VIN REPORT
3GNAL2EK0CS6009272012 CHEVROLET Captiva Sport2LS
Risk Score
26
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
Safety Recalls
2 Found
2 campaigns
NHTSA Complaints
None
No complaints filed
Safety Rating
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
Vehicle Age
14 yrs
Made in MEXICO
Safety Grade
D
Score: 68/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄
Executive Summary
2012 CHEVROLET Captiva Sport was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase.
- ▸2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
- ▸Engine or platform shared with models that have documented failure issues
- ▸Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
26/100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 2 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Critical Alerts
Title Brand CheckMined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle
Vehicle SpecificationsDecoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- CHEVROLET
- Model
- Captiva Sport
- Year
- 2012
- Trim / Series
- 2LS
- Body Style
- Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
- Vehicle Type
- MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Drive Type
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 4-cyl 2.4L
- Doors
- 4
- Manufacturer
- GENERAL MOTORS LLC
- Assembly
- RAMOS ARIZPE, COAHUILA, MEXICO
- GVWR
- Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Assembly Plant QualityPlant: RAMOS ARIZPE, COAHUILA
CQuality55/100
Standard📍 RAMOS ARIZPE, COAHUILA
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
Safety
Safety IntelligenceComposite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
Overall Safety Grade
D
Score: 68/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety18/30
Complaint History30/30
Recall Risk Score
40/100Moderate
- ▸Brake system recall
- ▸Steering system recall
Modern Safety Index
2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
Shared Platform Risk
2.4L Ecotec: timing chain wear, oil consumption, and piston ring issues
Also affects: Malibu, Equinox, Terrain, Vue, Aura
Driver Assistance FeaturesADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database
Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls
Deferred Failure RiskComponents and defects approaching or past their known service milestones
82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 4 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
⚠No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~168,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
22 RECALLS
ℹ
NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)
Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~68%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
68%
avg repaired
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
CHEVROLET Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
87%Fair
CHEVROLET completes recalls at a fair rate (87%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~20 months.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
Avg Fix Time
20mo
#11V591000
Invalid DateSTEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:POWER STEERING FLUID
SummaryGENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 2, 2009, THROUGH APRIL 21, 2011. DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH THE TRANSMISSION IN MANUAL MODE AND IN FIRST GEAR CAUSES THE ENGINE AND POWER STEERING PUMP TO OPERATE AT HIGHER SPEED THAN IS TYPICAL. INCREASED PUMP SPEED GENERATES HEAT THAT IS TRANSFERRED TO THE POWER STEERING FLUID AND CAN RESULT IN POWER STEERING FLUID TEMPERATURES THAT APPROACH THE POWER STEERING PUMP RESERVOIRS MELTING POINT.Read full details...
ConsequenceAFTER PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ELEVATED FLUID TEMPERATURES, THE RESERVOIR MAY LEAK. LEAKING FLUID, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
Est. Repair Completion~68%
~32% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
#12V301000
Invalid DatePARKING BRAKE
SummaryGENERAL MOTORS LLC (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA SPORT PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 26, 2012, THROUGH MAY 17, 2012. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PARK BRAKE PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, "LIGHT VEHICLE BRAKE SYSTEMS." THE PARK BRAKE CABLE MAY NOT BE FULLY SEATED IN ITS CONNECTOR AND MAY SEPARATE FROM THE CONNECTOR. IF THIS OCCURS, THE PARK BRAKE WILL BECOME INOPERATIVE AND WILL NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE.Read full details...
ConsequenceIF THE VEHICLE IS ON AN UNEVEN SURFACE, THIS COULD RESULT IN UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT AND A CRASH.
Est. Repair Completion~68%
~32% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Recall IntelligenceDetailed analysis of recall history and severity
First Recall
19/12/2011
2 total campaigns
Systems Recalled
SteeringBrakes
Recall Remedy Breakdown
1
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
Complaints
Component Failure Cascade RiskKnown patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures
HighPOWER STEERING issue detected
▸ Loss of power steering assist — vehicle becomes difficult to control especially at low speeds and during parking
HighTRANSMISSION issue detected
▸ Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
Details & Analysis
Legal & Regulatory ActionsKnown class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
Financial
5-Year Total Cost of OwnershipEstimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
$46,614
~$777/mo over 5 yrs
$0.3/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$21,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$5,114
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $46,614 (~$777/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Negotiation AmmunitionUse these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
Total recommended deduction−$1,000
Pre-Purchase Inspection ChecklistTailored for the 2012 CHEVROLET Captiva Sport — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
HIGH
Inspect for power steering issue detected — ask for repair records
Loss of power steering assist — vehicle becomes difficult to control especially at low speeds and during parking
HIGH
Inspect for transmission issue detected — ask for repair records
Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
HIGH
Verify recall STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:POWER STEERING FLUID has been repaired
Recall on record for: GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 2, 20
HIGH
Verify recall PARKING BRAKE has been repaired
Recall on record for: GENERAL MOTORS LLC (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA SPORT PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FRO
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
Recall Probability ForecastEstimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%
5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
Maintenance ScheduleOEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
History & Auctions
Insurance Cost EstimateEstimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings
Full Coverage
$1,450–$1,850/yr
~$121–$154/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
▼ 14-year-old vehicle: −18% (depreciated ACV lowers full-coverage cost)
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
Manufacturer NHTSA Penalty HistoryFederal fines issued for recall delays and safety violations
CHEVROLET has been fined $35M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2014: Delayed ignition switch recall — 124 deaths linked to defect known since 2001.
2014$35MDelayed ignition switch recall — 124 deaths linked to defect known since 2001
State-Specific Legal ProtectionsWhat consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Complete Data TableAll decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | 3GNAL2EK0CS600927 |
| Model Year | 2012 |
| Make | CHEVROLET |
| Model | Captiva Sport |
| Trim | 2LS |
| Vehicle Type | MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV) |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) |
| Doors | 4 |
| Drive Type | FWD/Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement (L) | 2.4 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | GENERAL MOTORS LLC |
| Assembly City | RAMOS ARIZPE |
| Assembly Country | MEXICO |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | 3GN |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 0 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | C |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | S |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 600927 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 2 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 0 |
VIN Structure DecodeISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
3
1
G
2
N
3
A
4
L
5
2
6
E
7
K
8
0
9
C
10
S
11
6
12
0
13
0
14
9
15
2
16
7
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
3
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
G
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
N
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
AL2EK
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
0
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
C
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
S
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
600927
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Mexico
From VIN position 1 (3)
Model Year Character
"C" → 2012
Could also be 1982
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/20/2026, 8:40:04 PM.