What years of Chevy Cruze are bad?

Based on owner reports, recalls, and repair data, the most commonly troubled Cruze years are the early 2011–2014 models, especially those with the 1.4-liter turbo engine. Some issues persisted into 2015–2016, but reliability generally improved in later years. Individual cars vary with maintenance and mileage.

To understand the question in depth, this article examines the years most frequently cited for problems, the specific components involved, and practical guidance for buyers and owners seeking to avoid costly repairs. It covers engine, transmission, electrical concerns, and recalls, with a focus on the US-market Cruze timeline, which ended after the 2019 model year.

Oil consumption concerns in the 1.4L turbo

Before listing the years and issues, note that oil consumption complaints clustered around the 1.4L turbo engines in early production runs. The following notes summarize what buyers and owners have reported, along with guidance on how to assess and address the issue.

• 2011–2014 Cruze models equipped with the 1.4L turbo engine: recurring reports of higher-than-expected oil consumption, which can lead to low oil levels between changes if not monitored closely.


• Potential impact: if oil consumption is severe and left unchecked, it can raise the risk of engine wear and, in extreme cases, more costly repairs. Many cases were addressed under warranty or through engine-related service campaigns.


• Maintenance implications: these models benefit from diligent oil level checks, timely oil changes, and documentation of oil consumption or related service actions.


• Repair reality: not every 1.4L turbo Cruze burned oil at the same rate, but the issue is among the more commonly cited problems for this engine in that period.

The takeaway for potential buyers is to review the service history for oil consumption concerns, request recent oil-level records, and verify whether any engine-related service campaigns or recalls applied to the vehicle’s VIN.

Automatic transmission concerns

Before detailing the list, this section highlights the transmission issues that have been more frequently reported in certain Cruze years. The 6-speed automatic transmission used in several Cruze models showed predictors of trouble in some units, particularly in earlier production years.

• 2011–2014 Cruze models with the 6-speed automatic: some owners reported harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or other transmission irregularities requiring service or, rarely, a replacement.


• Overall impact: transmission problems can be costly to repair and may affect resale value or require a thorough maintenance history to verify reliability.


• Mitigation: regular transmission-fluid changes when specified by GM, and ensuring no prior high-stress towing or aggressive shifting patterns can reduce risk; test drive to verify smooth operation is essential.


• Context: while not universal, these issues contributed to perceived reliability concerns for the early Cruze lineup.

When evaluating a used Cruze, pay particular attention to the transmission’s shift quality, any reported hard shifts, and whether the vehicle has undergone relevant service if issues were observed.

Electrical and recall-related issues

Before the list, here is a broad look at electrical and recall considerations that affected multiple Cruze years, including high-profile safety campaigns.

• Takata airbag recalls: Cruze models across several years were included in large airbag recall campaigns, with varying VIN windows and required recalls depending on production date and region.


• Infotainment and sensor glitches: some owners reported intermittent infotainment freezes, navigation or Bluetooth issues, and occasional sensor faults across several model years.


• Door locks and power accessories: a subset of vehicles experienced intermittent failures in door locks, windows, or other power-operated components.


• Recall status check: always verify that any open recalls have been completed for a given VIN using official VIN lookup tools.

Electrical and recall-related issues can be addressed through proper service history, but it’s important to confirm that all safety recalls are completed and to review any warranty extensions related to electrical components.

What to look for when buying a used Cruze

Before listing the checks, this section explains why these factors matter for value and future maintenance costs. A careful pre-purchase review can help you avoid cars with costly hidden problems.

• Service and maintenance history: look for regular oil changes, transmission service records, and any documented oil-consumption monitoring or engine-related repairs.


• Oil consumption indicators: ask about oil usage between changes and whether any recalls or service campaigns addressed oil consumption in the vehicle’s particular year and engine.


• Transmission history: verify the transmission has not required repeated repairs and that shifts feel smooth during a test drive.


• Recall coverage: ensure all safety recalls (airbags, etc.) have been addressed for the VIN.


• Overall condition: inspect for common wear items (suspension, brakes, tires) and verify there are no signs of neglect that could accelerate wear.

Practical steps include a thorough test drive, a professional pre-purchase inspection, and a VIN-specific recall/service history check to gauge overall reliability before purchasing.

Summary

The Chevy Cruze shows a pattern where the earliest years (2011–2014), especially those with the 1.4L turbo engine, are the ones most often flagged for reliability concerns, notably oil consumption and automatic-transmission behavior. Later years (2015–2016) saw fewer oil-related complaints, with some persistent electrical and recall-related issues, but overall reliability improved. As the model aged and influenced by mileage, individual vehicles varied widely. If you’re shopping for a used Cruze, prioritize well-documented maintenance, a clean transmission history, and verified recalls, and consider a 2015–2016 example with solid service records for a more favorable reliability profile. The Cruze was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2019 model year, so buyers are typically looking at the used market.

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 most reliable year of the Chevy Cruze?

2016-2019 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2016–2019 model years of the Chevrolet Cruze are regarded as some of the most reliable in the sedan's history, addressing almost all the concerns owners of its predecessor faced. The second-gen Cruze was an extensive upgrade over the model it replaced – in every sense.

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

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.