Is the Chevy Spark safe in a crash?
Yes, the Chevy Spark provides basic crash protection typical of a small city car, but it does not rank among the safest options in its class. Safety results vary by model year and trim, and the Spark’s compact size can limit protection in certain crash scenarios.
Understanding crash-test results for the Spark
Safety ratings come from national testing programs that evaluate frontal, side, and rollover protection. Because the Spark has been sold across multiple years with different safety equipment, its ratings are not uniform. Always check the specific model year you’re evaluating.
NHTSA crash testing (United States)
NHTSA assessments cover frontal, side, and rollover crashes. For the Spark, ratings have varied by year and trim; some model years show respectable protection in standard tests, while others indicate weaker performance in rollover or small-overlap scenarios. Always look up the exact year’s official rating on SaferCar.gov.
IIHS assessments
IIHS testing focuses on small overlap, moderate overlap, and head/seat protection, among other criteria. The Spark has not consistently earned high IIHS honors and, in earlier tests, did not perform as well as higher-ranked compact rivals. Results depend on year and available safety equipment, so verify the exact configuration for the car you’re considering.
Safety features across model years
Across its run, the Spark commonly offered a suite of basic safety features, with higher trims adding extra protection. Expect features such as multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera on many versions, with additional side-curtain airbags and other enhancements appearing on later trims or updates. Exact availability depends on year and trim level, so confirm the equipment on any specific vehicle.
Availability and what that means for current data
In the U.S., Chevrolet has largely ceased new Spark sales in recent years, so most current information you’ll encounter refers to older model years. For any used Spark, pull the exact year’s NHTSA/IIHS ratings and verify the presence and condition of safety systems, since features can differ across generations and trims.
What to consider when evaluating crash safety in a Spark
When assessing a Spark’s crash safety, consider the model year, trim, and existing safety features. If possible, review the specific NHTSA and IIHS ratings for that exact year, inspect the structure and airbags, and consider the car’s age and maintenance. If safety is a top priority, compare with newer compact cars that may offer more advanced safety tech and stronger overall crash protection.
Bottom line
The Chevy Spark offers baseline crash protection for a small hatchback, but it is not among the safest options in modern safety testing. Verify model-year specific NHTSA and IIHS results and weigh options against newer vehicles with stronger safety records if safety is the top priority.
Summary
In summary, the Spark provides essential safety features typical of subcompact cars. Its crash-test performance varies by year and trim, and it generally does not achieve top safety rankings in current testing. For the most accurate assessment, consult the official NHTSA and IIHS results for the exact model year you’re considering, and compare with more current compact cars for the best safety options.
What is the accident rating for the Chevy Spark?
The Chevy Spark has received good crash ratings from the IIHS, particularly in tests for moderate overlap front and side impacts, and for head restraints and seats. However, some model years have shown an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front test. The overall safety rating varies by model year, but newer models have generally performed well in most crashworthiness tests.
IIHS crash test ratings
| Test | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Moderate overlap front | Good | Excellent performance |
| Side impact | Good | Good protection |
| Small overlap front | Acceptable | Some model years received a lower rating in this specific test |
| Roof strength | Good | Good performance |
| Head restraints and seats | Good | Good performance |
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NHTSA ratings
- The 2014 Chevrolet Spark received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
Other safety considerations
- Front crash prevention: The Spark has received a "Not Rated" for front crash prevention in some model years.
- Rear crash protection: This area has also received "Not Rated" for some models.
- Driver and passenger injury measures: For model years 2016-2022, the IIHS gave good ratings for head/neck protection but acceptable for torso and pelvis/leg.
- Overall safety: The Spark has a high-strength steel safety cage.
Note: Safety ratings can vary between different model years. It is important to check the specific model year you are interested in for the most accurate information.
How strong is Chevrolet Spark?
2022 Chevrolet Spark Models and Trims
All come with a 98-horsepower 1.4-liter inline-four-cylinder engine paired with front-wheel drive and either a standard five-speed manual transmission or an available continuously variable automatic (CVT).
What is the safest Chevy vehicle?
Several recent Chevy models are considered safe, including the 2024 Traverse, Equinox, and Blazer, as well as the 2024 and 2025 Silverado 1500. Many of these vehicles have received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The 2024 Equinox and 2025 Silverado are frequently mentioned for their high safety ratings.
Safe Chevy vehicles
- Chevrolet Traverse: The 2024 model has a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA and includes standard safety features like a rearview camera and stability control.
- Chevrolet Equinox: Often cited for its strong safety performance, with 5-star ratings from the NHTSA for multiple years, including the 2024 model. It also earned top safety pick ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Chevrolet Blazer: Both the 2024 and 2025 models have received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA.
- Silverado 1500: The 2024 and 2025 models earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA.
- Chevrolet Malibu: The 2024-2025 models received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA.
- Chevrolet Camaro: The 2024 model earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA.
How to choose the safest Chevy
- Check official safety ratings: Always check the NHTSA and IIHS websites for the most current safety ratings for any specific model year you are considering.
- Consider advanced safety features: Look for vehicles with modern safety technology, such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist, which can help prevent accidents and protect occupants.
What year should I avoid Chevy Spark?
You may want to avoid the 2013, 2014, and 2015 Chevy Spark models due to several recalls, including a faulty secondary hood latch and issues with the air bag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). The 2016-2017 models also have recall issues related to the airbags and seatbelts, particularly with the front passenger seat and its ability to protect an improperly seated child.
Years to be wary of
- 2013: Has had multiple recalls and some reliability concerns.
- 2014-2015: Recalled for a secondary hood latch that could corrode.
- 2016: Recalled for issues with air bags and seat belt pretensioners not deploying in a crash.
- 2017: Has had recall issues related to the airbags and seatbelts, particularly for the front passenger seat.
Potential issues
- Airbags and seatbelts: Multiple models have been subject to recalls due to potential failures or improper deployment of airbags and seatbelts, especially in the front passenger seat.
- Hood latch: The 2013-2015 models were recalled for a secondary hood latch that could corrode.
- SDM: Some models had an issue where the Air Bag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) software could cause the airbags to deploy improperly under certain driving conditions.
What to do if you are considering these models
- Confirm recall repairs: Before buying, ensure any open recalls for the specific vehicle have been fully addressed by a dealer.
- Check maintenance history: A well-maintained vehicle may have fewer issues. Look for a complete service history, especially if the car has a high mileage.
