2012 Chevrolet Caprice

Here is a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, separated by category and engine/transmission options, following your specified format. The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice was primarily sold as a police vehicle, leading to a somewhat different set of common issues compared to consumer vehicles. It came with two engine options: a 3.6L V6 with around 301 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.0L V8 with around 355 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the vehicle’s comfortable ride and spacious interior, while common complaints often revolve around fuel economy (especially with the V8), and some police-specific equipment issues.

Engine

3.6L V6 (LFX)

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling noise, especially on startup. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P0008, P0009, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0011, P0014, P000A, P000B and P0521 may be present. Rough idle, decreased performance, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, chain guides, and tensioners. Inspection of the camshaft phasers is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough Idle, Fuel Smell, Fuel Leakage
  • Solution: Replace high pressure fuel pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8 (L77)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often exceeding 1 quart per 1,000 miles. Blue smoke from the exhaust, fouled spark plugs, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: In some cases, a redesigned valve cover, deflectors, or PCV valve might help. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+ (depending on the severity and repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lifter Failure (AFM Related)
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough running condition, misfires, and potential engine damage. Often linked to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft. Some owners opt to disable the AFM system to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6L80E (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Slipping between gears, harsh shifting, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. Flushing the transmission fluid and inspecting for debris is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, cleaning and recalibrating the valve body can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shocks or springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the wheels, especially when turning.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per wheel.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain. This could involve checking the alternator, starter, and other electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (ABS, TPMS, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard, inaccurate readings, and potential system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per sensor (including labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or attempting to reseal it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the headlight type and repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Wear/Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or breaking of the center console, especially around the shifter area, due to police equipment mounting.
  • Solution: Replacing the center console.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Upholstery Rips/Tears
  • Description/Symptoms: Rips/Tears in the seat upholstery, often due to police equipment or heavy use.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat or reupholstering
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, particularly due to its primary use as a police vehicle, can exhibit specific issues related to high mileage and demanding operating conditions. The engine issues, such as timing chain problems on the V6 and oil consumption/lifter failure on the V8, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues like torque converter failure and valve body problems are also common. While the vehicle offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, potential buyers should be aware of these potential maintenance costs and thoroughly inspect any used Caprice before purchase. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely, so professional inspection and diagnosis are crucial.