Here is every Chevrolet Cruze model year we cover (2011–2019), ranked by our reliability verdict, with the owner-reported problems behind each one.
Chevrolet Cruze problems by year
Final-year Cruze and the best of the run: complaints fall sharply and the transmission and electronics are sorted, though it shares the 1.4L turbo cooling/turbo risk and GM discontinued the line. A solid budget used compact if well maintained.
- 1.4L turbo (LE2) engine problems, cracked pistons, cylinder misfires, coolant leaks, turbocharger failures and unexpected stalling, sometimes requiring engine or turbo replacement.
- Transmission and driveline complaints, automatic transmission shifting faults and manual-transmission clutch slave-cylinder failures leading to loss of drive.
Late gen2 Cruze with far fewer complaints than the early years; engine and transmission issues taper off, though the 1.4L turbo cooling and oil concerns persist. A comfortable, efficient commuter at a low price.
- 1.4L turbo (LE2) engine problems, cracked pistons, cylinder misfires, coolant leaks, turbocharger failures and unexpected stalling, sometimes requiring engine or turbo replacement.
- Transmission and driveline complaints, automatic transmission shifting faults and manual-transmission clutch slave-cylinder failures leading to loss of drive.
Mid gen2 Cruze: roomy, frugal and well-equipped, but the 1.4L turbo drew cracked-piston, misfire and turbo-failure complaints plus manual clutch issues. Decent value only with service records and a pre-purchase inspection.
- 1.4L turbo (LE2) engine problems, cracked pistons, cylinder misfires, coolant leaks, turbocharger failures and unexpected stalling, sometimes requiring engine or turbo replacement.
- Transmission and driveline complaints, automatic transmission shifting faults and manual-transmission clutch slave-cylinder failures leading to loss of drive.
First year of the redesigned gen2 Cruze: lighter, roomier and more efficient, but the new 1.4L turbo brought cooling leaks, stalling and turbo failures. Buy only with documented service and a careful inspection.
- 1.4L turbo (LE2) engine problems, cracked pistons, cylinder misfires, coolant leaks, turbocharger failures and unexpected stalling, sometimes requiring engine or turbo replacement.
- Transmission and driveline complaints, automatic transmission shifting faults and manual-transmission clutch slave-cylinder failures leading to loss of drive.
250 NHTSA complaints on file. See the full report for the breakdown.
Late gen1 Cruze: comfortable and fuel-efficient but still affected by 1.4L turbo cooling failures, oil leaks and electrical and airbag complaints. A cheap commuter that demands careful maintenance and a pre-purchase inspection.
Gen1 Cruze with the highest share of engine and cooling complaints, thermostat-housing and coolant-leak failures dominate. Roomy and frugal, but reliability is a real concern; inspect the cooling system closely.
The most-complained Cruze year: widespread engine, cooling and transmission failures alongside multiple recalls. Pleasant to drive and economical, but a high-risk used buy unless thoroughly vetted.
First-year Cruze with seven recalls and heavy engine, powertrain and electrical complaints, coolant leaks, overheating and transmission faults are common. Avoid unless recall work is documented and it passes a strong inspection.