9 Best & Worst Chevy Cruze Years [Complete Data]

by

The Chevrolet Cruze was designed to be a cheap reliable option for the mass market. This compact sedan first hit the market in 2010 and will no longer be produced after 2019. It’s still an attractive option because of its plush interior, large cargo hold, and sophisticated entertainment system.

This article will examine all the Cruze model years to help you decide what to buy and avoid.

The model years from 2011-2014 are the worst Chevy Cruze years. The best model years of Chevy Cruze include 2015-2019. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book.

What Are The Worst Years Of Chevy Cruze?

There have been numerous Cruze-related complaints lodged with Chevrolet throughout the years. It’s probably best to avoid the following model years:

#4 Worst Year: 2013 Chevy Cruze (3.58 Rating)

Source: GM Authority

Let’s start with our least bad model. The 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is, relatively speaking, can be one of the good first-generation vehicles. Even though the 2013 Cruze had worse transmission problems, they weren’t as severe as in the two preceding models; thus, it fits perfectly here.

This model year is to think twice about if you’re looking for a used Cruze, as owners have experienced higher-than-average repair costs and inadequate interior quality. Electrical problems were frequently reported, such as malfunctioning sensors and glitchy computers.

Common Problems:

  • Failure of electrical functions
  • Oil and coolant leakage
  • Transmission failure
  • The anti-freeze odor from vents

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#3 Worst Year: 2014 Chevy Cruze (2.98 Rating)

Source: Autoguide

Despite not being the most problematic model of the first generation, the 2014 Chevy Cruze has several problems that make it difficult to recommend. According to CarComplaints, the 2014 Cruze has received over a thousand complaints and has been subject to seven recalls.

Turbo failures, excessive engine heat, and cracked pistons were frequently cited as causes of owner frustration. Steering lockups and electrical problems were also reported. Furthermore, The car’s refusal to shift properly, especially when downshifting, is another common complaint.

Common Problems:

  • Not shifting properly
  • The water pump failure
  • Overheating

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#2 Worst Year: 2011 Chevy Cruze (2.90 Rating)

Source: Car and drive

The first-generation Cruze has a number of reliability issues, and so does this model. CarComplaints.com received the most reports for the 2011 model year, most of which concerned transmission failures.

Many 2011 Cruze drivers were frustrated by transmission issues ranging from complete failure to incorrect shifting. The problem became even more severe because the transmission failed at comparatively low mileage.

The 2011 Cruze has also been criticized for having an unpleasant antifreeze odor. A class action lawsuit was filed because of this model year’s high incidence of coolant leaks in vehicles.

Common Problems:

  • Transmission failure
  • Anti-freeze odor in the car
  • The transmission is not shifting properly 

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#1 Worst Year: 2012 Chevy Cruze (2.88 Rating)

Source: Motor Authority

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze wasn’t better either and carried over most of the lineup’s reliability problems. The same sluggish transmission and coolant leaks from 2011 were also present here, two of the biggest problems with this model. Because of this, the 2012 Cruze received the “Beware of the Clunker” label from CarComplaints.com.

Other common complaints include transmission whining, inability to move into reverse, and complete failure to operate. It was not the most reliable year for the Chevrolet Cruze, but the opposite. In some cases, the failures happened while driving. Overall, it is better to avoid this car.

Common Problems:

  • Transmission failure
  • Anti-freeze odor
  • Transmission not shifting properly 

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

What Are The Best Years Of Chevy Cruze?

5 out of 9 Chevy Cruze years are considered as best years. Below are the Cruze production years that are worth buying.

#5 Best Year: 2016 Chevy Cruze (4.01 Rating)

Source: Car and drive

Since its introduction in 2010, the Cruze has had only one major redesign, which took place for the 2016 model year. It’s more up-to-date, has a roomier interior, and offers a wide variety of new features and colors compared to the previous model year.

It was also well-received for its economical engine, quiet cabin, and low fuel consumption. Each trim level is powered by a 153-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter inline-four engine as standard equipment. You can put trust in this model easily.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#4 Best Year: 2015 Chevy Cruze (4.20 Rating)

Source: Auto build

When compared to older models, the 2015 Cruze’s complaint rate is only 200+, which is impressively low. There are no serious faults that owners have reported with the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze. It has also fixed the terrible transmission issue plaguing the first generation. To top it all off, it has great fuel economy.

It has been lauded for its stable ride and reliable engines. Minor changes were made for this model year, such as the addition of the entry-level “L” trim and a revised front end.

The OnStar system now offers 4G cellular and WiFi hotspot connectivity for passengers in the vehicle. Also, new iPhone’s Siri Eyes Free feature is added, adding new voice-control capabilities.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#3 Best Year: 2017 Chevy Cruze (4.37 Rating)

Source: Car and drive

This model year of the Chevrolet Cruze is one of the safest and most dependable options. However, The 2017 Cruze experienced some problems with broken pistons, which can happen at lower mileage. It’s not perfect, but no other serious flaws would prevent us from recommending it.

We chose it as one of our top picks because of its attractive interior, advanced technological features, good reliability ratings, and efficient turbocharged engine. This model had some technological enhancements, and USB connections were made available in the back seats as an option.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#2 Best Year: 2018 Chevy Cruze (4.44 Rating)

Source: Drive Arabia

The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is the second-best model year for this compact automobile. There were a number of elements that helped it rank so highly among models from the same year.

The 2018 Cruze’s success is largely attributed to its increased safety. By this time, many of the faults that plagued earlier Chevrolet models had been fixed, leading to an NHTSA safety rating increase from four to five stars as a result of updates made for the 2017 model year.

The 2018 model year provided a wide range of customizations and features. Its versatility as a sedan or hatchback meant it could sell to a large audience. The Cruze was available with multiple engine options, including a 1.6L turbo diesel that achieved exceptional fuel economy without compromising performance.

The only noticeable modification for the 2018 Cruze was the addition of a new paint color, Satin Steel Metallic.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#1 Best Year: 2019 Chevy Cruze (4.51 Rating)

Source: Cargurus

If you’re in the market for the most up-to-date and best Cruze model, Chevrolet’s 2019 Cruze is a worthy contender. It has a broad list of standard amenities, an easy-to-use, cutting-edge infotainment system, good space, and excellent gas mileage.

The 2019 model is our top selection because of its responsive steering and convenient standard features. The bumpers, grille, and lights were given a makeover for this model year. In addition, new wheel styles were made available, a modified infotainment system and the vehicle’s taillights were updated.

The 2019 Cruze is rated as the “#1 Best Compact Car” of the year by J.D. Power. As a used compact car, the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze checks all the necessary boxes. Retail prices range from $13,525 to $17,025, making this a very attractive offer.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

What Are The Common Problems Of Chevy Cruze?

Some of the common Chevy Cruze problems are:

  • Transmission failure
  • Engine Issues
  • Oil and coolant leaks
  • Bad water pump
  • The anti-freeze smell in the car
  • Power steering loss
  • Cracked piston
  • Poor ignition coils

FAQs

1. How Long Will Chevy Cruze Last?

According to getjerry.com, your Cruze has a lifespan of 17 years or more with regular maintenance. Chevrolet Cruzes, on the other hand, are built to last well beyond 200,000 miles and frequently exceed 250,000 miles.

2. What Are The Other Alternatives To Chevy Cruze?

Even though cars like the chevy cruze are hard to come by in today’s new-car lots, some other better alternatives to Chevy Cruze may help you decide which to buy.

3. Is Chevy Cruze A Good Car?

The Chevy Cruze is reliable, so long as you stay away from specific model years, like (2011-2015). Details and the reasoning behind their troubles are discussed in this article.

Conclusion

With this comprehensive breakdown of Chevy Cruze models, you should have no trouble settling on the right one. The Chevrolet Cruze from 2015-2019 distinguishes for its exceptional reliability, whereas cars from 2011-2014 were widely criticized.

You won’t regret selecting a vehicle among the best-used Chevy Cruze models explained above.

Good Luck with your purchase!

0 0 votes
Article Rating

Related Posts

19 Best & Worst Ford Focus Years | Complete Guide
Chevy Traverse Years To Avoid | All 15 Best & Worst Years 2023
Volkswagen Jetta Years To Avoid | 14 Best & Worst Years 2023
Subaru WRX Years To Avoid | 9 Best & Worst Years 2023
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments