The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice is a full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedan reintroduced to the North American market primarily as a police vehicle. It's based on the Australian-built Holden Caprice. Produced from 2011-2017, the Caprice PPV (Police Pursuit Vehicle) was the main trim. Initial pricing was intended for fleet sales, but later models were available to the public. Its powerful V8 engine and spacious interior made it a desirable, if somewhat rare, sedan.
The Good
The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice excels in performance, thanks to its robust V8 engine. It offers exceptional interior space and a comfortable ride, appealing to practicality. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and powerful engine can also appeal to enthusiasts, while its police-proven reliability is a practical advantage. Value is also a strong point, especially on the used market.
The Bad
The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV's weaknesses include its spartan interior (designed for police use), limited availability to the public, and potentially high mileage from police service. Watch out for worn suspension components, evidence of hard use, and ensure proper maintenance records are available. Parts availability can also be a concern compared to more common models.
2012 Chevrolet Caprice: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Only one engine was available, a 6.0L L77 V8.
- Horsepower: 355 hp @ 5900 rpm
- Torque: 384 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 15 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: Around 6.0 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not typically rated for towing in PPV configuration, although the underlying platform is capable.
- Trim-Level Features (PPV - Police Pursuit Vehicle):
- Heavy-duty suspension
- High-output alternator
- Upgraded cooling system
- Steel wheels with center caps
- Cloth or vinyl seats
- Column shifter
- Pre-wired for police equipment (siren, lights, etc.)
- Certified speedometer
- Heavy-duty brakes
- Auxiliary power outlets
- Spot lamp provisions
- Rear door locks and window controls disabled (can be re-enabled)
- Basic AM/FM radio (often replaced with aftermarket units)
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and locks (depending on configuration)
- Some models might have limited slip differential
2012 Chevrolet Caprice Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Caprice |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Australia |
| Manufacturing City | ELIZABETH |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LFX |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV often stem from its use as a police vehicle. These include:
Recalls have been issued for various Chevrolet models that might also apply to the Caprice PPV depending on specific components. Checking the NHTSA website for recalls is recommended. Long-term reliability depends heavily on maintenance. Vehicles that received regular, preventative maintenance are likely to be more reliable than those that were neglected. Early models, particularly those from 2011 and 2012, may exhibit more wear and tear simply due to age and mileage. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are strongly advised.
- Suspension Wear: The heavy-duty suspension is robust but can wear out prematurely due to aggressive driving and constant use.
- Brake Wear: Similarly, brakes are subjected to heavy use, requiring frequent replacement.
- Electrical Issues: Police vehicles are heavily modified electrically, and aftermarket wiring can sometimes cause issues.
- Oil Consumption: The 6.0L L77 V8 can be prone to oil consumption, especially at higher mileages. Regular oil level checks are crucial.
- AFM (Active Fuel Management) Issues: The L77 engine uses AFM, which can sometimes lead to lifter failure and other related problems.
Recalls have been issued for various Chevrolet models that might also apply to the Caprice PPV depending on specific components. Checking the NHTSA website for recalls is recommended. Long-term reliability depends heavily on maintenance. Vehicles that received regular, preventative maintenance are likely to be more reliable than those that were neglected. Early models, particularly those from 2011 and 2012, may exhibit more wear and tear simply due to age and mileage. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are strongly advised.
How long will the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice last?
Given its primary use as a police vehicle, the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV can easily accumulate 150,000-200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Many units see continuous service for 5-7 years before being retired. Long-term durability hinges on consistent preventative maintenance, especially oil changes, fluid checks, and suspension component replacements. Weaknesses over time typically involve suspension wear, oil consumption, and potential AFM-related engine issues. Units that weren't rigorously maintained are more prone to these problems.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV was designed for police use, so its built-in tech and entertainment features are minimal. It typically includes a basic AM/FM radio and air conditioning. Driver-assistance features were limited; it primarily relied on standard safety equipment.
Safety Features:
Optional features were scarce, mainly revolving around police-specific equipment. The focus was on functionality and durability, not luxury or advanced technology. Crash-test ratings for the Caprice PPV specifically are not readily available from IIHS or NHTSA, as it was primarily sold to fleets. However, the underlying Holden platform performed reasonably well in Australian crash tests. The lack of modern driver-assistance systems (e.g., lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control) is a significant difference compared to contemporary passenger vehicles. The focus was purely on providing a safe and reliable platform for law enforcement.
Safety Features:
- Standard airbags (front, side, and curtain)
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Traction Control
Optional features were scarce, mainly revolving around police-specific equipment. The focus was on functionality and durability, not luxury or advanced technology. Crash-test ratings for the Caprice PPV specifically are not readily available from IIHS or NHTSA, as it was primarily sold to fleets. However, the underlying Holden platform performed reasonably well in Australian crash tests. The lack of modern driver-assistance systems (e.g., lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control) is a significant difference compared to contemporary passenger vehicles. The focus was purely on providing a safe and reliable platform for law enforcement.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Red Hot
Phantom Black Metallic
Silver Ice Metallic
Heron White
Onyx Black
Sport Red Metallic
Dark Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Caprice Cloth Black
Caprice Cloth Grey
2012 Chevrolet Caprice Prices and Market Value
The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV had an MSRP around $30,000 when new, sold primarily to law enforcement. Current used market prices vary significantly based on mileage, condition, and prior use. Prices typically range from $7,000 to $15,000. Depreciation has been substantial due to its intended use and higher mileage. Factors affecting resale value include: mileage, condition, maintenance records, and whether it's been de-commissioned (police equipment removed). Lower mileage, well-maintained examples command a premium. The stigma of being a former police vehicle also impacts resale value negatively for some buyers.
2012 Chevrolet Caprice Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV can be moderate, depending on driving record and location. Fuel costs are relatively high due to the V8 engine. Maintenance and repair costs can be moderate to high, especially if it was heavily used as a police vehicle. Parts availability may sometimes be a factor. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits and the condition of the vehicle when purchased. Overall, it's not the most economical vehicle to own.
2012 Chevrolet Caprice Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2012 Chevrolet Caprice Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Chevrolet Caprice Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date
2014-09-09
Recall no.
14v540000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Caprice Vehicles Manufactured October 15, 2010, TO December 6, 2013, and 2008-2009 Pontiac G8 Vehicles Manufactured July 25, 2007, TO February 18, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Driver MAY Accidentally HIT THE Ignition KEY With Their Knee, Unintentionally Knocking THE KEY OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury. Additionally, A KEY Knocked OUT OF THE RUN Position Could Cause Loss OF Engine Power, Power Steering, and Power Braking, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Remove THE KEY Blade From THE Original Flip Key/Rke Transmitter Assemblies, and CUT and FIT A Revised KEY Blade and Housing Assembly, IN Which THE Blade HAS Been Indexed BY 90 Degrees, TO THE Original RKE Transmitter Assembly. GM Issued AN Interim Notification TO Owners ON December 31, 2014. THE Recall Began ON February 4, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 and Pontiac Customer Service AT 1-800-762-2737. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14445. Note: Until THE Recall HAS Been Performed, IT IS Very Important That Drivers Adjust Their Seat and Steering Column TO Allow Clearance Between Their Knee and THE Ignition Key.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl)
Recall date
2014-09-09
Recall no.
14v544000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Caprice Vehicles Manufactured March 24, 2011, TO December 6, 2013. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Police Patrol Vehicles (Ppv), Equipped With A Specific Transmission Selector Lever That Contains Two Pins That CAN Become Displaced. IF THE Pins GET Displaced, THE Driver MAY BE Able TO Shift THE Vehicle From "park" Without Depressing THE Brake Pedal or Remove THE Ignition KEY Without THE Transmission Being IN "park." AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards NO. 102, "transmission Shift Position Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect", and NO. 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence
IF THE Transmission CAN BE Moved From "park" Without Depressing THE Brake Pedal, Unintended Motion MAY Occur Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. Additionally, IF THE Ignition KEY CAN BE Removed Without THE Transmission Being IN "park," THE Vehicle MAY Roll Away, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO Exiting Occupants and Bystanders.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Shift Lever Roll Pin, Replace THE Base Pivot PIN and Attach A Brake Transmission Shift Interlock Retention Enhancement Clip, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 27, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14549.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:column Shift
Recall date
2014-09-09
Recall no.
14v544000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Caprice Vehicles Manufactured March 24, 2011, TO December 6, 2013. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Police Patrol Vehicles (Ppv), Equipped With A Specific Transmission Selector Lever That Contains Two Pins That CAN Become Displaced. IF THE Pins GET Displaced, THE Driver MAY BE Able TO Shift THE Vehicle From "park" Without Depressing THE Brake Pedal or Remove THE Ignition KEY Without THE Transmission Being IN "park." AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards NO. 102, "transmission Shift Position Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect", and NO. 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Consequence
IF THE Transmission CAN BE Moved From "park" Without Depressing THE Brake Pedal, Unintended Motion MAY Occur Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. Additionally, IF THE Ignition KEY CAN BE Removed Without THE Transmission Being IN "park," THE Vehicle MAY Roll Away, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO Exiting Occupants and Bystanders.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Shift Lever Roll Pin, Replace THE Base Pivot PIN and Attach A Brake Transmission Shift Interlock Retention Enhancement Clip, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 27, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14549.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts
Recall date
2015-06-23
Recall no.
15v399000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Caprice Vehicles Manufactured October 15, 2010, TO October 22, 2013, and 2008-2009 Pontiac G8 Vehicles Manufactured July 25, 2007, TO February 18, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Flexible Steel Cables That Connect THE Seat Belts TO THE Vehicle AT THE Outside OF THE Driver Seat and THE Front Passenger Seat MAY BE Bent From Being SAT ON While Entering THE Vehicle. This Repeated Bending MAY Result IN THE Cable Breaking.
Consequence
IF THE Cable Breaks, THE Seat Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Seat Belt Tensioner Assembly Which Includes THE Steel Cable, Free OF Charge. These Replacement Parts Reposition THE Tensioner Cable OUT OF THE Path OF Entry Into THE Vehicle and Uses A More Flexible Cable, SET AT A More Upright Angle. THE Recall Began ON July 5, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac Customer Service AT 1-800-762-2737. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15206.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2012 Chevrolet Caprice Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Chevrolet Caprice is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV competed with other full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedans primarily used as fleet vehicles, such as the Ford Crown Victoria (prior to its discontinuation) and the Dodge Charger Pursuit. In terms of performance, the Caprice offered a strong V8 engine comparable to the Charger Pursuit but more powerful than the Crown Victoria's V8. Features were minimal across all three, focusing on functionality. Reliability is comparable, with all three requiring regular maintenance. Price-wise, the Caprice PPV, on the used market, can be similarly priced to the Charger Pursuit, while Crown Victorias are often cheaper due to their age and higher mileage.
Alternatives:
A better alternative depends on the buyer's priorities. For raw performance and rear-wheel-drive, the Charger Pursuit is a strong competitor. For affordability and ease of maintenance (if you can find one in good condition), the Crown Victoria might suffice. For a more modern and comfortable sedan, a newer Chevrolet Impala is a better choice, albeit with less performance.
Alternatives:
- Dodge Charger Pursuit: Offers similar performance and features, with potentially better parts availability.
- Ford Crown Victoria (older models): A more affordable but less powerful option.
- Chevrolet Impala (later models): Front wheel drive, less powerful, but more modern features.
A better alternative depends on the buyer's priorities. For raw performance and rear-wheel-drive, the Charger Pursuit is a strong competitor. For affordability and ease of maintenance (if you can find one in good condition), the Crown Victoria might suffice. For a more modern and comfortable sedan, a newer Chevrolet Impala is a better choice, albeit with less performance.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice a Good Sedan?
The 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a powerful, rear-wheel-drive sedan with a spacious interior at an affordable price. It's worth buying *if* you're prepared for potential maintenance issues associated with its past life as a police vehicle and the spartan interior. Buying a well-maintained example with documented service history is crucial. Avoid units with excessive mileage or signs of neglect. It's best suited for those comfortable with basic mechanics or willing to invest in regular maintenance. If you prioritize comfort, modern features, and fuel economy, other options are preferable. It's a niche vehicle, but one that offers a unique blend of performance and practicality for the right buyer.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.