Are there any problems with the 2017 Chevy Cruze?
Yes. The 2017 Cruze has several commonly reported issues and a number of recalls that can affect individual cars. With careful maintenance and a VIN-based recall check, many owners report a solid ownership experience.
Overview of the 2017 Cruze reliability landscape
Common reliability concerns
Below are issues that buyers and current owners have frequently cited for the 2017 Cruze, particularly on certain powertrains and with higher mileage:
- Oil consumption and leaks in some 1.4L turbo models, which can trigger oil level warnings and may require monitoring or service.
- Transmission behavior such as rough shifting, hesitation, or occasional slipping, especially in higher-mileage examples with the 6-speed automatic.
- Electrical and infotainment glitches, including touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth pairing problems, and sporadic warning lights.
- Engine misfires or trouble codes related to ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors, which can illuminate the check engine light.
These problems come up in owner forums and reliability surveys. Many issues are addressable with timely maintenance and component replacements, and some are resolved under warranty or service campaigns.
Recalls and safety campaigns
There have been several recalls and service campaigns affecting some 2017 Cruze vehicles. For any specific car, confirm recall status with the VIN you’re considering or owning via the NHTSA recall database and GM’s official recall tools.
- Airbag inflator recalls that affected a broad range of GM vehicles, including some Cruze models, requiring inspection and replacement of airbag components.
- Powertrain and engine/software-related campaigns, including updates to transmission control or engine management where applicable.
- Electrical and infotainment recalls addressing wiring, connectors, or control modules that can cause intermittent faults or resets.
- Steering, braking, or related safety-system campaigns in certain production runs, aimed at ensuring reliability and passenger safety.
Owners should ensure all applicable recalls are completed and maintain documentation. If a recall is active, service is typically provided at no charge.
Maintenance considerations and ownership costs
Maintenance costs for the 2017 Cruze are generally in line with compact sedans, with routine items such as oil changes, brakes, and tires driving the regular upkeep. Fuel economy varies by engine and transmission, but the 1.4L turbo models typically deliver competitive efficiency for the class, often in the mid-to-high 30s mpg on highways and around 30 mpg combined in mixed driving.
As with any used car, ownership costs depend heavily on history and care. A well-documented maintenance log, timely replacement of worn parts, and resolution of any oil consumption or electrical issues can significantly affect long-term reliability and total cost of ownership.
Buying tips and checks before purchase
If you’re shopping for a used 2017 Cruze, use this checklist to minimize risk and identify cars with fewer issues:
- Have a qualified mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes; request a diagnostic check for any warning lights or irregular noises.
- Check for open recalls using the VIN and confirm that all campaigns have been completed.
- Test drive to evaluate smoothness of shifting, steering feel, and the behavior of electronic systems (infotainment, climate control, sensors).
- Review maintenance records for regular oil changes, brake service, tire replacement, and any repairs related to the powertrain or ignition system.
- Obtain a vehicle history report to verify prior ownership, accident history, and whether any major repairs were performed.
With due diligence, a 2017 Cruze can be a solid compact sedan choice, but it’s important to prioritize a thorough inspection and a clear recall/status check before finalizing a purchase.
Summary
The 2017 Chevy Cruze shows a mix of common reliability concerns—oil consumption on some 1.4L engines, transmission behavior, and electrical glitches—along with multiple recalls addressing safety and powertrain issues. Buyers should perform a meticulous pre-purchase inspection, confirm recall status for their specific VIN, and stay on top of routine maintenance to maximize the odds of a trouble-free ownership experience. For the most current and specific information, consult the NHTSA recall database and GM’s official recall tools.
Do 2017 Chevy Cruze have transmission problems?
2017 Chevy Cruze Automatic Transmission Issues at 66K Miles Cruze owners report transmission slipping and delayed shifting around mid-60000 miles. Automatic transmission problems at 66000 miles often stem from worn clutch packs or low transmission fluid.
What are the common problems with a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze?
Common problems with a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze include engine cooling system issues like coolant and oil leaks, a faulty water pump, and overheating. Electrical problems, such as those with the ignition, dashboard lights, and sensors, are also frequently reported. Additionally, drivers have noted transmission problems, including hard shifts and slipping, and issues with the turbocharger.
Engine and cooling system
- Leaks: Coolant and oil leaks are common, often stemming from cracked hoses, a failing water pump, or a leaky thermostat housing.
- Overheating: Due to cooling system issues, the engine can overheat.
- Turbocharger problems: The turbo can fail, leading to a loss of power.
- Check Engine Light: This light may illuminate due to various engine issues, such as a misfire or problems with the EGR valve.
Electrical
- Ignition issues: The vehicle may not start or turn over.
- Sensor and light problems: Faulty sensors (like the O2 sensor) and issues with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can cause warning lights to appear.
- Remote and button functions: Remote start and other dashboard buttons have been reported to not function correctly.
- Airbag issues: Recalls have been issued for a faulty seat-back recliner bracket that could affect headrest performance in a crash.
Transmission
- Hard shifting and jerking: The transmission can shift harshly or jerk, particularly in lower gears.
- Slipping gears: The transmission may slip out of gear, often due to low fluid or worn components.
- Delayed engagement: There can be a lag when shifting into drive or reverse.
Other potential issues
- Brakes: Some owners have reported brake problems.
- Exhaust: Issues with the exhaust system have been reported.
- Windshield cracking: Some owners have reported that the windshield cracks easily.
Are Chevrolet Cruze 2017 reliable?
A VERY reliable car with average mileage 34 mpg, max highway was 55 plus! And normal highway at 70 mpg of 43 mpg. No interior, exterior or mechanical issues or viewable wear. I wish Chevy still produced them for sale in U.S.A. as we would gladly buy another.
What year of Chevy Cruze should you stay away from?
The Chevy Cruze model years to avoid are 2011 through 2015, with each of these models having prevalent transmission failure and engine problems.
