Is the 2017 Chevy Cruze reliable?

The 2017 Cruze generally lands in the middle of the pack for reliability among compact cars; it can be a dependable daily driver with proper maintenance, but its reliability is not outstanding. Fuel economy and a modern feature set are among its strengths, while some owners report by-our-watch issues that can affect long-term dependability.

Reliability for the 2017 Cruze varies by engine and trim, and its overall reputation is shaped by consumer feedback, official recalls, and how well the car has been cared for. This article examines what reliability data suggest, common owner-reported issues, and practical tips for anyone considering a used Cruze from this year.

Reliability assessments from major sources

Here is a snapshot of how leading automotive reliability sources view the 2017 Cruze and what that means for a used-purchase decision.

• Consumer Reports: The Cruze is typically rated around average reliability for compact cars, with some model-year variability. This suggests ordinary maintenance can keep it dependable, but there are notable reports of issues that can arise as miles add up.


• J.D. Power: Initial quality and long-term reliability tend to sit near the industry norm for compact sedans in this generation. While not a standout, a well-kept example can perform reliably.


• Regulatory/recall data (NHTSA and GM recall history): The Cruze has seen several recalls over its production years, addressing safety-related fixes and component wear. Recalls don’t automatically imply poor reliability, but they do reflect areas where the model required official attention to stay safe and dependable.

In overall terms, the reliability picture for the 2017 Cruze is plausible but not exceptional. Buyers should weigh maintenance history and whether key service campaigns were completed when evaluating a used car.

Common issues reported by owners

Owner feedback highlights a few recurring trouble spots that can influence long-term reliability. These do not affect every car, but they appear with enough frequency to warrant attention during purchase decisions and ownership planning.

Transmission and drivability

Some owners report rough or hesitant shifting with the automatic transmission in certain trims and conditions, along with occasional shudder or delayed response. Regular transmission service and ensuring the factory-recommended fluid intervals were followed can help mitigate concerns.

• Occurrence: More commonly discussed in earlier model years within the Cruze lineup; by 2017, experiences vary by individual vehicle and maintenance history.


• Impact: Affects smoothness of operation and perceived reliability during daily driving.


• Mitigation: Symptom checks during a pre-purchase inspection; ensure no outstanding recalls related to the transmission and confirm no hard-service intervals were skipped.

Overall, transmission behavior is a valid area to scrutinize when shopping a 2017 Cruze, but it is not universal across all cars of this year.

Electrical and infotainment

Infotainment glitches, touchscreen response issues, Bluetooth connectivity hiccups, and occasional sensor/electrical faults are among the recurring owner-reported concerns. Software updates and proper calibration can typically address many of these problems when they’re reported early.

• Occurrence: Reported across several trims and mileage ranges; some cars are trouble-free, others experience intermittent faults.


• Impact: Can affect usability and satisfaction, particularly for drivers who rely on navigation and hands-free features.


• Mitigation: Verify infotainment system functionality during a test drive and check for any open recalls or service campaigns on the unit.

Electrical and infotainment issues are common enough to consider during ownership, but they can often be resolved with updates and routine maintenance.

Other recurring concerns

There are additional, less frequent complaints that tend to surface as cars accumulate miles, such as climate-control quirks or minor sensor notices. These do not define every 2017 Cruze, but they are worth noting for a used purchase.

• Occurrence: Infrequent but reported by some owners as mileage increases.


• Impact: Usually manageable with professional service and occasional part replacements.


• Mitigation: Comprehensive pre-purchase inspection and confirmation that any age-related wear items have been addressed.

With careful maintenance and informed purchasing, many Cruze owners report reliable service well into the 100,000-mile range, though experiences vary by vehicle history.

What to know if you're buying a used 2017 Cruze

Before committing to a used 2017 Cruze, consider these practical checks to maximize the chances of a trouble-free ownership experience.

• Check maintenance and recall history: Verify that routine maintenance was performed on schedule and that all recalls and service campaigns have been completed.


• Have the transmission inspected: A qualified mechanic should assess the transmission for smooth operation, unusual noises, or shifting concerns, especially in cars with higher mileage.


• Test the infotainment system: Ensure the touchscreen and connectivity features work reliably and that software updates are current if applicable.


• Perform a thorough test drive: Pay attention to steering, braking response, and any hesitation or shudder during acceleration.


• Inspect for common wear items: Check brakes, tires, suspension components, and any dashboard indicators for signs of wear or fault codes.

Used pricing for a 2017 Cruze varies by trim, mileage, and condition, but with careful shopping and a clean maintenance record, it can offer solid value within the compact-sedan market.

Bottom line

The 2017 Chevy Cruze offers solid fuel economy and a modern feature set, with reliability that sits near the middle of its class. While there are credible reports of transmission, electrical, and other issues, a well-maintained example can still be dependable. Prospective buyers should review maintenance and recall histories, conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection, and test-drive to assess how a specific car handles over time.

Summary

In summary, the 2017 Cruze is not a standout for reliability but can be a reasonable choice in the compact sedan segment if you prioritize fuel economy and contemporary features and are diligent about maintenance. Its reliability depends heavily on how well the vehicle was cared for and whether any official recalls were addressed. If you’re buying used, use a detailed inspection, confirm service history, and balance the cost of potential future repairs against the value the car provides.

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.

What is the most common problem with a 2017 Chevy Cruze?

Common Problems with the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze

• Electrical Problems:
• Engine Troubles — Cracked Piston; Check Engine Light; Check Engine Light On; Fire Hazard In High Pressure Relief Valve; Misfire; Piston Corrosion.
• Brakes Problems:
• Fuel System Problems:

How long will a 2017 Chevy Cruze last?

A 2017 Chevy Cruze can last between 175,000 and 250,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, though some owners have reported issues, particularly with the engine and electronics after 100,000 miles. Key factors for longevity include following a regular maintenance schedule, such as consistent oil changes and fluid flushes, and being mindful of common problems like PCV valve issues and potential turbo failures. 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Maintenance: Consistent and proactive maintenance is crucial. This includes regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and replacing spark plugs. 
• Driving habits: While the car can last, "babying" it isn't necessary to get the most out of it. However, understanding how the car was used previously can be helpful. 
• Common issues: Some recurring problems reported by owners include issues with the PCV valve, turbo, and electronics. 
• Individual variation: Some owners have reported major problems after 100,000 miles, while others have seen their cars last much longer with dedicated care. 

Tips for extending the life of your Cruze

• Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. 
• Change your oil regularly, even sooner than the service interval suggests. 
• Replace the transmission fluid around every 30,000 miles to prevent slipping. 
• Stay on top of other maintenance, such as replacing spark plugs and cabin filters. 
• Be aware of potential issues like coolant and electronic problems and have them addressed promptly. 
• If buying used, have a mechanic perform a thorough inspection before purchase. 

Is the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze a good car?

The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze is considered a good car for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and modern technology, but it may not be the best choice for those seeking sporty handling or who prioritize interior material quality. It offers excellent gas mileage, user-friendly infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a smooth highway drive. However, it has some drawbacks, such as potentially disappointing acceleration for some drivers and a cabin with more hard plastics than ideal. There have also been some owner-reported issues and recalls to consider.
 
Pros

• Fuel efficiency: Achieves up to 42 MPG on the highway, making it an economical commuter. 
• Comfort and ride: Offers a quiet, smooth, and comfortable ride, especially on highways. 
• Technology: Includes standard features like Bluetooth and a backup camera, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. 
• Design: Features a stylish exterior and a comfortable interior with a user-friendly infotainment system. 
• Standard safety features: Comes with 10 airbags standard, and available advanced safety features like blind spot warning and forward collision alert. 

Cons

• Performance: Acceleration can be lackluster, and the on-center steering feel is not the most engaging. 
• Interior materials: The cabin has more hard plastic trim than some competitors. 
• Rear seat comfort: Rear seats are noted to be a bit too vertical for some, and headroom can be limited due to the sloping roofline. 
• Safety feature limitations: Lacks some available features like adaptive cruise control. 
• Reliability concerns: While some owners report no issues, others have reported specific problems with the engine, clutch, or electrical accessories. 
• Recalls: There was a recall for a seat-back recliner weld issue. 

You can watch this video to see a review of the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze, including its exterior and interior design: 57sKelley Blue BookYouTube · Nov 14, 2016