The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a full size truck with a price range of $17,340 to $29,789. The Silverado 1500 series is a simple truck, has fewer problems than competitors, and is a great choice for buyers.
2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model year include minor exterior changes such as a new grille, and wheel designs.
- Reliability ratings are great according to J.D. Power, there are fewer problems than the 2011 model.
- Four engine choices are available, including an efficient V6 and three V8s.
- Fuel economy is excellent, tying for 2nd place out of 7 full size trucks tested, at a combined rating of up to 18 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are average for the class, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series ranks 9th out of 15 full size trucks, based on owner reviews. A combination of good V8 engine choices, a respectable towing capacity, and a nice interior help the Silverado 1500 series stand out.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Have?
The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series has fewer problems than some other full size trucks on the market from the same year. There are also less complaints from owners compared to the 2013 model.
Engine problems, including excessive oil consumption, are the most common issues. The consensus is the engines just consume more oil than some other trucks. Checking the oil regularly is a good idea to prevent damage to the engine.
A clunking noise from the transmission is another problem mentioned by owners. Replacing or reinforcing the torque converter clutch valve on the transmission solves the problem, costing about $160.
Dashboard cracks are another issue brought up by Silverado owners. As the dash expands and contracts in the heat cracks can develop. Replacing the entire dash costs about $1,000, or you can install a dash cover for around $70.
There are 4 recalls, which is better than other full size trucks from the same era. The recalls include the transfer pump, ignition lock actuator, and air bags. Most serious is the transfer pump since a failure causes the engine to stall.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 series is average-priced for a full size truck, with a range of $17,340 to $29,789, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $22,195 to $42,440. The Silverado holds value better than many other trucks, only losing about 25% of the original value over the first 5 years.
- Work Truck is the fleet-focused entry-level model with 17-inch steel wheels, vinyl seating, air conditioning, and a simple 4-speaker AM/FM stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input.LS is next in the lineup adding keyless entry, cloth seating, cruise control, satellite radio, and power mirrors..
- LT falls near the middle with 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded cloth seating, a lockable storage compartment, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a leather steering wheel with audio controls.
- LTZ is the flagship model and has 20-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, 10-way power driver’s seat, remote start, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium Bose stereo system.
How Long Will the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 series will last about 250,000 miles, the average life expectancy for a full size truck. Standard annual maintenance costs are affordable for the class. Repair Pal estimates the costs to be $682 per year.
It is super reliable and amazingly good on gas. I fortunately haven't had any problems yet out of this truck.
We have had no problems. It is extremely reliable. We live in Iowa, with extreme winters, and this pickup always starts!
I have not had any major problems with it. The most I have had to do is normal maintenance in the past 7 years.
From our usage it does not have any issues other than poor gas mileage. Other than that it is pretty reliable.
Yes I work in the oil field and it gets me up and down the highway with no problems at all. It's pretty good on the gas mileage as well.
We did have to replace the alternator. Replace the drivers door handle, . Change brake pads. . We hear a squeak in the windshield.
The truck is extremely reliable and we have not had one issue with it nor do we expect to any time soon.
It is always reliable and has never let me down I would buy it again if I needed a truck and am happy with it
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very basic on entry-level models, but improves a lot as you upgrade to higher-end versions.
- Standard technology includes a 4-speaker AM/FM stereo system with an AUX port.
- Upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and a premium Bose stereo system.
- Standard safety features include OnStar, anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, and air bags. Optional upgrades include parking sensors.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 series is better than a lot of other full size trucks on the market with the upgraded 6.2L V8. The large engine takes the truck from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.6 seconds. When properly equipped the maximum towing capacity is 10,700 pounds.
- The base engine is a 4.3L V6 which has 195 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.
- An upgraded 4.8L V8 is available and produces 302 horsepower and 305 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Another choice is the 5.3L V8 with 315 horsepower and 335 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The flagship engine is the 6.2L V8, which makes 403 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Silverado 1500?
The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series is a full size truck and similar in size to other half-ton trucks on the market like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. There are three cabin choices available including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door extended cab, and larger 4-door crew cab. Passenger room is tight in the back of the extended cab, but comfortable in the crew cab.
Three bed lengths are also available including a 5-foot-8-inch short bed, a 6-foot-6-inch standard bed, and an optional 8-foot long bed.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Compare to Other Trucks?
Ranking 9th out of 15 full size trucks on the market, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series is in the lower half of the class.
The highest rated half-ton truck is the more expensive Toyota Tundra. Where the Tundra stands out is with better reliability ratings, and a standard V8 engine. The Silverado is a more comfortable option, and has a higher towing capacity. Overall, the Tundra is a better choice for shoppers looking for a long-lasting truck.
A very close competitor is the more affordable Ford F-150. The F-150 has a higher maximum towing capacity, and more models offer a wider range of options for shoppers. Where the Silverado stands out is with lower ownership costs, and a more upscale interior. Overall, the two trucks are very similar to each other and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a Good Truck?
Yes, the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series is a good truck based on information including 290 verified owner reviews, and 18 government and automotive websites. Powerful V8 engine choices and an upscale interior for a truck help the Silverado stand out. Where the truck loses some points is with a weak base V6 engine, and excessive oil consumption across the lineup. Overall, the 2012 Silverado is a good option for shoppers looking for a capable and dependable truck.
Is 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 A Good Car?
It is super reliable and amazingly good on gas. I fortunately haven't had any problems yet out of this truck.
We have had no problems. It is extremely reliable. We live in Iowa, with extreme winters, and this pickup always starts!
I have not had any major problems with it. The most I have had to do is normal maintenance in the past 7 years.
From our usage it does not have any issues other than poor gas mileage. Other than that it is pretty reliable.
Yes I work in the oil field and it gets me up and down the highway with no problems at all. It's pretty good on the gas mileage as well.
We did have to replace the alternator. Replace the drivers door handle, . Change brake pads. . We hear a squeak in the windshield.
The truck is extremely reliable and we have not had one issue with it nor do we expect to any time soon.
It is always reliable and has never let me down I would buy it again if I needed a truck and am happy with it