Chevrolet Sonic problems
The Chevrolet Aveo (/əˈveɪ.oʊ/ ə-VAY-oh) is a five-passenger, front-drive subcompact car (B-segment) marketed by General Motors (GM) since 2002 over two generations. Originally developed by South Korean manufacturer Daewoo Motors and marketed as the Daewoo Kalos, the takeover of Daewoo by GM to form GM Daewoo Auto & Technology (GMDAT) resulted in the car's marketing in 120 countries under seven brands (Chevrolet, Daewoo, ZAZ, Holden, Pontiac, Ravon and Suzuki) — prominently as the Aveo.
The second-generation Aveo, developed by GM Korea (formerly GMDAT), was introduced in 2011 and was also marketed as the Chevrolet Sonic in markets including the Americas, Japan, Middle East, South Africa and several Southeast Asian markets. Production of the second-generation model ended in October 2020.
Since 2017, GM marketed the Chinese market Chevrolet Sail sedan in Mexico and other Central American countries as the Aveo. Developed by GM PATAC in China and produced by joint venture SAIC-GM, it was positioned below the more advanced Sonic. In 2023, GM imported a new version to Mexico in a sedan and hatchback form, developed and manufactured by another Chinese joint venture, SAIC-GM-Wuling.
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Chevrolet Sonic model years
Common Chevrolet Sonic problems
The Chevrolet Sonic, a sporty subcompact available as a sedan or hatchback, has been known to have several common problems related to the engine and electrical systems. Here are the most common issues found in different model years based on complaints from owners:
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
- Most common problem: Hesitation when shifting
- Bad Transmission: Average cost to fix $3,600; average mileage 73,000 mi
- Check Engine Light On: Average cost to fix $1,400; average mileage 57,000 mi
- Engine Won't Turn Over, Won't Start: Average cost to fix $1,300; average mileage 48,000 mi
- Cooling system problems and leaks
- Oil leaks
- Check Engine light issues
2013 Chevrolet Sonic
- Engine Won't Turn Over, Won't Start: Average cost to fix $1,300; average mileage 48,000 mi
- Coolant leaks
- Radiator fan failure
- Catalytic converter troubles
- Thermostat failure
- Odometer problems
- Air conditioning issues
2014 Chevrolet Sonic
- Passenger seat light coming on and off on its own
- Vehicle starting on its own with no manual input
- Car sporadically not responding to the fob
- Inability to get the key fob out of the ignition
- Suspension problems, including bad sway bar links and struts
2015 Chevrolet Sonic
- Electrical issues, such as lights turning on and off, doors locking and unlocking, dash lights turning on and off, and loss of power steering
- Engine stalling connected to antifreeze leaks
These issues can be costly to fix and may lead to inconvenient situations for owners. Keeping the engine oil and coolant levels topped up can help avoid some of the problems. It is recommended that potential buyers be aware of these common problems and consider them when purchasing a used Chevrolet Sonic.
Is a Chevy Sonic a reliable car?
According to repairpal.com, the Chevrolet Sonic has an average reliability rating of four out of five. Compared to 21 subcompact cars, it is ranked 14th overall. It's about the middle of the pack in terms of overall reliability. According to withclutch.com, the Chevrolet Sonic has a reliability rating of about 45.3.
Do Chevy Sonic have transmission problems?
Transmission Problems. The Chevy Sonic problems include issues with the transmission. Transmission problems are most prevalent in the 2012-2015 vehicles. Minor repairs will cost you about $100 to fix, but others may require a new transmission.
How long do Chevy Sonics usually last?
Typical mileage for the Chevy Sonic is 150,000-200,000 miles. Thus, high mileage is around 130,000-140,000 miles. This is the point where the Sonic might start to encounter some more damaging issues and it's probably already experienced many minor ones that start to drive car owner's crazy in time.
Are Chevy Sonics expensive to repair?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Chevrolet Sonic is $536, compared to an average of $456 for subcompact cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Sonic years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Sonic cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Sonic model years:
- Chevrolet Sonic 2012
- Chevrolet Sonic 2013
- Chevrolet Sonic 2014
- Chevrolet Sonic 2015
- Chevrolet Sonic 2016
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Sonic model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Sonic years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet Sonic car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Sonic , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Sonic vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sonic model years
A total of 88 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 Sonic model years
There were a total of 15 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 Sonic model years
There were a total of 72 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 Sonic model years
There were a total of 2 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 913 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Sonic . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Sonic vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet Sonic 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 1G1JC5SG7F4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have had this vehicle for three years now and no matter of the repairs I had done to it by machanics the check engind light continue to turn on and the vehicle has shut down on the road and I can't find out what the solution is. I am afraid to drive it.Also the mylink radio which has all the vehicle settings in it has malfunctioned. I cannot get to reset veichle settings. Vehicle will not turn over on the first key turn. The engine turns over on the third or forth turn and when it dose there is a loud ratteling noise.
Chevrolet Sonic 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1G1JC5SH8F4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Right Hand Steering Wheel Controls Inoperative, Outside Ambient Temperature Reading on Radio Display Inoperative, inoperative rear vision camera gridlines, and Onstar Menu Screen is Not Showing When Pressing Onstar Button. Inoperable radio steering wheel control buttons increase driver distraction risk in reaching for the radio display. Absence of rear camera gridlines reduce driver guidance in reverse. Onstar menu not starting in case of need. Reported in existing GM Technical Service Bulletin 16-NA-347. [XXX] ) Related to completed Key Chime recall completed prior to October 10, 2016. Current vehicle codes were reviewed by Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Southpoint, and no existing error codes related to the issue were presented. No warning lamps on, messages on radio display, or other symptoms. Errors all presented simultaneously with no warning. Appeared first June 2024. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Chevrolet Sonic 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1G1JE5SB4E4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Vehicle keeps throwing error code P2138 there is a current known issue that GM is aware of see notice 070604019F. Water gets in the electrical connections of sensors and is an issue as it causes check engine light and can decrease power of the acceleration of the vehicle which is a safety hazard. My vehicle has been with the dealer now for a third time for same issue. They’ve had it for 3 weeks and 2 days total. Still an issue.
Chevrolet Sonic 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: 1G1JC6SH9F4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Code U0101 is set. Unable to communicate with TCM. Troubleshooted and found TCM is bad. Removed necessary components for tcm replacement. Removed the tcm/valve body assembly and replaced. Replaced necessary gaskets and reinstalled necessary components. Set transmission fluid level to specifications per procedure. Dealer advised they stock 3 TCM at all times due to many failures and demands of TCM.
Chevrolet Sonic 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- VIN: 1G1JE6SB6F4
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Stalls when reduced speed. CEL constant. Codes indicate Emission promlem. Cleared by replacing intake valve. CEL came back on.
Chevrolet Sonic 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 1G1JC5SH4C4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that while a friend was driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle suddenly veered to the right and struck the curb. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the front passenger’s side suspension had failed. The vehicle was later towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the front driver’s side suspension lower control arm had failed and needed to be replaced, along with the front axle and ball joints. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 111,000.
Chevrolet Sonic 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-29
- VIN: 1G1JD5SBXK4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while pulling into the garage, the high engine temp warning light illuminated, and the engine was overheating. The contact immediately turned off the vehicle. The contact stated there was coolant underneath the front of the vehicle. The contact had learned that the water pump failure was common for the vehicle and believed that the water pump had failed. The contact was able to identify an extended warranty for the failure. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure when it was confirmed that the VIN was not covered under warranty or recall. The manufacturer had referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,400.
Chevrolet Sonic 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-28
- VIN: 1G1JB5SB3L4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Having trouble with leaks and the evap purge system. I repaired it three times. The vehicle will turn off while driving.
Chevrolet Sonic 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 1G1JE5SB9D4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Was driving in heavy rain when car suddenly cut power and decelerated showed code 84 and the CEL came back with P2138. It is a known issue that rain gets up into the connector and causes a malfunction.
Chevrolet Sonic 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
- VIN: 1G1JC5SB6E4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The pretensioner cable that secures the end of the seatbelt to the seat frame had severed. I am told the pretensioner has a small explosive inside its barrel that I assume releases some sort of spring internally upon impact of a collision. The release of this spring is supposed to pull the pretensioner cable downwards and by extension pull the seatbelt end tighter. This in conjunction with the seatbelt retractor would then keep the driver or passenger tight to the seat in the event of an accident. I notice the cable for the driver side pretensioner over the last few months had strands of steel breaking until it had finally completely severed. I have kept both halves of the severed cable if inspection is requested. This is an extremely unsafe situation to occur. Had I gotten into an accident with the cable partially or completely broken it would have rendered the seatbelt essentially useless. There were no warning lights or associated codes ever displayed from the vehicle’s computer. There were no inspections done by insurance, police, manufacturer, dealership or any others. I ended up ordering the part online to fix myself. I used all manufacturers torque specs and procedures to replace. I fixed it myself because it was my daily driver vehicle and I needed to have it working safely as soon as possible. When I noticed the cable had completely broken I drove my vehicle home and did not drive it again until I had the new part and it was replaced which was about two weeks later. I had asked the dealer and searched for recalls for my vehicle and neither the dealer nor the nhtsa recall search showed anything regarding issues with the pretensioner cable. I did end up seeing GM had issued a recall for a similar pretensioner cable (about 2500 vehicles) for a few of their full sized trucks and SUVs. The claim was based on where the cable was in the vehicle it had abnormal amounts of metal fatigue from drivers exiting and entering. I believe the same issue happened to me.
Chevrolet Sonic 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
- VIN: 1G1JD5SB5H4
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: In June of 2023 I was driving my vehicle and suddenly the Traction Control, power steering and check engine light came on. I was able to get the vehicle safely home without the use of the power steering. Once I shut the vehicle off, it would not start again. I got the vehicle to my local dealership and they diagnosed it as one of the main wire harnesses was rubbing against a bolt near the battery, which is a known issue, and caused an electrical short in the system. It caused the ECU and electronic power steering to short out. They replaced the ECU, but have not been able to replace the eletronic power steering because it's no longer being manufactured. The vehicle at the time of incident was only 6 years old. I feel like this is a violation of the Magnuson-Moss Act. There are no third party vendors that make this part. It has only ever been available through GM directly.
Chevrolet Sonic 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-03
- VIN: 1G1JC5SH1F4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The air bags deployed while the vehicle was in motion. No Collision or impact occurred.
Chevrolet Sonic 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-24
- VIN: 1G1JC6SG0E4
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: "off" remains illuminated on my passenger airbag light whether or not someone is sitting in the passenger seat. It's actually somewhat rare to see "on" illuminated. There was a recall on this model for airbag issues but my vehicle specifically was not recalled. My vehicle was recalled for catalytic converter but I'm still getting codes. Most of the problems the Sonic has been recalled for, my vehicle has symptoms of but I get cannot afford to pay repair cost up front and I cannot find a mechanic who would be willing to take the steps to report my vehicle should've been apart of the recall.
Chevrolet Sonic 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-20
- VIN: 1G1JH6SB4G4
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The ESC and oil pressure warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the Intake Plenum Gasket and other unknown parts needed to be sealed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 36,299.
Chevrolet Sonic 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-15
- VIN: 1G1JC6SH9E4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The car is completely shutting off all power while driving. The doors will start locking and unlocking and the no power at all. I have taken it to multiple mechanic and it reads no codes. It has done this to me on the Highway. car was completely stopped and i was very lucky a car did not hit me. it usually will start again after shutting down
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Sonic
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 23 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Sonic.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet Sonic 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-27
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2013 Buick Verano, Chevrolet Camero, Sonic, and Volt vehicles. The driver-side air bag inflator may explode during deployment due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver-side air bag module, free of charge. On some 2013 Volt vehicles, the steering wheel will be replaced as well, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 23, 2023. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N232413120.
- Model: Chevrolet Sonic 2018
- Report Received Date: 2018-05-27
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. A joint in the driver's seat-back frame may not be properly welded, reducing the strength of the seat-back frame.
- Consequence: In the event of a rear-impact crash, the seat-back may fail, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat-back, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18178.
- Model: Chevrolet Sonic 2015
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax, and 2013-2015 Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver fails to fasten their seatbelt or if the driver leaves the key in the ignition. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection" and 114 "Theft Protection."
- Consequence: Without audible indicators, the driver may not fasten their seatbelt, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall began on July 22, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 45340.
- Model: Chevrolet Sonic 2016
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax, and 2013-2015 Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver fails to fasten their seatbelt or if the driver leaves the key in the ignition. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection" and 114 "Theft Protection."
- Consequence: Without audible indicators, the driver may not fasten their seatbelt, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall began on July 22, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 45340.
- Model: Chevrolet Sonic 2014
- Report Received Date: 2016-04-28
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax vehicles and 2013-2015 Chevrolet Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver, after turning off the ignition and leaving the key in the cylinder, waits 10 minutes or longer to open the door. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114 "Theft Protection."
- Consequence: Without audible indicators, the driver may leave the key in the ignition, increasing the risk of theft.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 17130.
Latest negative Chevrolet Sonic car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet Sonic car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
I'm so glad you decided to purchase the car! It's an affordable option, but don't let that fool you - it's packed with amazing technology and drives like a dream, especially for a smaller car. Plus, I think it looks fantastic!
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Vehicle year: 2012
I have a 6-speed manual with turbo that is rated for 40 mpg on the highway. I am currently getting an average of 40 mpg, which is fantastic. I frequently travel to the lake, which is 220 miles away, and on that trip, I average 44 mpg. The car handles great and is comfortable, although the floorboard area could be a little larger. I have a size 13 foot, and the brake and gas pedals are so close that sometimes I end up hitting both at the same time. There isn't much room in the back, but I never ride back there. Although I have had a couple of issues, such as a wheel bearing going bad at 38,000 miles, which GM paid for, and a vacuum leak with a cracked manifold at 93,000 miles, which was covered under the 100,000-mile warranty, the car is otherwise perfect. I would definitely buy another one.
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Vehicle year: 2014
When I was searching for a commuter car, I didn't even consider the Sonic at first. However, I stumbled upon a dealer who had two of the only turbo 6-speed cars in the state, and I decided to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised when I hit 52mpg on the freeway, and I knew that the turbo was the way to go. As someone who commutes 120 miles round trip each day, I can confidently say that this car gets a solid 44.3mpg with premium gas at 80mph with A/C on, and an impressive 52mpg at 50mph with A/C on. Even in stop and go traffic, I still get a respectable 38-41mpg around town. It's worth noting that I've put over 10K miles on my car since July. Overall, I highly recommend the Sonic for anyone in need of a reliable and fuel-efficient commuter car.
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Vehicle year: 2017
I purchased a used 2017 Sonic Premium Turbo Sedan with 46,000 miles on it and have since put 66,000 miles on it. It's a fun car to drive, with a peppy motor that provides great acceleration (thanks to the turbo). The seats are surprisingly comfortable for a small car, which was a nice change for me as I've previously owned Pontiacs. Despite downsizing from an Acadia, I didn't lose any convenience with the Sonic's premium features, including heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and plush seating. However, as a car for two grown adults, it can feel cramped, making grocery shopping a bit of a challenge despite ample trunk space. The low profile tires are inexpensive, but I did have one factory tire bubble on me. I also had to replace the water pump after mysteriously losing heat and the engine overheating (there's no temperature gauge, so I was worried about cracking an aluminum head). This seems to be a common issue with Sonics, as I discovered through my research. The ride can be a bit rough due to the smaller diameter tires and rims, but I'm considering switching them out. Parking is great, but it can be difficult to see other larger vehicles on the road, and there's a lot of road noise in the back seat area. While I don't expect luxury from a car that cost me $10k, I'm currently looking for a vehicle that better suits my needs. However, I would recommend the Sonic for a single person who commutes. Before purchasing one, be sure to drive over a bumpy surface and keep the water pump issue in mind. It cost me around $300, including labor, to replace. As someone who loves cars and has owned and driven many, I was impressed by this little car. If you're considering buying one, make sure it has the Turbo - I test drove one without it and was unimpressed. Thank you for reading, and I hope this review helps you!
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Vehicle year: 2018
This car has decent room for being a compact. I have been averaging 29 mpg in the city and on the highway, even after driving it for 97,000 miles. It has had no major maintenance issues besides normal wear and tear, and there have been no mechanical failures.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Sonic?
Dalton Boyer 2025-04-20
Vehicle year: 2013
The car experienced several issues with the warranty, heat, seating quality, and engine alarms. However, all of these issues were covered under warranty, including the engine electronic module that melted and left the driver stranded. The Mylink Bringo also caused some damage to the driver's iPhone, but this was an isolated incident. Despite these challenges, the car remains a reliable choice for drivers.
Alden Wolff 2025-04-12
Vehicle year: 2013
I've owned my Chevy for almost four years now, mainly because I haven't had the extra money to replace it. While the car's fuel efficiency is a plus, overall it's not the best quality and I wouldn't recommend it. Additionally, I've had some issues with Chevy's warranty. The car seems to be made of cheap materials and hasn't held up as well as I would have liked.
Gaylord Sawayn 2025-04-12
Vehicle year: 2016
I spent months researching fun-to-drive hatchback cars, and while I was initially considering a VW Golf or GTI, I thought I needed a stick shift to truly enjoy the driving experience. However, after reading reviews of the Sonic, I decided to give it a try, and boy am I glad I did! It's an absolute blast to drive. I ended up purchasing a used LTZ with heated seats, remote start, Bluetooth, and plenty of airbags. I particularly love the motorcycle-inspired lamps and touches, and the right armrest is a nice touch. Despite not accelerating quickly, I still get a great driving experience on normal roads, hills, and state highways, averaging 34.1 mpg. My only complaint is the MyLink touchscreen - I prefer an actual volume dial. However, I saved a bundle by purchasing a used 2015 model with less than 15,000 miles, and I don't regret my decision one bit. Even though I've had some issues with the water pump, engine head, and steering wheel controls, the dealership agreed to run tests for free due to the defects. As someone who has owned and still owns Hyundais, I can confidently say that you're better off with a Sonic!
Angelo Pacocha 2025-04-04
Vehicle year: 2012
Congratulations on your new car! It's great to hear that you're enjoying it so far. It sounds like it's meeting your needs really well, especially with the fuel efficiency and extra space in the hatchback. It's always exciting to see what you can fit in there! I hope it continues to serve you well on your daily commutes and beyond. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
Darrin Marks 2025-04-01
Vehicle year: 2013
I purchased this car with only 3843 miles on it. Unfortunately, I discovered that there was no heat after leaving the dealership. I returned to the dealership and found that the coolant was low. Although it took 8 visits to the shop from Nov 14 2014 till Jan 12 2015 to find a factory defect, the issue was eventually resolved. However, the car is now leaking again and the dealership is unsure of the source. I recommend having the Sonic checked before making a purchase. I ultimately decided to trade this car in November 2015 after having to return it to the dealership numerous times. I tried to work with our local Chevrolet dealership and even reached out to GM for help, but unfortunately, both were uncooperative. I ended up trading it in for a new Honda Civic, which I have now owned for a year without any issues. In other words, I have decided not to purchase another GM product.