IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Chevrolet Spark

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012 Chevrolet Spark. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

CVT Transmission Shudder and Hesitation

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The CVT automatic transmission develops shuddering during acceleration, particularly between 20-40 mph. The belt can slip and the transmission may eventually fail completely.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,000–£3,500
Warning Signs:

Shuddering during acceleration, Hesitation from stops, Whining noise from transmission, Check engine light with transmission codes

What to Inspect:
  • Test the car through acceleration ranges
  • Listen for whining from the transmission
  • Check for transmission fault codes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Coolant Expansion Tank Cracks

ModerateCooling System

The plastic coolant tank can develop hairline cracks, leading to slow coolant loss and potential overheating.

Est. Repair Cost: £60–£120
Warning Signs:

Coolant level dropping, Pink crusty residue on the tank, Sweet smell from engine bay

What to Inspect:
  • Visual inspection of the expansion tank seams
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Ignition Coil and Spark Plug Failure

ModerateEngine

The 1.0L and 1.2L engines are prone to premature ignition coil failure, causing misfires. Heat soak in the tight engine bay accelerates coil degradation.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£300
Warning Signs:

Rough idle, Misfire under acceleration, Check engine light flashing, Reduced power and fuel economy

What to Inspect:
  • Check for engine misfire codes
  • Inspect ignition coils for cracks or damage
  • Ask about recent coil or plug replacements
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Suspension Bush and Link Wear

MinorSuspension & Chassis

The front suspension components, particularly drop links and wishbone bushes, wear prematurely on UK roads.

Est. Repair Cost: £80–£200
Warning Signs:

Knocking noise over bumps, Vague steering feel, Uneven tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over uneven surfaces
  • Inspect front tyres for inner edge wear
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012 Chevrolet Spark

  • ✓Check for premature wear on the clutch; city-driven examples often require replacements earlier than expected.
  • ✓Listen for knocks from the front suspension, as drop links and bushes wear quickly on potholed UK roads.
  • ✓Test the air conditioning to ensure it blows ice cold, as the condenser is vulnerable to stone damage.
  • ✓Inspect the digital instrument cluster to ensure all segments illuminate correctly and there are no warning lights.
  • ✓Examine the driver's seat bolsters and interior trim for excessive wear, which is common given the budget materials.
  • ✓Look out for rust around the lower door edges and the tailgate handle.
Check a 2012 Chevrolet Spark by Registration