Chevrolet Cobalt problems

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The Chevrolet Cobalt is a compact car introduced by Chevrolet in 2004 for the 2005 model year. The Cobalt replaced both the Cavalier and the Toyota-based Geo/Chevrolet Prizm as Chevrolet's compact car. The Cobalt was available as both a coupe and sedan, as well as a sport compact version dubbed the Cobalt SS. Like the Chevrolet HHR and the Saturn ION, it was based on the GM Delta platform.

A Pontiac version was sold in the United States and Mexico under the G5 name for 2007–2009. It was sold as the Pontiac G4 in Mexico for 2005–2006 and as the Pontiac G5 in Canada for its entire run (where it was briefly known as the Pontiac Pursuit and later Pontiac G5 Pursuit). The G5 replaced the Cavalier-related Pontiac Sunfire. While the Cobalt was available as a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan in all markets it was offered in, the G5 was only available as a coupé in the United States while a sedan version was sold alongside the coupé in Canada and Mexico.

As with their predecessors, all Cobalts and its Pontiac equivalents were manufactured at GM's plant in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico and Lordstown, Ohio. The United States Environmental Protection Agency classified the Cobalt as a subcompact car.

photo of Chevrolet Cobalt car production

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Chevrolet Cobalt model years

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Cobalt 2017
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Cobalt 2016
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Cobalt 2012
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Cobalt 2010
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Cobalt 2007
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Cobalt 2006
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Cobalt 2005
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Cobalt 2002
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Cobalt 2000
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Cobalt 1996
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Common Chevrolet Cobalt problems

The Chevrolet Cobalt, produced from 2005 to 2010, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are the details of the most frequently reported issues:

  • Ignition Key Stuck Due to Failed Shifter: This issue affects 2005-2010 Cobalts, with 302 owners reporting that their keys get intermittently stuck in the car's ignition cylinder.
  • Check Engine Light and Misfire Due to Ignition Module/Coil Failure: This problem is the second most common issue found in 2005-2010 Cobalts. The car's engine cuts off randomly, sometimes when slowing down or at a stop light/sign. The reported fix for this issue is to replace the ignition coil, which could cost an average of $353 to $426.
  • Broken Timing Chain: This issue has affected all Cobalt model years from 2005 to 2011. The main culprit is a faulty timing chain tensioner, which can fail around 108,000 miles. Many Cobalt owners reported spending around $1,500 to $2,000 for the fix.
  • Engine Misfire: This issue can be found in 2005-2010 Cobalts and tends to crop up around 107,000 miles. Reports from owners state that the car's engine cuts off randomly, sometimes when slowing down or at a stop light/sign. The reported fix for this issue is to replace the ignition coil, which could cost an average of $353 to $426.
  • Power Steering Issues: The 2005 Cobalt had over 1,000 complaints, 6 recalls, and the notorious "Avoid Like the Plague" designation. Its most prominent issue is with its electrical power steering system. According to numerous reports, drivers have lost the car's power steering, which can be a scary experience. In some cases, the steering becomes stiff and won't turn in any direction. It's such a widespread issue that GM sent a recall notice for the 2005-2010 Chevy Cobalt due to a faulty power steering motor.
  • Grinding Transmission When Shifting: The 2008 Chevy Cobalt had over 1,000 complaints and 5 recalls. The most common complaint is the grinding transmission when shifting. Several causes of the transmission grinds include low fluid transmission, contaminated transmission fluid, cracked or chipped gear, and faulty synchronizer. According to the reports, the issue happens at low mileage too.

These issues have contributed to the Chevrolet Cobalt's overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from Repair Pal, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems before purchasing a used Cobalt.

Chevrolet Cobalt

What year of Chevy Cobalt to avoid?

2007 Chevrolet Cobalt

The 2007 model was better, but it's still one of the worst Chevy Cobalt years to avoid because it inherited most of the problems from 2005 and 2006. CarComplaints logged over 2,000 NHTSA complaints and 6 recalls and gave the 2007 Cobalt the “Beware of the Clunker” badge.

Is the Chevy Cobalt a reliable car?

The Chevrolet Cobalt Reliability Rating is 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 5th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $453 which means it has excellent ownership costs.

What is the problem with Cobalt?

Cobalt (Co) is a hard, gray metal that occurs naturally. It is found in rocks, soil, water, plants, and animals, including people. It can harm the eyes, skin, heart, and lungs. Exposure to cobalt may cause cancer.

How many miles can a Chevy Cobalt last?

How long do Chevy Cobalts last? According to thedriveradviser.com, a good Chevy Cobalt should last 190,000-210,000 miles with proper maintenance. It's natural for a car to break at some point, but other items will also influence how long it will survive.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Cobalt years

We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Cobalt cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Cobalt model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Cobalt model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Cobalt years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Chevrolet Cobalt car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Cobalt , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Steering problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Fuel system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Cobalt vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cobalt model years

A total of 558 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cobalt model years

There were a total of 73 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cobalt model years

There were a total of 533 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Cobalt model years

There were a total of 45 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 7940 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Cobalt . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Cobalt vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Chevrolet Cobalt 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
  • VIN: 1G1AF5F57A7
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Internal mechanism of the driver-side door handle broke and the door would not open from the inside. Tne dealership confirmed that the inside door ah glue is broken. The cable retainer snapped apart and the cable cannot stay connected. This might be available for inspection. Driver must exit the vehicle by crawling over to the passenger side. The problem has been confirmed by a Chevrolet dealer. There were no warning lamps or messages. The manufacturer no longer makes this part and it could not be replaced. Service description says that the customer had an electrical concern and that the door would not unlock from the inside. This was inaccurate. It was mechanical. The door could unlock, it could not open. The dealership would not let the diagnosis proceed until the customer agreed to that statement. The dealership inaccurately recorded the mileage.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
  • VIN: 1G1AL15F767
  • Components: STEERING,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: My Power Steering is going out and then coming back in to use. Today is the second time it has happened. It went out just now, I reversed down the road to my house, and turn it off once I crank it again the steering is back. I haven’t gotten any pictures of it as I’m more worried about making it back to my house so I’m not in the road but will be more than happy to get a picture if this happens again. I’m also not sure which ADAS this connects to so I put cruise control.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
  • VIN: 1G1AL18F387
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: The gas lines rusted out and the fuel pump is pooring gas out of it. I just bought the car 2 weeks ago smelled gas hit u set the car it was pouring out. I was going to fix it my self then while looking up the parts I ran across the fact they recalled both parts but not for my vin . What can I do. I'm gonna catch on fire
Chevrolet Cobalt 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
  • VIN: 1G1AK15F667
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: Was driving home from work on i70 through the canyon when out of no where I wasn't able to steer my car...was able to stop the car, turned it off .waited a minute then started back up that is when power steering came across my dash .nothing was wrong with my car ,drove normal then out of nowhere going the speed limit 75mph. I'm not able to steer my car. This never happened before ,scared the crap out of me with no warning almost crashed cause I could not steer my car.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
  • VIN: 1G1AT18H097
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: There is a leak in the fuel lines that is just awful. Constant while driving Many others have experienced as well. Leaves huge puddles of gas
Chevrolet Cobalt 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-09
  • VIN: 1G1AK52F357
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the power steering assist warning illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn to the left or the right. The contact was able to pull off the roadway, turned off, and restart the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle regained power steering functionality. The contact stated that the loss of power steering assist became a recurring failure. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V073000 (Steering). The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-24
  • VIN: 1G1AK55F167
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: The car idles very low when stopped and sputters/putters like it's going to die. It has now actually died on me twice while driving, luckily when you put it in park and turn the car off and back on it starts right back up but you can see how this is a severe safety hazard. The first time it died I was stopped in the turning lane waiting on traffic to go by so I could turn left (this is the busiest street in town) I go to start turning left the car just shuts off mid turn crossing the other lane of the street, luckily I didn't get hit by oncoming traffic and was able to coast onto the side street that I was turning on and pull over and turn the car off and back on and drive it home. I took it to the mechanic and he can't figure out what's wrong with it so he gives it a tune up and now the check engine light won't turn off...fast forward to today it dies again at a stop sign with my [XXX] in the car. It is ESPECIALLY bad if you have the AC on it seems like it effects the electrical like the car is going to shut off when I am stopped and the ac is running, so I turned off the ac and it was still sputtering when I would stop but didn't die again. There is an entire thread of people with the same issue as me: [XXX] this car needs recalled it is a death trap. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Chevrolet Cobalt 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-02-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
  • VIN: 1G1AL58F987
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: My back seat belts don’t work properly. It takes 10-20 mins to try to get it to come out to buckle up. It locks up no matter how many times to let it roll up and try again. It’s happened since I’ve owned my car since 2019-2020. It’s the back seat belts only
Chevrolet Cobalt 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-04
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-08
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1G1AD5F56A7
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I FOUND OUT ABOUT THE RECALL ON THE 2007-2009 ON THE CORROSION OF THE GAS LINES ON DRIVERS SIDE REAR WHEEL WHEN I TOOK MY CAR TO A CHEVY DEALER AND THEY SAID ITS THE SAME THING THATS HAPPENING TO MY CAR.AND THAT THEY ONLY DID THE RECALL ON 2007-2009 COLBALT MODELS .THE LAST COLBALT'S MADE WAS THE 2010 MODELS.WHY DIDNT THEY RECALL THEM ALSO.I TOOK IT TO ANOTHER CHEVY DEALER IN AMELIA AND THEY SAID THE SAME THING.THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED ASAP.ITS A SAFETY RELATED DEFECT FROM GM AND THEY KNOW IT.IF I HAVE TO I WILL GET A LAWYER AND SUE G.M. PERIOD.I CANT AFFORD TO FIX GM'S MISTAKES.THEY NEED TO COME CLEAN AND FIX THEM.IT LEAKS OUT GAS AND COULD START A FIRE OR EXPLODE WHILE I AM IN THE CAR.I DEMAND THIS TAKEN CAR OF BY GM AND STOP KICKING THE CAN DOWN THE ROAD.I WILL NOT STOP OR GIVE UP ON THIS .SENCE I WAS TOLD BY 2 DIFFRENT CHEVY DEALERSHIPS.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-28
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-28
  • VIN: 1G1AP58XX97
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: OEM headlights had become dim and one could no longer be aimed, so I ordered these replacements through Amazon. I paid $92 to have them installed, and the mechanic let me know that the high beams could not be activated, except by holding the turn signal, making it dangerous to steer. In addition, when the headlights are on they create so much RF, the radio no longer gets most AM or FM stations. The mechanic confirmed, they are wired incorrectly, but did not wish to attempt to rewire them.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-23
  • VIN: 1G1AL58F987
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: When the driver's side window on my 2008 Chevy Cobalt is fully open/down, the "Service air bag" warning light comes on. This seems to be the exact same issue that resulted in a recall on the 2010 model (NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V500000). When I called Chevrolet corporate customer service regarding this, they explained the model years were manufactured the same, and the reason my year did not have a recall could be that there were not enough reported complaints on it. It is very concerning, since as my dealer indicated, the airbag system seems to be disabled when in this condition. I put today's date as the when the incident occurred, but it's been a condition for the last few years.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-01
  • VIN: 1G1AL15F777
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware of a loud noise coming from the steering wheel. After the failure, while attempting to park the vehicle, the contact became aware of a crunchy sound coming from the steering wheel. The contact stated that due to the failure result, the steering wheel became abnormally stiff and difficult to maneuver. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-04-25
  • VIN: 1G1AT58HX97
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start and was jumpstarted; however, the auto theft warning light illuminated, and the key could not be removed from the ignition. The contact was able to drive the vehicle however, the locks failed to lock the doors, and there was a clicking sound when the windows failed to roll up or down. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel. The contact stated that the tank was full however, the next day the fuel tank was empty. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 161,595.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-02
  • Date Complaint: 2024-04-02
  • VIN: 1G1AK52F457
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH and making a turn, the steering wheel seized and created a loss of the power steering functionality. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
Chevrolet Cobalt 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
  • Date Complaint: 2024-03-11
  • VIN: 1G1AP18P977
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Timing chain came right threw the valve cover

Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Cobalt

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 35 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Cobalt.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Chevrolet Cobalt 2010
  • Report Received Date: 2015-08-10
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt vehicles manufactured January 4, 2010, to June 23, 2010. The affected vehicles may be equipped with an improperly routed Side-Impact Sensor (SIS) wiring harness in the driver side front door. The misrouted wiring harness could cause an electrical short that disables the driver side curtain air bag.
  • Consequence: A disabled driver side roof-rail air bag will not deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of that air bag, increasing the risk of injury to the driver.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the sensor's wiring in the driver's door and make repairs as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on September 8, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 15075.
  • Model: Chevrolet Cobalt 2007
  • Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
  • Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
  • Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
  • Model: Chevrolet Cobalt 2009
  • Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
  • Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
  • Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
  • Model: Chevrolet Cobalt 2010
  • Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
  • Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
  • Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
  • Model: Chevrolet Cobalt 2006
  • Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
  • Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
  • Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
  • Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).

Latest negative Chevrolet Cobalt car reviews

  1. Doug Hand 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2009

    I got this car to replace my 02 VW Passat because it was starting to cost me anywhere from $1000 to $2000 every other month in repairs. The Cobalt reminds me of a cross between a Toyota Corolla and a Toyota Yaris without the dorky exterior of a Yaris. It drives fairly well and has zero blind spots.

  2. Ethan Bashirian 2025-03-23

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I really enjoy driving this car, but unfortunately, I have experienced some issues. The heated seats stopped working at 63,000 miles, and I have had some trouble with the passenger side door lock and the chrome peeling off the interior door latch. Additionally, when I brake hard going down the mountain, it feels like the front may fall apart. I have also experienced some strange electrical issues, such as the cruise control working intermittently and the RF tire sensor going in and out. If you are considering purchasing this car, I would recommend thoroughly test driving it and checking for any potential issues. Overall, I still enjoy driving this car despite the problems I have encountered.

  3. Isadore Nitzsche 2025-03-23

    Vehicle year: 2007

    You purchased this car in December of 2017 with 80k. Although it has had some problems since, such as the reverse lights not working, sunroof not working, speaker blowing out, fan relay going, steering wheel buttons not working for the most part, etc. (mostly interior problems), the supercharger screams and is very fast for what you pay. Overall, it's not a bad car and it has never broken down on you (knock on wood). The performance is definitely there!

  4. Dawson Gerhold 2025-03-22

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I have a 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt LT Std. It's a beautiful car, very shiny and pretty, comfortable to drive, and good on gas. However, it has had a few issues. I'm trying my best to give it the benefit of the doubt, but unfortunately, it keeps breaking down with the same issues. I have taken it to 4 different shops, including 2 GM dealerships and 2 privately owned shops, but still no luck solving the issues. It has been quite a money pit. Please see the following issues, which are not listed in chronological order, so please don't diagnose the issue based on the following order.

  5. Sigmund Volkman 2025-03-20

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with my 2008 Cobalt Sport Sedan. I absolutely love how it looks and I'm getting an impressive 37 to 52 mpg! However, I have noticed an issue with the ignition that GM seems to be ignoring. On hot summer days, it can be a bit frustrating to start the car, as I sometimes have to turn the key multiple times or wait for the steering column to cool down. So, I wouldn't recommend this car for families, but it's perfect for commuting to work. Just keep in mind that it has an auto trans. Thanks for reading!

Latest positive Chevrolet Cobalt car reviews

  1. Garnett Hammes 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2009

    I bought my Cobalt new and have put 56,000 miles on it. I absolutely love it! I'm very diligent about servicing it and have had zero mechanical problems. It easily gets 40 mpg on the highway. For a relatively inexpensive car, it handles great and has decent power. I live in an area where it gets extremely cold in the winter, but it starts every morning and does alright on the snow and ice. Although there is limited storage space and significant blindspots, everything still seems pretty solid. Of course, there are some little rattles here and there, but nothing too crazy. Everything has stayed pretty tight and sealed up. The ride on the highway is smooth and fairly quiet. Overall, I think this is an amazing car!

  2. Gus Green 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I love this car! It's so much fun to drive and handles great. The fuel mileage is pretty good too, averaging 26.5 town/hwy and 31 on the freeways. The sound system is awesome too! Although there are a few things I don't like, such as the emergency brake and middle console being on top of each other, making the emergency brake difficult to access. Also, there seems to be a bit of a lag in between some of the gears, and 1st gear is way too short. But overall, the good definitely outweighs the not so good.

  3. Brody Murazik 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2005

    This is such an amazing vehicle! I'm so happy to have finally purchased an American car after all these years. With the outrageous gas prices, I needed something that would provide good mileage, but I never expected an inexpensive car to provide such class, comfort, and quality like the Cobalt does! The design and engineering are exceptional, and the fit, finish, and workmanship rival those of cars from Japan and Germany that I've owned. The powertrain is an absolute joy, with the Ecotec 4 and 5-speed manual working perfectly together to provide both spunk and great economy. And let's not forget about the 7-speaker Pioneer sound system - it's just amazing! Overall, I'm extremely satisfied with my purchase.

  4. Bertrand Dare 2025-03-26

    Vehicle year: 2005

    I bought my car in April of this year. As a 16 year old girl, this is my first car. It's a 2 door lt orange car with automatic transmission and leather seats. I absolutely love this car! I couldn't have picked a better one! It's a great car for new drivers and very reliable. I haven't had anything go wrong with it, which is good. I would definitely recommend this car!

  5. Rahul Prohaska 2025-03-25

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I purchased my Cobalt with 100,000 miles on it, and I was expecting it to require some maintenance at some point, but it has been surprisingly reliable. I always check for issues when I change my own oil, but I have rarely found any. The car now has over 157,000 miles on it, and I have only had to replace the brakes, tires, and a couple of control arm bushings. The car's reliability has been outstanding. The only downside is that the interior looks basic and cheap. Update: The car now has over 200,000 miles on it, and I have not had to replace the clutch or do any major engine work, only regular maintenance and a thermostat. Update: The car now has over 220,000 miles on it, and it was rear-ended on the highway. Despite the severity of the accident, the car kept me safe, and I only had minor bruises from the seatbelt. It's a great car, and I would have kept driving it for many more miles if the accident hadn't happened.

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