Home FAQ

Whats the most common problem with a 2015 Chevy Cruze?

The most common problem reported for the 2015 Chevy Cruze is transmission-related issues, especially with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting and slipping.

Across owner reports, recalls, and service histories, transmission problems consistently rank highest among complaints for this model year. This article reviews what tends to go wrong, how to diagnose and mitigate it, and other frequent concerns that have appeared in consumer data through 2024 and beyond.

Most common problem: Transmission issues

What owners report

In a broad look at complaints and service histories, the automatic 6-speed transmission used in many 2015 Cruze models has been the primary source of problems. The issues span several symptoms and failure modes, from shifting roughness to complete failure.

Harsh or delayed shifting during acceleration or deceleration

Transmission slipping between gears or losing drive

Rough upshifts or downshifts, sometimes accompanied by a clunk or flare

Transmission failure requiring repair or replacement

These patterns appear across independent consumer sites and manufacturing recalls, and some affected vehicles were covered by warranty extensions or recall-related service.

Other frequent concerns

Engine, electrical and ancillary issues

Beyond the transmission, owners have reported several other recurring problems. While not as dominant as transmission complaints, these items show up in patchy data and vary by vehicle history.

Engine misfire or rough idle, sometimes linked to ignition coils or fuel injectors

Coolant leaks around the thermostat housing or water pump, leading to overheating if not addressed

Electrical gremlins: dashboard warning lights, sensor faults, or BCM/ECM communication issues

Power steering assist failures or intermittent EPS issues in some cars

Addressing these concerns typically requires targeted parts replacement or software updates, and many cases respond to routine maintenance or recall work.

Practical guidance for buyers and owners

If you're shopping for a used 2015 Cruze or are already behind the wheel, here are steps to mitigate risk and monitor potential problems.

Check the vehicle's recall status and service history for the transmission and power steering components using the VIN on the NHTSA or GM websites

Have a qualified technician perform a transmission fluid inspection and a road test for shifting behavior

Review the warranty history: some owners report coverage under powertrain warranty extensions or recall-related remedies

Monitor for warning lights and abnormal noises, and seek prompt diagnosis if symptoms appear

Proactive maintenance and early diagnosis can reduce the likelihood of costly failures and help keep a 2015 Cruze on the road longer.

Summary

The most frequently reported problem for the 2015 Chevy Cruze is transmission-related issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting and potential slipping or failure. While other concerns such as engine misfires, coolant leaks, electrical faults, and EPS issues appear in owner reports, transmission problems stand out as the dominant pattern. Prospective buyers should verify recall status, review service history, and plan preventive maintenance, while current owners should monitor shifting behavior and address signs early with a dealer or trusted shop. A careful approach can improve reliability for this model year.

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.

What are the recalls on a 2015 Chevy Cruze?

The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze has several recalls, including issues with seat belt bolts being improperly tightened, parking brake cable brackets not being fastened correctly, and a steering inner tie rod that may not be tightened to specification. Other recalls involve the seat-back recliner mechanism and potential issues with roof rail airbags in later years that could also affect 2015 models, notes GM Authority. To check if your specific vehicle is affected, you should use your 17-digit VIN on the Safercar.gov website or the Chevrolet owner's website.
Recalls

Seat belt assembly bolt: One or more driver-side seat belt assembly bolts may not be properly tightened, potentially leading to the bolts loosening.
Parking brake cable bracket: The parking brake cable bracket may not be properly fastened, which could cause the bracket to separate and the parking brake to fail.
Steering inner tie rod: The inner tie rod may not be tightened to the correct specification, which could result in separation and a loss of steering control.
Seat-back recliner: The bracket for the driver or front passenger seat-back recliner mechanism may be incorrectly welded.
Roof rail air bag: Some 2015 models could be affected by a recall for roof rail airbags that rupture upon deployment, spraying metal.

How to check if your vehicle is affected

Visit the Safercar.gov website and enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Go to the Chevrolet owner's website and enter your VIN.
You may also be notified by mail if your vehicle is affected and the registration is up to date.

What is the most common problem with the Chevy Cruze?

Common Chevy Cruze problems include coolant leaks from plastic components like the water pump and thermostat housing, and engine issues such as misfires, oil consumption, and turbocharger problems. Owners also report problems with transmission shifting and electrical system failures.
This video explains the common problems with the Chevy Cruze, including the turbocharger, ignition coils, and cooling system: 44sDanielJaegerFilmsYouTube · Jul 25, 2021
Engine and cooling system

Coolant leaks: The cooling system is a major weak point, often due to plastic parts in the thermostat housing, water outlet hose, and water pump that can crack and leak.
Faulty water pump: The water pump is a frequent failure point, often leading to coolant leaks and overheating.
Engine misfires: This can be caused by faulty coil packs or spark plugs.
Oil consumption and smoke: Problems with the PCV valve and air check valve can lead to excessive oil consumption and blue exhaust smoke.
Turbocharger issues: Turbochargers can fail, especially if oil changes are missed, with problems like cracked wastegates or a failing actuator arm.

You can watch this video to learn more about the common problems with the Chevy Cruze's engine, including the thermostat and PCV system: 50scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 17, 2022
Transmission and electrical

Transmission problems: Owners report harsh shifting, rough shifting, and failure to engage gears.
Electrical failures: The electrical system is a frequent source of issues, including faulty power seats and the computer panel shutting off unexpectedly.
Brake failure: Some model years have reported issues with the brake system.

This video discusses common transmission issues in the Chevy Cruze: 1mLemon Law AssistYouTube · Aug 5, 2023
Other common problems

Suspension and steering noises: Clunking noises from the front suspension are common.
Sticking windows: Side windows may stick in the closed position.
Leaky taillights: Some models are prone to water leaking in through the taillight assemblies.

Are there any problems with a 2015 Chevy Cruze?

Common problems with the 2015 Chevy Cruze include coolant leaks, issues with the turbocharger and ignition coils, a faulty water pump, and problems with the crankcase and intake manifold. Other reported issues include problems with the steering and anti-lock brake system (ABS).
This video discusses common problems with the Chevy Cruze and how to fix them: 56sAJS WoodworksYouTube · May 22, 2024
Engine and powertrain

Coolant leaks: The Cruze is known for coolant leaks, often from the water pump or thermostat housing. These can lead to overheating if not addressed.
Turbocharger issues: The 1.4L turbo engine can have problems like turbo failure, which may be accompanied by smoke and oil leaks around the turbo area.
Ignition coil failure: The ignition coils are prone to misfiring and failure, which can be identified by rough idling and a check engine light.
Crankshaft seal: A worn crankcase seal can cause a whistling or chirping noise, especially at idle.
Intake manifold and valve cover: The PCV diaphragm inside the valve cover can fail, leading to vacuum leaks, rough idling, and oil consumption.
Water pump: The water pump is a common failure point, with leaks around the 100,000-mile mark being frequent. This can cause the engine to overheat.
Oil cooler: Leaks can occur around the oil cooler, and it is often recommended to replace the entire cooler.
Cracked cylinder head: Some 2014 and 2015 models have experienced cracked cylinder heads, leading to overheating and rough running.

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.