Is there a recall on the 2014 Chevy Cruze head gasket?

There is no active recall specifically targeting the head gasket on the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze as of today. If you own a Cruze, you should still check official recall databases and stay alert for service campaigns that might affect engines or cooling systems, because recalls can be issued after a model year is in circulation.

Understanding the recall landscape for the Cruze

Recalls and service campaigns are issued by federal safety regulators in tandem with the automaker. A head gasket issue would typically trigger a safety-related recall if it meets criteria for a defect or safety risk. In the Cruze’s history, there have been engine-related campaigns, but none specifically labeled as a head gasket recall for the 2014 model year. Status can vary by vehicle identification number (VIN) and by region.

What drives recalls and when to expect them

Recalls arise from regulatory investigations, manufacturer reports, and consumer complaints. Whether a particular issue becomes a recall depends on identified risk, severity, and the potential impact on safety or emission controls. VIN-specific eligibility means not every car of the same model year will be affected.

To verify the status of your own vehicle, use these official sources and steps:

• Use the NHTSA VIN lookup to check for open recalls or campaign notices for your exact vehicle.


• Call or visit your Chevrolet dealer and provide your VIN to have the vehicle’s recall status checked in GM’s system.


• Check GM’s official owner portals or contact GM Customer Care for any active service campaigns related to engines or cooling systems.

Because recalls are VIN-specific, your Cruze’s status may differ from others of the same model year. Always verify with official sources.

Head gasket issues vs. recalls: what to watch

Even without a recall, a head gasket problem can lead to serious engine damage. The list below highlights common signs that may indicate a gasket or cooling system issue and warrant a diagnostic check by a qualified technician.

• Overheating engine or rising coolant temperature


• Milky appearance of oil on the dipstick or in the oil filler cap


• Coolant loss without obvious leaks


• White smoke from the exhaust or visible bubbles in the coolant reservoir


• Loss of power, misfires, or rough idle

If you notice any of these symptoms, stop driving if safe to do so and have the vehicle inspected promptly to prevent further damage.

What to do if you own a 2014 Cruze

Owners should take proactive steps to protect themselves and their investment, especially when engine cooling and gasket concerns are possible. The following actions help ensure you’re covered and well-informed.

1. Gather your vehicle information, including VIN, current mileage, and any symptoms you’ve observed.


2. Check for open recalls by VIN via the NHTSA database or the Chevrolet GM Owner Center.


3. If a recall is found, schedule service at an authorized dealer; repairs related to recalls are typically provided at no cost.


4. If no recall is listed but you’re experiencing cooling or engine problems, have a qualified mechanic diagnose the head gasket and cooling system and keep detailed records of inspections and repairs.

Always rely on official channels to confirm coverage and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Summary

In short, there is no current, VIN-specific recall for the head gasket on the 2014 Cruze. The safest course is to check your VIN against official recall databases and consult a Chevrolet dealer for confirmation. Stay alert for any future recalls or service campaigns, and address any engine cooling symptoms promptly to protect the engine from damage.

How much does it cost to fix a blown head gasket on a 2014 Chevy Cruze?

A 2014 Chevy Cruze head gasket replacement can cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $2,500, but the total price depends on the labor rates in your area, whether the cylinder head needs machining, and if other parts like the timing components are replaced at the same time. The parts themselves are relatively inexpensive, but the extensive labor involved is the main driver of the high cost. 
Cost breakdown and factors

• Labor: This is the largest portion of the cost. A head gasket replacement is a labor-intensive job that requires many parts to be removed to access the gasket. 
• Cylinder head condition: The final cost will increase significantly if the cylinder head is warped or cracked, as it will need to be machined or replaced entirely. 
• Additional parts: It is often recommended to replace other components like the timing belt, water pump, and head bolts while the engine is disassembled, as labor for these parts is minimal when done at the same time. 
• Geographic location: Labor rates vary depending on where you live. 
• Shop choice: The cost will also differ between a dealership and an independent mechanic.

What to expect during the repair

• A professional mechanic will need to remove the cylinder head to replace the gasket. 
• It is a good idea to have the cylinder head inspected for flatness and any cracks. 
• It is often wise to replace the timing belt and water pump at the same time since the engine will already be partially disassembled. 

What if the head is damaged?
If the cylinder head is cracked or warped, the repair will be more expensive. For example, one user was quoted around $1,200 for a standard head gasket job, but the total increased to $2,300 after a cracked head was discovered, notes Reddit.

How do I know if my head gasket is blown in my Chevy Cruze?

Common Chevy Cruze head gasket symptoms include engine overheating, white exhaust smoke, milky oil, and rough engine performance. Other signs can be bubbling in the radiator or coolant reservoir and a loss of coolant with no visible leaks. If you notice these symptoms, it's best to have a mechanic diagnose the problem to prevent further, more costly damage.
 
Common symptoms

• Overheating engine: The engine temperature gauge may read in the red, or the engine may get too hot to drive safely. 
• White smoke from exhaust: This can indicate coolant is burning in the combustion chamber. 
• Milky oil: Check the oil cap or dipstick for a milky or frothy appearance, which shows coolant mixing with the oil. 
• Rough engine performance: The engine may run rough, misfire, or have a noticeable loss of power due to a loss of compression. 
• Bubbles in the radiator or coolant reservoir: This is often a sign of combustion gases entering the cooling system. 
• Unexplained coolant loss: You may notice you are frequently adding coolant to the system even though there are no visible external leaks. 
• Difficulty starting: The engine may be hard to start or idle roughly. 

What to do

• If you experience any of these symptoms, avoid driving the car if possible, as continued use can lead to severe engine damage. 
• Have a qualified mechanic perform a diagnostic test to confirm the head gasket is the issue. 
• For a permanent fix, the head gasket will likely need to be replaced, and the cooling system should be flushed. 

What is the lawsuit on the 2014 Chevy Cruze?

General Motors has expanded its recall of the 2014 Chevy Cruze and certain 2014 Buick Verano models due to defective roof rail airbag inflators that may rupture unexpectedly, posing a significant injury risk. Approximately 20,712 vehicles are affected.

What recalls are on a 2014 Chevy Cruze?

The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze has several recalls, including a major one for the 1.4L turbo engine where the right front half shaft can fracture, causing loss of power and potential unexpected movement. Another significant recall is for the roof rail airbag inflators which may rupture and cause injury during deployment. A 2015 recall also addressed a steering issue with the inner tie rod potentially separating.
 
You can watch this video to learn about a recall on Chevy Cruze models: 59sWXYZ-TV Detroit | Channel 7YouTube · Jun 22, 2012
Engine and drivetrain

• Right front half shaft: The half shaft can fracture and separate on 1.4L turbo models, causing a loss of power. If parked on an incline without the parking brake, the vehicle could move unexpectedly. 
• Steering: Some 2014 models may have an inner tie rod that can separate from the steering gear, leading to a loss of steering. 
• Catalytic converter: A separate recall addresses potential cracking of internal ceramic components in the catalytic converter for vehicles with a 1.8L engine. 

Safety and airbags

• Roof rail airbags: A recall was issued for certain 2014 models due to a defect in the roof rail airbag inflators, which can rupture and send sharp fragments into the vehicle cabin. 
• Driver's front airbag: In some cases, the driver's front airbag inflator may have been manufactured with an incorrect part. 

What to do

• Check for recalls: To see if your specific vehicle is affected, enter your VIN on the Chevrolet website or Safercar.gov. 
• Contact a dealer: If you believe your vehicle is affected by any of these recalls, contact a Chevrolet dealer to schedule a free inspection and repair. 
• Update registration: Ensure your vehicle registration is up to date so you can be notified by mail if there is a recall. 

This video explains how to check for recalls using your VIN: 59sOffbeat MotorsYouTube · Apr 12, 2020