For many drivers, the question “is chevrolet cruze a good car” starts with the budget. The Chevrolet Cruze’s long-term ownership costs are a common starting point for budget-conscious shoppers. This compact car had a long run, offering a blend of practicality and features. But its reputation is mixed. We’ll look at the facts to help you decide if it’s the right used car for your needs.
You want a straightforward answer. The truth is, the Cruze can be a good car, but it depends heavily on the model year, your expectations, and how you plan to use it. It was designed to be an affordable, fuel-efficient daily driver with a comfortable interior. However, some years are far more reliable than others. Let’s break down everything you need to know.
Is Chevrolet Cruze A Good Car
To answer this core question, we need to examine several key areas. A good car for one person might be a poor choice for another. We will evaluate the Cruze based on reliability, safety, driving experience, ownership costs, and how it stacks up against rivals. This comprehensive view will give you the tools to make an informed decision.
Reliability And Common Problems
This is the most critical section for potential Cruze owners. Reliability varies dramatically between the first generation (2011-2015) and the second (2016-2019). Overall, the Cruze has a reputation for being less reliable than key competitors like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla.
Common issues reported by owners and mechanics include:
- Cooling System Problems: The 1.4L turbo engine is prone to coolant leaks, often from the water outlet housing or the thermostat housing. This can lead to overheating and serious engine damage if not addressed quickly.
- Turbocharger Issues: Premature turbo failure, especially in earlier models. Symptoms include loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and a loud whining noise.
- Transmission Concerns: The automatic transmission (6T30 and 6T40 models) in first-generation cars can be problematic. Issues range from rough shifting and shuddering to complete failure. The second generation showed improvement.
- PCV Valve Failure: A faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve can cause oil consumption, rough idling, and even cause the valve cover to fail. This is a very frequent repair.
- Electrical Gremlins: Owners report various electrical issues, from malfunctioning infotainment screens to power window and door lock failures.
The 2016 model year refresh brought meaningful improvements. The second-generation Cruze (2016-2019) is generally considered more reliable than its predecessor. If you are considering a Cruze, targeting a 2017-2019 model with a solid maintenance history is a much safer bet than an earlier one.
Model Years to Avoid and Consider
Based on reliability data and owner complaints, some years stand out.
- Best to Avoid: The 2011, 2012, and 2014 model years have the highest number of serious complaints, particularly regarding the engine and transmission.
- Proceed with Caution: 2013 and 2015 models show improvement but still carry over many of the first-gen issues.
- Most Recommended: 2017, 2018, and the final 2019 model years. These benefit from most of the kinks being worked out and have stronger long-term reliability reports.
Safety Ratings And Features
The Chevrolet Cruze typically earned good scores in safety testing. For example, the 2016-2019 models were awarded a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with specific headlights. It received top “Good” ratings in most crashworthiness tests.
Standard safety features evolved over the years. Later models offered more advanced options:
- 10 standard airbags (in later generations)
- StabiliTrak electronic stability control
- Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes
- Available rearview camera (became standard in 2015+)
- Available forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert (on higher trims of second-gen models)
While it wasn’t a class leader in advanced driver aids, its core crash protection was solid. Always check the specific safety ratings for the exact model year you’re considering on the NHTSA and IIHS websites.
Fuel Economy And Performance
The Cruze was marketed on efficiency, and it often delivered. The turbocharged engines provided a good balance of power and fuel savings.
- First Gen (2011-2015): The 1.4L turbo engine was rated around 26 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. The available 2.0L diesel (2014+) was a standout, achieving up to 46 mpg highway.
- Second Gen (2016-2019): The new 1.4L turbo saw improvements, with ratings up to 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. The 1.6L diesel option boasted an impressive 52 mpg highway rating.
Performance is adequate for daily commuting. The turbo engine provides decent low-end torque for merging and passing, but the Cruze was never intended to be a sporty car. The ride quality is tuned for comfort, soaking up bumps well, but handling can feel numb compared to a Mazda3 or Ford Focus. The manual transmission, when available, was praised by enthusiasts for making the car feel more engaging.
Interior Comfort, Space, And Technology
This is an area where the Cruze, especially the second generation, often surprised people. The interior materials and build quality were a significant step above many rivals in its price range.
- Front Seats: Generally comfortable and supportive for long drives. Higher trims offered leatherette or real leather.
- Rear Seat Space: Adequate for the class, but taller passengers may find legroom tight behind a tall driver. The rear seat is best suited for children or shorter adults on longer trips.
- Cargo Capacity: The trunk offers 14.8 cubic feet of space, which is competitive. The hatchback body style (available from 2017) added much more versatility with its large rear opening and fold-flat seats.
Technology improved markedly with the second generation. The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen became standard. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which keeps the system feeling modern even today. Voice recognition was decent, and the overall layout was user-friendly.
Cost Of Ownership: Depreciation, Insurance, And Maintenance
Here’s where the Cruze can present a compelling value proposition, but with important caveats.
- Depreciation: The Cruze depreciates quickly, like many domestic compact cars. This is bad for the original owner but great for a used car buyer. You can often find a low-mileage, well-equipped Cruze for a very attractive price compared to a similar Civic or Corolla.
- Insurance Costs: Insurance rates are typically average for the class. Its good safety ratings help, but repair costs for certain components (like the turbo) can influence premiums.
- Maintenance and Repair Costs: This is the wild card. Routine maintenance is affordable. However, when the known common problems strike, repair bills can be steep. Replacing a turbocharger or transmission can cost thousands. This makes a comprehensive warranty or a dedicated repair fund essential for Cruze ownership.
To manage costs, you must be proactive. Following the severe service schedule in the owner’s manual if you do lots of short trips, using the correct coolant, and changing the oil more frequently than the factory recommendation (every 5,000 miles instead of 7,500) can help prevent some major issues.
How It Compares To Rivals
To truly judge the Cruze, you need to see it beside its competition.
- vs. Honda Civic: The Civic is more reliable, holds its value better, and often has more engaging driving dynamics. The Cruze may offer a quieter ride and a plusher interior in higher trims for the same money on the used market.
- vs. Toyota Corolla: The Corolla is the benchmark for reliability and low cost of ownership. It can feel less powerful and its interior more basic than the Cruze’s. It’s a choice between proven durability and potentially more features.
- vs. Mazda3: The Mazda3 is the driver’s choice, with superior handling and a more premium interior feel. Fuel economy is similar. The Cruze might have a slight edge in rear seat comfort.
- vs. Ford Focus: The Focus (with the automatic transmission) has its own well-documented powertrain problems. The Cruze’s interior is generally considered superior. The Focus with a manual transmission is a fun alternative.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy A Used Chevrolet Cruze?
So, is the Chevrolet Cruze a good car? The answer is conditional.
The Chevrolet Cruze is a good buy for:
- A savvy used car buyer who prioritizes features and comfort per dollar and is willing to research model years thoroughly.
- A driver who can find a well-maintained 2017-2019 model with a verifiable service history.
- Someone who values a quiet, comfortable commute and appreciates a nice interior.
- A buyer who plans to keep the car for a moderate time (3-5 years) and understands potential repair costs.
You should likely look elsewhere if:
- Your top priority is minimizing repair risk and maximizing resale value.
- You are considering a high-mileage first-generation model (2011-2015).
- You don’t have the budget for an unexpected major repair.
- You plan on keeping the car for a decade or more with minimal issues.
In short, the later model Chevrolet Cruze represents a high-value, high-feature used car gamble. With the right model year and a commitment to preventative maintenance, it can serve you well. Without that diligence, it could become an expensive headache. Always get any used Cruze inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase, focusing on the cooling system, turbo, and transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the worst years for the Chevrolet Cruze?
The 2011 and 2012 model years are widely considered the most problematic, with numerous reports of major engine and transmission failures. The 2014 model also has a high number of complaints. It’s best to focus your search on the 2017-2019 models for better reliability.
Is the Chevy Cruze expensive to maintain?
Routine maintenance is average, but repair costs for its common issues (turbo, cooling system) can be very expensive. Over a 10-year period, projected maintenance costs are higher than segment leaders like the Toyota Corolla. Setting aside a repair fund is a wise idea.
How many miles can a Chevrolet Cruze last?
With meticulous care and timely repairs, a Chevrolet Cruze can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, reaching high mileage without significant repairs is less common than with some rivals. Many start needing major work well before 150,000 miles, especially first-generation models.
Is the Chevy Cruze good on gas?
Yes, fuel economy is one of the Cruze’s strong points. The second-generation gasoline models are rated up to 40 mpg highway, and the available diesel models can achieve over 50 mpg highway, making them among the most efficient non-hybrid compact cars of their time.
Why did Chevrolet stop making the Cruze?
Chevrolet discontinued the Cruze in 2019 due to shifting market trends. Consumers were moving away from sedans and towards SUVs and trucks, which offer higher profit margins. The company decided to reallocate resources to its more popular SUV lineup.