🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Sonic

Year:

2012

Platform Code:

T300 (GM Gamma II)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact car (B-segment)

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, urban commuters.

Key Competitors:

Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio.

Design:

Distinctive styling for its segment, offering hatchback and sedan body styles.

Powertrain Options:

Fuel-efficient gasoline engines, available manual and automatic transmissions.

Safety:

Good safety ratings for its class, standard airbags and ABS.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Secondary Coverage:

Global markets with similar configurations

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (typical for OE service manuals, likely over 1500 pages in print equivalent)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download (via web browser access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, emissions control, engine control system (ECM), transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (front-wheel drive, CV joints)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering (hydraulic power steering), brakes (ABS, disc/drum configurations), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, infotainment, power windows/locks, climate control electrical, engine electrical, charging system, starting system, body control module (BCM), fuse and relay information

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, bumpers, seat systems, airbags, safety restraints

Maintenance:

Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures

Repair:

Component removal and installation, major overhaul procedures, sub-assembly repairs, sealant and gasket application

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic values, electrical system parameters

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Accessibility:

Web-browser based with internet connection required. Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet.

Resolution:

High resolution, licensed OE (Original Equipment) data, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Format:

Digital (software/online access)

Material:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

1.4L LUV (EcoTec)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

1398 cc (85.3 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

73.4 mm x 80.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.4:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder), Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Horsepower:

100 hp (75 kW) @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

98 lb-ft (133 Nm) @ 4200 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converter, Oxygen (O2) sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system

Acceleration 0 60 Mph:

Approx. 11.0-12.0 seconds (varies with transmission and body style)

Fuel Economy Est Mpg City:

25-29 MPG

Fuel Economy Est Mpg Highway:

34-37 MPG

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

6-speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive

Automatic Features:

Driver Shift Control (manual mode selection)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/VI or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) is often specified for manual transmissions in GM vehicles of this era for smooth shifting. Consult manual for specific GM part number.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron VI (GM Part Number 88861018 or 19319972 recommended)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 6.2 US quarts (5.9 liters) for a dry fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length Hatchback:

159.7 inches (4056 mm)

Length Sedan:

170.0 inches (4318 mm)

Width:

68.0 inches (1727 mm)

Height Hatchback:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Height Sedan:

56.7 inches (1440 mm)

Wheelbase:

99.4 inches (2525 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.5 inches (140 mm)

Cargo Volume Hatchback Seats Up:

19.7 cu ft (558 L)

Cargo Volume Hatchback Seats Down:

47.7 cu ft (1351 L)

Curb Weight Est:

2600-2800 lbs (1179-1270 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Est:

3600-3800 lbs (1633-1724 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

15-inch steel or alloy

Optional Wheel Size:

16-inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

195/65R15

Optional Tire Size:

205/55R16

Bolt Pattern:

5x105

Center Bore:

56.6 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (for 2012 model)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

IIHS Roof Strength Rating:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Airbags Front:

Standard front-seat airbags (driver and passenger)

Airbags Side:

Standard front-seat side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Standard roof-rail side-impact airbags (covering front and rear outboard occupants)

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system was optional on higher trims for 2012, featuring a touchscreen display.

Connectivity Options:

Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. USB port for device connection.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Backup Camera:

Optional rear backup camera integrated with the infotainment display.

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry and start.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or with oil changes.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 22,500 miles (36,000 km); replace as needed. Typically recommended every 45,000 miles (72,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km); replace as needed. Often recommended annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs (standard on 1.4L EcoTec).

Engine Oil Type Capacity:

SAE 5W-30, API SN certified. Capacity: 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (or equivalent Dex-Cool, Orange colored, extended life coolant). 50/50 mix with deionized water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (GM P/N 19299707 or equivalent)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Hydraulic Power Steering Fluid (specific GM specification, typically Dexron III/VI compatible or specific power steering fluid. Consult manual for exact specification and GM P/N)

Common Issues:

Occasional reports of engine oil leaks, particularly from the oil pan gasket or valve cover. Some instances of automatic transmission shifting issues or torque converter shudder. Potential for water pump or thermostat housing leaks over time. Body paint adhesion issues have been noted in some instances.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet History:

Founded in 1911, Chevrolet is an American automotive division of General Motors (GM), known for a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to performance trucks and sports cars.

Sonic Introduction:

The Chevrolet Sonic was introduced for the 2012 model year, replacing the Aveo. It was developed by GM Korea (formerly Daewoo) and is based on the GM Gamma II platform.

Sonic Generations:

First Generation (T300, 2012-2020). The 2012 model represents the initial introduction of the Sonic in North America.

Manufacturing Location:

Orion Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA (for North American market)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic received good ratings in IIHS crash tests, contributing to its positive safety perception in the subcompact segment.

Value Awards:

Often recognized for its value proposition, offering a good balance of features and price for its segment.