2012 Chevrolet Express Pasajeros

The 2012 Chevrolet Express Pasajeros is a full-size passenger van known for its reliability, spacious interior, and robust towing capacity. Available engine options include a 4.3L V6 (276 hp and 294 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (310 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.0L V8 (324 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options are primarily the 4L60E 4-speed automatic or the 6L80E 6-speed automatic depending on engine choice. Owners often praise the Express for its practicality and cargo space, while common complaints revolve around fuel economy, outdated interior features, and ride quality.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from various points on the engine, including the oil pan gasket, valve cover gaskets, and rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal. Diagnosis with UV dye can pinpoint the source.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+ depending on the leak’s location.
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, especially when cold. Can lead to misfires and reduced power. Often affects cylinders controlled by the AFM system.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed lifters. Some owners choose to disable AFM to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to fouled spark plugs and catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Possible causes include worn piston rings or valve stem seals. Repair options range from replacing these components to a complete engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the cause and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the oil pan gasket or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears, or the transmission slipping out of gear, especially at higher mileage.
  • Solution: Often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement. Valve body issues can also cause similar symptoms and may be repaired separately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

6L80E 6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shudder or vibration felt during light acceleration, typically around 40-60 mph.
  • Solution: A fluid flush with a specific friction modifier can sometimes resolve the issue. In more severe cases, torque converter replacement is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, particularly when loaded. Can also cause a rough ride and reduced load capacity.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rods
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering play, clunking noises from the front end, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to operate, or operating intermittently. Affects one or more doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light is illuminated on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels and around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Cutting out the rust and welding in new metal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the backing board and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replacing or re-gluing the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Chevrolet Express Pasajeros, while generally reliable, does suffer from some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 5.3L V8 AFM system and oil consumption, can be costly. Transmission issues, especially with the 4L60E, are also a concern. Suspension and electrical problems are generally less severe but can still require attention. Rust can be a significant issue in certain climates. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common problems and consider the potential repair costs before purchasing.