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Are there any recalls on a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes. A 2012 Chevrolet Silverado can be subject to recalls, but whether your specific truck is affected depends on its VIN and production date. To know for sure, check official recall databases and notices for your vehicle.


What you should know about recalls for a 2012 Silverado


Recalls for older model-year pickups like the 2012 Silverado have covered a range of systems over the years. A given truck may have one or more active or completed recalls, or none at all, depending on its unique VIN and when it rolled off the line. The safest way to confirm is to look up your VIN in official recall databases and consult with a Chevrolet dealer.


Why your VIN matters


Recall campaigns are typically tied to specific VINs or production windows. Even within the same model year, some vehicles may be implicated while others are not, based on where and when they were built and which options they carried.


Common recall topics for this model year


While not every Silverado will be affected, campaigns in this era have addressed several areas, including airbags, fuel systems, steering and electrical components, and emissions controls.


To verify for your exact truck, use these official checks and resources:



  • Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to view open recalls and campaigns.

  • Log in to the GM Owner Center (Chevrolet Owner Center) and check recall notices tied to your VIN.

  • Call or visit a Chevrolet dealership with your VIN to have the recall status pulled and to schedule any required service.

  • Review any recall notices mailed to you as the registered owner for guidance on next steps and free remedy eligibility.


Note that recall statuses can change over time. If your VIN shows no current recalls, you should still stay alert for new campaigns and periodically recheck the official databases.


How to check recalls for your Silverado


To confirm the current recall status for your vehicle, perform a VIN-based search using these trusted sources and steps:



  • Use NHTSA's SaferCar.gov recall database and enter your VIN to see open recalls and campaigns.

  • Access GM’s Owner Center (Chevrolet Owner Center) and review recall notices associated with your VIN.

  • Contact your local Chevrolet dealership with your VIN to verify whether any recalls exist for your vehicle and discuss remedies.

  • Look for recall notices mailed to the registered owner and follow the dealer’s instructions for free service.


If a recall is found, you are entitled to a free remedy, and most dealerships perform the repair on a scheduled appointment.


What to do if a recall is found


When a recall affects your 2012 Silverado, the repair is provided at no cost by the manufacturer or its dealers. The typical process is straightforward, but timing can vary depending on the campaign and parts availability.


Steps at the dealership


Bring the VIN and proof of ownership to a Chevrolet dealership. The service advisor will identify the applicable recall campaign, order the remedy if needed, and arrange a repair appointment. Some fixes can be completed in a single visit, while others may require additional scheduling.


In most cases, recall work involves replacing or updating parts, or performing software updates. If you have safety concerns about your vehicle, contact GM or NHTSA promptly to discuss options.


Summary


A 2012 Chevrolet Silverado can have active or past recalls, with the exact status determined by your VIN and production details. The most reliable way to know is to check VIN-based recall data from official sources like NHTSA and GM’s Owner Center or to consult a Chevrolet dealer. If a recall is identified, it will be repaired at no charge to the vehicle owner.


Additional notes for readers


Recall information evolves as campaigns are issued or completed. Visitors should bookmark SaferCar.gov and the GM Owner Center for ongoing updates and periodically re-check their VIN, especially if the vehicle has been idle for long periods or if there have been recent safety concerns.

Is there a recall on a 2012 Chevy Silverado?


General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2012 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, ...



Is 2012 a bad year for Silverado?


2012 Chevy Silverado 1500
The 2012 model year is known as one of Chevy's most reliable pickups due to the comfortable ride it creates and attractive exterior build.



What are the common problems with a 2012 Chevy Silverado?


Common problems for the 2012 Silverado include excessive oil consumption, especially with the 4.8L and 5.3L engines, which can be caused by the Active Fuel Management system. Other frequent issues include transmission problems like hard shifts and leaks, as well as electrical problems with the instrument panel gauges and the 4WD selector switch. Inside door handles breaking is also a common complaint. 
Engine and fluid problems 

  • Excessive oil consumption: This is a frequent issue, particularly on engines with the Active Fuel Management system, because oil can get into the combustion chamber or burn off through the crankcase ventilation system. 
  • Oil leaks: Various oil leaks have been reported, including issues with the rear main seal. 
  • Engine knocking: Some owners have reported engine knocking or pinging sounds. 
  • Misfires: Cylinder misfires have been reported, sometimes related to a faulty camshaft. 

This video discusses the top common engine problems in 2007-2013 Chevy Silverado 1500 trucks: 58s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Apr 2, 2021
Transmission and drivetrain issues
  • Hard or rough shifting: Many owners have reported issues with the transmission shifting roughly or jerking. 
  • Transmission fluid leaks: Leaks can also cause a range of transmission problems. 
  • Drivetrain problems: Some users have experienced issues with the drivetrain, such as slipping or banging in low gears. 
  • 4WD system issues: The 4WD transfer case encoder motor position sensor or selector switch is known to fail, triggering a "Service 4WD" message. 

This video explains the 5 most common problems for the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 truck: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jun 26, 2024
Electrical and interior problems
  • Instrument panel issues: The speedometer or other gauges may work erratically or fail completely. 
  • Steering wheel position sensor: This sensor may fail, which can affect vehicle handling. 
  • Broken inside door handles: The plastic interior door handles are known to break. 
  • Intermittent starting issues: Some owners have reported that the truck may not start intermittently. 

Other common problems
  • Paint issues: Paint fading, chalking, or peeling has been reported. 
  • Air conditioning problems: Refrigerant leaks or a faulty AC compressor can cause issues with the climate control system. 
  • Daytime running lights: The bulbs for the daytime running lights tend to burn out frequently. 



How do I check if my Silverado has a recall?


To check for a Silverado recall, use your vehicle's 17-digit VIN on the Chevrolet recall site, the NHTSA recall lookup tool, or the My Chevrolet app. You can also call your local dealership and provide the VIN to inquire about any open recalls.
 
Method 1: Use the Chevrolet recall website 

  1. Go to the Chevrolet Recall and Warranty Center page.
  2. Enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the search box.
  3. Click "Search" to see if your vehicle has any open recalls. 

Method 2: Use the NHTSA recall lookup tool 
  1. Visit the NHTSA recall search page. 
  2. Enter your 17-digit VIN in the search box. 
  3. The tool will show if your specific vehicle needs to be repaired as part of a safety recall. 

Method 3: Use the My Chevrolet app 
  1. Open the My Chevrolet or My GMC app.
  2. Navigate to the recall and warranty information section. 

Method 4: Contact a local dealership
  1. Call a local dealership.
  2. Provide them with your vehicle's VIN.
  3. They can look up your vehicle for any open recalls and help you schedule a service appointment. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.