Is a 2007 Chevy Cobalt a reliable car?

Overall, a 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt is not considered highly reliable by modern standards. It can be a budget-friendly option if it has been well maintained and has modest mileage, but there are age-related wear items and a history of notable safety recalls to factor in.

In this piece, we examine how reliability is viewed for this model year, outline common issues reported by owners, highlight safety recalls that have affected the Cobalt, and offer practical guidance for anyone considering buying or owning one today.

Reliability at a glance

Independent guides and owner reports typically categorize the 2007 Cobalt as having average or below-average reliability for a small, late-2000s GM compact. As with most older vehicles, reliability largely depends on how the car was cared for, how many miles it has, and whether previous owners kept up with routine maintenance. The model does carry some known issues that can become expensive if ignored, especially once mileage climbs.

Common issues reported by owners

The following issues are among those most frequently cited by owners of 2007 Cobalts. They vary in frequency and severity and are more likely to surface as the car ages or racks up higher mileage.

• Ignition switch-related problems and safety recalls. In 2014, GM recalled certain 2005–2007 Cobalt models for an ignition switch defect that could move the key out of the run position, potentially disabling airbags in a crash.


• Electrical gremlins and warning-light activity. Owners report intermittent electrical issues, flaky dash indicators, and occasional sensor faults that can trigger check-engine or ABS lights.


• Engine misfires or rough running, particularly on higher-mileage examples. These can be caused by worn spark plugs/coils and related ignition components common to older Ecotec engines.


• Transmission wear in automatic-equipped cars. Some automatics in these models can exhibit rough shifting or other shifting irregularities as they age, though results vary by maintenance history.


• Suspension and steering wear. Components such as struts, control arms, and bushings can wear over time, leading to clunks or decreased ride quality.


• Cooling-system and leaks (water pump, hoses, thermostat). Age-related leaks or overheating can appear with higher mileage if coolant maintenance has been neglected.

In short, reliability hinges on thorough maintenance, attentive ownership, and mileage. A well-documented service history can make a used Cobalt a more dependable pick than one with gaps in maintenance.

Safety recalls and safety concerns

Beyond routine maintenance, there are safety-focused issues that buyers should be aware of. The most consequential recall for this model year concerns the ignition switch. There have also been other smaller recalls and service campaigns over the years that could affect components like fuel systems or airbags. Always verify the vehicle’s recall status using its VIN before purchasing.

• Ignition switch recall (2005–2007 Cobalt). In 2014, GM identified a defect that could allow the ignition switch to move out of the RUN position, disabling airbags and other safety systems in a crash. Affected vehicles were recalled and required replacement parts.


• Other campaigns and recalls. There have been additional, smaller safety/service campaigns affecting various components on the Cobalt line. Check the VIN with NHTSA or GM to confirm any open recalls and required remedies.

Because recalls can change over time and depend on the specific vehicle, a VIN-based lookup is the most reliable way to determine what safety actions a particular car has already had completed.

Buying and owning a 2007 Cobalt: practical checks

Before buying a used 2007 Cobalt, or if you already own one, use these checks to gauge condition and anticipate potential costs.

• Obtain a full maintenance history and service receipts. Look for routine items like timing chain/checks (if applicable), spark plugs, cooling system services, and brake work.


• Have a trusted mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, suspension, and cooling system. Pay attention to any oil leaks, overheating signs, rough transmission shifts, or abnormal noises.


• Check for open recalls and completed remedies. Use the VIN to verify recall status and ensure required repairs have been performed.


• Inspect the electrical system. Test lights, gauges, power windows, and the radio/A/C controls for consistent operation.


• Assess the condition of tires, brakes, and suspension components. Worn suspension parts and brake systems are common on older cars and can require significant investment.

These checks help separate cars with solid maintenance from those that may demand upcoming repairs or replacements.

Maintenance costs and ownership considerations

Ownership costs for a 2007 Cobalt depend on mileage, driving conditions, and maintenance history. Generally, owners report that routine maintenance items (oil changes, brakes, tires, and cooling-system work) are affordable compared with newer vehicles, but major repairs—particularly if a problem goes unaddressed for a long period—can add up. Because parts for older, out-of-warranty GM compact cars can be more costly than for modern compact models, budgeting for potential repairs is prudent.

Bottom line

The 2007 Chevy Cobalt can be a reasonable budget option if you find a well-kept example with solid maintenance history and low mileage. However, its age means you should expect potential reliability challenges, especially if maintenance has been inconsistent. A key factor is the ignition-switch recall history, which underscores the importance of verifying safety-related recalls and overall vehicle health before purchasing. With careful inspection and prudent ownership, a 2007 Cobalt can still serve as a basic, economical daily driver, but it is not among the most reliable options in the compact-car segment.

Summary

In summary, the 2007 Chevy Cobalt offers affordability and straightforward use but carries reliability caveats tied to age, maintenance history, and safety recalls. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, confirm recall repairs, and plan for potential maintenance costs as the car ages. When well cared for, it can function as a reliable, budget-friendly vehicle; when neglected, it may demand costly fixes.

How long does a 2007 Chevy Cobalt last?

A 2007 Chevy Cobalt's life expectancy is heavily dependent on maintenance, with many drivers reporting well over 200,000 miles and some reaching 300,000 miles or more. Key factors are regular oil changes, and while the engine is generally reliable, a major component to watch for wear is the timing chain, especially the plastic guides which can break. Other common issues include front-end wear, like ball joints, and potential rust, especially in areas with road salt.
 
Engine and drivetrain 

• Engine: The 2.2L EcoTec engine is generally reliable, especially when properly maintained with regular oil changes. 
• Mileage: Many owners report their Cobalts exceeding 200,000 or 250,000 miles. Some have reported reaching over 300,000 miles. 
• Timing chain: With proper maintenance, the timing chain itself can last a long time, but the plastic guides can break and should be considered for replacement around 150,000 miles for preventative maintenance. 

Common issues and wear

• Front end: Ball joints are a common wear item that may need frequent replacement. 
• Rust: Rust, particularly around the pinch welds near the rear wheels, is a common problem that can make the car undrivable, regardless of mechanical condition. 
• Other potential repairs: Common repairs for aging vehicles include replacing the fuel tank, fuel lines, or wheel hub assemblies. 

How to maximize lifespan

• Perform regular oil changes: This is crucial for engine longevity. 
• Monitor and replace components as needed: Be proactive with replacing wear-and-tear items like timing chain components. 
• Prevent rust: If you live in a salty winter climate, consider using an undercoating to prevent rust from taking hold. 

What year to avoid Chevy Cobalt?

The Chevy Cobalt years to avoid are generally 2005–2010, with particular caution for the early models due to widespread electrical, ignition switch, and airbag issues. The 2005–2007 models had recalls for the power steering system and are associated with higher airbag claim rates. The faulty ignition switch was also a major problem that caused the car to stall and resulted in a massive recall in 2014.
 
This video discusses the common problems found in the first-generation Chevy Cobalt: 24sMasterCarsProYouTube · Sep 7, 2022
Years to avoid

• 2005–2010: This first generation of Cobalts had numerous common issues, including problems with ignition coils, turn signal switches, timing chains, and shifting. 
• 2005–2007: These years were particularly problematic due to power steering recalls and high rates of airbag claims. 
• 2005–2010: These years were subject to a major ignition switch recall that was linked to many fatalities. 

Common issues

• Ignition switch failure: The most significant and dangerous problem, leading to the car stalling while in motion. 
• Electrical problems: Issues with ignition coils and turn signal switches were common across the 2005–2010 models. 
• Airbag claims: The 2005 and 2006 models had a high number of airbag claims, with some models having over 50 times as many claims as other cars in their class. 
• Power steering issues: A 2010 recall affected the 2005–2010 Cobalts for a faulty power steering system. 

Final recommendations

• It is best to avoid the 2005–2010 model years of the Chevy Cobalt due to their poor reliability and safety history.
• If you are set on purchasing a Cobalt, consider the later model years, though there are still a high number of recalls for the 2007-2009 models. 

This video discusses the pros and cons of the Chevy Cobalt SS: 1mMark RodenYouTube · Jan 26, 2025

What common problems did the 2007 Cobalt have?

Top 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt Problems

• Ignition Key Stuck Due to Failed Shifter.
• Check Engine Light and Misfire Due to Ignition Module/Coil Failure.
• Broken Timing Chain.
• Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue.
• Chevrolet Cobalt stalling issue at stop signs and during idling with fluctuating RPMs.

How reliable is a 2007 Chevy Cobalt?

As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and performance to be its strongest features and quality to be its weakest. 682 out of 1400 of owners (49% of them) rank the 2007 Cobalt five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt.