🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Avalanche

Year:

2012

Product Type:

Owner's Manual

Catalog Part Number:

89045977

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Chevrolet Avalanche for 2012 occupied a unique niche as a 'Sport Utility Truck' (SUT), blending the utility of a pickup truck with the comfort and features of an SUV. It was targeted at buyers needing versatile cargo and passenger capacity, particularly for recreational activities.

Competitive Analysis:

Primary competitor was the Cadillac Escalade EXT. Other related vehicles offering significant utility included large body-on-frame SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and traditional pickup trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, though none offered the unique midgate feature.

Key Features:

Midgate (Midgate Feature), unique to the Avalanche, allowed the rear cabin wall to fold down, extending the cargo bed length. Coil-over-shock rear suspension provided a more refined ride compared to traditional leaf springs. Available with a powerful V8 engine and four-wheel drive.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive owner's guide for the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche.

Page Count:

Approx. 500 pages (estimated based on typical GM manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual / User Guide

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Vehicle controls, instrument panel, driver information center, climate control, audio system, navigation (if equipped), power windows, locks, mirrors, seating, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts, ABS, StabiliTrak), lighting, wipers, tires, wheels, fuel system, engine operation, transmission operation, brakes, steering, suspension, towing, charging system, starting system, fuses, bulbs, maintenance, fluids, cleaning, vehicle care, emergency procedures, roadside assistance, warranty information.

Procedures Included:

Starting and operating the vehicle, adjusting seats and mirrors, using climate control, operating the audio and infotainment system, understanding warning lights and indicators, checking fluid levels, changing tires, jump-starting the battery, changing wiper blades, basic maintenance checks, towing procedures, emergency preparedness.

Technical Depth:

Owner-level information for operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

Professional quality, durable paper stock, clear legible text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Perfect Bound or Staple Bound

Paper Type:

High-quality, semi-gloss paper

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine:

6.2L V8 (L94 Ecotec3)

Horsepower:

403 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque:

417 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm

Engine Code:

L94

Fuel Induction:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane)

Fuel Capacity:

31.0 gallons (117.3 L)

Variable Valve Timing:

Yes (VVT)

Cylinder Deactivation:

Yes (Active Fuel Management - AFM)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Code:

6L80E

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Only 6L80E available for 2012)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled with overdrive, manual mode ('Tap Up/Tap Down' shifting).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 11.9 quarts (11.3 L) dry fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

222.0 inches (5639 mm)

Width:

79.1 inches (2009 mm)

Height:

77.5 inches (1969 mm)

Wheelbase:

130.0 inches (3302 mm)

Cargo Volume Bed With Midgate Up:

5.3 cubic feet (0.15 m³)

Cargo Volume Bed With Midgate Down:

4.9 feet long, 4.2 feet wide (approx. 7.5 ft³ usable bed length)

Max Cargo Volume Behind First Row:

137.4 cubic feet (3.89 m³)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 5,600 - 5,800 lbs (2540 - 2630 kg), depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

7,300 lbs (3311 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 8,200 lbs (3719 kg) with proper equipment and configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5 stars (2012 model, 2WD & 4WD)

IIHS Crash Test Ratings:

Good in front, side, and rear impacts (typical for models of this generation). Roof strength rating varies by year/trim.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control with Rollover Mitigation.

Passive Safety Features:

Frontal airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side-curtain airbags (for front and rear outboard occupants), three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH child seat anchors, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/auxiliary inputs. Navigation was often optional.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rear parking assist (optional), rearview camera (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB and auxiliary audio jacks.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Up to 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, based on oil life monitoring system. Consult manual for specific conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 45,000 miles (72,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Up to 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium tipped plugs

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic meeting GM spec. GM-LL A-025

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.0 quarts (5.7 L) with filter change

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346340 (DEX-COOL) - Orange Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant, extended life

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM P/N 89021183 (Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid)

Common Issues:

Possible issues include AFM lifter problems (ticking noise), exhaust manifold leaks, interior trim rattles, potential for water pump leaks, and electrical glitches related to infotainment or sensors. Tire wear can be uneven if alignment is not maintained.

Recall Information:

Owners should consult the NHTSA website or a Chevrolet dealer for any applicable recalls for the 2012 Avalanche.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet, founded in 1911, is an iconic American automotive brand known for a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to heavy-duty trucks. The Avalanche is part of its legacy of innovative and versatile vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The Chevrolet Avalanche debuted for the 2002 model year, based on the GMT800 platform shared with the Chevrolet Silverado/Suburban. The second generation (GMT900 platform) launched for 2007, featuring a more suburban-friendly styling, improved interior, and updated powertrains. The 2012 model represents the later part of this second generation, receiving minor updates.

Production Start Year:

2001 (for 2002 model year)

Production End Year:

2013

Manufacturing Plant:

Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2012 model year are limited, the Avalanche has historically been recognized for its unique utility and segment-defining design.

Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction ratings vary; typically strong in utility and powertrain, with mixed reviews on interior refinement compared to some competitors.