2012 Chevrolet Corvette
Introduction
The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is the sixth generation of the iconic American sports car. It is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces 430 horsepower and 424 lb-ft of torque. The Corvette is available with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. It is praised for its sleek design, powerful engine, and agile handling. However, some owners have reported issues with various components of the vehicle.
Engine
6.2L V8 Engine
- Active Fuel Management System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine runs rough, stalls, or experiences reduced power
- Solution: Replace affected components (e.g., lifters, camshaft)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 14V180000
- Valve Spring Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, has no power, or produces excessive smoke
- Solution: Replace affected valve springs and retainers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 15V223000
Transmission
Six-Speed Manual Transmission
- No Issues Found
Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Shift Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts hard, hesitates, or slips
- Solution: Replace affected shift solenoid(s)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises while driving, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace affected control arm bushings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced handling, bouncy ride, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace affected shock absorbers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery loses charge quickly, difficulty starting the vehicle
- Solution: Diagnose and repair cause of battery drain (e.g., faulty alternator, parasitic draw)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Leakage
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the vehicle through the sunroof
- Solution: Replace or repair sunroof seals
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Convertible Top Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Convertible top cannot open or close properly
- Solution: Replace or repair affected components (e.g., lift motor, switch)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 13V386000
Interior
- Dashboard Squeaks or Rattles
- Description/Symptoms: Annoying noises coming from the dashboard while driving
- Solution: Locate and tighten loose components or apply sound-dampening material
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car with a proven track record. However, like all vehicles, it has some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most common issues reported by owners include engine misfires, transmission shifting problems, suspension noise, and electrical problems. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are not widespread and should not deter prospective buyers from considering this iconic vehicle.