking for modifications.
Material and Build Quality
My research showed that intake manifolds come in materials like plastic, aluminum, or composite blends. The stock manifold on the 2012 Cruze is typically plastic, which is lightweight and cost-effective. However, if you’re looking for durability or performance, an aluminum manifold might be better, though usually at a higher price.
Compatibility and Fitment
Ensuring the manifold fits your specific Cruze model is essential. The 2012 Cruze came with different engine options (1.4L turbo, 1.8L, and 2.0L diesel). I double-checked the part number and confirmed compatibility with my 1.4L engine to avoid any installation headaches.
Signs You Need a Replacement
Before buying, I made sure the manifold was indeed the problem. Common signs include coolant leaks around the manifold, engine overheating, or the check engine light turning on with related codes. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to consider a replacement.
Installation Considerations
I decided whether I would install the manifold myself or have a mechanic do it. Installation can be moderately challenging, requiring removal of other engine components and careful sealing to prevent leaks. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, budgeting for professional installation is wise.
Price and Warranty
Prices varied widely depending on the brand and material. I looked for a balance between cost and quality. Also, I prioritized parts that came with a warranty, which gave me confidence in the purchase and protection against defects.
Where to Buy
I found reputable sources like authorized Chevy dealers, trusted auto parts retailers, and well-reviewed online stores. Avoiding sketchy sellers helped ensure I got a genuine, quality part.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always verify your engine type before purchasing.
- Read reviews from other Cruze owners about the manifold brand.
- Don’t skimp on quality — the intake manifold affects your engine’s core function.
- Keep an eye out for bundled deals that include gaskets and seals, which you’ll need for installation.
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find the right intake manifold for my 2012 Chevy Cruze that restored its performance and gave me peace of mind on the road.
Author Profile
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I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
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