🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Cruze

Year:

2012

Generation:

1st Generation (J300)

Chassis Code:

J300

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze was positioned as a global compact sedan, aiming to compete with established players in the segment by offering a balance of European-inspired styling, fuel efficiency, and modern features. It represented Chevrolet's effort to revitalize its passenger car lineup.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, and Volkswagen Jetta. Its key selling points included its chassis dynamics (often praised for its European feel), available turbocharged engines, and comfortable interior for its class.

Key Features:

Sleek exterior styling, refined interior appointments, available turbocharged engines (1.4L ECOTEC), good fuel economy, and a focus on driving dynamics. The 2012 model year marked the first generation's introduction to many markets, establishing its platform and feature set.

Value Proposition:

Offers significant cost savings for vehicle owners by enabling DIY repairs and maintenance, empowering them to understand their vehicle better and reduce reliance on expensive dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z, including maintenance, engine, control system, mechanical, fuel service, emission control, intake/exhaust/cooling, lube, ignition/starting/charging, automatic transmission, clutch, manual transmission, transfer propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle, suspension, tire & wheel, brake control, brake, parking brake, steering column, power steering, air conditioning, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belt, engine immobilizer, cruise control, wiper & washer, door lock, meter/audio/visual, horn, windshield/glass/mirror, instrument panel, seat, engine hood/door, exterior & interior, electrical, multiplex/CAN communication.

Page Count:

Not specified, but described as comprehensive and exhaustive.

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Additional Description:

This is the exact same manual used by dealership technicians to maintain, service, diagnose, and repair the vehicle. It provides factory-highly detailed information.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical and electrical systems, powertrain control module (PCM) diagnostics, transmission operation and repair (automatic and manual), chassis systems including suspension, steering, brakes, and wheels, HVAC system, body electrical systems, safety systems (SRS, seat belts), security systems (immobilizer), comfort and convenience features, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) troubleshooting.

Electrical Systems:

Comprehensive wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, instrument cluster, audio system, HVAC controls, power accessories, engine control, transmission control, ABS, SRS, and body control modules (BCM).

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component inspection and replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints), steering rack and pinion service, power steering pump replacement (if hydraulic), wheel alignment specifications.

Procedures Included:

Complete step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, maintenance schedules, fluid and lubricant specifications, electrical wiring diagrams and schematics, component removal and installation, system troubleshooting, and component specifications.

Diagnostics Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-to-cause troubleshooting, and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) lookup and interpretation.

Engine Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, valve train component replacement, timing chain/belt replacement, oil pump service, and cooling system component replacement.

Transmission Repair Procedures:

Automatic transmission clutch pack replacement, valve body service, torque converter replacement, hydraulic system diagnostics. Manual transmission clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly/reassembly, and component inspection.

Body And Interior Repair:

Body panel alignment, door and window regulator repair, seat removal/installation, headliner replacement, dashboard disassembly, interior trim component replacement, and paint repair guidance.

Technical Depth:

Vehicle-specific, factory-level detail intended for dealership technicians, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhaul.

Torque Specifications:

Includes detailed torque specifications for all major fasteners and components (e.g., cylinder head bolts, wheel lug nuts, suspension components).

Diagnostic Tools:

Information is provided assuming the use of GM's diagnostic scan tools (e.g., Tech 2 or later equivalent) for accessing live data, performing bidirectional controls, and reading/clearing DTCs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

PDF format allows for full text searching of the manual's content, significantly speeding up information retrieval.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing with clear text and images. Allows for zooming and printing enlarged copies of diagrams.

Binding Type:

Digital (no physical binding)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital format), printable on any paper type.

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible.

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (or equivalent unzipping software).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.4L DOHC turbocharged inline-4 gasoline (LUV/LUJ)

Horsepower:

138 hp @ 4900 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by application)

Torque:

148 lb-ft @ 1850 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by application)

Fuel System:

Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) with turbocharging and intercooler.

Other Engines:

1.8L DOHC inline-4 gasoline (2H0). Horsepower: 138 hp @ 6300 rpm. Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm.

Engine Code 1.4L Turbo:

LUV/LUJ

Engine Code 1.8L:

2H0

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (M32/M24, depending on market and engine)

Optional Transmission:

6-speed automatic transmission (GF6)

Transmission Features:

Automatic transmission often features Driver Shift Control (manual shifting capability). Both transmissions are designed for fuel efficiency and smooth power delivery.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.1 inches (4550 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

58.1 inches (1476 mm)

Wheelbase:

105.7 inches (2685 mm)

Front Overhang:

35.5 inches (902 mm)

Rear Overhang:

33.5 inches (850 mm)

Trunk Capacity:

15.4 cubic feet (436 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3000-3200 lbs (1360-1450 kg), depending on engine and transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4300-4500 lbs (1950-2040 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (in most configurations for 2012)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Passive Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, roof-rail side-curtain airbags, active head restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system provided for child seat installation.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with touch-screen display, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming, USB port. Base models may feature a simpler audio system.

Infotainment Screen Size:

Available 7-inch color touch-screen for MyLink system.

Driver Assistance:

Standard features included ABS, ESC, and TCS. Optional features could include a rearview camera (on higher trims or packages).

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional USB port for device charging and media playback.

Other Tech:

Keyless entry, power windows and locks, cruise control, available automatic climate control, remote engine start.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Consult owner's manual for specific conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Automatic:

Typically at 45,000-60,000 miles or if fluid appears discolored/burnt.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:

Inspection recommended at major service intervals, replacement often at higher mileage or if shifting issues occur.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting GM standard GM6094M (dexos1™ is recommended).

Coolant Specification:

GM P/N 12378393 (Orange) or equivalent extended-life coolant (OAT) - propylene glycol based.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron VI (GM P/N 88864290 or 19259702)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GM P/N 88862442 (Manual Transmission Fluid - MTF)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Dexron III-H or equivalent (check specific vehicle requirements for potential electric power steering system fluid if applicable).

Transfer Case Fluid:

Not applicable for standard Cruze models, which are FWD.

Differential Fluid:

Not applicable for standard Cruze models, which are FWD. Some AWD variants (if applicable to the platform) would require specific fluid.

Known Issues:

Potential issues reported for early first-generation Cruzes include engine oil leaks from the camshaft position sensor seal and oil filter housing, coolant leaks from the water pump or thermostat housing, and occasional issues with the turbocharger or PCV system. Some owners have reported premature wear of brake components.

Specific Issue 1.4T:

Turbocharger wastegate actuator issues leading to reduced power or 'check engine' lights.

Other Maintenance:

Replace engine air filter every 30,000-45,000 miles, replace cabin air filter annually or every 15,000 miles, inspect drive belts and hoses at recommended intervals, replace spark plugs around 100,000 miles.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history in the automotive industry, dating back to 1911. Known for producing a wide range of vehicles from economical cars to performance trucks and sports cars.

Model Evolution:

The Cruze (J300) was a significant model for Chevrolet, designed as a global platform to replace models like the Cobalt in North America. It was developed with input from GM's global engineering centers, particularly in Europe, aiming for a more sophisticated driving experience and design.

Production Locations:

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze was produced in several plants globally, including Lordstown, Ohio (USA), South Korea, and Russia, to serve various international markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific major awards for the 2012 model year are less prominent, the Cruze generally received positive commentary for its chassis dynamics and styling, often being cited as an improvement for Chevrolet in the compact segment.

Ratings:

Generally received good to excellent ratings from automotive critics for its ride and handling, often outperforming some key competitors in these areas. Fuel economy was competitive, especially with the 1.4L turbo engine.