🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Spark

Year:

2012

Platform:

GM Gamma II

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact hatchback, positioned as an affordable and economical urban vehicle.

Competitors:

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

Usp:

Compact size for city maneuverability, fuel efficiency, affordable entry price, surprisingly practical interior for its class.

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:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Pages:

Extensive (Specific count not provided but implied to be comprehensive)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital (PDF) or professionally bound printed copy, consistent with dealer technician use.

📖 Manual Coverage

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.

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.

Depth:

Vehicle-specific, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls, mirroring dealer technician resources.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

Likely PDF for digital version, highly searchable and printable. Printed version would be professionally bound.

Quality:

High resolution images, clear diagrams, and easily readable text. Professional print quality for physical copies.

Binding:

If printed: Professional binding (e.g., spiral bound, perfect bound) for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper:

If printed: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop use (e.g., coated stock to resist grease and dirt).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LF5 (GM)

Displacement:

1.2 L (1249 cc)

Cylinders:

3 (Inline)

Configuration:

DOHC, 12-valve

Horsepower:

Approx. 85 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 80 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Injection:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API SN certified (Refer to manual for exact GM specifications like dexos1).

System:

Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors (O2S), EVAP system.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (with manual shift mode on some trims)

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

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 Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 17.7 cubic feet (501 Liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 37.2 cubic feet (1054 Liters)

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

NHTSA Overall:

4-Star Overall (as per NHTSA ratings for the 2012 model year, variations exist).

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)

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

System Name:

Chevrolet MyLink (available on higher trims)

Features:

Touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Auxiliary inputs, available navigation.

Features:

Rear parking assist sensors (optional), cruise control.

Phone Integration:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

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.

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)

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 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:

Chevrolet, an American automotive division of General Motors (GM), with a long history dating back to 1911.

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.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily South Korea (GM Korea's Changwon plant), and other locations depending on regional assembly.

Market Entry Usa:

2012

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Achieved 4-star safety rating from NHTSA, indicating a competent safety structure for its class.

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.

Emissions Standards:

Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its model year.