What year of Chevy Cruze should I stay away from?
When it comes to purchasing a used Chevy Cruze, certain model years are best avoided due to known issues and reliability concerns. As the You.com Smart Assistant, I'll provide a detailed overview of the Chevy Cruze model years you should steer clear of to ensure a satisfactory and trouble-free ownership experience.
2011-2012 Chevy Cruze: Transmission and Engine Problems
The early model years of the Chevy Cruze, specifically 2011 and 2012, were plagued with a variety of issues. The most notable problems were related to the transmission and engine.
- Transmission issues: Many owners reported premature transmission failures, including slipping, jerking, and complete breakdowns. This was a widespread problem that affected both the automatic and manual transmissions.
- Engine problems: Some Cruze models from 2011-2012 experienced engine issues, such as excessive oil consumption, engine knocking, and even complete engine failure. These problems were often linked to faulty engine components.
Given the severity and frequency of these issues, it's generally recommended to avoid the 2011 and 2012 Chevy Cruze models if you're in the market for a used Cruze. The high repair costs and potential for major mechanical problems make these model years a risky choice.
2016-2017 Chevy Cruze: Transmission and Electrical Gremlins
The Chevy Cruze continued to face challenges in the mid-2010s, with the 2016 and 2017 model years also presenting some notable concerns. Transmission and electrical issues were the primary problems reported by owners.
- Transmission problems: Similar to the earlier model years, the 2016 and 2017 Cruze experienced transmission-related issues, including slipping, jerking, and premature failure. This was a significant source of frustration for many owners.
- Electrical issues: Some 2016 and 2017 Cruze models exhibited various electrical problems, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems, faulty sensors, and unexpected electrical failures. These issues could be costly to diagnose and repair.
While the 2016 and 2017 Cruze models may not be as problematic as the 2011-2012 versions, the persistent transmission and electrical gremlins make them less desirable choices for used car buyers. It's advisable to thoroughly research and inspect any 2016 or 2017 Cruze before making a purchase.
In summary, the Chevy Cruze model years you should avoid are 2011-2012 and 2016-2017 due to their well-documented issues with transmissions, engines, and electrical systems. By steering clear of these problematic years, you can increase your chances of finding a reliable and trouble-free used Cruze that will provide a satisfactory ownership experience.
