2012 Chevrolet Spark

The 2012 Chevrolet Spark is a subcompact hatchback known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. It was offered with a 1.2L inline-4 engine producing approximately 84 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally like its maneuverability and ease of parking in urban environments. Common dislikes include its limited power, especially at highway speeds, and its basic interior features.

Engine

1.2L Inline-4 Engine

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating, often with codes related to cylinder misfires.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the root cause of the misfire is critical, often requiring compression testing, spark plug, coil pack and/or fuel injector inspection, or valve adjustment. Depending on the cause, replacement of ignition coil packs, fuel injectors, or performing a valve adjustment may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component that needs replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination with codes P0420 or P0421, indicating low catalytic converter efficiency. Reduced engine performance and potential failure to pass emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jarring shifts between gears, especially when upshifting or downshifting.
  • Solution: Could be due to low transmission fluid, or a failing or dirty transmission filter. Perform a transmission fluid flush and replace the filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and nose diving during braking.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for all four struts/shocks, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle is slow to start, or unable to start due to dead battery, often after short periods of sitting.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic drain by testing all electrical components. Replace or repair as needed
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component that needs replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to roll up or down, often due to a faulty window motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to extend or retract, sometimes failing to lock properly in the event of a sudden stop.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seatbelt assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per seatbelt.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle is easily broken and rendered useless.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ depending on if you replace it yourself or take it to a mechanic.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Chevrolet Spark, while economical, can present owners with several common issues. Engine misfires and catalytic converter failures can be costly to address. Suspension wear is also common, and electrical glitches like battery drains and power window failures can occur. While not all Sparks will experience these problems, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and inspect the vehicle carefully before purchasing. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues can range from relatively minor to more substantial repairs, making pre-purchase inspection and preventative maintenance crucial.