Positioning:
The 2012 Corvette GS represented a performance-oriented variant of the C6 generation, bridging the gap between the standard Corvette and the Z06.
Competitors:
Porsche 911 Carrera, BMW M3 Convertible, Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG, Nissan GT-R (in some performance metrics).
Performance Enhancements Gs:
Wider fenders, unique suspension tuning (often Magnetic Ride Control standard), specific wheel and tire package, distinct badging, larger brakes (often from Z06).
Convertible Aspect:
Power-operated soft top with a focus on aerodynamic refinement and driver enjoyment.
Primary Coverage:
Operation, maintenance, safety, and features of the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette GS Convertible
Specific Topics:
Introduction, driver and passenger safety, instruments and controls, comfort and convenience, operation tips, appearance care, unexpected situations, technical information, warranty, customer relations, entertainment systems, climate controls, lights, driver controls, locks and security, seating and safety restraints, driving, customer assistance, reporting safety defects (U.S.), cleaning, engine compartment, engine oil, battery, fuel information, air filter, part numbers, refill capacities, lubricant specifications, accessories, service information and specifications, maintenance information and specifications.
Estimated Pages:
Likely 300-400 pages (typical for OEM owner's manuals of this era and complexity)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, fuel, cooling, ignition, and exhaust systems; Transmission operation and fluid information.
Chassis:
Braking system overview, steering system overview, suspension system overview (specifics for GS model), wheel and tire information.
Electrical:
Instrument panel indicators and warnings, lighting controls, power features (windows, locks, mirrors), battery care, fuse locations (general), entertainment system operation, climate control operation.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system description, seat belt operation and adjustments, child seat installation, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), traction control, active handling (AH) system overview, anti-lock braking system (ABS) overview.
Comfort Convenience:
Convertible top operation, climate control functions (manual and automatic), seat adjustments, power features, keyless entry and start, cruise control, audio system controls, navigation system (if equipped).
Routine Maintenance:
Checking and adding engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid; Checking tire pressure; Inspecting air filter; Cleaning vehicle.
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, operating lights, wipers, power windows, convertible top, climate controls, infotainment system, cruise control.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and messages, basic steps for common issues (e.g., flat tire, dead battery).
Emergency Situations:
Information on what to do in case of a breakdown, accident, or other roadside emergencies.
Depth:
Consumer-focused, detailing operation and basic maintenance. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions, which are found in Service Manuals.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable if an official scan, allowing users to quickly find information.
Quality:
Identical to original factory manual; quality dependent on original source scan.
Type:
N/A (Digital PDF - Instant Download)
Type:
N/A (Digital PDF - Instant Download)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
6.2 Liters (376 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
4.06 in. x 3.62 in. (103.25 mm x 92 mm)
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
430 hp @ 5900 rpm (with standard exhaust) / 436 hp @ 5900 rpm (with optional performance exhaust)
Torque:
424 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm (with standard exhaust) / 428 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm (with optional performance exhaust)
Induction:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (meeting GM specification GM4718M or dexos1)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter change
Air Filter Part Number Example:
ACDelco A1575C (example, always verify with VIN)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual (Tremec TR6060)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Paddle-Shift Automatic (6L80)
Manual Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Clutch System
Automatic Features:
Driver Shift Control (DSC) with steering wheel paddle shifters, performance algorithm shifting.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GM Manual Transmission Fluid (P/N 88861800 or equivalent meeting DEXRON®-III H specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (P/N 88864356 or equivalent)
Length:
179.7 inches (4564 mm)
Width:
75.9 inches (1928 mm)
Height:
49.1 inches (1247 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.5 inches (2654 mm)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3,201 lbs (1,452 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 3,254 lbs (1,476 kg)
Weight Distribution:
Near 50/50 front/rear bias
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for coupe, convertible may vary slightly based on specific testing)
Traction Control:
Standard on all models
Electronic Stability Control:
Active Handling (AH) system, often integrated with traction control.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with large diameter ventilated discs; GS models often feature Z06 brakes.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
Standard, displays individual tire pressures.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point active shoulder belts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage and crumple zones.
System Name:
Chevrolet Infotainment System (likely base unit with optional navigation)
Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 playback, auxiliary input, available Bluetooth connectivity, available navigation system, available premium audio (Bose).
Features:
Traction Control, Active Handling (StabiliTrak), ABS, Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Monitor oil life system.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 45,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 100,000 miles (iridium type).
Coolant Flush:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles (using GM-specified coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for high-performance variants, check manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (same as brake fluid, if hydraulic clutch)
Common Issues:
Potential for occasional infotainment screen unresponsiveness, early dry-rotting of tire sidewalls (if stored improperly), minor trim fitment issues. Some owners report exhaust manifold leaks over time.
Convertible Top Maintenance:
Regular cleaning and conditioning of the fabric top, lubrication of pivot points.
Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.
C6 Generation:
The C6 generation (2005-2013) marked a significant evolution with improved aerodynamics, interior, and powertrain.
Gs Introduction:
The Grand Sport (GS) nameplate returned for the C6 generation in 2010, combining the styling and wider body of the Z06 with the LS3 engine and improved handling features.
Manufacturing Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
