What year to avoid the Chevy Cruze?

If you’re shopping for a used Chevy Cruze, you may wonder which model years are worth avoiding. The short answer is to steer clear of the early 2011–2013 models, while 2014–2019 are generally more reliable with proper maintenance and complete recall history.

Why model years vary in reliability

Chevrolet introduced the Cruze in 2011, and the early years carried more reports of mechanical and electrical issues, as well as several recalls that affected performance and safety. Over the following years, improvements were made to engines, transmissions, and onboard electronics. However, reliability can still vary by individual vehicle depending on maintenance and previous ownership, so a thorough pre-purchase check remains essential.

Years to avoid

Among Cruze model years, the earliest generation (2011–2013) has the highest incidence of owner-reported problems and recalls. These years are most frequently called out by buyers and reliability trackers for elevated repair costs and service visits. If you’re shopping, these years should be the ones you consider skipping or budget heavily for repairs.

• 2011


• 2012


• 2013

Note that while these years are commonly cited as problematic, individual cars vary. If you must buy one of these years, look for a clean service history with all recalls completed and bake in potential maintenance needs.

Better-to-buy years

From 2014 through 2019, Cruze models generally show better reliability in consumer surveys and dealer service data. The 1.4L turbo engines proved more durable, and the infotainment and electrical systems matured. That said, buying any used car still requires verifying maintenance history, recall completion, and overall condition.

• 2014


• 2015


• 2016


• 2017


• 2018


• 2019

Even within these years, individual vehicles vary. A well-documented service history, no outstanding recalls, and a careful pre-purchase inspection are key to a solid used Cruze purchase.

What to check when shopping for a used Cruze

Beyond year selection, perform due diligence to reduce risk. Check for oil consumption on the 1.4L turbo, ensure all recalls are completed, verify transmission service history, and confirm there are no chronic electrical faults. A comprehensive vehicle history report and a professional inspection can help you avoid lingering problems after purchase.

Bottom line

For used Cruze shoppers, aim for 2014–2019 models with a clean recall history and solid maintenance records. Avoid the 2011–2013 years if possible, as they carry the strongest reliability concerns. Always prioritize the vehicle’s maintenance history over the year alone.

Summary

In short, focus on 2014–2019 Cruze models for better reliability, and avoid 2011–2013 except in cases where you can verify exceptional maintenance and recall completion. A careful pre-purchase inspection and a complete history check are your best defenses against surprises in a used Cruze.

What is the best year of Chevy Cruze to buy?

The best years for the Chevy Cruze are 2018 and 2019, as they were the most refined and reliable models from the second generation. These years benefited from improvements made over the first generation and are praised for their performance, features, and improved reliability ratings. The 2019 model is often cited as the top choice due to its superior fuel efficiency and handling, notes CarGurus.com and Easterns Automotive Group. 
Reasons for choosing the 2018 or 2019 model

• Reliability: The second generation (2016-2019) is generally considered much more reliable than the first, and 2018/2019 models are the most refined of this generation. 
• Performance and features: These later models offer improved performance, new tech like a better infotainment system, and the option of a diesel powertrain or a hatchback body style. 
• Safety: They are equipped with robust safety features, and the 2019 model was highly rated by J.D. Power. 

Other model years to consider

• 2014-2015: These models are also considered decent options, but some have reported issues with their transmissions. 
• 2017: This is also a good choice, but some users have reported engine-related problems in earlier second-gen models that were addressed in later years. 

Model years to avoid

• 2013 and 2016: These years are often cited as the worst due to various issues, including transmission problems, electrical issues, and growing pains from the redesign in 2016, according to Klipnik and Car Time Supercenter.
• Other early models (2011-2012): While considered a "solid beginning," some early models had recalls and complaints about transmission failure and leaks. 

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.

What is the problem with the 2018 Chevy Cruze?

Common problems with the 2018 Chevy Cruze include engine issues such as failure, misfires, and leaks, often linked to the turbocharger, head gasket, or cooling system. Other reported problems include electrical and transmission issues, a problematic brake pedal, and potential issues with the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, according to RepairPal, Consumer Reports, this YouTube video, and this Reddit post, this YouTube video, and this YouTube video. There have also been three recalls issued by the NHTSA, one of which concerns a potential gasoline leak in certain models after a rear-impact crash.
 
This video discusses the common problems of the Chevy Cruze, including engine and turbo issues, and how to fix them: 56sAJS WoodworksYouTube · May 22, 2024
Engine problems

• Engine failure: Owners have reported engines stopping while driving, sometimes with smoke coming from the engine, which can be caused by a broken alternator, sensors, or problems with the cylinder or oil. 
• Cooling system issues: Leaks from the plastic thermostat housing and head gasket failure can lead to engine overheating and damage, as a cracked head gasket can allow coolant into the combustion chamber. 
• Turbocharger issues: The turbocharger can be affected by problems with the PCV system, which can cause oil to leak into it. 

Other common issues

• Electrical problems: Some drivers have reported the engine light and stability control light coming on with no clear solution. 
• Transmission problems: Issues such as transmission slippage and premature clutch wear have been reported. 
• Brake issues: Some 2018 Cruze owners experienced a long and mushy brake pedal, leading to difficulty braking safely. 
• PCV system issues: The PCV system can fail and cause oil to leak into the turbocharger. 

Recalls

• Fuel system, gasoline: A recall was issued for certain 2016-2018 Cruze LS vehicles with a tire inflator kit instead of a spare tire, due to the risk of gasoline leakage in a rear-impact or rollover crash. 

This video explains why Chevy Cruze engines fail, focusing on issues with the cylinder head and cooling system: 1mspeedkar99YouTube · Mar 4, 2024

Is Chevy Cruze worth buying?

Owning a Chevy Cruze costs around CA$750 annually in maintenance and repairs, with a good record of fewer unscheduled repair shop visits. There's a 12% chance of serious problems for every year of ownership when issues do arise in a Chevrolet Cruze. RepairPal grants the Cruze a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0.