The 2012 Mack CHU613 is a prominent heavy-duty truck, part of Mack's CHU series designed for regional haul, bulk transport, and vocational applications. Known for its robust build and "bulletproof" reputation, it offers both day cab and various sleeper cab configurations. While traditional "trims" are less defined than in passenger vehicles, configurations vary by application and powertrain. New pricing typically ranged from $90,000 to over $150,000, depending on specs. It stands out for its legendary durability and efficient Mack MP series engines.
The Good
The 2012 Mack CHU613 offers significant advantages, including the proven reliability and strong performance of its Mack MP series engines. Its rugged chassis ensures exceptional durability and uptime, appealing to practical buyers seeking minimal downtime. Drivers often appreciate the cabin's functional design and surprising comfort for long hauls. Emotionally, the Mack brand embodies a legacy of power and reliability, translating into strong resale value and a sense of pride in ownership. Its efficiency helps manage operating costs effectively.
The Bad
When considering a 2012 Mack CHU613, buyers should be aware of potential issues with its emissions systems, including the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) components, which were relatively new for the era and can be costly to maintain or repair. Like any commercial vehicle, check for signs of rust on the frame and chassis. The ride can be firm, and interior tech is basic by modern standards.
2012 Mack CHU613: Quick Overview
The 2012 Mack CHU613, a workhorse in the heavy-duty truck segment, offered a range of robust specifications tailored for demanding applications.
- Engine Options: The primary engines were Mack's own MP series:
- Mack MP7: A 11-liter engine known for its balance of power and efficiency.
- Mack MP8: A 13-liter engine, offering higher horsepower and torque for heavier loads and more challenging terrains.
- Some units may have also offered Cummins ISM engines, though Mack MP engines were most common.
- Horsepower and Torque:
- MP7 engines typically ranged from 325 to 405 horsepower, with torque values often between 1,260 and 1,560 lb-ft.
- MP8 engines typically ranged from 415 to 505 horsepower, with torque values often between 1,560 and 1,860 lb-ft. Torque is paramount for heavy truck performance.
- Fuel Economy: Highly variable depending on load, terrain, driver habits, and specification. Generally, heavy-duty trucks like the CHU613 could achieve between 5 to 7 miles per gallon (MPG), sometimes higher in ideal conditions, but efficiency was a key focus for Mack's MP engines.
- 0-60 MPH Times: This metric is not applicable to heavy-duty commercial trucks. Performance is measured by pulling power, gradeability, and efficiency under load.
- Towing Capacity (GCWR): The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) for a 2012 Mack CHU613 typically started at 80,000 lbs (standard U.S. limit), but specific vocational or heavy-haul configurations could be rated for significantly higher GCWRs, often exceeding 120,000 lbs or more with appropriate axle configurations and permits.
- Configuration/"Trim" Features: "Trims" are less about luxury and more about functionality for commercial trucks:
- Cab Styles: Available as a Day Cab for regional or vocational work, or with various sleeper options (e.g., 36-inch, 48-inch, 60-inch Mid-Rise or Stand-Up) for over-the-road applications.
- Axle Configurations: Commonly 6x4 (tandem drive axles), but vocational variants could include 8x4 or other specialized setups.
- Transmissions: Options included Mack's proprietary mDRIVE automated manual transmission (AMT) for improved efficiency and driver comfort, as well as various Eaton Fuller manual transmissions (e.g., 9-speed, 10-speed, 13-speed, 18-speed).
- Interior: While functional, interior options ranged from basic vinyl seating and manual windows to air-ride seats, power accessories, and more comprehensive gauge clusters. HVAC was standard.
- PTO (Power Take-Off): Many vocational applications offered factory-installed PTO options to power auxiliary equipment.
2012 Mack CHU613 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Mack |
| Model | CHU613 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Heavy Truck Vehicle) |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | MACUNGIE |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 330001 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 12.7L I6 |
| Engine Size | 12.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
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 Mack CHU613 Have?
The 2012 Mack CHU613 generally enjoys a reputation for strong long-term reliability, a hallmark of the Mack brand. However, like any complex heavy-duty vehicle, certain issues are more frequently reported, particularly concerning components introduced to meet evolving emissions standards.
The most common and often most expensive issues stem from the emissions control systems, specifically the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) components. Owners frequently report:
Beyond emissions, other commonly reported concerns include:
The most common and often most expensive issues stem from the emissions control systems, specifically the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) components. Owners frequently report:
- DPF Regeneration Issues: Clogged DPFs requiring forced regenerations or replacement, often triggered by sensor failures or specific driving cycles.
- DEF System Malfunctions: Problems with DEF quality sensors, DEF pumps, or DEF injectors leading to derates and costly repairs.
- EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve Failures: These valves can become clogged with soot, leading to performance issues and diagnostic trouble codes.
Beyond emissions, other commonly reported concerns include:
- Electrical System Gremlins: While not widespread, intermittent electrical issues, often related to sensor wiring or connectivity, can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose.
- Air System Leaks: Common in all air-braked vehicles, air suspension bags or various air lines can develop leaks over time, impacting brake performance or suspension leveling.
- Minor Fluid Leaks: Over years of service, minor oil, coolant, or power steering fluid leaks can develop around seals and gaskets, necessitating attention during routine maintenance.
- Cabin Wear and Tear: Interior plastics, door seals, and seat upholstery can show significant wear in trucks that have seen heavy use, potentially leading to rattles or drafts.
How long will the 2012 Mack CHU613 last?
The 2012 Mack CHU613, if properly maintained, is engineered for exceptional long-term durability. It is common for these heavy-duty trucks to remain in active service for well over 10 to 15 years, easily accumulating mileage figures exceeding 800,000 to 1,200,000 miles or even more, particularly in line-haul applications. Mack's MP series engines and robust chassis are designed for this kind of endurance. Long-term durability is a core strength. However, over time, the aforementioned emissions system components (DPF, DEF, EGR) will inevitably require significant attention or replacement. Other weaknesses that emerge with high mileage include wear on suspension bushings, kingpins, and driveline components. Interior comfort items like seats and door seals also degrade, and general wiring integrity can diminish, leading to electrical gremlins. Consistent preventative maintenance is the ultimate determinant of its lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For a heavy-duty truck from 2012, the Mack CHU613's built-in technology and features prioritize functionality and driver productivity over advanced consumer-grade amenities.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Driver-Assistance Features:
Safety Features:
Crash-Test Ratings:
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
- The cabin features a driver-centric dashboard with analog gauges for essential information (speed, RPM, fuel, air pressure, engine temperature) complemented by a basic digital driver information display. This display typically offered trip data, diagnostic codes, and maintenance reminders.
- Entertainment usually consisted of an AM/FM radio, often with a CD player, and sometimes an auxiliary audio input for external devices. Bluetooth connectivity was not standard and was often an aftermarket addition.
- Power windows and door locks were common optional upgrades over manual crank windows and manual locks.
Driver-Assistance Features:
- Driver-assistance systems were nascent in heavy trucks in 2012. Standard features included cruise control.
- Advanced safety systems like Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Mitigation (Automatic Emergency Braking), or Adaptive Cruise Control were generally not standard, if even available as options, on heavy trucks of this vintage. These technologies became more common in later model years.
Safety Features:
- The CHU613 incorporates fundamental commercial vehicle safety features. Its robust steel cab construction provides significant passive safety.
- Standard active safety features included:
- Full Air Brakes: Essential for heavy-duty stopping power.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking.
- Traction Control: Helps prevent wheelspin during acceleration on slippery surfaces.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): While not universally standard across all configurations in 2012, it was becoming an available or optional feature to help prevent rollovers and loss of control.
- Air-ride driver's seats were commonly available, which not only enhanced comfort but also reduced driver fatigue, contributing to safety.
Crash-Test Ratings:
- It is important to note that heavy-duty commercial trucks like the Mack CHU613 are not subjected to the same standardized crash-test ratings (e.g., NHTSA or IIHS ratings) as passenger vehicles. Their design and construction are governed by different federal and industry safety standards appropriate for their size and intended use.
What Colors Options are Available?
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2012 Mack CHU613 Prices and Market Value
When new, a 2012 Mack CHU613 typically commanded prices ranging from approximately $90,000 for a basic day cab to well over $150,000 for a fully-equipped sleeper or specialized vocational unit. Like all heavy-duty commercial trucks, these vehicles experience significant initial depreciation, often losing a large portion of their value within the first three to five years.
Currently, in the used market, prices for a 2012 Mack CHU613 vary widely, generally falling between $15,000 and $45,000 or more. Factors critically affecting its resale value include its overall condition, documented maintenance history, total mileage, engine (Mack MP series holds value well), transmission type (mDRIVE AMT often preferred), and whether it's a day cab or sleeper. Emissions system functionality and compliance are also major depreciation drivers. Trucks with high mileage, poorly maintained emissions systems, or significant wear will be at the lower end of the price spectrum.
Currently, in the used market, prices for a 2012 Mack CHU613 vary widely, generally falling between $15,000 and $45,000 or more. Factors critically affecting its resale value include its overall condition, documented maintenance history, total mileage, engine (Mack MP series holds value well), transmission type (mDRIVE AMT often preferred), and whether it's a day cab or sleeper. Emissions system functionality and compliance are also major depreciation drivers. Trucks with high mileage, poorly maintained emissions systems, or significant wear will be at the lower end of the price spectrum.
2012 Mack CHU613 Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2012 Mack CHU613 entails substantial long-term costs. Commercial insurance is a significant expense, varying greatly based on the business type, routes, and driver history. Fuel is undoubtedly the largest variable cost; while Mack MP engines offer competitive efficiency for their class, the sheer volume consumed makes it a major expenditure. Maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and regular inspections, is critical and can be expensive due to specialized parts and labor. Major repairs, especially concerning the engine or emissions system components, can easily run into thousands or tens of thousands of dollars. Therefore, while durable, a 2012 Mack CHU613 is a costly vehicle to own, requiring robust financial planning and diligent maintenance to remain economical on a per-mile basis.
2012 Mack CHU613 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2012 Mack CHU613 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2012 Mack CHU613 Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Mack CHU613 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Mack CHU613 Compare to Other Truck?
The 2012 Mack CHU613 competes in the highly contested heavy-duty truck segment, vying for market share against formidable rivals such as the Freightliner Cascadia, Kenworth T660/T680, Peterbilt 386/579, Volvo VNL, and International ProStar.
Performance: The CHU613's Mack MP series engines (MP7, MP8) offer robust performance, providing ample horsepower and torque comparable to rival engines like the Detroit DD13/DD15 (Freightliner), Cummins ISX (Kenworth/Peterbilt/International), and Volvo D13. Mack's mDRIVE automated manual transmission is highly competitive, offering fuel efficiency and ease of driving akin to Eaton Fuller AMTs or Volvo's I-Shift. In terms of sheer pulling power and gradeability, the Mack holds its own.
Features: Feature-wise, trucks of this era were functionally similar. All offered various cab configurations (day cabs, different sleeper sizes), air-ride suspensions, and basic entertainment/driver information systems. The CHU613 might be perceived as more "trucker-friendly" with a more utilitarian interior compared to some rivals that aimed for a slightly more automotive feel, like the Freightliner Cascadia or International ProStar. Advanced driver-assistance systems were largely optional or not available across all brands in 2012, so there wasn't a significant differentiator there.
Reliability: Mack has a long-standing reputation for building durable, reliable trucks, and the CHU613 generally lives up to this. Its reliability is often considered on par with, if not superior to, some of its PACCAR (Kenworth, Peterbilt) and Volvo Group siblings. However, all trucks from this post-2010 emissions era, regardless of brand, faced common challenges with DPF, DEF, and EGR systems, which are key areas of concern across the board. The robust chassis and proven MP engines are strong points for Mack.
Price: New prices for these heavy-duty trucks were all in a similar range, dependent on specification. In the used market, prices for the 2012 CHU613 are competitive with similarly spec'd Freightliner Cascadias, Kenworth T660s, and Volvo VNLs of the same year. Resale value is often strong for well-maintained Mack trucks, akin to Kenworth and Peterbilt, often outperforming International and older Freightliner models.
Alternatives:
Performance: The CHU613's Mack MP series engines (MP7, MP8) offer robust performance, providing ample horsepower and torque comparable to rival engines like the Detroit DD13/DD15 (Freightliner), Cummins ISX (Kenworth/Peterbilt/International), and Volvo D13. Mack's mDRIVE automated manual transmission is highly competitive, offering fuel efficiency and ease of driving akin to Eaton Fuller AMTs or Volvo's I-Shift. In terms of sheer pulling power and gradeability, the Mack holds its own.
Features: Feature-wise, trucks of this era were functionally similar. All offered various cab configurations (day cabs, different sleeper sizes), air-ride suspensions, and basic entertainment/driver information systems. The CHU613 might be perceived as more "trucker-friendly" with a more utilitarian interior compared to some rivals that aimed for a slightly more automotive feel, like the Freightliner Cascadia or International ProStar. Advanced driver-assistance systems were largely optional or not available across all brands in 2012, so there wasn't a significant differentiator there.
Reliability: Mack has a long-standing reputation for building durable, reliable trucks, and the CHU613 generally lives up to this. Its reliability is often considered on par with, if not superior to, some of its PACCAR (Kenworth, Peterbilt) and Volvo Group siblings. However, all trucks from this post-2010 emissions era, regardless of brand, faced common challenges with DPF, DEF, and EGR systems, which are key areas of concern across the board. The robust chassis and proven MP engines are strong points for Mack.
Price: New prices for these heavy-duty trucks were all in a similar range, dependent on specification. In the used market, prices for the 2012 CHU613 are competitive with similarly spec'd Freightliner Cascadias, Kenworth T660s, and Volvo VNLs of the same year. Resale value is often strong for well-maintained Mack trucks, akin to Kenworth and Peterbilt, often outperforming International and older Freightliner models.
Alternatives:
- Similar: For similar ruggedness and reliability, a used 2012 Kenworth T660/T680 or Peterbilt 386/579 with a Cummins ISX engine would be strong alternatives. A Volvo VNL of the same year would offer similar integrated powertrain reliability with the D13 engine and I-Shift transmission, often with a more driver-focused interior.
- More "Modern" Feel: If a slightly more refined interior and broader parts availability are priorities, a Freightliner Cascadia from 2012 might be considered, though it might not match Mack's raw vocational durability.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Mack CHU613 a Good Truck?
The 2012 Mack CHU613 is an excellent choice for owner-operators and small to medium-sized fleets engaged in regional haul, bulk transport, or various vocational applications where durability, power, and uptime are paramount. It's ideal for those who appreciate Mack's "bulletproof" reputation and integrated powertrain.
It is absolutely worth buying in the used market, provided specific conditions are met. Prospective buyers must conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified heavy-truck mechanic, with a particular focus on the health of the engine's emissions systems (DPF, DEF, EGR), as these represent the most significant potential repair costs. A complete maintenance history is non-negotiable. Furthermore, choosing a unit with a well-regarded Mack MP series engine and mDRIVE AMT can enhance both reliability and driver satisfaction. Avoid units with undisclosed major repairs or obvious signs of neglect. When properly vetted, a used 2012 CHU613 offers robust performance and excellent value for its intended purpose.
It is absolutely worth buying in the used market, provided specific conditions are met. Prospective buyers must conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified heavy-truck mechanic, with a particular focus on the health of the engine's emissions systems (DPF, DEF, EGR), as these represent the most significant potential repair costs. A complete maintenance history is non-negotiable. Furthermore, choosing a unit with a well-regarded Mack MP series engine and mDRIVE AMT can enhance both reliability and driver satisfaction. Avoid units with undisclosed major repairs or obvious signs of neglect. When properly vetted, a used 2012 CHU613 offers robust performance and excellent value for its intended purpose.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma