🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Spark Year: 2012 Codes Platform: GM Gamma II 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Subcompact hatchback, positioned as an affordable and economical urban vehicle. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, Kia Rio. Key Features Usp: Compact size for city maneuverability, fuel efficiency, affordable entry price, surprisingly practical interior for its class. Manual Value Value Proposition: Provides technicians and DIY enthusiasts with the authoritative, dealer-level information needed for accurate and efficient maintenance and repair, avoiding generic advice. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Page Count Pages: Extensive (Specific count not provided but implied to be comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Likely digital (PDF) or professionally bound printed copy, consistent with dealer technician use. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine control systems (ECM/PCM). Transmission: Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnosis, and fluid specifications. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive system, CV axles, differential. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, ABS, EBD, brake component inspection and replacement, bleeding procedures. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment specifications. Electrical: 12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, body electrical, instrument cluster, infotainment, wiring diagrams. Body: Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, interior trim, climate control system (HVAC), airbags. Diagnosis: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, troubleshooting flowcharts. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, tire rotation, battery service. Repair: Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, fuel injectors), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension strut replacement, power steering pump replacement, body panel repair. Troubleshooting: System-specific diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting. Specifications: Torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, diagnostic parameter ranges. Technical Depth Depth: Vehicle-specific, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls, mirroring dealer technician resources. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Type: Likely PDF for digital version, highly searchable and printable. Printed version would be professionally bound. Print Quality Quality: High resolution images, clear diagrams, and easily readable text. Professional print quality for physical copies. Binding Type Binding: If printed: Professional binding (e.g., spiral bound, perfect bound) for durability in a workshop environment. Paper Type Paper: If printed: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop use (e.g., coated stock to resist grease and dirt). ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: LF5 (GM) Displacement: 1.2 L (1249 cc) Cylinders: 3 (Inline) Configuration: DOHC, 12-valve Performance Horsepower: Approx. 85 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: Approx. 80 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Injection: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Cooling System Type: Pressurized liquid cooling system Lubrication Oil Type: SAE 5W-30, API SN certified (Refer to manual for exact GM specifications like dexos1). Emission Control System: Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors (O2S), EVAP system. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (with manual shift mode on some trims) Features Transmission Fluid Manual: Dexron VI (Automatic Transmission Fluid - ATF) Transmission Fluid Manual Gearbox: GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid, viscosity dependent on climate (e.g., 75W-80 or 75W-90). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 157.1 inches (3990 mm) Width: Approx. 63.4 inches (1610 mm) Height: Approx. 59.4 inches (1510 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 97.8 inches (2485 mm) Cargo Cargo Volume Seats Up: Approx. 17.7 cubic feet (501 Liters) Cargo Volume Seats Down: Approx. 37.2 cubic feet (1054 Liters) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2275 - 2360 lbs (1032 - 1070 kg) depending on transmission and trim. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to vehicle's compliance plate or manual for exact GVWR. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Overall: 4-Star Overall (as per NHTSA ratings for the 2012 model year, variations exist). Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Standard Traction Control System (TCS) Stability Control: Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Brake Assist: Available/Standard (EBA - Electronic Brake-force Distribution) Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, front-side airbags, side-curtain airbags. Seat Belts: 3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front seats. Child Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment System Name: Chevrolet MyLink (available on higher trims) Features: Touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Auxiliary inputs, available navigation. Driver Assistance Features: Rear parking assist sensors (optional), cruise control. Connectivity Phone Integration: Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific driving conditions. Air Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Manual will provide precise intervals. Spark Plug Replacement: Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Iridium) and replacement interval (often around 100,000 miles). Coolant Flush Interval: First change at 5 years or 100,000...
Subcompact hatchback, positioned as an affordable and economical urban vehicle.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, Kia Rio.
Key Features
Usp:
Compact size for city maneuverability, fuel efficiency, affordable entry price, surprisingly practical interior for its class.
Manual Value
Value Proposition:
Provides technicians and DIY enthusiasts with the authoritative, dealer-level information needed for accurate and efficient maintenance and repair, avoiding generic advice.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Page Count
Pages:
Extensive (Specific count not provided but implied to be comprehensive)
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Likely digital (PDF) or professionally bound printed copy, consistent with dealer technician use.
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine control systems (ECM/PCM).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnosis, and fluid specifications.
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Manual will provide precise intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Iridium) and replacement interval (often around 100,000 miles).
Coolant Flush Interval:
First change at 5 years or 100,000 miles, then every 3 years or 50,000 miles. Always verify with manual.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
GM typically recommends checking fluid level and condition, replacement intervals vary but often around 60,000-100,000 miles under normal conditions. Consult manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN (GM dexos1 recommended)
Coolant:
GM-specified orange propylene glycol based coolant (e.g., Dex-Cool compatible)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify specific type in manual)
Known Issues
Common Complaints:
Minor electrical gremlins, early wear on certain suspension components in high-mileage vehicles, some reports of automatic transmission issues (less common than manual). These are general observations, and the manual will detail specific diagnostics and solutions.
Tire Specifications
Tire Size:
Commonly 185/55R15 (check owner's manual or door placard for exact size and load rating).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100 mm
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand:
Chevrolet, an American automotive division of General Motors (GM), with a long history dating back to 1911.
Model Evolution
Generation:
First Generation (introduced globally in 2009, North American debut for 2012 model year).
Platform Origin:
Based on GM's Gamma II platform, shared with models like the Opel Corsa and Buick Sail.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (GM Korea's Changwon plant), and other locations depending on regional assembly.
Sales Performance
Market Entry Usa:
2012
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Achieved 4-star safety rating from NHTSA, indicating a competent safety structure for its class.
Ratings
Fuel Economy Rating:
Generally considered highly fuel-efficient for its segment, with EPA estimates around 30 MPG city / 38 MPG highway for manual transmission models.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its model year.