Does the Chevrolet Spark have a reverse camera?

Yes. In the United States, modern Chevrolet Spark models include a rear-view (reverse) camera as standard equipment, a result of federal safety rules requiring backup cameras on new cars since 2018. Availability can vary by year and market, with older Spark models or non-U.S. markets sometimes offering the camera as an option or not at all.

The Spark is a small hatchback that has seen several generations and regional variants. The question of a reverse camera hinges on regulatory timelines, trim levels, and market-specific specifications. The following sections outline how camera availability has evolved and how to verify a camera on a specific vehicle.

Background on backup cameras and the Spark

Backup cameras became a mandatory safety feature for new passenger vehicles in the United States starting with the 2018 model year. This regulation dramatically increased the likelihood that a Spark sold in the U.S. from 2018 forward would include a rear-view camera. In other regions, availability often follows different timelines or trim-level packaging, so buyers should check local specs or the vehicle’s window sticker.

Model year and trim differences

Use the list below to understand when a rear-view camera was typically included or optional, noting that specifics can vary by market and trim level.

• 2013–2014 Spark: Often no rear-view camera on base trims; camera may be offered only with certain packages or higher trims in select markets.


• 2015–2017 Spark: Camera availability varies by market and trim; some configurations include it as part of tech or navigation packages.


• 2018 onward (U.S. market): Rear-view camera generally standard on all Spark trims due to safety regulation.


• 2019–present (global): In many markets, newer Sparks include a rear-view camera as standard or as a common option, but exact availability depends on local specs and trim.

In short, if you’re shopping a newer Spark in the U.S., you should expect a rear camera as standard. Older or non-U.S. models require closer inspection of the trim and features.

How to verify for a specific Spark

To confirm whether a particular Spark has a reverse camera, use these practical checks.

1. Inspect the infotainment display: Shift into reverse and see if a video feed appears with parking guidelines.


2. Look at the rear of the car: Check for a camera lens located above the license plate area or on the tailgate handle.


3. Check documentation: Review the window sticker (Monroney label) or the owner's manual for “Rear Vision Camera” or similar wording.


4. Ask the dealer or seller: Confirm via vehicle build sheet or VIN-based feature check.

Verifying these details helps ensure you’re getting the intended safety feature, especially when evaluating used Spark models across different years or markets.

Summary

Overall, the Chevrolet Spark generally includes a reverse camera on modern models, with the U.S. market adopting standard rear-view cameras from 2018 onward. For older Sparks or non-U.S. markets, camera availability can vary by trim and year, so it’s wise to verify via the window sticker, VIN, or dealer information before purchase.

Does a Chevy Spark have a backup camera?

2021 Chevrolet Spark Safety and Special Features
Drive with peace of mind thanks to features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane departure warnings, backup cameras and a whole lot more—because you can trust Chevy parts to get the job done right every time.

Why is Chevy discontinuing the Chevy Spark?

The Chevy Spark was discontinued primarily due to declining sales and shifting consumer demand toward larger vehicles like crossovers and SUVs. Chevrolet chose to focus on more popular and profitable models, which aligns with a broader industry trend away from small cars.
 

• Shifting market demand: Consumers increasingly preferred subcompact crossovers and SUVs over smaller hatchbacks and sedans. 
• Declining sales: Sales for the Spark had been declining since around 2017, indicating it was no longer meeting Chevrolet's sales expectations. 
• Focus on profitable models: By discontinuing the low-cost Spark, Chevrolet could shift its resources and production to more profitable vehicles like its lineup of crossovers and future electric vehicles. 
• No direct replacement: Chevy did not plan to replace the Spark with a direct successor, instead guiding customers toward its Trax and Trailblazer models. 

What year did it become mandatory to have a backup camera?

Backup cameras became mandatory in the U.S. for all new vehicles manufactured on or after May 1, 2018. This requirement, set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), mandates that all light vehicles (under 10,000 pounds) must include rear visibility technology to prevent backover accidents.
 

• Mandate and Effective Date: The NHTSA announced the final rule in 2014, with the deadline for compliance being May 1, 2018. 
• Cause: The mandate was a response to the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act of 2007, passed to reduce backover accidents involving children and others. 
• Impact: Since the rule, all new cars sold in the U.S. come standard with a backup camera, making it a universal safety feature. 
• Global Adoption: Other countries have also implemented similar regulations, with Canada requiring them on the same date, while the European Union and Japan followed in 2022. 

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.