2012 Chevrolet Avalanche problems
The Chevrolet Avalanche is a four-door, five- or six-passenger pickup truck that was manufactured by General Motors. The Avalanche was a hybrid between the Chevrolet Suburban SUV and the Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, sharing the chassis with the Suburban. Unlike a typical pickup truck where the bed is mounted separately from the cab on the frame, the bed of the Avalanche was integrated with the cab body. It also featured a "midgate" behind the second row of seats that could be folded down, with the seats, to create a longer bed area. The Avalanche was produced across two generations starting in 2001 and ending in 2013.
Breaking with a long-standing tradition, the Avalanche was not available as a GMC, but only as a Chevrolet. Instead, Cadillac would sell a re-badged Avalanche; however, the midgate design would be adapted for use on the GMC Envoy XUV and Hummer H2 SUT.
First generation (2001–2006)
The Avalanche was launched in September 2001 as a 2002 model on the GMT800 platform. First year Avalanches featured light gray plastic body cladding, intended to provide visual distinction from the Suburban/Yukon XL. The Avalanche also gave the public an advance look at the next generation of front fascia designs for the entire GM line. A full-length chrome strip splits each lamp assembly and the grille, with a gold Chevrolet "bow tie" in the center. The hood and fenders featured aggressive folds, in contrast to the softer designs seen on other models built on the GMT800 platform.
Avalanche was nominated for the North American SUV of the Year award and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 2002.
The Avalanche was originally marketed as being able to "change from an SUV to a super SUV." This was made possible by a plastic cover and an exclusive "midgate," called the Convert-a-Cab system by GM, which could open and close. The midgate was a divider behind the second row of seats that could be folded down, with the seats, to create a longer bed area, or folded up to make a larger cab area. A similar midgate was found on the Cadillac Escalade EXT (a rebadged Avalanche), Hummer H2 SUT, and GMC Envoy XUV.
The truck was offered as a half-ton 1500 series with a Vortec 5.3L V8 producing 285 hp (216 kW) or as a three-quarter-ton 2500 series with a Vortec 8.1L V8 with 340 hp (253 kW) and the 4L85-E four-speed transmission. The base layout is rear-wheel drive, but there is an available with selectable high/low four-wheel drive. Avalanche 2500 models from 2004–2006 were exclusively available with four-wheel drive.
For those who planned to go off-road in their Avalanche, a Z71 Off-Road package was available that added features such as off-road suspension, GM's AutoTrac full-time push-button four-wheel-drive system, all-terrain P265/70R17 white-lettered Goodyear tires, seventeen-inch alloy wheels, leather seating surfaces with waterproof accents, front dual power bucket seats, cloth door panel inserts, GM's OnStar telematics system, all-weather rubber floor mats, Chevrolet bowtie emblems embedded into the backrests of the seats (for 2002 models), dual-zone automatic climate controls with rear HVAC vents and remote controls, remote radio controls with headphone jacks for two pairs of headphones, a security system, gray-finished side running boards, power-adjustable, heated side-view mirrors, SRS side impact airbags. Aside from these details, a Z71 Off-Road decal on the rear side panels identified an Avalanche equipped with this package. Full leather seating surfaces were an available option, also removing the cloth door panel inserts, and also added heated front seats.
For those who preferred the styling of the Z71 Off-Road package but did not plan to take their Avalanche off-road, a Z66 Premium On-Road package was also available. The Z66 On-Road package featured all the equipment that the Z71 Off-Road package offered but replaced the off-road suspension with sport on-road suspension and did not offer four-wheel drive. Aside from these details, a Z66 On-Road sticker on the rear side panels identified an Avalanche equipped with this package. As with the Z71 Off-Road package, full leather seating surfaces without the cloth accents were an available option, also removing the cloth door panel inserts, and also added heated front seats.
To further distinguish it from its Silverado siblings, the Avalanche was practically fully equipped and only came with bodyside cladding. The Avalanche included features such as 16-inch alloy wheels and tires (chromed steel on the 2500 model), an AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player and six speakers, cloth seating surfaces, front bench seat with power front driver's seat, power windows, power door locks, keyless entry, full instrumentation, dual front airbags, and air conditioning. Options included OnStar telematics system, cassette player, leather seating surfaces, front dual power bucket seats that could be heated, and side airbags for the front seats. A North Face Edition, in partnership with the North Face brand included limited exterior color options, a unique Ebony/Green leather interior, special exterior ornamentation and decals, white-faced gauges, OnStar telematics system, specially colored door panel inserts and speaker grilles, and more.
For 2003, the Avalanche was slightly changed. 2003 models featured a darker cladding, but GM's new president, Rick Wagoner, demanded the removal of this "unpopular" trim (as did certain elements of the public). From mid-year, Avalanche could be ordered without cladding. The uncladded model, known as "Without Body Hardware" (or its initialism "WBH," which is also an RPO code), and alternatively called "slicksides" by GM marketers, resembled the 2003–2005 Silverado 1500 in the front. A new interior—shared with the Tahoe and Suburban—added a new, larger steering wheel with subsequent audio, cruise, and speed controls; an optional six-speaker premium Bose sound system with external amplifier; a new gauge cluster with information center and memory for the front driver's seat, brake and accelerator pedals, and side-view mirror position (on some models); new radio head units, which included an AM/FM stereo with either a single-disc or six-disc CD/MP3 changer, Radio Data System, and optional XM Satellite Radio; standard OnStar telematics system with steering wheel controls; new warning chimes that played through the vehicle's audio system instead of through a separate speaker behind the dashboard; and newly available 17-inch alloy wheels and tires. Optional features included rear audio controls with headphone jacks and a rear DVD entertainment system by Panasonic with wireless headphones. The WBH option was only available in the 1500 series.
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Common 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche problems
The Chevrolet Avalanche 1500, produced in 2012, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. This article will explore these issues in detail, providing valuable information for current or potential Avalanche 1500 owners.
- 4WD Transfer Case Position Sensor/Selector Switch Failure
The 4WD transfer case position sensor or selector switch is a critical component in the Avalanche 1500's drivetrain system. This part is responsible for controlling the vehicle's four-wheel-drive system, enabling it to handle various road conditions and terrains.
- Symptoms: The most common symptom of this failure is the inability to switch between two-wheel-drive (2WD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) modes. Additionally, the vehicle may display a warning light or error message related to the 4WD system.
- Causes: The primary cause of this issue is the failure of the 4WD transfer case position sensor or selector switch. Over time, these components can wear out, leading to malfunctions in the 4WD system.
- Solutions: To address this problem, the transfer case position sensor or selector switch may need to be replaced. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or dealership for this repair to ensure proper installation and calibration.
- Dashboard Cracking
Another common issue in the Avalanche 1500 is dashboard cracking. This problem affects the vehicle's interior aesthetics and can lead to further damage if not addressed.
- Symptoms: The most obvious symptom of dashboard cracking is visible cracks on the dashboard's surface, typically occurring in three spots.
- Causes: Dashboard cracking is primarily caused by exposure to sunlight and heat, which can lead to the plastic trim fading and developing cosmetic issues.
- Solutions: There are several methods to address dashboard cracking, including using a heat gun, plastic trim restorer, or even creamy peanut butter. These solutions can temporarily or permanently restore the dashboard's appearance, depending on the product's longevity.
- Throttle Body Failure
The throttle body is an essential component of the Avalanche 1500's air intake system, controlling the amount of air that flows into the engine. Failure of this part can lead to significant performance issues.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of throttle body failure include a check engine light with a P2135 trouble code and the engine entering reduced power mode.
- Causes: Throttle body failure is often caused by the failure of sensors attached to the throttle body's electronic motor. Over time, these sensors can wear out, leading to malfunctions in the throttle body.
- Solutions: To resolve this issue, the throttle body may need to be replaced. It is crucial to check the wiring and connector as well, as they can also contribute to the problem.
- EVAP System Problems
The EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) system is responsible for containing and preventing fuel vapors from being released into the atmosphere. In the Avalanche 1500, this system has been known to cause problems.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of EVAP system problems include a check engine light, rough idling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Causes: EVAP system problems are often caused by issues with the gas cap, EVAP purge valve, or vent valve.
- Solutions: To address EVAP system problems, it is recommended to start by checking the gas cap for loose or cracked components. If the issue persists, the EVAP purge valve and vent valve should be inspected and repaired or replaced as necessary.
- Fading Plastic Trim
The Avalanche 1500's plastic trim, particularly on the exterior, can fade over time due to exposure to sunlight and heat.
- Symptoms: The most apparent symptom of fading plastic trim is a discolored, chalky appearance.
- Causes: Fading plastic trim is primarily caused by exposure to sunlight and heat, which can lead to the plastic trim developing cosmetic issues.
- Solutions: Several solutions are available to address fading plastic trim, including using a heat gun, plastic trim restorer, or even creamy peanut butter. These methods can temporarily or permanently restore the plastic trim's appearance, depending on the product's longevity.
In conclusion, the Chevrolet Avalanche 1500, produced in 2012, has several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include 4WD transfer case position sensor/selector switch failure, dashboard cracking, throttle body failure, EVAP system problems, and fading plastic trim. By understanding these problems and their solutions, current or potential Avalanche 1500 owners can make informed decisions about maintaining and repairing their vehicles.
Do Chevy Avalanches have transmission problems?
Delayed, shuddering or is extremely harsh 1-2 shift
The symptoms of one of the more common Chevrolet Avalanche transmission problems are described above, and they can become very unpleasant. The problem has do with faulty 4L60E accumulators, which are designed to act like a sort of shock absorber between shifts.
What are the flaws of the Chevy Avalanche?
The issues that arose with the Chevy Avalanche are items like interior accessory troubles, transmission failure, and excessive oil consumption, among other things. We'll talk more about these Chevy Avalanche years to avoid later so you can get a better idea of which model will work best for you.
What were the best years for the Chevy Avalanche?
There are several excellent choices from the Chevy Avalanche. We recommend the 2006, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013 versions.
How long do Chevy Avalanches last?
The Chevy Avalanche Could Last 250,000 Miles, Study Finds.
What are the flaws of the Chevy Avalanche?
The issues that arose with the Chevy Avalanche are items like interior accessory troubles, transmission failure, and excessive oil consumption, among other things. We'll talk more about these Chevy Avalanche years to avoid later so you can get a better idea of which model will work best for you.
Do Chevy Avalanches have transmission problems?
Delayed, shuddering or is extremely harsh 1-2 shift
The symptoms of one of the more common Chevrolet Avalanche transmission problems are described above, and they can become very unpleasant. The problem has do with faulty 4L60E accumulators, which are designed to act like a sort of shock absorber between shifts.
What is the most reliable year of the Chevy Avalanche?
There are several excellent choices from the Chevy Avalanche. We recommend the 2006, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013 versions.
How reliable is the Avalanche?
The Chevrolet Avalanche Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 14 for fullsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $700 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency of repairs is average, but when issues do arise, they are more likely to be severe than with other models.
2012 Chevrolet Avalanche car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Avalanche problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche
The NHTSA has received 52 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicles.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-04
- VIN: 3GNTKGE73CG
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rear control arms were rusted out and fell off the frame. Additionally with that happening the rear drive shaft was pulled out from transmission and could cause a vehicle to flip. Upon further investigation body frame was extremely rusted for a truck this age. 85450 mes on it.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-10
- VIN: 3GNMCGE01CG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The vehicle is displaying error messages Reduced Engine Power, Service Stabilitrak, Service Traction Control. It also has the related service indicator lights for the Stabilitrak, the Traction Control, and the Check Engine Light is on. There is a service bulletin for this issue that only addresses the 2008-2011 model years, my vehicle is a 2012 and thus not included in the current bulletin and should be added to the covered vehicle list. #11-06-04-007B : Diagnosis and Repair - Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Illuminated, Reduced Power Message Displayed, DTC P2135 Set - (April 16, 2012)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-05
- VIN: 3GNTKGE73CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: There is a problem with GM vehicles developing cracked dashboards including my own. The cracks are happening around/above the instrument cluster and more importantly, around the airbag. I am concerned that the defected dashboard would cause some sort of airbag puncture if it were deployed causing serious injury. Should someone get killed or seriously injured before this matter is taken into consideration. I own a 2012 Chevy Avalanche. I have developed the same cracks just as so many other GM vehicle owners.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-02
- VIN: 3GNTKFE71CG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V054000 (Air Bags) however, the VIN was updated and now displayed that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The contact mentioned that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair. The failure recurred. The vehicle then was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the air bag needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was informed that a senior adviser would reach out him for further assistance however, no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 171,000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-21
- VIN: 3GNTKGE76CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TRAILER BRAKE WARNING IS SHOWING ON DASH. NOTED THERE IS A RECALL BULLETIN #14515B ISSUED RELATING TO THIS ISSUE AND NOT SURE WHY MY SERIAL NUMBER IS NOT FOUND IN THIS RECALL?
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-01
- VIN: 3GNTKGE77CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SEVERELY CRACKED DASHBOARD. THIS HAPPENED BOTH WHEN STATIONARY AND MOVING. PURCHASED THIS TRUCK JUST A FEW WEEKS AGO. HAD CRACKED DASHBOARD. PREVIOUS OWNER SAID IT HAD BEEN THAT WAY FOR YEARS. FIGURED IT WOULD NOT COST MUCH TO FIX/REPLACE. TOOK IT TO BODY SHOP THIS MORNING. NO WAY THEIR PRICE IS WITHIN MY BUDGET. CRACK CAUSES CONSTANT RATTLING AND IS EXTREMELY ANNOYING. FRIENDS HAVE LOOKED AT THE TRUCK SINCE I BOUGHT IT AND ARE REALLY IMPRESSED WITH ALL THE ADVANTAGES IT HAS TO OFFER. HOWEVER THE LOOK ON THEIR FACES WHEN THEY SEE THE DASHBOARD MAKES ME WISH I HAD NEVER PURCHASED THIS TRUCK. I WOULD LOVE TO SAY I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS TRUCK TO OTHERS WHO ARE PURCHASING A USED VEHICLE BUT THAT WOULD BE A LIE. SOMETIMES IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT CAN CHANGE A PERSONS WHOLE OUTLOOK AND THIS IS A BIGGIE. YOU DROPPED THE ON THIS. NOT ONLY IS IT A COSMETIC DEFECT BUT I CAN SEE A LOT OF SAFETY ISSUES ALSO. WISH I HAD NEVER PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-11
- VIN: 3GNTKGE72CG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT ONE OF MY DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS IS BURNED OUT. I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO INSPECT THE LIGHTS BECAUSE THEY ONLY COME ON IF THE TRANSMISSION IS NOT IN PARK. I CALLED DEALER TO FIND OUT IF THERE IS ANY WAY TO HAVE THEM COME ON WITHOUT THE TRANSMISSION IN GEAR. THE DEALER SAID TO SET THE PARKING BRAKE, PUT THE TRANSMISSION IN GEAR, AND GET OUT TO LOOK AT THE LIGHTS (OR HAVE A SECOND PERSON LOOK AT THEM, WHICH IS NOT PRACTICAL FOR ME). THIS SOUNDS LIKE A DANGEROUS PRACTICE. THERE SHOULD BE A BETTER WAY TO DO THIS. MY OLD 2007 AVALANCHE WOULD HAVE THE DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS ON WHEN IN PARK.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-01
- VIN: 3GNTKFE72CG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY 2012 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE 5.3L ENGINE HAS STARTED A OIL CONSUMPTION LOSS. THERE WAS A SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED OCT. 30TH 2013 TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. IT DOES NOT FIX THE PROBLEM! WHAT I'VE READ IS THAT WHERE THE CYLINDERS DEACTIVATE TO HELP FUEL ECONOMY AFTER TIME THOSE PISTONS GET DAMAGED FROM NOT HAVING FUEL OR FIRE ON THEM AND ITDAMAGES PISTONS AND CAUSES OIL CONSUMPTION. IN THE PAST FEW DAYS I HAVE FOUND OUT THAT THERE ARE 5 PEOPLE I KNOW WITH THE SAME ISSUE. LOOKING ON LINE THERE APPEARS TO BE CLASS ACTION LAW SUITS ALL ACROSS THE COUNTRY ON THIS ISSUE. GM/CHEVROLET KNOW THEY HAVE A PROBLEM BUT REFUSE TO TAKE CARE OF THIS PROBLEM. THERE IS NO RECALL ON THIS AND I'M SURE NEVER WILL BE BECAUSE IT HAPPENS WHEN THE ENGINES REACH HIGHER MILEAGE. I HAVE ALL MY MAINTENANCE RECORDS ON MY TRUCK AND HAD NO INTENTION OF TRADING IT, BUT NOW THE MOTOR WILL HAVE TO BE REBUILT OR REPLACE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-10
- VIN: 3GNTKFE7XCG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MULTILPLE CRACKS IN DASHBOARD, KEPT IN GARAGE
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-07
- VIN: 3GNTKFE73CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MULTIPLE CRACKS IN DASH (INSTRUMENT PANEL). HAD ONE CRACK WHEN PURCHASED THE AVALANCHE USED. 2ND CRACK APPEARED ONE MONTH AGO. FIRST ONE IS THE FRONT LEFT CORNER OF THE AIRBAG. 2ND ONE IS OVER THE GAUGE CLUSTER.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-01
- VIN: 3GNMCGE04CG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: REAR END STARTED MAKING A CLUNK NOISE DURING THE TIME ONE STEPS ON GAS TO MOVE THE TRUCK. ALSO REAR END NOW MAKES A HOLLING NOISE WHEN MOVING.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-02
- VIN: 3GNTKGE73CG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SERVICE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYING ON. WAS TOLD WE NEED A NEW AIRBAG AND CONNECTOR. AIRBAG HAS NEVER BEEN DEPLOYED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-09
- VIN: 3GNMCFE05CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASHBOARD CRACKED IN SEVERAL PLACES
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-20
- VIN: 3GNMCFE05CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY DASHBOARD HAS BEEN GETTING CRACKS IN IT FOR YEARS AND I AM AFRAID THAT IT WILL EFFECT THE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT IF I EVER HAVE AN ACCIDENT. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT GM NEEDS TO ADDRESS. ALSO I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLES BREAKING AND COMING OFF. AS OF THIS MOMENT I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER GM VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY DON'T STAND BEHIND IT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-05
- VIN: 3GNMCGE00CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASH HAS CRACKED IN TWO PLACES NEAR THE PASSENGER AIR BAG AND ABOVE THE INSTRUMENT HOUSING. CHECKING ONLINE FORUMS IDENTIFIES THAT THIS A COMMON ISSUE WITH CHEVROLET DASHES. THIS CREATES A SAFETY HAZARD IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION AS THESE PIECES COULD BECOME PROJECTILES. CHEVROLET SHOULD STEP UP AND FIX THIS ISSUE!!
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-06
- VIN: 3GNMCFE05CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASH HAS CRACKED IN 2 PLACES NEAR THE PASSENGER AIR BAG AND IN ONE PLACE ABOVE THE INSTRUMENT HOUSING. CHECKING ONLINE FORUMS IDENTIFIES THAT THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH CHEVROLET DASHES. THIS CREATES A SAFETY HAZARD IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION AS THESE PIECES COULD BECOME PROJECTILES. AT THIS POINT CHEVROLET IS NOT OFFERING TO FIX THE ISSUE.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-11
- VIN: 3GNTKGE79CG
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL ; CRACKED DASH
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-19
- VIN: 3GNTKGE76CG
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASHBOARD AROUND PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG IS CRACKED. IN MY OPINION THIS COULD AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE AIRBAG, OR EVEN TEAR IT UPON ACTIVATION.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-02
- VIN: 3GNTKGE78CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: GM VEHICLES ARE SYSTEMATICALLY MANUFACTURED AND DESIGNED IN A MANNER THAT MAKES THEM PRONE TO CRACK. THESE ARE NOT THE TYPE OF COSMETIC BLEMISHES THAT MAY BE CAUSED BY A CAR LEFT IN THE SUN FOR MANY YEARS. INSTEAD, THESE CRACKS ARE DEEPER, MORE SUBSTANTIAL, OCCUR TO VEHICLES STORED IN ALL MANNERS AND IN ALL ENVIRONMENTS, OCCUR DURING A SHORTER TIME PERIOD, AND OCCUR WITH A RELATIVELY UNIFORM LOCATION AND PRESENTATION. IN SHORT, THE DASHBOARDS ARE DEFECTIVE IN THAT THEY ARE CERTAIN TO EXHIBIT A LARGE, DISCERNIBLE CRACK TO THE DASHBOARD PANEL. THE CRACKING AROUND THE AIRBAG IS PARTICULARLY TROUBLING AS IT COULD INTERFERE WITH THE DEPLOYMENT OF PASSENGER AIRBAG. THE DASH IS MORE LIKELY TO SPLINTER IN UNPLANNED AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS DIRECTIONS DURING DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG. AS A RESULT OF THE CRACKED DASHBOARD PROBLEM, THE DASHBOARD PORTION IS MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO SHATTERING, WHICH CREATES THE POTENTIAL FOR BODILY HARM FROM SHRAPNEL DURING IMPACT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-01
- VIN: 3GNMCFE00CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CRACKED DASHBOARD BY THE AIRBAG AND GAUGES
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-01
- VIN: 3GNTKGE73CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE DASH IS CRACKING ALL OVER AND NEXT TO THE AIR BAD. I THINK IT IS A SAFETY PROBLEM AND SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE. IF THE AIRBAG DEPLOYS IT WOULD SEND PIECES ALL OVER. THANKS
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-15
- VIN: 3GNMCFE08CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY DASHBOARD HAS TWO CRACKS THAT JUST APPEARED, ONE OF THE CRACKS IS RIGHT WHERE THE PASSENGER AIRBAG IS. MY VEHICLE HAS 76000 MILES IM BEING TOLD THAT THIS IS NOT COVER UNDER THE WARRANTY, I'VE DONE SOME RESEARCH AND THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MAKE AND MODEL OF VEHICLE BUT YET GM IS REFUSING TO ISSUE A RECALL, EVEN THOUGHT THE AIRBAG IS BEING COMPROMISED , MY VEHICLE IS PARKED IN A GARAGE, I KEEP IT IN EXCELLENT SHAPE BECAUSE I ENTER IT IN CAR SHOWS , I'M HOPING THAT ALL THESE COMPLAINTS ARE BEING TAKEN SERIOUS, AND GM ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED BY A AIRBAG THAT GETS INFLATED AND BECAUSE THE DASHBOARD IS CRACKED IT GETS INBEDDED IN SOMEONES FACE OR HEAD, OR IT CAUSES SOMEONE TO LOOSE AN EYE, LIKE I STATED, THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ON THIS ISSUE AND NO ONE HAS DONE ANYTHING ABOUT IT. I'M SERIOUSLY CONSIDERING CONTACTING A LAWYER ABOUT THIS MATTER. IT'S A SERIOUS MATTER , BUT GM IS TREATING IT LIKE IT'S NOT, PUTTING PEOPLES LIFE IN DANGER.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-02
- VIN: 3GNMCGE04CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I AM ORIGINAL OWNER AND THE DASH HAS CRACKED AND I AM WORRIED ON A SIR BAG DEPLOYMENT THAT THE BAG WILL BE TORN. LOOKING INTO THE ISSUE THERE ARE A LOT OF WORRIED ABOUT SAFETY ISSUES.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-07
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASH BOARD CRACKED
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-13
- VIN: 3GNTKGE78CG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CRACKED DASH ABOVE INSTRUMENT PANEL. CRACK BEGAN DURING NORMAL ON-ROAD DRIVING.
2012 Chevrolet Avalanche recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP, and VI or "Zone A." Additionally GM is recalling certain 2011-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL and 2011-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2010-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL and 2010-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 25, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed to 40 VIN owners on May 11, 2021. A second owner notification letter was mailed to all other owners on January 24, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328800.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2012 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 22, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 11, 2021. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328770.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado HD, Silverado LD, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra LD, Sierra HD, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the ignition lock actuator may bind, making turning the key difficult or causing the ignition to get stuck in the "Start" position.
- Consequence: If stuck in the "Start" position, the ignition may suddenly snap back into the "Accessory" position, causing a loss of engine, steering, and braking power, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. If the vehicle is in a crash, the air bags may not deploy, increasing the risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the ignition lock housing, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on February 12, 2015. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), or 1-800-462-8782 (GMC). GM's number for this recall is 14696 for the original equipment, and 14912 for the service replacement parts.
Negative 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
Positive 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
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This is my fourth Avalanche. The first one I ordered after seeing it at an Auto Show here in Atlanta. I traded it for a 2003 Orange one and then traded that for a black Z66 that I kept for over 11 years. I put over 305,000 miles on it and loved every moment, but I was due for an upgrade. So, I looked at a number of different types of vehicles. I even test drove a Tesla, which I loved but could not afford and was not suited for my type of driving. I found my 2012 at the dealer (Day's Chevrolet) where I purchased all of my other Avalanches. It belonged to the finance manager with 45,000 miles on it. I knew it was well maintained and looked as if it was brand new. This 2012 is the best of all the Avalanches I've owned. The ride, transmission, fit and finish are all better. I hope this helps. I'm very disappointed that Chevy stopped production. It was not because people did not love the truck, it was because of the government.
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I recently purchased this AV and have been using it for a couple of weeks now. So far, I am pleased with its performance. While I previously owned a Ford F-150 King Ranch with a 5.4 engine that had better mileage and more power, I decided to switch to the Chevy due to its comfortable ride and drive. As someone who does a lot of driving, I found the Ford to be quite uncomfortable on long hauls. Although the Ford's navigation system is superior to Chevy's, I am still satisfied with my purchase and really like the Chevy. I have only driven 1800 miles so far, but I am confident that it will continue to meet my expectations.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share that my truck has been incredibly reliable for over 4 years. Unfortunately, it was recently totalled in a head-on collision, but I'm grateful to say that I walked away unharmed. I'm currently in the market for a new truck and would love any recommendations you might have. Thanks so much!
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This is my 2nd avalanche. I have owned a 2001 Dodge Ram, a 2004 Ford F150, and a 2006 Avlanche. However, this one is waaayyy better than all of them. I have not experienced any issues with this truck so far, unlike the 2006 which had some electrical problems. The interior and exterior are much better, and the suspension and engine are much smoother. Overall, I think this is an excellent truck.
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I have owned three Avalanches, including my current 2009 LT2-Z71. Compared to the '05 Z71, the ride is stiffer, but it's still a great choice if you don't plan on going off-road. The vehicle is much quieter than the '05 and has plenty of legroom. The interior redesign is luxurious, but I do miss being able to put my hat on the dashboard and have it stay put. Handling is very good with little to no body roll. In my opinion, the Avalanche is still the greatest and most versatile vehicle on the road today. I own five cars, but the Avalanche is always my first choice to drive. The quality is first class, the cabin is A-#1, and durability is never an issue. If you're looking for a large vehicle, I highly recommend putting this one at the top of your list.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche problems:
2012 Chevy Avalanche worth buying? : r/Chevy
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Other years of Chevrolet Avalanche
Are you having problems with your 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche?
Ransom Deckow 2024-07-10
Paid for LTZ 4WD model 4 years ago. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the car, including folding mirrors that stopped working almost immediately, cruise control that randomly goes out (especially during colder months), all 4 door handles that needed to be worked on (very cheaply made), lumbar support that has stopped functioning properly, small oil leak & radio/AC buttons peeling and cracking. While I am disappointed with my experience, I appreciate the opportunity to provide feedback to Chevy and hope that they can improve their products in the future.
Richard Lubowitz 2024-01-15
I have taken excellent care of my truck, ensuring that all required maintenance is done on time. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the engine and electronics in the past, which were promptly fixed by the dealer. However, I have recently been informed that the current engine may need to be replaced, and I am disappointed that this may come at my expense. Despite these challenges, I have enjoyed driving my truck for over 125,000 miles. While I have had some issues with GM trucks in the past, I am considering exploring other options such as Toyota.