2012 Chevrolet Express Cargo

The 2012 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van is a full-size workhorse known for its reliability, spacious cargo area, and robust build. It was available with several engine options including a 4.3L V6 (276 hp, 294 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (310 hp, 335 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.0L V8 (324 hp, 373 lb-ft of torque). It was also available with either a 4-speed automatic or 6-speed automatic transmission depending on the engine. Owners appreciate the van’s simple design, ease of maintenance, and its ability to haul heavy loads. Common complaints include mediocre fuel economy, a basic interior, and handling that is typical of a large van.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common concern, often originating from the valve cover gaskets or the rear main seal. Visible oil drips under the vehicle, low oil levels, and the smell of burning oil are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The AFM system, designed to improve fuel economy by deactivating cylinders, can lead to oil consumption, piston ring failure, and lifter failure. Symptoms include excessive oil consumption, rough idling, and engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty lifters and/or disabling the AFM system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil pressure sensor can fail, causing inaccurate readings on the dashboard or triggering a low oil pressure warning light, even when the oil level is adequate.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oil pressure sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$250
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

• Slipping and Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4L60E transmission is known to have issues with slipping between gears, hard shifting, and overall erratic behavior, especially at higher mileages. This is often due to wear on the internal clutch packs and solenoids.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn components or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6L80E)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Sagging Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs can sag over time, especially if the van is frequently used for heavy loads. This can lead to a reduced ride height, poor handling, and bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power door lock actuators can fail, causing the doors to not lock or unlock properly. This can affect one or more doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Chafing
  • Description/Symptoms: The wiring harness, particularly in the engine compartment, can chafe against other components due to vibration and movement. This can lead to short circuits, intermittent electrical problems, and sensor malfunctions.
  • Solution: Inspecting the wiring harness, repairing any damaged wires, and securing the harness to prevent further chafing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common problem on older Express vans, especially in areas that are exposed to salt and moisture. The rocker panels and wheel wells are particularly susceptible.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver and Passenger Seat Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The seats may wear down as the van ages and the cushions might fail.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the seat cushions and/or upholstery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Chevrolet Express Cargo, while generally reliable, is prone to certain issues related to its age and usage. Engine issues like AFM problems in the 5.3L V8 and oil leaks across engines can be costly to repair. The 4-speed transmission can also develop issues with slipping. Suspension and electrical issues are also common but generally less expensive to address. Overall, while some issues can be significant, thorough maintenance and inspection can help mitigate many of these problems.