How reliable is the 2016 Chevy Spark?

The 2016 Chevy Spark is generally considered to have mixed reliability, with reputable rating sources often placing it below the subcompact class average. It can be inexpensive to own and operate, but some owners report reliability hiccups over time.

To understand what that means in practice, this article aggregates current reliability signals from major rating agencies and owner feedback, outlines common issues reported by Spark owners, and offers practical buying and maintenance guidance for prospective buyers or current owners evaluating long-term use.

What the data says about reliability

Reliability ratings for the 2016 Spark come from consumer surveys and industry analyses. The model's small size and straightforward drivetrain help keep routine costs down, but a portion of owners report electrical and electronics-related problems as well as occasional drivetrain quirks. Here is a snapshot of the most frequently cited points from major sources:

• Consumer Reports and owner surveys typically rate the Spark as below average for reliability within the subcompact class, noting electrical/electronic glitches and infotainment quirks among common complaints.


• J.D. Power and other quality surveys often place the Spark in the modest-to-below-average range for reliability compared with peers in its class.


• Recall history exists across the Spark's production span; for peace of mind, check the current recall status for your specific VIN on NHTSA.gov and ensure any open recalls have been addressed.

Overall, the reliability picture for the 2016 Spark is mixed: affordable to own and easy to service, but not immune to faults that can affect long-term ownership.

Common issues reported by owners

Owners report a range of experiences, and not every car will show these problems. The issues below have appeared with some frequency in owner feedback and service data:

• Electrical and infotainment glitches, such as screen/display issues, connectivity hiccups, or intermittent sensor signals.


• Transmission or drivetrain feel in some automatics, including occasional rough shifts or hesitations during acceleration.


• Brake wear concerns or ABS sensor-related alerts in certain mileage ranges.

While these problems can be frustrating, many Spark owners navigate them successfully with routine maintenance and timely repairs. Individual experiences vary widely by vehicle history and care.

Buying tips if you’re considering a used 2016 Spark

To minimize risk when shopping for a used Spark, use this practical checklist and approach:

• Test drive to evaluate transmission behavior, steering, braking feel, and idle smoothness.


• Inspect electrical systems, HVAC function, radio/infotainment, and power accessories for proper operation.


• Review maintenance history and service records to confirm timely oil changes, brake service, and other routine upkeep.


• Run a VIN check for open recalls and verify that recall repairs were completed.


• Inspect tires, suspension, and brakes closely, since worn components can affect safety and handling.

A well-maintained Spark can be an economical daily driver, but a thorough pre-purchase inspection is especially worthwhile for this model year.

Maintenance and ownership costs

Maintenance and ownership costs for the 2016 Spark are typically lower than many larger or more complex vehicles, due to its compact design and affordable parts. Here’s what to expect:

• Fuel economy tends to be economical, with EPA estimates commonly in the broad 30–40 mpg range depending on engine choice and transmission.


• Routine maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires, and basic service) generally comes at lower price points than average for non-luxury subcompacts.


• Parts availability is good thanks to broad dealer and aftermarket support, helping keep repair costs reasonable.


• Insurance premiums for a Spark are typically affordable, reflecting its class and value.

As with any used car, costs will vary based on mileage, condition, and how well the vehicle has been maintained.

Summary

The 2016 Chevy Spark offers an affordable, city-friendly option with straightforward maintenance, but reliability is not its strongest suit relative to some rivals. If you value low upfront and ongoing costs and are diligent about maintenance, it can be a sensible daily driver. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, verify recall repairs, and consider owner reports alongside professional assessments to gauge the likelihood of future reliability.

Is a 2016 Chevy Spark reliable?

Reliability. The 2016 Chevrolet Spark has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #8 out of 27 among Subcompact Cars.

Is the 2016 Chevy Spark EV a good car?

Edmunds says. Stout performance and competitive pricing make the 2016 Chevrolet Spark EV an intriguing option for an urban runabout, but you need to plan around its long recharging times.

What's the best year for a Chevy Spark?

The best year for a Chevy Spark depends on your priorities, but the 2016 model is a great all-around choice due to its major redesign, while the 2019 model is a good pick for safety features and modern connectivity. For those who prefer a manual transmission and a more basic driving experience, the 2020 model is also a strong contender, according to Reddit users.
 
For a major redesign

• The 2016 Spark marked a complete redesign, introducing a new chassis, improved safety features, and a major emphasis on connectivity. This makes it a solid choice for a used car with more modern features than previous years. 

For the best safety features and connectivity

• The 2019 Spark is a top recommendation for its modern features, such as a restyled front end and the availability of low-speed automatic emergency braking. It also came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. 

For manual transmission enthusiasts

• The 2020 Spark is a good option if you prefer a manual transmission. This model is described as a "basic yet surprisingly fun car" that emphasizes lightness and a simple driving experience, making it great for city driving. 

Considerations for other years

• Older models (pre-2016): Be aware that the 1.2L engine in these models requires removing the intake manifold to service spark plugs, wires, and coils, making maintenance more difficult, notes a Reddit user. 
• 2017 and later models: These years may have issues with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), so if you're looking at a model with a CVT, consider a model with low mileage or a manual transmission. 

How long do 2016 Chevy Sparks last?

High mileage for a Chevy Spark is typically around 130,000 miles, as the lifespan for the car is 150,000-200,000 miles. Once you pass this point, it's much more likely to encounter serious troubles. Cared-for and reliable years might make it past the 150,000 point before it's considered to have high mileage.