2012 Chevrolet Express problems
The Chevrolet Express (also known as the GMC Savana) is a series of full-size vans produced by General Motors since 1996. The successor to the Chevrolet G-series van, the Express is produced in passenger and cargo variants. Alongside the standard van body, the line is offered as a cutaway van chassis; the latter vehicle is a chassis cab variant developed for commercial-grade applications, including ambulances, buses, motorhomes, and small trucks.
In production for a single generation since 1995, over 2.5 million examples of the Express and the Savana have been produced. One of the longest-produced designs in American automotive history, the Express/Savana are rivaled only by the Jeep Wagoneer and Dodge Ram Van for longevity.
Since 1995, General Motors has assembled the Express and Savana at its Wentzville Assembly facility (Wentzville, Missouri). Also, since 2017, GM has sourced commercial cutaway-chassis production from Navistar through its Springfield Assembly Plant (Springfield, Ohio).
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Common 2012 Chevrolet Express problems
The 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 is a popular choice for those who need a reliable and spacious vehicle for their business or personal use. However, like any other vehicle, it is not immune to certain problems. Here are some common issues that 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 owners have reported, along with their causes and potential solutions:
- Check Engine Light: The check engine light can come on for several reasons, including a bad or failing catalytic converter, worn-out spark plugs or spark plug wires, and issues with aftermarket items such as alarms or exhaust systems. A steady check engine light usually indicates a less serious problem, while a flashing light means that the engine is in serious trouble and requires immediate attention.
- Oil Consumption: The 5.3L Vortec 5300 engine used in the 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 has been reported to have multiple design flaws that can lead to excessive oil consumption. This can cause problems such as soiled spark plugs, bent pushrods, and timing chain wear.
- Power Window Switch: More than 200,000 Express and GMC Savana vans, including the 2012 model, have been affected by a problem with the power window switches. Liquid can enter the switch and cause corrosion, leading to high electrical resistance. This can cause the switch to overheat, smoke, melt, and potentially cause a fire.
- Transmission Problems: Some 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 owners have reported transmission failure and slipping. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including low transmission fluid levels, worn-out clutch plates, and faulty solenoids.
- Recall Issues: The 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 has been subject to several recalls, including issues with the batteries, power window switches, and transmission. It is essential to check for any recalls related to your vehicle and have them addressed promptly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.
In summary, the 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 is a reliable and capable vehicle, but like any other vehicle, it is not immune to certain problems. By staying aware of these common issues and addressing them promptly, you can ensure that your Express 1500 remains a reliable and safe vehicle for years to come.
How long do Chevy Express engines last?
If you have a 4.3 V6 250,000 miles would be good. If you have a 4.8L, 5.3L or 6.0L V8 all are LS based engines. Those engines if cared for properly 300,000 is not uncommon. If you drive it like you stole it all the time you will be lucky to make 150,000 miles.
Are Chevy Express vans reliable?
The Chevrolet Express 1500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $963 which means it has poor ownership costs.
What is the gas mileage on a 2012 Chevy Express van?
Based on data from 10 vehicles, 339 fuel-ups and 105,767 miles of driving, the 2012 Chevrolet Express 2500 gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.29 with a 0.21 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 27 outliers (7.38%) removed.
How many miles does a Chevy Express get?
Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 20 MPG, offering 620 miles of range out of the 31 gallon tank. Gas costs are similar to other vans, at $369 per month. Value 8/10 – The 2019 Chevrolet Express is cheaper than a lot of other full size vans with reasonable depreciation rates, making it an attractive value.
Are Chevy Express vans reliable?
The Chevrolet Express 1500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $963 which means it has poor ownership costs.
How long do Chevy Express engines last?
If you have a 4.3 V6 250,000 miles would be good. If you have a 4.8L, 5.3L or 6.0L V8 all are LS based engines. Those engines if cared for properly 300,000 is not uncommon. If you drive it like you stole it all the time you will be lucky to make 150,000 miles.
What is the fuel economy of a 2012 Chevrolet Express?
Based on data from 10 vehicles, 334 fuel-ups and 104,317 miles of driving, the 2012 Chevrolet Express 2500 gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.26 with a 0.21 MPG margin of error.
What engines are in the Chevy Express?
6.6L V8. Max trailering weight of up to 9,600 lbs.
2012 Chevrolet Express complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Chevrolet Express.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2012 Chevrolet Express recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2012 Chevrolet Express.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD, 2009 GMC Topkick 5000, 6000, 7000 and 8000 Series and Isuzu F Series, and 2009-2018 Chevrolet Express, and GMC Savana vehicles, equipped with certain Plastic-Handle Fire Extinguishers or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
- Consequence: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, instructing them to contact Kidde to get a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began June 11, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638. GM's number for this recall is 18146.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chevrolet Express compressed natural gas (CNG)vehicles manufactured September 10, 2010, to April 28, 2014, and GMC Savana CNG vehicles manufactured May 23, 2011, to April 21, 2014. The affected vehicles may leak natural gas from the CNG high pressure regulator.
- Consequence: A natural gas leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire or explosion.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure regulator, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2013. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 14321.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans manufactured January 27, 2009, through March 7, 2014 with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds and less and equipped with front passenger air bags. In the affected vehicles, during a frontal impact below the air bag deployment threshold, if an unbelted front passenger's head hits the instrument panel above where the passenger air bag is located, the panel may not sufficiently absorb the impact. As such, these vehicles fail to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash below the air bag deployment threshold, an unbelted front passenger seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will modify the passenger instrument panel free of charge. Notices to the owners of the heavy duty vans were mailed on April 28, 2014. The recall began on May 19, 2014. Chevrolet owners may call 1-800-630-2438. GMC owners may call 1-866-996-9463. GM's number for this recall is 14082.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) and IMPCO Automotive Division of IMPCO Technologies, Inc. (IMPCO) are recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana Cargo vans that have a compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system installed as original equipment by IMPCO. The fuel systems, manufactured February 14, 2011, through February 20, 2013, have a fuel shut-off solenoid connector to the CNG tank that may corrode and form a short.
- Consequence: A short at the connector may cause overheating, resulting in an increased risk of fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners and GM dealers/fleets will perform the remedy which will include replacing the solenoid assemblies and fuel pump fuses and adjusting the wiring routing. The recall began on August 5, 2013. GM's number for this recall is 13139. Impco's number for this recall is FA13GM001. Owner's may contact GM Fleet Action Center at 1-800-353-3867.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC
- Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT PITMAN
- Summary: GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND SUBURBAN VEHICLES, AND GMC SAVANA AND YUKON XL HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES. THE STEERING GEAR PITMAN SHAFT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY HARDENED AND COULD FRACTURE.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS, A LOSS OF STEERING COULD RESULT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING GEAR AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE STEERING GEAR PITMAN SHAFT. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON APRIL 4, 2012.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 2, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 17, 2011. THE SECOND STAGE OF THE DUAL-STAGE AIR BAG WILL NOT INFLATE IN A SEVERE FRONTAL IMPACT. ACCORDINGLY, THE AIR BAGS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
- Consequence: AN IMPROPERLY DEPLOYED AIR BAG WILL INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 29, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GMC AT 1-800-462-8782 OR CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020.
Negative 2012 Chevrolet Express car reviews
Positive 2012 Chevrolet Express car reviews
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We recently acquired our second Chevy Express Conversion Van with an Explore conversion package. It's a fantastic vehicle! The special Platinum Paint and six-spoke alloy 18
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We were in search of a vehicle that could tow a trailer and accommodate 7 passengers. Unfortunately, most SUVs we looked at had a back seat that was difficult to access, similar to a 2-door car. On the other hand, small vans were not suitable for towing a trailer. After much consideration, we found that conversion vans were the perfect fit for our needs. It's an absolute pleasure to drive and tow with this vehicle, as it feels like the trailer isn't even there. The van has a lot of power, even on hills, and provides a smooth ride while handling like a smaller vehicle. Although we test drove the Ford, we found it to be nice, but it was hard to forget that we were driving a truck, and we couldn't get the 4th door. The gas mileage is not as bad as we initially feared, as we get 13mpg with the trailer, 19 on the open road, and 14/15 every day.
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This van is a pleasure to drive! Despite being warned that it would handle like a tractor trailer, I found it to be quite manageable. It has great visibility, handles well, and has an impressive turning radius for its size. The only downside is that it doesn't fit in my garage, but I'm willing to make that sacrifice for such a great vehicle.
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This van rides and handles great. I'm glad to hear that you bought a new 2004 Express Low top Chariot conversion and find it very comfortable on trips or around town. It's impressive that the average highway mpg is over 20, which is not bad for a big van. I agree with your suggestion that they replace the cheap plastic armrest on the door with a padded material. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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I used to be a die-hard Honda fan, believing that Honda had the most reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles in the US. Over the course of 20 years, I purchased 9 new Honda and Acura cars, ranging from Accord to Civic to CRV to Pilot to Odyssey. However, since owning a Chevy Express 2500 (Explorer conversion w/ high top roof), I am not so sure if Honda really is the best. I must admit, when it comes to a big car, GM still reigns supreme. (After all, a little 30mpg Civic isn't for everyone - some of us have no other option.) The Express gets 16-17 MPG @ 75MPH, even when it's overloaded with 7 adults and tons of luggage. If I did the same with the Odyssey, it would only get 20MPG, and there would barely be any room left to breathe.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Chevrolet Express problems:
2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Top 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 Problems · Check Engine Light and Misfire Due to Stuck Fuel Injectors. 73 people have reported this · Fuel Level Sensor Failure.
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Apr 3, 2019 ... Hello, my name is John and I have been reading about the common problems with these Chevy express vans with the spider fuel injection sytems ...
Q&A: 2001 Chevy Express 1500 - Common Issues & Solutions
May 6, 2013 ... 2001 Chevy van Express 1500, 4.3 v6 engine. Parked for 3 years, just replace fuel pump and drain bad gas from tank.
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Van Problems. Chevy Express 1500 (Page 1) ... Registered: 2012-06-21; Posts: 1,608. Topic ... common problem when showing P1404 on a new EGR valve.
Other years of Chevrolet Express
Are you having problems with your 2012 Chevrolet Express?
Dereck Reichel 2025-03-01
I really appreciate the design of the van, especially the exterior look and the rear doors with hinges that are designed to maximize access and storage. However, I am sorry to hear that you have had some issues with reliability. It sounds like you have had to replace the fuel pump ($600), the water pump, and one of the side windows fell out ($1000). I understand that the mechanic at the Kingman AZ dealership told you that there is a design flaw in the fuel pump which manifests itself primarily in higher elevation, hotter climates. He also mentioned that Chevy knows about it but won't replace them. It's unfortunate that you had to deal with these repairs while the vehicle had less than 75,000 miles. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
Kyler Wintheiser 2024-11-11
We bought the van because we outgrew our Grand Caravan, and we absolutely love the fact that we can tow anything we want. I've only owned it for three months, but I already love the room and power it provides.
Franco Sporer 2024-10-20
Hope you'll find this useful for both business and pleasure. I might add a few personal touches to make it even better!
Darrin Lehner 2024-09-07
It seems like GM could improve their MPG ratings. I've been getting around 15 MPG with no cargo and 12 MPG with 8000 GVW. Additionally, the split outside mirrors can be quite bothersome and take some getting used to. The plastic door panels clip in place and can sometimes pop out, causing the clips to break off. However, I have found that at times it can be difficult to see the driver info display due to the steering wheel. Overall, it's been a bit of a learning curve, but I'm still enjoying my vehicle.
Gregorio Botsford 2024-08-10
This is a fantastic van!