Are there any recalls on the 2016 Chevy Spark?

Yes. Some 2016 Spark vehicles have been recalled; the exact recalls depend on VIN and region. This article explains how to verify recalls for your car and what to do if your vehicle is affected.

Understanding recalls for the 2016 Chevy Spark

Recalls are issued by General Motors in cooperation with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to address safety-related defects or noncompliance with federal standards. If your vehicle is under a recall, the repair is performed at no charge to you. The 2016 Spark may appear in multiple recall campaigns over its lifecycle; new campaigns can be added as issues are discovered and investigated.

How to check if your 2016 Chevy Spark is recalled

This section provides official routes to verify recall status for your specific vehicle. Use your VIN and official databases to get reliable information.

Before using the following sources, have your vehicle identification number (VIN) ready. The VIN is typically found on the dashboard near the windshield or on the driver's door frame.

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall search: Enter your VIN or model year and make to retrieve active and past recalls. If there are active recalls, you will see campaign numbers, dates, and summaries.


• GM Recall Information (GM Customer Care and Service): GM's official recall page lets you search by VIN to confirm if your Spark is affected and provides instructions for scheduling service.


• Contact a Chevrolet dealer: Give them your VIN, and they can check for open recalls in GM's system and arrange repairs that are covered by GM.

If you find an open recall, do not ignore it. Recalls are repaired at no cost to the owner and can involve critical safety-related repairs.

What to expect during a recall repair

When a recall is confirmed, a Chevrolet dealer will perform the necessary service. The services may involve replacing components, updating software, or inspecting related systems. The time required can vary from a short visit to a few hours, depending on the campaign.

• Bring the vehicle in during a scheduled appointment; some recalls may take longer than standard service, so plan accordingly.


• Ensure you have your recall notice (if provided) or confirm the recall campaign number with the dealer.


• The repair is performed at no cost to you, including parts and labor, and may require only the vehicle or may involve additional related inspections as part of the campaign.

Keep a record of any repair and confirmation of recall completion for your records and future resale.

Bottom line

Recalls for the 2016 Chevy Spark exist in some markets and VIN ranges. Checking the VIN against official databases is the best way to determine whether your specific vehicle is affected. If a recall is identified, contact your Chevrolet dealer to schedule the free repair promptly.

Summary

In summary, there are recalls that may apply to the 2016 Chevy Spark. Use official sources like NHTSA and GM's recall lookup with your VIN to verify status, and follow up with a Chevrolet dealer to arrange any required service at no cost. Staying informed helps ensure safety and compliance for your vehicle.

How do I check if my Chevy has a recall?

You can check for a Chevy recall by finding your vehicle's 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and then searching for it on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or the official Chevrolet recall center. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side dashboard near the windshield, on the driver's side doorjamb, or on your vehicle's registration or insurance documents. 
Step 1: Find your VIN

• Look on the lower-left corner of your dashboard where it meets the windshield. 
• Check the driver's side doorjamb (the B-pillar). 
• Find it on your vehicle registration or insurance documents. 
• Note: The VIN is a 17-character code and will not include the letters "I" or "O". 

Step 2: Check for recalls 

• Go to the NHTSA website and enter your VIN into the search tool. 
• Visit the Chevrolet Owner Center recalls page and enter your VIN. 
• You can also use the search tools on third-party sites like CARFAX or Kelley Blue Book. 

Step 3: Take action

• If an open recall is found, schedule a FREE repair at a local dealership. 
• If the search shows no open recalls, your vehicle is clear of any safety issues that have been reported. 

What is the common problem with Chevrolet Spark?

Common Chevy Spark problems include transmission issues (slipping, delays, or noise), engine troubles (stalling, rough idling, or overheating), and electrical problems (like issues with the alarm, dashboard lights, or infotainment system). Other reported concerns involve AC system failures, particularly with the compressor, and steering issues, such as stiffness or noises.
 
This video explains common problems with the Chevy Spark: 59sNexologyYouTube · Sep 18, 2025
Transmission

• Slipping gears and delays: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can sometimes slip or be slow to shift. 
• Unusual noises: Some owners report noises like humming, especially at certain RPMs. 
• Overheating: The transmission can overheat, particularly in hot weather or during long drives. 

Engine

• Stalling: The engine may stall, particularly when slowing down or stopping, often due to a faulty idle air control (IAC) valve or a dirty throttle body. 
• Rough idle and poor acceleration: Some owners report rough idling and a lack of power, especially at highway speeds. 
• Overheating: The engine can also overheat, which may be related to cooling fan performance. 

Electrical

• Faulty alarms: The car alarm may go off randomly while parked. 
• Dashboard and infotainment issues: Problems with dashboard lights or the infotainment system can occur, often due to faulty wiring or fuses. 
• Airbag problems: There have been recalls related to airbag performance and the car's compliance with safety regulations. 

This video discusses the issues with Chevy Spark's engine and airbags: 59sNotYourAverageEVYouTube · Dec 27, 2023
Other common problems

• AC system: The AC may not blow cold, frequently due to a faulty compressor or refrigerant leaks. 
• Steering: Stiffness or clicking noises can develop from the power steering system. 
• Brakes: Issues with the brakes, such as the ABS warning light coming on, have been reported. 

What is the recall on the 2016 Chevy Spark?

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Chevrolet Spark vehicles. In the event of a crash, if a young child is seated improperly and not wearing a seat belt while in the front passenger seat, deployment of the front passenger air bag may injure the occupant's neck.

What is the recall on the Chevy Spark?

Chevy Spark recalls have been issued for various model years, including issues with a secondary hood latch failing on 2013-2015 models, a potential risk of neck injury from the passenger airbag in 2016-2017 models if a child is improperly seated, and a lack of audible warnings for seat belt and ignition key use on certain 2014-2015 models. To check for a specific recall on your vehicle, use its VIN on the GM recall website, Cars.com, or Kelley Blue Book.
 
This video explains the details of the Chevy Spark transmission recall: 41sNexologyYouTube · Sep 12, 2025
2013-2015 Chevrolet Spark

• Secondary hood latch corrosion: A secondary hood latch may corrode, which could cause the hood to open while driving, obstructing the driver's view. 
• Key reminder chime: The audible chime that reminds the driver to buckle up or that the key is still in the ignition may not sound. 
• Software failure: A software issue with the "Bring Your Own Media" radio may cause it to lock up, resulting in a blank display and loss of all audio. 

2016-2017 Chevrolet Spark 

• Passenger airbag risk: In the event of a crash, if a young child is improperly seated and not wearing a seat belt in the front passenger seat, the airbag may cause neck injury. 

How to check your specific vehicle for recalls

• Go to the GM recall site, enter your vehicle's 17-character VIN, and see if there are any open recalls.
• You can also contact a local Chevy dealer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) (NHTSA) to check for recalls.