2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport problems
The Chevrolet Captiva is a compact crossover SUV marketed by General Motors. The first generation was developed by GM Korea, based on the GM Theta platform and derived from the S3X concept car revealed in 2004. Released in 2006, it was sold internationally as Chevrolet Captiva, in Australia and New Zealand as Holden Captiva and in South Korea as Daewoo Winstorm until 2011, when the international name was adopted. The vehicle shares much its underpinnings with the similarly-styled Opel/Vauxhall Antara / second-generation Saturn Vue, with the Captiva offering optional third-row seating.
In 2018, Chevrolet ended production of the first-generation Captiva and began replacing it worldwide with the Equinox. The second-generation Captiva, which is a rebadged Baojun 530 produced in China by SAIC-GM-Wuling, was introduced in Colombia in November 2018 and Thailand in March 2019. The second-generation model is also offered in many Latin American markets, including Mexico since 2021.
First generation (C100, C140; 2006)
The Captiva is a front-wheel or all-wheel drive SUV; the engines were supplied by Holden in Australia, the Family II naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol or the Alloytec Holden V6 built in Australia, and later a 2.0-L turbo-diesel supplied by VM Motori in South Korea.
Designated C100 by Daewoo and CG in Holden's terminology, the Captiva was launched in 2006. Styling of the Captiva was inspired by the 2004 Chevrolet S3X concept car. The S3X concept was developed by GM Daewoo's design center in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon and is based on the GM Theta platform. It premiered at 2004 Paris Motor Show. Another concept car, by Daewoo, the Chevrolet T2X premiered at the 2005 Seoul Motor Show with its design was based on the S3X, using a shortened platform. The T2X is referred to as a sport utility coupe, accounting for its rear hinged doors, lack of conventional B-pillars, and shortened wheelbase—features that were first revealed on the "Daewoo Oto" (later renamed "Daewoo Scope") concept at the 2002 Seoul Motor Show. Production was slated for late 2006, but as of 2009 no further announcement has been made.
For the Captiva, the production version of the S3X, both five- or seven-seat configurations are available. Standard safety features include: antilock brakes, electronic stability control (ESC), front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and driver and front-passenger airbags. Side-curtain airbags are standard on higher luxury-level variants in some markets. In crash safety tests conducted by Euro NCAP, the Captiva was given a four out of five stars crash rating. The results from the test were helped by the use of high-strength steel used in the body shell which was designed to spread crash forces over distinct load channels, therefore ensuring the safety of the occupants within the safety cell. The vehicle's optional active all-wheel drive system is fully incorporated with the ESC and antilock braking systems, consequently improving car handling and control. When the vehicle detects a loss of traction, the all-wheel drive mode is activated automatically. In ordinary driving situations, only the vehicle's front wheels are used.
Social links
Common 2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport problems
The 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. The most-reported problem is with the ignition, where the key gets stuck in the ignition.
Another common problem with the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport is with the engine. There have been numerous complaints about excessive oil consumption, timing chain failure, engine running rough, and a faulty camshaft actuator sensor.
The electrical system has also been reported to have issues in the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport. The most common complaint in this category is with the battery, which seems to die more frequently and sooner than it should with this vehicle. There are also issues with the battery getting too hot, and alternator failure seems to happen a lot around 60,000 miles.
The interior accessories have also been reported to have issues in the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport. One common complaint is with the instrument panel, which has been reported to black out, and the power windows stopping to work.
The dashboard not working has also been reported as a common problem in the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport.
In summary, the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport has several common problems based on complaints from owners. These include issues with the ignition, engine, electrical system, interior accessories, and dashboard. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.
What is the most common problem with the Chevy Captiva?
Engine problems are numerous for the Captiva. There are issues reported for excessive oil consumption, timing chain failure, engine running rough, and a faulty camshaft actuator sensor. Another very common complaint that seems to happen primarily between 60,000 and 70,000 miles is the key getting stuck in the ignition.
How many miles does a 2012 Chevy Captiva last?
The estimated lifespan of a Chevrolet Captiva is 142,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
Are there any recalls on 2012 Chevy Captiva?
GENERAL MOTORS LLC (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA SPORT PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 26, 2012, THROUGH MAY 17, 2012. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PARK BRAKE PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO.
Are Chevy Captivas reliable?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 13% for the Chevrolet Captiva Sport, compared to an average of 11% for compact SUVs and 12% for all vehicle models.
2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: GENERAL MOTORS LLC (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA SPORT PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 26, 2012, THROUGH MAY 17, 2012. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PARK BRAKE PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, "LIGHT VEHICLE BRAKE SYSTEMS." THE PARK BRAKE CABLE MAY NOT BE FULLY SEATED IN ITS CONNECTOR AND MAY SEPARATE FROM THE CONNECTOR. IF THIS OCCURS, THE PARK BRAKE WILL BECOME INOPERATIVE AND WILL NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE.
- Consequence: IF THE VEHICLE IS ON AN UNEVEN SURFACE, THIS COULD RESULT IN UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT AND A CRASH.
- Remedy: GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND ENSURE THAT THE PARK BRAKE CABLES ARE CONNECTED AND SECURE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 27, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE CHEVROLET OWNER CENTER AT 1-866-694-6546.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:POWER STEERING FLUID
- Summary: GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 2, 2009, THROUGH APRIL 21, 2011. DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH THE TRANSMISSION IN MANUAL MODE AND IN FIRST GEAR CAUSES THE ENGINE AND POWER STEERING PUMP TO OPERATE AT HIGHER SPEED THAN IS TYPICAL. INCREASED PUMP SPEED GENERATES HEAT THAT IS TRANSFERRED TO THE POWER STEERING FLUID AND CAN RESULT IN POWER STEERING FLUID TEMPERATURES THAT APPROACH THE POWER STEERING PUMP RESERVOIRS MELTING POINT.
- Consequence: AFTER PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ELEVATED FLUID TEMPERATURES, THE RESERVOIR MAY LEAK. LEAKING FLUID, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER STEERING FLUID COOLER WITH AN IMPROVED VERSION, FREE OF CHARGE. AN ADVISORY LETTER TO CUSTOMERS, ALONG WITH INSTRUCTIONS, WILL BE MAILED IN JANUARY 2012. WHEN PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE, GM WILL SEND ANOTHER LETTER ASKING CUSTOMER TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLE TO A GM DEALER TO HAVE THE REPAIRS PERFORMED. GM ANTICIPATES PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN MARCH 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.
Negative 2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport car reviews
Positive 2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport car reviews
-
I stumbled upon this car and it surprisingly met all my needs without overwhelming technology. Plus, it's compatible with E-85 gas in Iowa and has Bluetooth! I'm absolutely captivated by it :) Let's touch base again in a year.
-
Overall, you have a great car! The only issue I've had is with the driver's side bottom left seat cover coming off. Other than that, it's fast, has fair MPG, and is really comfortable.
-
You'll love the Captiva! It's comfortable, stylish, and easy to maneuver.
-
Although I had a bad experience with a Hyundai Sport and was forced to look for a new car, I was fortunate enough to come across this SUV. From the heated seats to the rain-sensing windshield wipers, this car had all the bells and whistles that I loved. Despite experiencing some transmission issues within the first 4 months of ownership, I was able to rely on the dealership I purchased it from, who promptly fixed the issue under warranty. With 77K on the odometer and a 30-minute commute to work, I knew that the car would eventually start to show signs of wear and tear. Nonetheless, I still believe that this is a great SUV, despite its minor faults.
-
Hi there! I've had my car for 6 years now and it's been great. I've had no issues with it, just regular maintenance. It currently has 71,000 miles on it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport problems:
2012 Chevy Captiva PROBLEMS!!! - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
Aug 29, 2016 ... Captiva - 2012 Chevy Captiva PROBLEMS!!! - Wife's 2012 Chevy Captiva was great for the first few months we bought it.
2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next ...
What are the chevrolet captiva problems?
Apr 9, 2020 ... There are issues reported for excessive oil consumption, timing chain failure, engine running rough, and a faulty camshaft actuator sensor.
Chevrolet Captiva Sport Questions - Engine - CarGurus
Sep 8, 2018 ... I also had a 2012 Captiva that had "oil leak" problems. I kept up with every warning light, which was frequent, but the engine blew after ...
2012 Chevy Captiva Q&A: Common Problems, Oil Type & Value
Jan 25, 2019 ... I have a 2012 Chevy Captiva. The oil is leaking and I am a “poor” veteran college student. I took it in to local dealer - Answered by a ...
Other years of Chevrolet Captiva sport
Are you having problems with your 2012 Chevrolet Captiva sport?
Sean Gottlieb 2025-04-13
I purchased a Chevrolet Captiva Sport 2012 in December. Although it requires a piston job and has some parking brake issues, I am confident that these can be resolved. Unfortunately, the key is currently stuck in the ignition. While GM has been aware of this issue, they have not yet taken responsibility for it. Despite these challenges, I am committed to finding a solution and ensuring that the car is safe to drive. While I understand that this may not be the right choice for everyone, I believe that with the right repairs, this car can be a reliable and enjoyable vehicle.
Dave Flatley 2025-04-02
I purchased this vehicle used with around 42,000 miles on it. I traded in my beloved Jeep Liberty, but was thrilled to find an affordable SUV. Although the acceleration was a bit bothersome, my mechanic assured me that everything was in good condition. Running it on ECO Boost helped improve the acceleration. The average 22MPG was not the best, but it was manageable. I always had my oil changed regularly and maintenance done at the same place. I trust my mechanic, who has been taking care of my vehicles for many years. At 98,900 miles, I went in for an oil change before a weekend trip and asked them to listen to the ticking sound coming from the engine. Unfortunately, my mechanic informed me that the heads needed to be replaced. After only 3000 miles, the car had lost most of its oil! I asked if I could still drive it, and my mechanic said yes, but to keep an eye on the oil level and not go too far. Unfortunately, the car broke down on me just 150 miles later, right in the middle of a car wash! I managed to get it back to my mechanic, but the timing chain had jumped and the entire engine needed to be replaced. To make matters worse, the car only had 99,000 miles on it! GM, you really let me down. To add insult to injury, there are no 2.4L engines available for this car in the United States! I had to replace the crate engine with a remanufactured engine that cost me $5000, just for the engine! The car's retail value is only about $8500, so I am extremely disappointed. GM, you have failed me big time. I am done with your cars forever.
Gaetano Zboncak 2025-04-01
If you're interested in this vehicle, consider looking for a Saturn Vue with the 3.6 engine and lower mileage. The 3.0 engine in this vehicle is known to be underperforming and consume more gas. Additionally, the transmission shifts frequently and doesn't always seem to be in the right gear. Despite these issues, I find the comfort and compact size of the vehicle appealing. However, it's important to consider the performance before making a decision.
Maxine Davis 2024-11-28
The car was purchased used with 50,000 miles on it. After a few months, a light on the right rear went out. Despite removing all insulating foam, the light could not be accessed. Following a recall, the dealer informed us that the bumper had to be removed to access the light. Upon doing so, we discovered that the wire was bad. The recall also reset the cruise control to work at 1 mph increments instead of 2, but this only lasted a short time before returning to its previous state. Additionally, the shifter locked in park, which required us to disconnect the battery and leave the hood up until it was fixed. This took three attempts, but luckily a mechanic friend was able to fix it in just five minutes, and we never experienced any more lock-ups. Unfortunately, at 104,500 miles, the engine dropped a valve and was ruined. While we enjoyed the ride, size, and handling of the car, we cannot recommend it due to the numerous issues we experienced. We feel disappointed as we expected it to run for 2-300,000 miles and many more years.
Stan Watsica 2024-08-18
My car reaches a 5-6 RPM easily when accelerating, but unfortunately, it wouldn't even beat a snail in a race. I get an average MPG of 21, and I drive about 90% on the interstate. I have brought the vehicle into dealerships for inspection more than once, but they say nothing is wrong. Although it shifts hard, idles hard, and sounds like a 1992 vehicle, when it is really a 2012, I am hopeful that the dealership can help me resolve these issues. This was my third Chevrolet vehicle, and I can say that I have had a less than satisfactory experience. I hope that Chevrolet can improve their vehicles in the future. Thank you for your time.