What is the most common problem with a Chevy Cruze 2016?

The most commonly reported problem for the Chevy Cruze 2016 is transmission-related issues, particularly with the six-speed automatic transmission, which can cause rough shifting, hesitations, and occasional shudder. While other problems such as oil consumption and electrical quirks appear, transmission problems dominate owner feedback.

Context and what buyers should know

The 2016 Cruze marks a refreshed generation that emphasized efficiency and technology, but like many compact cars, it has a mix of reliability reports. This article synthesizes common complaints from owners and service data to help current owners and prospective buyers assess risk and plan maintenance.

Most common problem: Transmission issues

Transmission concerns are the centerpiece of 2016 Cruze reliability chatter. Here are the typical symptoms and failure patterns reported by owners and service centers.

• Rough or hard shifting between gears, especially during acceleration or at lower speeds.


• Shuddering or jerky engagement when the transmission shifts or when the car moves from standstill.


• Slipping out of gear or failing to engage a gear, which can leave the driver in an unexpected state.


• Transmission warning light or check engine light illuminated due to sensor or valve-body related faults.


• In some cases, complete transmission failure requiring repair or replacement.

These issues can be influenced by maintenance history, driving style, and environmental conditions. Software updates and proper transmission fluid service may address many symptoms, though persistent problems often require mechanical repair.

Related issues that appear with some frequency

Beyond the transmission, several other problems have shown up in owner reports and service data. These do not affect every vehicle, but they are among the more commonly cited concerns for the 2016 Cruze.

• Oil consumption or leaks, particularly among early turbocharged 1.4L engines, which can lead to higher oil usage between changes.


• Engine misfire or rough idle, sometimes tied to ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel delivery components.


• Electrical issues, including infotainment system freezes, Bluetooth connectivity glitches, or intermittent faults in the body control module and related wiring.


• Cooling system problems, such as coolant leaks or thermostat/fan failures that can cause overheating warnings.


• Turbocharger or wastegate issues in turbocharged engines that can reduce power or trigger fault codes.

Owners should monitor for these symptoms and address them promptly with a qualified technician to avoid more costly repairs later.

Diagnosis and maintenance tips

Proactive maintenance and early diagnosis can mitigate many of these problems. The following steps help owners reduce risk and prolong the Cruze's life.

1. Check for recalls and service bulletins specific to your VIN; have a dealer verify any open campaigns.


2. Follow the factory-recommended maintenance schedule, with particular attention to transmission fluid service and engine oil changes using the correct specification.


3. Be alert to transmission symptoms; early inspection can prevent further damage and expensive repairs.


4. If you notice oil consumption, monitor level carefully and consult a service professional if consumption exceeds the recommended range.

Sticking to maintenance plans and addressing issues early can help keep the 2016 Cruze reliable over the long term.

Buying and ownership considerations

For those considering a used 2016 Cruze or owning one already, knowing common issues helps with maintenance planning and expected costs. A pre-purchase inspection and a detailed maintenance history are valuable tools in assessing condition and potential repairs.

Summary

The Chevy Cruze 2016's most frequent reliability concerns center on the six-speed automatic transmission, with symptoms ranging from rough shifts to hesitations and, in some cases, major failures. Other common issues include oil consumption, electrical glitches, and intermittent engine or cooling system problems. Regular maintenance, prompt diagnosis, and thorough inspection before purchase can help minimize the impact of these problems on ownership and cost.

What year to avoid Chevy Cruze?

Years to avoid for a Chevy Cruze include the initial 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 models due to widespread issues like transmission and engine problems, coolant leaks, and electrical failures. The 2016 model should also be approached with caution as it was the first year of a new generation and had some reliability concerns.
 
This video discusses the common problems with the first generation Chevy Cruze: 56sAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Oct 27, 2023
Years to avoid

• 2011-2014: This first generation is plagued with issues, particularly with transmission and engine failures, coolant leaks, and electrical problems. The 2011 model is often cited as particularly problematic. 
• 2016: As the first year of the second generation, it had some growing pains and reliability issues, including problems with the redesigned Ecotec engine and overall build quality. 

Potentially problematic years 

• 2017-2018: While better than earlier years, some owners still report issues, including transmission problems, leaks, and electrical issues.
• 2013: This model year is noted for significant electrical problems with systems like tire pressure sensors and infotainment, in addition to transmission issues. 

What this means for potential buyers

• Check maintenance history: A well-maintained Cruze from one of these years might still be a good purchase, but a poorly maintained one is more likely to cause major problems down the line. 
• Inspect carefully: Be especially thorough during a pre-purchase inspection, looking for signs of the common problems listed above. 
• Prioritize later models: If possible, it is best to stick to the later models, particularly the final 2019 model year, which is generally considered the most reliable. 

What are the common 2016 Cruze recalls?

2016 Chevrolet Cruze Recalls

• Fuel system, gasoline. Recall date. 2018-05-10. Recall no. 18V304000.
• Seats. Recall date. 2017-01-26. Recall no. 17V057000.
• Electrical system, power train. Recall date. 2016-07-05. Recall no. 16V502000.
• Exterior lighting. Recall date. 2016-07-01. Recall no. 16V498000.

Does the 2016 Chevy Cruze have problems?

Common problems with the 2016 Chevy Cruze include coolant leaks, issues with the 1.4L turbo engine (like a faulty turbo wastegate or cracked cylinder head), engine misfires caused by bad coil packs, and various electrical problems. Owners also report overheating, hard shifts in the automatic transmission, and issues with the water pump.
 
This video explains some of the common problems with the 1.4L turbo engine: 51sAutoMotivateYouTube · Jul 7, 2022
Engine and powertrain

• Coolant leaks: Plastic thermostat housings can crack, and cooling hoses can weaken over time, leading to leaks and potential overheating. 
• Overheating: A failing water pump with bad bearings can cause a roaring noise and lead to overheating, which may cause a blown head gasket. 
• Turbocharger issues: On the 1.4L turbo engine, the wastegate actuator pin can fail, damaging the turbo blades and potentially the catalytic converter. This can cause sluggish performance and blue exhaust smoke. 
• Engine misfires: These are often caused by a faulty ignition coil pack or bad spark plugs, resulting in rough running and poor acceleration. 
• Cracked cylinder head: This can be suspected if the engine overheats, runs rough, and there is coolant in a cylinder. 

Electrical

• Electrical glitches: Owners report a variety of issues, including a non-starting car, a dead radio, or a continuously lit check engine light.
• Causes: These problems can stem from dead batteries, faulty alternators, stuck relays, or blown fuses. 

This video discusses electrical issues in the Chevy Cruze: 1mUnorthodox RidezYouTube · Sep 1, 2023
Other common problems

• Transmission: The automatic transmission may shift hard. 
• Brakes: Some owners have reported brake failure or issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). 
• Other issues: Other reported problems include issues with the exhaust manifold, wheel bearings, and bushings. 

What is the biggest problem with the Chevy Cruze?

wanted Talk about a common problem with the Chevrolet Cruze 1.4 turbo (a14net) A common problem with the Chevrolet Cruze is that the quarry gas system fails. The intake manifold dries out this valve, which is shown in the photo. Symptoms include fluctuating speed, loss of power, oil leaking from the cap and much more.