Loading

What is the problem with the Chevrolet Cruze?

The Chevrolet Cruze, a compact car introduced by General Motors in 2008, has faced a number of issues that have plagued its reputation and sales performance over the years. From design flaws to reliability concerns, the Cruze has struggled to compete with other popular models in its segment.


Design and Reliability Concerns


One of the primary problems with the Chevrolet Cruze is its design and overall build quality. The car has been criticized for its cheap-feeling interior materials, subpar fit and finish, and a general lack of refinement compared to its competitors. 1 Additionally, the Cruze has been plagued by a number of reliability issues, including problems with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. 2


Safety Recalls and Lawsuits


The Chevrolet Cruze has also been the subject of several high-profile safety recalls and lawsuits. In 2014, GM recalled over 1 million Cruze models due to a defect that could cause the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. 3 Additionally, the Cruze has been the target of class-action lawsuits related to issues such as premature brake wear and faulty ignition switches.


Declining Sales and Discontinuation


The combination of design flaws, reliability issues, and safety concerns has taken a toll on the Chevrolet Cruze's sales performance. Over the years, the Cruze's sales have steadily declined, leading GM to discontinue the model in the United States in 2019. 4 The decision to discontinue the Cruze was part of a broader shift in GM's product strategy, as the company focused more on SUVs and trucks to meet consumer demand.


Lessons Learned and the Future of Compact Cars


The struggles of the Chevrolet Cruze serve as a cautionary tale for automakers in the compact car segment. To succeed in this highly competitive market, manufacturers must prioritize quality, reliability, and safety, while also offering a compelling design and feature set. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the future of compact cars will depend on automakers' ability to address the shortcomings that have plagued models like the Cruze.

Is the Chevy Cruze a reliable car?


The Chevrolet Cruze Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 26th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $545 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.



What is the lawsuit against the Chevy Cruze?


The lawsuit filed by Hagens Berman alleges that Chevy Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel vehicles fail federal emissions standards: Highway conditions: vehicles emit nitrogen oxides (NOx) at up to eight times the federal standard. Stop-and-go conditions: vehicles emit nitrogen oxides (NOx) at up to 13.8 times the federal ...



What years of Chevy Cruze are bad?


What Are Chevy Cruze Model Years To Avoid? The Chevy Cruze model years to avoid are 2011 through 2015, with each of these models having prevalent transmission failure and engine problems.



What is the biggest problem with the Chevy Cruze?


The top problems that plague the Chevy Cruze include engine problems, cracked pistons, and electrical failures.


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.