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Is there a recall on 2015 Chevy Sonic?

Yes. There have been recall campaigns affecting the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic, but whether your specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN and production date.


What you should know about recalls for the 2015 Sonic


Recall campaigns are issued when safety regulators or the manufacturer identify a defect or risk that could affect driver or passenger safety. For the 2015 Sonic, multiple campaigns have involved this generation of the vehicle, but the exact campaigns vary by individual VIN. Recalls are VIN-specific, and owners are entitled to free repairs if their car is covered.


Because recalls are tied to a vehicle’s unique VIN, a Sonic built earlier or later in the model year can be covered differently. Owners should verify their status using official databases and tools provided by federal safety regulators and the manufacturer.


Common topics historically addressed in recalls for subcompact GM cars



  • Airbag-related concerns, including inflator module recalls that affected many GM models during Takata-related campaigns.

  • Electrical or software issues that can impact engine or transmission control.

  • Fuel system safety or leaks that could pose a fire risk.

  • Steering or brake component issues that could affect braking performance or steering feel.


The items above reflect broad safety campaigns affecting a range of GM vehicles from that era. They are not a guarantee that every 2015 Sonic is covered; verification by VIN is essential.


How to check your 2015 Sonic for recalls


To determine the exact recall status for your car, use official sources and enter your VIN. Here are steps to verify for your vehicle.



  1. Locate your vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It’s on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s door jamb sticker.

  2. Visit the NHTSA recall database (SaferCar.gov) and enter your VIN to see all open or completed recalls affecting your exact vehicle.

  3. Alternatively, sign in to the GM Owner Center (my.gm.com) with your VIN to view any active campaigns and service history.

  4. If a recall is indicated, contact your local Chevrolet dealer to schedule the free recall service. Bring any required documentation.


recalls are performed at no cost to the owner, and most repairs are completed in a single visit, though some campaigns may require parts to be ordered or multiple visits.


What if there’s no recall for my VIN?


If the VIN shows no open recalls, your Sonic may still have safety-related concerns that are not recalls (such as service campaigns or advisories) or issues covered under warranties. Stay informed by checking periodically and monitoring GM and NHTSA updates.


Summary


The 2015 Chevy Sonic has been subject to recall campaigns, but the exact status for any individual vehicle is VIN-dependent. Verify with official databases (NHTSA and GM) and contact a dealer for confirmation and free service if needed. Staying informed helps ensure safety and compliance.

What is the most common problem with the 2015 Chevy Sonic?


One of the most reported Chevrolet Sonic problems is related to the engine. Owners have reported instances of the engine light coming on, rough idling, and even stalling.



Are there any recalls on the 2015 Chevy Sonic?


Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax, and 2013-2015 Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio.



What is the recall on the 2015 Chevy transmission?


There are two main transmission recalls for 2015 Chevy vehicles: a fire risk recall for certain 6-speed automatic transmissions in Silverado and Tahoe/Suburban models, and a widely reported issue with 8-speed transmissions (8L45 and 8L90) in various 2015-2019 models that can cause shuddering and lurching. For the 6-speed recall, dealers will inspect and secure the transmission oil cooler lines. For the 8-speed issue, owners have reported various fixes, including a fluid flush, though the problem has also led to class-action lawsuits alleging the transmissions are defective. 
This video explains the details of the class action lawsuit concerning the 8-speed transmission in 2015-2019 GM vehicles: 52sPrecision Injury LawYouTube · Aug 31, 2024
6-speed automatic transmission recall 

  • What it is: A safety recall for 2014-2015 Silverado 1500 and 2015 Tahoe/Suburban models equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. 
  • The issue: The transmission oil cooler line may not be securely seated, which can cause a leak. If the leaking oil contacts a hot surface, it could lead to a fire. 
  • The fix: Dealers will inspect the fittings for leaks and secure them if needed. 

8-speed automatic transmission issue (8L45 and 8L90) 
  • What it is: This issue affects 2015-2019 Chevy and GM vehicles with an 8-speed transmission, including Silverado, Colorado, Corvette, and Camaro models. 
  • The issue: Drivers have reported shuddering, shaking, lurching, and hesitation in both higher and lower gears, which may stem from the torque converter or fluid. 
  • The fix: While not an official recall, a common fix that has helped many owners is a transmission fluid flush and replacement with a new fluid, which can improve shift quality. 
  • Legal action: This issue has been the subject of multiple class-action lawsuits alleging the transmissions are defective and a safety hazard. 

How to check for recalls and get service
  • Verify with the manufacturer: You can determine if your specific vehicle is affected by calling a Chevy dealership or using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering your 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN). 
  • Free repairs: If your vehicle is under a recall, the manufacturer will pay for the recall-related repairs. 
  • Schedule service: Contact your local Chevrolet dealer to schedule an appointment to have the work performed. 



What is the recall on the Chevy Sonic?


Chevrolet Sonic recalls have addressed issues such as a lack of seatbelt or key-in-ignition warning chimes due to a radio software defect, a fire risk from a potentially separating fuel tank strap, a driver's seat-back frame weld issue, and a transmission turbine shaft that may fracture. Recalls also exist for the driver's front airbag and the engine block heater. Owners can check for specific recalls by VIN on the NHTSA website or by contacting a dealer.
 
This video discusses the discontinuation of the Chevy Sonic and the reasons behind it: 1mAutoline NetworkYouTube · Jul 8, 2020
Specific recalls by issue and affected models

  • Radio software: Certain 2015-2016 Sonics with a Bring Your Own Media radio may lack audible warning chimes for seatbelt or key-in-ignition, which was addressed by a software update. 
  • Fuel tank strap: 2013-2014 Sonics with insufficient welds on the fuel tank strap bracket may have the bracket separate, causing the fuel tank to move and potentially leak fuel, leading to a fire risk. 
  • Driver's seat: 2018 Sonics had a recall for a joint in the driver's seat-back frame that may not be properly welded, reducing the frame's strength. 
  • Transmission: A recall for some models addressed a fractured turbine shaft inside the transmission, which could lead to internal transmission failure and loss of drive. 
  • Driver's front airbag: Some 2014 Sonics were recalled due to a potential issue with the driver's front airbag, where only the first-stage might deploy without the second stage. 
  • Engine block heater: Some 2014 Sonics were recalled for an engine block heater with exposed wires, increasing the risk of electrical shock. 

What to do if you receive a recall notice
  • Read the notice: Pay close attention to the recall notice you receive in the mail, as it will provide important information about the defect, warning signs, and next steps. 
  • Contact a dealer: Take the recall notice and your vehicle to an authorized dealer for the free repair. 
  • Provide your VIN: If you bought the vehicle used, provide the dealer with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to ensure they can identify you and the recall. 
  • Be aware of exceptions: Repairs for vehicles older than 10 years may not be covered due to the statute of limitations, so check if this applies to your vehicle. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.