What are the most common problems with the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

Approach with caution; the 2012 Caprice has a below-average reliability verdict, largely due to unintended engine shutdown risks.

How many recalls does the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice have?

The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice currently has 4 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Approach with caution; the 2012 Caprice has a below-average reliability verdict, largely due to unintended engine shutdown risks. Four safety recalls were issued, focusing on the ignition system, transmission linkage, and seat belts. Verify completion of these campaigns. A high volume of 752 TSBs suggests potential for various, less severe, or intermittent issues that warrant thorough inspection. The vehicle is RWD, offering V6 or V8 engine options with a 6-speed automatic transmission. NHTSA safety ratings are not available for this model year. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice.

2012 Chevrolet Caprice Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Approach with caution; the 2012 Caprice has a below-average reliability verdict, largely due to unintended engine shutdown risks.
Four safety recalls were issued, focusing on the ignition system, transmission linkage, and seat belts. Verify completion of these campaigns.
A high volume of 752 TSBs suggests potential for various, less severe, or intermittent issues that warrant thorough inspection.
The vehicle is RWD, offering V6 or V8 engine options with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

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Overview

2012 Chevrolet Caprice

The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, often found in police or detective trims, offers a rear-wheel-drive platform with V6 or V8 power. While it boasts a substantial original MSRP range of $30,920 - $31,745, its used market appeal is tempered by a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and four safety recalls. These recalls address critical systems like the ignition, transmission linkage, and seat belts, indicating potential underlying quality concerns. The absence of formal owner complaints is noted, but the high TSB volume suggests issues that may not have escalated to that level.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address unintended engine shutdown due to key displacement. While remedies exist, driver interaction can still pose a risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$700 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower: 301–355HP
Torque: 265–384 lb–ftLB-FT

Fuel Efficiency

15-24 mpg

Published range

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing rear-wheel-drive dynamics and V8 power over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Chevrolet Caprice Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity: 5
Horsepower: 301-355 hp
Torque: 265-384 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Drivetrain: RWD
Body Style: Chassis Cab
MSRP Range: $30,920 - $31,745

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Most Common Issues

1. Ignition System Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Automatic Transmission Linkage Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

4 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice for daily use?

Practicality score is 7.4/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 493 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 7.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Ignition System (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

MSRP range is $30,920 - $31,745.

What engine is in the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

Engine specs list V6 / V8. Output is 301-355 hp • 265-384 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, transmission is 6-speed automatic. The paired drivetrain is RWD.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, fuel economy range is 15-24 mpg.

How many people fit in a 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice, drivetrain is RWD. Transmission is 6-speed automatic.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice?

Alternative listed in this guide: 2012 Dodge Charger.