2012 Chevrolet SONIC Manufacturer communications & TSBs.Page 15
Original record summaries, dates and identifiers for this model-year. Records 1,401–1,500 of 1,588, ordered newest first. Dated records on this page: Nov 13, 2012–Feb 26, 2013.
Read the applicability before drawing a conclusion.
This archive includes service bulletins, warranty notices, software instructions and other communications. Records may repeat or supersede earlier instructions. A model-year association is not proof that a document covers every engine, trim, VIN or reported symptom, or that a repair is free.
NHTSA download snapshot: Sep 28, 2026. These are communication associations for this vehicle, not unique defects. How records are joined and counted.
Feb 26, 2013Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
PIC5818
NHTSA communication ID: 10112882
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the radio will shut off intermittently after a cold start or after cycling of high load devices such as rear de-fogger. Dealer should communicate to the customer that we apologize for this inconvenience and that General Motors is working on a solution for this concern.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that intermittently the Instrument Panel Cluster may go inoperative and the only thing working is the check engine light or the Instrument Panel Cluster backlighting intermittently flashes on and off. Technician should inspect fuse F26DA in the Instrument Panel fuse block for a spread terminal and a damaged fuse. Technician should follow the latest version of PIC5813 if a terminal is found spread.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that, when testing any circuit for open or resistance, it is imperative that all related terminal pin fit and tension be checked when the test steps require disconnection of the connector or component, prior to any component replacement. Always use the recommended terminal test tool during these tests.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have loose terminals in the Instrument Panel Fuse Block and is seeking direction since Service Information Indicates the terminals are not serviceable. Technician can be replace the terminal using Terminal 2-964284-1 which can be found in the J38125 Terminal Kit and is in Lear Tray 25.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have oil consumption or blue smoke from the exhaust. Technician will need to inspect the engine oil level and inspect the positive crankcase ventilation hoses, turbo housing, spark plugs, cylinders, intake manifold and air ducts for signs of excessive oil. Technician will also need to follow the latest versions of PI0552 and PIP4925. Technician will need to remove all pistons and inspect ring condition and for cracks between the number 1 and 2 compression ring lands, if no air leaks are found. If cracked piston ring lands are found, then inspect the cylinder head to determine first or second design. Technician will need to replace the cylinder head if it is the 1st design. Also the pistons rings will need to be placed.
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING · ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about a concern with diagnostic trouble codes P0011, P0014, P0016, or P0017 in the engine control module after a repair involving the camshaft actuators. There is a unique black plastic oil sleeve that is between the end of the cam actuator and the camshaft. This sleeve directs oil into the actuator to adjust the timing. If the sleeve is damaged or missing, the engine control module cannot control the cam actuator movement and will set the diagnostic trouble codes.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about a concern with diagnostic trouble codes P0011, P0014, P0016, or P0017 in the engine control module after a repair involving the camshaft actuators. There is a unique black plastic oil sleeve that is between the end of the cam actuator and the camshaft. This sleeve directs oil into the actuator to adjust the timing. If the sleeve is damaged or missing, the engine control module cannot control the cam actuator movement and will set the diagnostic trouble codes.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
CHEVROLET/PONTIAC/SATURN: AFTER REMOVAL OR REPLACEMENT OF CAM ACTUATOR, BY TECHNICIAN, ONE OR MORE DTCS IN ECM, P0011, P0014, P0016, P0017 ARE CAUSED BY MISSING ACTUATOR OIL SLEEVE. MODELS 2012 SONIC, 2011-2012 CRUZE, 2009-2011 AVEO, 2009-2010, WAVE, G3, 2008-2009 ASTRA. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BUICK/CADILLAC/CHEVROLET/GMC/SAAB: SOME VEHICLES HAVE FLOOR MATS THAT ARE DIFFICULT TO FULLY SEAT ON CARPET SIDE RETAINER DUE TO FLOOR RETAINER BEING BROKEN AND VARIOUS BREAKPOINTS FOR STYLE OF RETAINER AND BECAUSE DIFFERENT STYLES OR DESIGNS NOT INTERCHANGEABLE AND CONTAINS NON MATCHING RETAINERS. MODELS 2010-13 LACROSSE, SRX, 2011-13 REGAL, CRUZE, EQUINOX, VOLT, TERRAIN, 9-4X, 2012-13 VERANO, SONIC, 2008-13 CTS AND 2013 MALIBU. *PE
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
CHEVROLET: THE OIL FEED PIPE NEEDS CHECKING AND REPLACED. IF RESTRICTED, AND TURBOCHARGER ASSEMBLY SHOULD BE REMOVED AND REPLACED, AND THE ECM SHOULD BE VERIFIED FOR LATEST CALIBRATION TO ALLOW TURBOCHARGE TO COOL, TO REDUCE LIKELIHOOD OF OIL COKING OIL FEED PIPE. MODELS 2011-2012 CRUZE, SONIC. *PE UPDATED 4/22/13. *PE
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER · ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OTHER FUEL TYPES:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Electronic Brake Control Module and the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve parts restriction has ended. Dealer can now order the parts directly through your Parts Department without General Motors Technical Assistance Center authorization.
Source components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL · EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL · SERVICE BRAKES.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary informational bulletin provides information on replacement for the auxiliary floor mat retainer due to the floor mat retainer won't seat on the carpet.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides information for service agents not required to contact product quality center for CNG, LPG or gasoline engine, transmission and/or transfer case.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Engine Control Module has ended no longer be on restriction through the General Motors Product Quality Center. Dealer can now order part through the normal Customer Care and Aftersales parts process.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about melted plastic piece in the engine block deck that may be found when performing mechanical engine repairs. If the Technician finds melted or distorted oil feed restrictor orifice is found, engine replacement is required at this time.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary informational bulletin provides information on the driver airbag light is flashing in the cluster and/or the passenger airbag ON indicator does not illuminate when the passenger is present when the SDM setup has not been completed after reprogramming.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
BUICK/CHEVROLET: THERE IS AN OIL/FLUID LEAKAGE UNDER FRONT OF VEHICLE, POSSIBLY FROM WHEEL DRIVE SHAFT SEALS, AND ENGINEERING IS TRYING TO DETERMINE ROOT CAUSE OF LEAKAGE. MODELS 2011-2013 REGAL, CRUZE, 2012-2013 VERANO, SONIC. *PE
Source components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides information on the proper oils to use on GM vehicles including information regarding the differences of the Dexos oils.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides information on the proper oils to use on GM vehicles including information regarding the differences of the Dexos oils.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that loose connection between the vehicle and a Bluetooth phone. Technician will need to use a scan tool to check the "Firmware Over-the-Air" value. If the "Firmware Over-the-Air" value is up to date and customer's concern is still present contact General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D-37 history in the Vehicle Communication Interface Module or telematics communication interface control module. Engineering has determined that this code will only display in history on the scan tool and will not cause issues with OnStar system operation.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician with a diagnostic tip for the OnStar back-up battery failure. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Code B1446 or B1447 and the OnStar LED is red. Technician should never disconnect the main vehicle battery or remove the OnStar fuse with the ignition key in any position other than off.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that only play Bluetooth audio music from the left speaker. When using a Bluetooth device for phone calls, audio will only come out of the left speaker. This is normal operation. If the concern is present with music streaming verify the audio device (including cell phones) is linked to the Bluetooth music. The device will need to be paired a second time to the radio for music steaming.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician that fluid contamination may be directed to one of the following testing centers according to the type of fluid needing testing. Dealer should send the correct fluid to the proper testing center.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides information on doing a pressure line test prior to replacement and removal of the transmission for conditions relating to No Forward, No Reverse, No Crank, Engine Cranks But Will Not Start.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides information on doing a pressure line test prior to replacement and removal of the transmission for conditions relating to No Forward, No Reverse, No Crank, Engine Cranks But Will Not Start.
Source components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a grind growl noise on the 1-2 shift that can be felt in the clutch pedal and brake pedal if applied during a 1-2 shift under light or normal acceleration. Dealer should communicate to the customer this condition is a normal operating characteristic of their vehicle.
Source components: POWER TRAIN · POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides information the proper ways of adjusting the center trim bezel to correct the condition of the CD/DVD will not eject from the instrument panel mounted player.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides a list off all the issues revolving around new vehicles for a one stop place to find growing concerns around them.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides information the proper ways of adjusting the center trim bezel to correct the condition of the CD/DVD will not eject from the instrument panel mounted player.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the radio can be turned on after turning the ignition off and opening the driver's door. The radio can then be turned back on after the vehicle's Retained Accessory Power has been canceled by simply pressing the power button on the radio. This is a normal characteristic of the key off operation.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides a descritption of operation of the echo control and noise cancellation settings for concernc regarding noice drop outs during calls and muffled sound.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides information regarding the Passenger Presence System (PPS) May Command Seat Belt Reminder Chime and Passenger Airbag Indicator On When Electronic Devices or Conductive Objects are Placed on Front Passenger Seat, DTCs 5045 or B0074 0F May Set in PPS Module
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides a descritption of operation of the echo control and noise cancellation settings for concernc regarding noice drop outs during calls and muffled sound.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides information regarding the Passenger Presence System (PPS) May Command Seat Belt Reminder Chime and Passenger Airbag Indicator On When Electronic Devices or Conductive Objects are Placed on Front Passenger Seat, DTCs 5045 or B0074 0F May Set in PPS Module
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary informational bulletin provides daignostic tips for concerns regarding intermittent no crank and intermittent exhaust camshaft position sensor signal.
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides a procedure to remove and replace the clutch actuator cylinder elbow seal for concerns regarding a fluid leak after clutch actuator replacement.
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING · EQUIPMENT · POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY:MASTER CYLINDER · POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides a step by step procedure on how to properly use the GM chemicals to eliminate unwanted odors in vehicles and which products to use for each application.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This preliminary information bulletin provides a procedure to remove and replace the clutch actuator cylinder elbow seal for concerns regarding a fluid leak after clutch actuator replacement.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to diagnose and repair vehicles that may have an OnStar Turn-By-Turn Navigation the system that is inoperative. Technician verifies there are no Diagnostic Trouble Codes are present in the Antilock Braking System and Vehicle Communication Interface Module of the vehicle. If no Diagnostic Trouble Codes found call OnStar using the Blue button on the OnStar key pad and ask the advisor for a turn by turn route. Also make a OnStar personal call and a call into the vehicle. If normal diagnostics do not lead to a resolution technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicle that may have an OnStar system that has progression tones when pressing the blue or red button. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center with the scan tool data from the OnStar system.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician that customers may inquire as to the availability of OnStar bluetooth on their vehicle. Technician should be advised that Vehicles with Regular Production Option Code (UPF or UWE) offer Bluetooth through the OnStar system.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION BULLETIN PROVIDES A PROCEDURE TO REMOVE AND REPLACE THE CLUTCH ACTUATOR CYLINDER ELBOW SEAL FOR CONCERNS REGARDING A FLUID LEAK AFTER CLUTCH ACTUATOR REPLACEMENT.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides a description of the proper wheel installation and proper wheel torque techniques used to install wheels onto vehicles
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides a description of the proper wheel installation and proper wheel torque techniques used to install wheels onto vehicles
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides a description of the proper wheel installation and proper wheel torque techniques used to install wheels onto vehicles
Source components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that loose connection between the vehicle and a Bluetooth phone. Technician will need to use a scan tool to check the "Firmware Over-the-Air" value. If the "Firmware Over-the-Air" value is up to date and customer's concern is still present contact General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding customer concerns not duplicated and which labor operations to claim when the concern cannot be duplicated. Also provides information on how to submit claims within the global warranty managment.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a rotational noise coming from the rear of the vehicle during brake apply. Technician will need to follow published Service Information diagnostics. If the inspection and normal diagnosis does not identify the cause of this concern contact General Motors Technical Assistance Center to start a case. Dealer should communicate to the customer that we apologize for this inconvenience and that General Motors is working on a solution for this concern.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician that some vehicles may have an Antilock Braking System Malfunction Indicator Lamp on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Code C0035 sym 0F and or C0040 sym 0F. Technician will need to follow the latest version of PI0276 and inspect the wiring first. Technician will also need to inspect the wheel bearings and hubs for excessive play causing an excessive air gap.
Source components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a rattle, clunk or flutter type noise coming from the front of the vehicle while driving. Technician will need to inspect the upper radiator baffle for a loose or missing clip.
Source components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY · EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a vibration that is only present in fourth gear when lugging the engine. Technician will need to contact General Motors Technical Assistance Center if the vibration is fourth gear only verify correct shift system adjustment and if no change.
Source components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides information and rules for GM keycode look up applicationa dn the key code security rules and regulations for Canada only.
NHTSA source summary · Original PDF not reviewed by Recallfolio
This informational bulletin provides information and rules for GM keycode look up applicationa dn the key code security rules and regulations for Canada only.