What is the problem with Chevrolet Cruze?
Across its production years, the Chevrolet Cruze has faced several reliability issues, including oil consumption on some engines, transmission problems, and multiple safety recalls.
The severity and frequency of these problems vary by model year, engine choice, and how well the car has been maintained. This article reviews the most commonly reported issues, recalls, and practical tips for current owners and potential buyers choosing a used Cruze.
Common mechanical issues
Below are the issues most frequently cited by owners and reliability surveys. Note that incidence varies by year and trim, and many problems are addressed by recalls or service updates.
- Oil consumption and burning on certain 1.4L turbo engines, leading to higher oil top-ups or potential engine damage if left unchecked.
- Transmission problems with the 6-speed automatic, including shudder, harsh or delayed shifts, and, in some cases, failure requiring dealer service.
- Electrical system faults such as dashboard/monitor cluster quirks, infotainment glitches, and faulty window/lock switches or sensors.
- Turbocharger and boost-related issues (boost leaks, failed wastegate actuator) that can affect acceleration and fuel economy.
Owners who stay on top of maintenance and recall campaigns report more reliable performance, while issues tend to appear as the vehicle ages, especially with higher mileage.
Recalls and safety campaigns
The Cruze has been subject to multiple recalls and safety campaigns over its lifetime. The actual recalls vary by year and VIN, so checking a vehicle’s recall status is essential.
- Takata airbag inflator recall affects many GM models including Cruze variants, requiring replacement of inflators and related components.
- Other safety-related recalls have covered issues such as wiring harnesses, fuel system components, or door latch/electrical concerns, depending on model year.
For current and prospective owners, the best practice is to look up the VIN on the NHTSA recall site or GM’s recall lookup to confirm completed campaigns and any pending work.
Reliability ratings and ownership experience
Reliability ratings for the Cruze are mixed and depend heavily on the generation. Earlier years—especially 2011–2014—tended to show more complaints in consumer surveys and owner reports, including oil usage and transmission quirks. Later updates helped address some issues, but the model never achieved top-tier reliability in most mainstream rankings. The Cruze was discontinued in the United States after the 2019 model year as GM shifted resources toward SUVs and crossovers.
Always consider a used Cruze with a complete maintenance history, a clean service record, and a clear recall status, and have a trusted mechanic inspect the car before purchase.
What to look for when buying a used Cruze
If you’re considering purchasing a used Cruze, here are key checks to perform to minimize risk. The following guidance reflects common owner concerns and diagnostic focuses.
- Verify all recalls have been completed and check the VIN against the NHTSA GM recall database.
- Review service records for regular oil changes and any repairs related to oil consumption or the transmission.
- Check the engine for oil leaks; monitor oil level and look for signs of excessive oil burn or blue smoke on startup or acceleration.
- Test-drive to assess transmission behavior, including smooth upshifts, absence of shudder, and no harsh downshifts.
- Inspect electrical systems and infotainment functions for lag, screen freezes, or non-responsive controls.
With due diligence, a well-maintained Cruze can still offer economical transportation, but potential buyers should be mindful of these known issues and verify recall status.
Summary
The Chevrolet Cruze can be a practical, affordable compact car, but its history includes notable reliability issues that vary by generation. Oil consumption in some engines, automatic transmission quirks, and various recalls are the most commonly reported concerns. Prospective buyers should check recall status, review maintenance records, and have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase. In the U.S., GM phased out the Cruze after the 2019 model year, but demand for compact, economical cars remains in some markets, and properly maintained examples can still serve well.
