Chevrolet Cruze Complaints

3,726 consumer complaints on file.

#11774247October 28, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Code U0101 Transmission Electro-Hydraylic control module Sudden shift while at stop light . All warning lights came on stable track etc . Vehicle has been inspected can bus and tcm not communicating
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11774000October 27, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 - 60 MPH and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the brake pedal became stiff and pushed back, requiring three to four attempts to respond and causing an extended stopping distance. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while driving on several occasions. In addition, the check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the microswitch inside the power brake vacuum pipe assembly had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V360000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11773830October 26, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
It happened on [XXX] where the service engine light was on and died in the middle of traffic. This light was on after we purchased the vehicle but not on when we test drove it. I think the dealership knew about and are not wanting to fix it. Not the car want start at all. My son spent his hard earned money to purchase a car. We had to have it towed home. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11769108October 5, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle suddenly displayed the "Park" light on the instrument panel. The contact pulled over and shifted the vehicle into park to restart it. After restarting the vehicle, the parking brake became stuck, and the transmission failed to shift out of park(P). Eventually, the vehicle was able to be restarted and driven. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times, and the battery became drained due to the failure several times. The contact stated that occasionally the "Shift to Park" message failed to display as needed. The contact associated the failure with TSB: 19-NA-206; however, the VIN was not included in the TSB. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The dealer informed the contact to take the vehicle to be diagnosed. The failure mileage was 60,058.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11768211October 1, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
I PURCHASED THE CAR WITH MY STUDENT FINANCIAL AID MONEY AS SOON AS I GOT 5 CAR A FEW BLOCKS AWAY AND THE CAR STARTED BOILING.THEN THE KEY IGNITION SYSTEM SAID USE POCKET TRANSMITTER THAT DIDN'T WORK .I PURCHASED A NEW BATTERY I HAVE A MECHANIC THAT'S WHY I PURCHASED THE CAR I WAS CONFIDANT JE COULD FIX IT NO MATTER WHAT THE CAR WAS3 VERY UNSAFE NO WARMING ABOUT THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE THEN WHEN I WAS DRIVING THE CAR IT STOPPED SUDDENLY AND I CHECKED THE FLUIDS PUT ANTIFREEZE AND OIL THE CAR ENGINE WAS SO HOT IT DAMAGED THE HEATER BYPASS HOSE.I REALLY NEEDED MY TRANSPORTATION I GO SCHOOL WAS A OUT TO GET A JOB I'M HOMELESS I WAS GOING TO A SHELTER FOR HELP BUT IF I GET A JOB I CAN AFFORD RENT.I AM GOING THROUGH IT. I AM DEPRESSED THE DEALER SAID HE DON'T KNOW WHY THE CAR KEEPS GETTING HOT THEN MY MECHANIC SAID THE WASN'T COMING ON IN TIME . THERE WERE No leaks but antifreeze disappeared.THEN WHITE SMOKE CAME FROM THE ENGINE AND IN SECONDS THE CAR VINDICATES IT WAS OVER HEATING WHEN THE CARS FLUID WERE CHECKED I PURCHASED A NEW BATTERY THE LUGHTS AND RADIO WORKED BUT THE KEY IGNITION SYSTEM WAS DEAD AND SAID USE POCKET TRANSMITTER.THE DEALER SAID CAR IS SOLD AS IS.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11766928September 25, 2026
POWER TRAIN
COMPONENT: Transmission control system / GM VT40 continuously variable transmission (CVT), RPO code MRG - a rare, fleet-only configuration for this model year, confirmed via the vehicle's factory build/RPO code list. WHAT HAPPENED: While stopped at a red light (engine idling just after an automatic stop-start restart, foot on brake only, no accelerator input), the check engine light came on along with an unusual mild jolt sensation from the drivetrain. Diagnostic codes P0700 (Transmission Control System - MIL Request) and P2714 (Pressure Control Solenoid D Performance/Stuck Off) were stored. Drove approximately 4 miles without further incident; vehicle has since been limited to short, low-speed use only pending repair. CONFIRMATION: An independent mechanic shop confirmed the codes, and pulled a transmission fluid sample showing visible metal debris up to several mm in size. Shop's assessment: internal transmission failure; recommended full transmission replacement (quoted approx. $7,800). Not yet inspected by manufacturer, police, or insurance. SAFETY RISK: I located GM Technical Service Bulletin PIP5819B (later 24-NA-009), "VT40 Transmission Setting DTC P2714," describing this identical DTC/failure pattern - clutch regulator valve sticking, forward clutch piston damage, and/or primary pulley bearing bore wear - on other VT40-equipped GM vehicles (Malibu, Trailblazer, Encore GX). This bulletin is not listed as applying to the Cruze, despite the Cruze using the identical VT40/MRG unit per GM's own public confirmation of this fleet-only configuration. Secondary sourcing of this bulletin describes the failure as capable of causing sudden, complete loss of forward propulsion while driving. GM Customer Assistance Center case #108675675 was opened. GM stated the bulletins do not apply to this vehicle, and refused further discussion or assistance despite the transmission in question being the same as in the bulletins.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11765699September 20, 2026
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
It started over heating and I had to replace multiple coolant lines/hoses from the thermostat, heater core, the reservoir, radiator. Ive replace the intake diaphragm. Thought since all the pieces that got hot and cracked or broke got replaced that the issue was gone. Then one day I drove 8 mins into Ohio and it started smoking so I pulled off the road and had to have a tow truck come get it. It had blown a head gasket at least I thought but found out it had water in the oil so now needs a new motor. I still owe on the car and cant drive it
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11764992September 17, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I am filing this complaint due to repeated mechanical and safety problems with my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. The vehicle has had ongoing acceleration problems, including times when it would not accelerate properly even with the A/C on its lowest setting. The turbocharger has needed to be replaced multiple times, yet acceleration problems have continued. I have also had oil lines randomly snap and spray oil from the vehicle. Other issues include a passenger-side seatbelt that does not work properly, a tire-pressure sensor that began cutting out after new sensors were installed, and a piece of plastic underneath the vehicle that came loose and now hangs near the tire.also had a problem with the car losing liquids: exhaust leak, oil leak, and now coolant randomly. The most serious incident happened recently. The vehicle was running unusually whenever I slowed down at lights, stop signs, and turns. After stopping at a light, I tried to accelerate uphill. The RPM went to about 2,000, dropped toward 1,000, and the accelerator stopped responding. While turning at a red light, I then lost braking assistance and steering assistance. I had my hazard lights on and had to pull into a Red Robin parking lot. The dashboard and radio remained on, but the RPM eventually dropped to 0. After restarting, the vehicle shook and made a rough, grumbling sound when I pressed the accelerator. I scanned for diagnostic codes and none were present. After sitting, the vehicle was driven home for about 17 minutes without reproducing the problem, but the issue occurred suddenly while I was driving and created a serious safety hazard. I am requesting that the vehicle and its repair history be thoroughly investigated for defects, recalls, technical service bulletins, or recurring problems. I am especially concerned about the repeated loss of acceleration and the recent loss of braking and steering assistance while driving.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11762968September 9, 2026
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and raising the foot off the accelerator pedal, the vehicle decelerated drastically. Additionally, the vehicle occasionally hesitated while accelerating and failed to immediately accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. Occasionally, the vehicle lurched forward suddenly. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 129,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11761407September 1, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, AIR BAGS, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
An authorized Chevrolet dealer diagnosed an electrical problem on my 2019 Chevrolet Cruze and found that the HVAC case/condensate drain was disconnected. The dealer determined that condensate water had been draining into the passenger compartment instead of outside the vehicle. According to the dealer's written diagnosis, the water soaked the body wiring harness and damaged the Body Control Module (BCM) and Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) module. The problem initially presented through door-lock/electrical malfunctions. The dealer confirmed the water intrusion and resulting component damage during its inspection. I am concerned because the affected components include the body wiring harness, BCM, and SRS module. Damage to the SRS module potentially affects a vehicle safety/restraint system, and extensive water contamination of the wiring harness and control modules could cause additional electrical failures. The dealer stated that repair would require replacement of the body wiring harness, BCM and SRS module, removal of the front carpeting, treatment for moisture/mold contamination, and approximately 42 hours of labor. The dealer estimated the repair at $14,314 and stated that the repair cost exceeds the value of the vehicle. I do not know when or why the HVAC drain became disconnected. I am reporting this because an authorized Chevrolet dealer confirmed that a disconnected HVAC drain allowed water to enter the cabin and damage multiple electrical and safety-related modules. I believe NHTSA should determine whether similar water-intrusion failures have occurred in other vehicles of this model.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760905August 31, 2026
ENGINE
I was driving and the engine caught on fire. The flames came from the turbo gasket compartment not sure why or how it ignited. Thankfully the damage was not that extensive the car was towed to my residence and it is not drivable it won't start.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760605August 29, 2026
ENGINE, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I’d like to report this vehicle and its engine as I did not know I could before we have had this car since 2015 This engine has chronic repeated issues that Chevy would patch once under “special coverages” or “extended warranty” and it fails again and again but they only honor it 1 time even if it fails yet again due to bad engineering or design flaws. This car has had 3 water pumps 5 water outlets- I eventually had to buy an off market alternative to stop this from failing, 2 (about to be 3) valve covers because the PCV valve is a chronic failure on the system cause oil to bypass into the intake and feed back into the turbo but it’s built into the valve cover instead of a separate piece like other engines. This car with the 1.4 L turbo is not safe or reliable to be on the road. The cruise control will work 1 maybe 2 times in a drive cycle then refuse to work again with no rhyme or reason and they cannot find the issue. This car has left me stranded many of times and is not trust worthy to be sold to someone else and Chevy will not honor the fact it’s a failing engine. Could this be looked into I know I have had this car a long time it is just now at 120k miles all these problems started before 100k miles and are reoccurring.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760031August 27, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
car has been overheating run while i take the keys out doors will lock with keys in the ignition lots of lights will come on car will slow way down constantly adding antifreeze in it heat and air will stop working i have had trouble ever since i bought this a year ago
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759000August 24, 2026
ENGINE
Manufacturer: General Motors / Chevrolet Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Cruze LT (VIN: [XXX]) Corporate Case Number: XXX Nature of Dispute: Premature mechanical failure of a major drivetrain assembly and administrative bad faith. Factual Timeline: Initial Failure & Prior Liability: At 51,490 miles, the vehicle suffered a mechanical failure of the turbocharger assembly. General Motors acknowledged defect awareness and prior liability by funding a $1,000 payout to complete the repair. Premature Secondary Failure: Just 40,000 miles after that official manufacturer repair, a certified Chevrolet dealership service department formally diagnosed a second total mechanical failure of the turbocharger assembly (Error Codes: P0299 Underboost and P1101 Airflow Performance). Administrative Breakdown: Upon requesting a supervisor escalation due to a combative tier-1 case manager, the manufacturer reactively demanded unauthorized diagnostic fees and prematurely closed the file. General Motors subsequently breached its 24-hour supervisor review commitment and issued a final refusal to address the recurring mechanical defect on its network. Remedy Sought: Full manufacturer coverage for the replacement of the prematurely failed drivetrain component based on documented prior corporate liability. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11758553August 21, 2026
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
For the first question, I’d strengthen it to: The vehicle has experienced repeated engine and engine-cooling system failures, including recurring overheating and coolant loss. Over approximately the past year, I have had to replace or repair numerous components, including the radiator, thermostat housing, temperature sensor, water outlet, turbocharger/turbocharger components, O-rings, multiple oil seals, and the head gasket. I have also had other cooling and engine components repaired, although I no longer have a complete list of every component that has been replaced. Despite these repairs, the vehicle continues to experience overheating and coolant loss. The vehicle has also experienced loss of power while driving. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The vehicle has repeatedly displayed an overheating warning. Other symptoms have included coolant loss, shaking and vibration, rough or uneven acceleration, loss of engine power while driving, and a check-engine light. The check-engine light has previously flashed during operation. The vehicle has also experienced unexplained engine-oil loss. These problems have continued despite extensive repairs over approximately the past year, including replacement of the radiator, thermostat housing, temperature sensor, water outlet, turbocharger/turbocharger components, O-rings, oil seals, and head gasket. The repeated failures have created a significant safety risk because the vehicle has overheated while being driven and has previously lost power while traveling on the highway. I have been forced to stop on the side of the road, where I was almost struck by another vehicle. The possibility of sudden loss of power or overheating while traveling in traffic creates a serious risk to both myself and other motorists.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11756875August 14, 2026
AIR BAGS, SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My transmission blew up. My airbags did not deploy. And neither of my brakes or emergency brakes worked. I was in a car accident where I hit another car in a tree and was admitted into the hospital as I am pregnant.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11756664August 13, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that while attempting to move the gear shifter, the vehicle hesitated while shifting into neutral(N) or drive(D) as intended, and there was an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had reoccurred. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11755184August 6, 2026
AIR BAGS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owned a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, a Chevrolet Impala crashed into the rear of the vehicle, causing the vehicle to fishtail and flip over several times and land upside down in the woods. The contact stated that the air bags deployed and exploded. The contact stated that the air bags obstructed the exit out of the vehicle. There was an unknown yellow warning light illuminated. There was a strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle. The driver was able to exit the vehicle through the rear window. The contact sustained injuries to the head, a gash on the leg, and had shrapnel embedded in the skin. Medical attention was provided. The driver was emotionally distraught. A Police report was filed. Upon research, the contact determined that the failure might be associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V372000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was deemed a total loss by the insurance company. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 14,302.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11747783July 1, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
The brakes system didnt seem to be stopping properly almost as if i had to push really hard on the brakes to get the car to stop. Finally today, I was 1.6 car lengths behind another vehicle whom slammed their brakes on for no reason and I had to do so as well. My car would not stop, the brakes would not work causing a major accident.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11746413June 25, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
Hh
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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