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2012 Chevrolet Spark Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional reliability indicated by zero recalls and zero NHTSA complaints.
  • Compact dimensions are well-suited for city driving and easy parking.
  • Basic transportation focus means limited features and performance.
  • Lack of detailed EPA fuel economy data for this model year requires buyer investigation.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Chevrolet Spark

The 2012 Chevrolet Spark, a subcompact city car, enters the used market with a remarkably clean slate. Its appeal lies in its straightforward design and, based on available data, a strong indication of reliability. With no reported recalls or consumer complaints to NHTSA, this Spark appears to be a low-risk proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking basic transportation. Its compact size makes it ideal for urban environments, though its fuel economy figures for this model year are notably absent from EPA data.

Critical Failure Risk

Exceptional reliability indicated by zero recalls and zero NHTSA complaints.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
83 bHP
Torque
83 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
28-37 mpg combined
Published range
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

4.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

First-time car buyers seeking an affordable and dependable vehicle.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who require strong acceleration or highway performance.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Chevrolet Spark Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Petrol
Seating Capacity
4/5
Horsepower
83 bhp
Torque
83 lb-ft
Transmission
5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
Body Style
Hatchback

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

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 - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

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)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Chevrolet Spark reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Chevrolet Spark for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot, and limited seating. 5 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 170 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 9.3/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $150 - $300.

What is the MSRP range for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Base MSRP is $13,000.

What engine is in the 2012 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.2 litre. Output is 83 bhp • 83 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2012 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark, transmission is 5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD.

Does the 2012 Spark require Petrol gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Petrol.

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

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark, fuel economy range is 28-37 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2012 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark, seating capacity is 4/5.

What body style is the 2012 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chevrolet Spark, drivetrain is FWD. Transmission is 5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2012 Toyota Yaris.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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