Chevrolet Sonic problems

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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.

photo of Chevrolet Sonic car production

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Chevrolet Sonic model years

chevrolet sonic 2020 photo
Sonic 2020
Chevrolet

7

0

20

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2019 photo
Sonic 2019
Chevrolet

7

0

20

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2018 photo
Sonic 2018
Chevrolet

12

1

21

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2017 photo
Sonic 2017
Chevrolet

32

0

18

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2016 photo
Sonic 2016
Chevrolet

45

2

21

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2015 photo
Sonic 2015
Chevrolet

110

3

15

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2014 photo
Sonic 2014
Chevrolet

143

4

20

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2013 photo
Sonic 2013
Chevrolet

210

6

22

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2012 photo
Sonic 2012
Chevrolet

346

7

30

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet sonic 2011 photo
Sonic 2011
Chevrolet

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

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:

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

  1. Lindsey Purdy 2025-02-13

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I've owned my Sonic for about three years now and overall, it's been a decent car. The seats are comfortable and the dash has a modern look. The infotainment center is equipped with speakers that are lacking in depth, but they get the job done. The ride is smooth and the struts and shocks are well-built. The brakes are more than adequate, even when driving more aggressively. I appreciate the safety features, especially the full surround airbags that provide a sense of security for me and my passengers. However, there have been some issues. The rear brake drums locked up while driving in icy conditions and the driver side weather strip pulled away while on the freeway, causing minor body damage. The pump to my windshield wiper nozzles completely failed and the fuses controlling my radiator fan failed, causing my vehicle to overheat. As a smaller displacement engine, it runs hotter than larger counterparts, so the fan not engaging caused the engine to overheat, which could have led to engine failure. I've also had several coil packs replaced, as they stopped working in rapid succession. All of this has happened within 40,000 miles of owning the car. While I can't say for sure, it's possible that I purchased a lemon. If you're considering a Sonic, I would recommend looking into other options.

  2. Melany Becker 2025-02-13

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I have some concerns about the Sonic, and I don't quite understand why it has received such positive reviews. The brakes feel numb for the first inch of pedal travel, but then grab all at once. Additionally, when I lift my foot off the accelerator, it maintains speed/revs for four seconds before returning to idle (yes, exactly four seconds - I count every time). The MyLink system doesn't sound great, the BringGo nav app is not very useful, and it forgets what song it was playing on my thumb drive after each startup. Rear visibility is also an issue due to the large headrests. Furthermore, it gets worse mileage than the 2012 Cruze I traded it for, despite being smaller and lighter, and the average economy readout is 10% optimistic, telling me I'm getting 34 combined when miles divided by gallons comes out to 29. However, on the positive side, I haven't had to bring it in to the dealer for endless recalls and TSBs like the Cruze, and the trunk is decently sized. Overall, I would say that the Sonic is a decent car for someone who didn't grow up driving Detroit iron, and whose expectations are not too high. However, it doesn't quite meet my personal standards.

  3. Ronaldo Ernser 2025-01-18

    Vehicle year: 2016

    Although I have experienced some issues with my Chevy, I have taken care of them promptly and efficiently. I have replaced several parts, including the water pump, thermostat housing, and coolant reservoir, as well as the fuel sensor, valve cover gasket, camshaft actuator seals, oil filter housing/oil cooler assembly, and turbo oil return hose. Currently, I am experiencing some transmission issues, but I am confident that I will be able to resolve them. While the car has depreciated in value, I still believe it is a worthwhile investment. Overall, I would recommend this car to others, as long as they are willing to keep up with the necessary maintenance.

  4. Elliott Friesen 2025-01-17

    Vehicle year: 2020

    We purchased this car in September 2018 and have driven it for about 100,400 kilometres since then. Unfortunately, we have experienced some issues with the engine light coming on, which we had checked out and were told it was due to an O2 sensor and the type of fuel we were using. We tried using premium fuel, which helped for a bit, but the light came back on again. We changed the oil in December, which also helped for a while, but the light came back on again. We took it in for repairs in February 2021 and had the O2 sensor and spark plugs replaced, which seemed to fix the issue temporarily. However, the light came back on again shortly after and we experienced some other problems with the car. We took it to another shop and had the oil and spark plugs changed again, which seemed to help. We are now replacing the purge solenoid valve on our own to ensure the issue is fully resolved. While we have had some difficulties with this car, we are still hopeful that it will serve us well in the future. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work through these issues.

  5. Aurelio Hickle 2024-11-24

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I purchased a brand new 2015 Chevrolet Sonic LT Sedan with only 7 miles on it. It is an affordable car with good gas mileage and easy to drive. The audio options are great too! However, I did experience some issues with the indoor blower motor for air and heat, as well as the front driver side wheel bearing which went bad twice. The passenger one also went bad once. Thankfully, all of these issues were covered under my extended warranty or parts warranties. If you are considering purchasing this car, it is important to note that you may need to spend some time at the dealership for repairs. It is disappointing that the wheel bearings did not last the life of the car, but overall I have had a positive experience with this vehicle.

Latest positive Chevrolet Sonic car reviews

  1. Brian Pfannerstill 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2013

    We've had our Sonic LTZ with 1.4L and automatic for just over 3 months now, and we've already put close to 8000 miles on it. So far, we haven't had any problems whatsoever. As a retired couple (67 years old), we feel very comfortable in this car. The gas mileage has been excellent, with a reading of 38.7 mpg on the car display, and we also checked it the old-fashioned way and got similar results. Depending on the road surfaces, it's a fairly quiet car - some coarse pavement can cause noticeable road noise, but wind noise is low, even on the interstate highway. The handling is good, but as one or two reviewers mentioned, potholes or certain road irregularities can cause some darting.

  2. Vito Erdman 2025-02-17

    Vehicle year: 2018

    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 Premium. It comes with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and plush seating. However, my husband and I have found it to be a bit cramped for two grown adults, making grocery shopping a bit of a challenge. While the trunk space is ample, it doesn't seem to fit a lot of stuff. The low profile tires are cheap and I had 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 temp 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've considered switching them out. Parking is great, but it can be difficult to see other larger vehicles on the road. There's also quite a bit of road noise in the back seat area. While I didn't expect luxury from a car that cost me $10k, I am currently looking for a vehicle that better suits our needs. However, I would definitely recommend the Sonic Premium Turbo Sedan for a single person who commutes! Before purchasing one, make sure to drive over a bumpy surface and keep the water pump issue in mind. It cost me about $300 (including labor) to replace. As a car enthusiast who has owned and driven many cars, I can say that my husband (who was also a valet) and I were both impressed by this little car. And if you do decide to buy one, make sure it has the Turbo - I test drove one without it and was not impressed at all. Thank you for reading, and I hope this review helps you!

  3. Arden Wisozk 2025-02-16

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Acceleration could be better, but the fuel economy in the city is not too bad. The highway mileage is decent as long as you don't push it too hard. If you're looking for more low-end power, the turbo version might be a better fit. Overall, it's a safe and easy car to maneuver in small areas.

  4. Arnold Ward 2025-02-12

    Vehicle year: 2020

    I have a 2019 Chevrolet Sonic and I absolutely love it! It has all the space I need and rides very smoothly. It's actually my first new car and I couldn't be happier with it. I purchased it from Hare Chevrolet and had a wonderful experience with fantastic service from my salesperson, Corbin Richards. Kudos to him! From Brenda Price.

  5. Casimer Miller 2025-02-10

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I'm 6'3

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