2013 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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Common 2013 Chevrolet Sonic problems
The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine and electrical systems. Here are some of the issues in detail:
- Electrical problems: One of the most common issues is an electrical problem that prevents the vehicle from starting. This can manifest as the car suddenly not turning over or the key getting stuck in the ignition. The Electronic Control Module (ECM) may need to be replaced if the car suddenly won't start, and all dashboard lights are on, but the battery is good.
- Coolant leaks: The 2013 Sonic has received reports of coolant leaks, with some owners not being notified by the engine check light when their car leaks radiator fluid. This can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Illuminated check engine light: The check engine light can come on due to various issues, such as a part that should have been recalled or problems with the thermostat and/or engine temperature. This can result in hefty repair bills, especially if the engine light comes on after the car has been serviced.
- Transmission failures: Some owners have reported transmission failures, with one owner experiencing a fracture in the turbine at 72,000 miles. This can lead to a loss of power, steering, and lights, potentially causing severe accidents.
- Unintended acceleration: A few owners have reported unintended acceleration, which can be dangerous, especially when idling or driving at high speeds. This issue has been attributed to the car's automatic transmission and can lead to severe engine damage or fires if not addressed promptly.
- Water pump leaks: Several owners have reported water pump leaks, which can cause the car to overheat and result in severe long-term damage, such as a cracked head or bad head gasket. The best way to resolve a radiator leak is to replace the radiator, and many problems do not begin until after the vehicle reaches a high mileage.
- Suspension problems: Frequent suspension problems, including bad sway bar links and struts, have also been reported. These issues can affect the car's handling and ride comfort, particularly at higher mileages.
While the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has its fair share of issues, many of these problems can be addressed with regular maintenance and timely repairs. Keeping the engine oil and coolant levels topped up, as well as addressing any warning lights or unusual symptoms promptly, can help extend the life of the vehicle and minimize repair costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider whether the Sonic is the right vehicle for their needs and budget.
What is the most common problem with the Chevy Sonic?
Radiator Leaking
Chevy Sonic radiator leaks can result from a bad water pump, thermostat, hoses, or coolant. If the radiator is leaking, your engine will run hot or overheat. Overheating can result in severe long-term damage, including a cracked head or bad head gasket.
Are 2013 Chevy Sonics reliable cars?
2013 Chevrolet Sonic LT 1.4 eng
We bought a sonic lt with a 1.4 turbo engine, great gas mileage and no major problems. As long as you keep up the maintenance the reliability is great.
Are there any recalls on 2013 Chevy Sonic LT?
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 and 2014 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles manufactured August 2, 2013, through August 12, 2013. Due to insufficient welds, the front fuel tank strap bracket may separate from the vehicle.
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.
Are 2013 Chevy Sonics reliable cars?
2013 Chevrolet Sonic LT 1.4 eng
We bought a sonic lt with a 1.4 turbo engine, great gas mileage and no major problems. As long as you keep up the maintenance the reliability is great.
What is the most common problem with the Chevy Sonic?
Radiator Leaking
Chevy Sonic radiator leaks can result from a bad water pump, thermostat, hoses, or coolant. If the radiator is leaking, your engine will run hot or overheat. Overheating can result in severe long-term damage, including a cracked head or bad head gasket.
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.
Is the 2013 Chevy Sonic good on gas?
Performance & mpg
EPA-estimated fuel economy is 25 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined with the automatic and 26/35/30 with the manual. These are acceptable ratings for a subcompact car. Standard on the Sonic RS and optional on the LT and LTZ is a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder.
2013 Chevrolet Sonic car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Sonic problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Chevrolet Sonic vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
The NHTSA has received 210 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2013 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-20
- VIN: 1G1JC6SG7D4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Last week when I was driving my car on the street, and wanted to make a left the steering wheel was very hard to turn. And the next day It happened again , steering hard to turn and it’s been intermittent but not driving my car right now, thanks for your attention
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-24
- VIN: 1G1JC5SH8D4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that there was fluid leaking from underneath the hood. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a water pump and the thermostat housing failure. The contact discovered Technical Service Bulletin: 14371B; however, the vehicle was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was unknown.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1JG6SB2D4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Car accident November 3, 2023. A dear ran in front car while traveling 55mps. As the impact took place causing front and of the car to be smashed Air bags in the car did not deployed. Causing head to hit steering wheel.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-09
- VIN: 1G1JC5SH2D4
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 1.8 L , fuel system lean ,mass airflow sensor, in limp mode preventing acceleration, gas tank when added gas....shuts down after start up-fuel system/gasoline; may cause possible fuel leak and could combust, alarm system and locks don't properly function - electric system equipment, insufficient welds...around fuel tank and front of vehicle on bottom by driver's side could also cause combustion, bcm codes that came up were communication, electrical, fuel, windows, and airbags! AutoZone codes were po171 and co561-77,I looked up recalls , several came up for my make and model but weren't specific to my vin# however my vehicle is doing everything pertaining to them! And I looked up if there was any special coverage on it and said there is...before 120k miles or ten years time. And I was never notified of it & never received anything in the mail ...
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-30
- VIN: 1G1JC6SG2D4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Car was taken to a mechanic. The diagnosis is that the 16186 Catalytic Converter Internal Damage. This forces the car to keep stalling. Upon further research, certain models had this recall. I called GM and they said my car is not one of the ones that had the recall how ever it has the same failure that the other recalls do.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G1JA5SH7D4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH, the rear windshield suddenly imploded, causing glass shards to be propelled inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that it sounded as if a shotgun had been fired. As a result of the implosion, the contact sustained injuries to the left eye. The contact sought medical attention. The contact stated that there was an abnormal electrical humming sound coming from the rear windshield prior to the failure. The contact stated that the defroster was not activated at the time of the failure. The contact stated that there was prior electrical shortage failures with the vehicle. Additionally, there was melted solder present at the rear window defroster electrical connection. An unknown local dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The contact stated that he had a Police Report for the failure. The contact stated that a field investigator was sent to the residence to inspect the vehicle; however, the cause of the failure was undetermined. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was 125,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-20
- VIN: 1G1JA5SH0D4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My Odometer miles was erased about 9 months ago and I cannot retrieve it. A Chevy dealership associate looked at it this week (October 31, 2022) and manually could not recover the miles. A GM parts online website suggested it could be a speed sensor (blown fuse) or dash cluster. To diagnose the problem, the dealership wants to perform a diagnostic which costs $120-140 plus parts and labor. This is unjustified: GM and dealerships should be aware of this problem since it is prevalent in Chevy Sonics. GM should back this repair either partially or fully.
WHEELS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-29
- VIN: 1G1JE6SH5D4
- Components: WHEELS,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, she heard abnormal knocking sounds coming from the rear wheels of the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that she heard clicking sounds while making turns. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact drove to her residence and parked the vehicle. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- VIN: 1G1JG6SB5D4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased a 2013 Chevy Sonic in October 2021.it has been in the repair shop twice since then. They replaced a sensor that it probably didn’t need. Now they tell me that it needs a new catalytic converter.. I have a warranty on this car . Please help ! [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-06
- VIN: 1G1JC5SH6D4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The air conditioner instead of blowing cold air, it blows hot air. I have taken it from Miami to a 3rd party mechanic where it did not helped much. Nobody knew what was the problem. I move to Texas and in summer over 100 degrees and having a baby sweat is not good. The temperature as “weather shows -15 degrees. When right now is 99 degrees at 7:10 am central time
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-15
- VIN: 1G1JA6SHXD4
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Multiple parts in my engine have malfunctioned in the past year, the most recent being a tube bursting and getting coolant everywhere. Other problems have been with valves, temperature gauges and even the radiator. It’s like something new breaks every month. I have had every issue fixed and usually I don’t get a warning lamp until I’m broken down on the side of the road.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-06
- VIN: 1G1JA5SH1D4
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Boniface hiers Chevrolet dealer in Melbourne Florida said they did a full inspection before selling this vehicle. 2 days later after purchase the Radiator fan stop working even tho they put a new one, missing thermostat, code 3rd gear malfunction.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-04
- VIN: 1G1JC5SH6D4
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car is a lemon , brought from Arizona and they sold me a car that has a rusted chassis so if repairs are needed I will have to spend more money to get fixed because things are very fragile because everything is rusted and then I’m lease the car for a price a car isn’t worth for .
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
- VIN: 1g1ja5sh0d4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that the button on the gear shifter would not release while shifting between gears. Due to the failure, the key would remain stuck in the ignition due to the defective gear shifter button. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was given a diagnostic fee; the contact declined to pay for the diagnostic. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and informed her that the matter would be escalated to a senior manager. The contact had not heard back from the manufacturer. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was unknown. The contact stated that the issue has been repaired.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-28
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC5SG9D4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On Tuesday, September 27 at 10:25 AM, I was driving to pickup medication for my dog. I was less than 5 miles away from my home. As I pulled up to park, I slowed down and turned into the nearest parking stall. As I set the automatic shifter to Park, the car came out of park and shifted gears into Drive; mounting the curb. I hit the brake but the car continued to move forward. When I went to pull on my Emergency brake, the car hit the side of the building. As soon as I hit the building, I was able to regain control of the car and turn the ignition off. Gratefully, no one was hurt.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-04
- VIN: 1G1JC6SHXD4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: At around 45,600 miles the Odometer and Trip Meter on my 2013 Sonic stopped displaying numbers and instead shows just 3 dashes. Disconnecting the car's battery for 30 mins, reconnecting, and starting the car displays the mileage for a few seconds and then returns to the ---. Same happens when pulling the fuse for the gauge cluster; the mileage is displayed for a few seconds and then returns to the ---. Attempting to reset the Trip Meter results in the normal 'beep' but numbers are not displayed. Brought the car to the dealership and since the vehicle is out of warranty they want a nonrefundable deposit of $700 just to diagnose, parts and labor would be an additional bill on top of that. Ridiculous. Since this is likely a computer issue it's beyond the scope of work that can be performed by my trusted local garage and as a result I have not had the issued corrected. This should be a GM recall.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-06
- VIN: 1G1JC6SHXD4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE BUTTON IN THE SHIFT STICK GET STUCK AND DOESN'T COME BACK, KEY GETS STUCK AND I STRUGGLE TO GET THEM OUT OF THE IGNITION. THIS IS HAPPENING SINCE OCTOBER 2020 FROM NOW. ONE DAY THE BUTTON GOT STUCK AND WAS HARD TO MAKE IT COME BACK THAT I CONSIDERED LEAVING MY CAR WITH THE KEYS IN THE IGNITION, BUT I WORKED SO HARD TO GET IT UNSTUCK FOR A GOOD TIME AND I SUCCEEDED. THE BAD THING IT THAT I DOESN'T LOOK TO IMPROVE. IT HAPPES EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE IS PARKED AND I'M ABOUT TO LEAVE IT.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
- VIN: 1G1JC5SB0D4
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 2013 CHEVY SONIC DEVELOPED TICKING SOUND SHORTLY AFTER I BOUGHT IT AT 60000 MILES. THE TICKING GOT WORSE OVER TIME AND THEN CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I SCANNED THE CODES AND MULTIPLE FOUR CODES WERE FOUND. P0171, P0496, P1101, AND P2270. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH IT SEEMED TO BE THAT MOST CRUZE, SONIC, AND TRAX VEHICLES ALL HAD THE SAME ISSUES. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND WAS INFORMED THE VEHICLE NEEDED A NEW INTAKE MANIFOLD, PURGE VALVE, PCV HOSE, AND VALVE COVER. THEY CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS AND THE ONLY ONE WAS THE VALVE COVER BUT WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR DIAGNOSTICS TO SEE IF THEY WOULD COVER IT OR NOT. THE BREATHER DIAPHRAGM IN THE VALVE COVER GOES BAD DUE TO A FAULT INTAKE MANIFOLD ON THESE VEHICLE MODELS. THERE IS A LITTLE ORANGE GASKET IN THE MANIFOLD THAT GOES BAD AND CAUSES THE DIAPHRAGM TO GO OUT RESULTING IN HAVING TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE SYSTEM. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD NOT ONLY CAUSES GHAT ISSUE BUT CAUSES THE CAR TO GET JUMPY AT STOPS AND STALLING OUT. HAVE ALMOST HAD A FEW PEOPLE REAR END ME DUE TO THIS. THE PURGE VALVE GOES OUT AS WELL AND WHEN AT THE FUEL PUMP THE CAR WILL HESITATE TO CRANK OR RUN AT VERY LOW IDLE SHUTTING OFF MULTIPLE TIMES BEFORE IT STARTS UP AND THEN RUNS ROUGH UNTIL A DECENT AMOUNT OF FUEL HAS RAN THROUGH THE ENGINE. THE CAR WOULD NOT GET ENOUGH FUEL WHEN AT STOPS OR ON HIGHWAYS AND WOULD ALSO JUST LOSE FUEL AND CUT THE ENGINE OFF. THOSE COMPONENTS HAVE SINCE BEEN REPLACED BY MYSELF AND NO MORE ISSUES. CHEVY WILL NOT RECALL THE PARTS THAT ARE CAUSING THE ISSUES AND THEREFORE THERE IS A SAFETY ISSUE WHEN OUT ON THE HIGHWAYS.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-09
- VIN: 1G1JC5SG2D4
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FUEL SYSTEM IS RUNNING WEAK, FOR A CAR WITH ONLY 30000 MILES, ONE OWNER AND FULL MAINTENANCE, THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME AND GO ALL THE TIME AND EVERYTHING WAS CHECKING
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-15
- VIN: 1G1JC6SB9D4
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE PCV PRESSURE REG VALVE FAILS AND CAUSES DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. GM SENT A LETTER TO CUSTOMERS BUT ONLY COVERS THE WORK UP TO 120K MILES. MINE FAILED AT 125K MILES AND COST OVER $1000 TO FIX. GM IS REFUSING TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS.10/15/2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-05
- VIN: 1G1JC5SG8D4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY POWER STEERING KEEPS GOING OUT, I HAVE TO TAP ON THE BATTERY POST CONNECTORS AND THE POWER STEERING STARTS WORKING AGAIN. SOMETIMES A WARNING LIGHT COMES ON, SOMETIMES NOT. MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING GOING AROUND A BEND IN THE ROAD WHEN THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT, ALMOST LOST CONTROL. MY ODOMETER QUIT WORKING, I TOOK IT TO A SHOP AND WAS TOLD IT'S A COMMON PROBLEM. WHY IS THIS NOT ON RECALL IF A CHEVROLET MECHANIC IS TELLING ME IT'S A COMMON PROBLEM...VERY EXPENSIVE AND UNNECESSARY AND SHOULD BE ON RECALL IF IT'S THAT COMMON.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-08
- VIN: 1G1JC6SB8D4
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY SONIC HAD THE SAME ISSUE AS NHTSA RECALL NO. : 19E-064, MANUFACTURER RECALL NO. : N192223230. EXCEPT, IT HAPPENED WHEN I REACHED TO USE THE WIPERS RATHER THAN HITTING THE KEY FOB WITH MY LEG. I REACHED TO USE THE WIPERS AND MY ARM HIT THE KEY FOB, KNOCKING IT INTO THE NEXT POSITION, TURNING OFF THE ENGINE. IT COULD HAVE JUST AS EASILY MOVED OVER ONE MORE AND LOCKED THE STEERING. THE RECALL WAS DONE ON THE CAMARO'S, SO WHY WASN'T IT DONE ON ANY OTHER VEHICLE USING THE SAME KEY FOB AND IGNITION REPLACEMENT? WAS IT BECAUSE THE CAMARO'S PRICE IS 4 TIMES THE PRICE OF A SONIC? ARE CAMARO DRIVERS MORE VALUABLE THAN SONIC DRIVERS? THERE IS A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT INCLUDING THE CAMARO RECALL, BUT NOT THE SONIC. HTTPS://WWW.GMIGNITIONSWITCHECONOMICSETTLEMENT.COM/ I REPORTED THIS BACK IN 2014, AND NEVER HEARD A WORD ABOUT IT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-09
- VIN: 1G1JC6SB8D4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I OWN A 2013 CHEVY SONIC. THE KEY FOB IS HUGE. IN FACT, THERE HAVE BEEN TIMES WHEN I ATTEMPT TO USE MY WIPER CONTROLS AND I HAVE ACCIDENTALLY HIT THAT KEY FOB AND TURNED THE CAR OFF. LUCKILY, I WAS NOT MOVING AT THE TIME, BUT BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM IT'S EXTREMELY POSSIBLE AND LIKELY THAT THE SAME COULD HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING AND POSSIBLY BE KNOCKED ALL THE WAY OVER WHERE IT WOULD NOT ONLY TURN THE CAR OFF, BUT ALSO LOCK THE STEERING. I WENT TO A DEALER AND HEARD A RUMOR THE SAME PROBLEM EXISTS FOR THE CAMARO'S AND GM CREATED KEYS WITH THE ELECTRONICS IN THEM TO USE IN PLACE OF THE KEY FOB'S. THEY ARE ABOUT 2 INCHES SHORTER. WHY THIS WAS NOT DONE FOR ANY VEHICLE BY GM THAT USES THE SAME KEY FOB'S AND IGNITIONS, I DON'T UNDERSTAND. I PERSONALLY GOT THE DEALER TO MAKE ME A SET OF THESE KEYS TO SEE IF THEY WOULD WORK IN MY SONIC. IT COST ME $80.00, BUT FOR THE SAFETY VALUE I PAID FOR THEM. I THINK THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL/REPAIR OR A CLASS ACTION SUIT BECAUSE IT SCARED ME WHEN IT HAPPENED, AND I WORRY IT WILL HAPPEN TO OTHERS WHO HAVEN'T HAD IF HAPPEN, BUT ARE UNAWARE OF THE POSSIBILITY.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-18
- VIN: 1G1JC6SG7D4
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE 3 YEARS AGO PREOWNED FROM THE DEALER AND WITHIN THESE 3 YEARS I HAVE ALREADY HAD A CATALYTIC CONVERTER RECALL, THE ISSUE RECENTLY IS MY AC SYSTEM IN MY CAR IS OUT AND AS A DID RESEARCH ON THE SPECIFIC YEAR THERE'S PEOPLE WHO HAVE ALREADY REPLACED THE AC SYSTEM UP TO 5 TIMES FOR 2013 SONICS. THIS IS A MANUFACTURING ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE FIXED ON CHEVROLET'S BEHALF.
2013 Chevrolet Sonic recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Buick Encore all-wheel-drive vehicles manufactured August 23, 2012, to September 9, 2013; Verano vehicles manufactured August 8, 2012, to June 20, 2013; Chevrolet Cruze vehicles manufactured August 7, 2012, to August 16, 2013, and 2012-2014 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles manufactured May 10, 2011, to August 16, 2012 equipped with a Calix oil pan/block heater. In cold temperatures, the insulation on the engine block heater cord can become damaged, allowing the wires to be exposed.
- Consequence: Exposed wires increase the risk of electrical shock and personal injury if the cord is handled while it is plugged in.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine oil pan/block heater cord with a new cord that is rated for temperatures of minus 40 degree Celsius. The recall began in August 2014. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 14257.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 and 2014 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles manufactured August 2, 2013, through August 12, 2013. Due to insufficient welds, the front fuel tank strap bracket may separate from the vehicle.
- Consequence: If the front fuel tank strap bracket separates, the increased load may lead to the failure of the other tank support. As a result, the fuel tank may come loose from the vehicle causing a fuel leak. A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front fuel tank strap bracket, and repair it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on November 7, 2013. Owners may contact GM at 1-800-521-7300. GM's recall campaign number is 13296.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Cadillac ATS and model year 2013 Cadillac XTS; model year 2014 Chevrolet Impala; and 2013 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. Originally, in May 2013, GM recalled 1,627 model year 2013 Cadillac ATS and model year 2013 Cadillac XTS; and model year 2014 Chevrolet Impala vehicles. In October 2013, GM informed the agency that it was adding model year 2013 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles to this campaign , representing an additional 8,050 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 9,677. On the affected vehicles, the brake lamps may intermittently flash without the brakes being applied and the cruise control may disengage. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
- Consequence: If the brake lamps flash when the vehicle is not slowing, a following driver may not adjust vehicle speed when the vehicle is in fact braking, and the brake lamps are illuminating as intended, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the body control module. The recall began on June 13, 2013. Owner's may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or Cadillac at 1-866-982-2339. GM's recall number is 13158.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles manufactured from May 29, 2012, through August 29, 2012. When a turn signal lamp fails to operate, the Body Control Module (BCM) in these vehicles does not detect this condition and will not indicate the condition to the driver. Thus, These vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: If the driver is not aware that the turn signal is not functioning and does not have the light repaired, other drivers may not be alerted that the vehicle is turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the BCM and the vehicle's key fobs, free of charge. The safety recall began on October 3, 2012. Owners may contact the Chevrolet owner center at 1-866-694-6546.
Negative 2013 Chevrolet Sonic car reviews
Positive 2013 Chevrolet Sonic car reviews
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Turbo engine is great for both power and fuel efficiency. The car runs very smoothly.
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We chose this car because it can be easily towed behind our motorhome with all four tires on the road. Preparing it for towing is a breeze - just remove one fuse while towing. The Blue Ox tow bar attached to the base plate on the car ensures that it tracks beautifully. When the back seats are down, there is exceptional cargo space. The only downsides are that sometimes the key is difficult to remove from the ignition lock, and the back hatch door rattles a bit, which is typical of hatchback cars. Overall, it's a great little car! As of 8/17, the key comes out fine now. We paid over 1k for the Blue Ox tow bar and are now looking to sell both the car and tow Ox as a dinghy for an RVer! As of 8/18, the car races when first started each day. Although we paid over $600 extra for the platinum 7-year warranty when we purchased the new car in 2012, we were told that the 'fix' for that problem was not covered by Fidelity Warranty Services. We won't be making that mistake again! We still own the car and will keep it as a second car for another few years. The estimated resale value is $4K. We have been surprised at the low resale estimates for the car, which is much different than the Toyota's and other foreign autos we have owned. Is there something wrong with this picture?
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I bought this car 10 months ago and have put about 10,000 miles on it. It's the 2012 LTZ hatchback in Orange and I absolutely love it!
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I can't even begin to describe how much I love my car! I had been driving the same vehicle for over 14 years, and I finally decided it was time for a change. It turned out to be the best decision I've made in a long time!
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What a great little car! I bought it used with 39,000 miles and now have 59,000. It drives and runs great, and it's so affordable! I did have a bit of trouble with it running rough for a while, but after some research, I found two big holes in the air intake hose. I was able to fix it up with some electrical tape for now, haha. The transmission can be a bit hesitant and jerky at times, but I've found that salting it first thing in the morning before it warms up helps. The only thing that worries me is whether this car will last for 10 years, with all the electrical cool stuff it has. But who knows, right? Oh, and while the seats aren't the most comfortable, they definitely do the job. Overall, I think it's a great car! :)
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2013 Chevrolet Sonic problems:
Advice on 2013 Chevy Sonic : r/ChevySonic
May 27, 2021 ... My valve gasket cover started leaking at 86k. Radiator at 101k and thermostat at 102k. If you haven't replaced your water pump yet that may be ...
2013 Chevrolet Sonic Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Delving Into the Most Common Chevy Sonic Problems - Bad Vehicle
Engine Stalling or Not Starting · Alternator broken · Battery corrosion · Dead battery · Fuel filter broken · Fuel filter clogged · Key fob battery weak · Spark plug ...
Roll Up - The Sonic and Common Issues | Sonic Owners Forum
Feb 6, 2018 ... There are design flaws within the transmission that starve certain bearings of proper lubrication. This, coupled with poor cooling, and a low ...
2013 Chevy Sonic Problems: Q&A on Rough Idle & Gas Mileage
Aug 28, 2023 ... Misfiring can cause your engine to run unevenly and lose power. You can check the condition of your spark plugs and wires by removing them and ...
Other years of Chevrolet Sonic
Are you having problems with your 2013 Chevrolet Sonic?
Armand Beatty 2024-11-16
Hey there! Thanks for considering this car. Just a heads up, the warranty may not cover you after 3 years, and there may be some issues with emissions and the check engine light. Additionally, it may not be the most fuel-efficient option out there. However, if you're still interested, let's chat more about it!
Gerard Runolfsdottir 2024-11-07
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this car. In my opinion, it might be worth considering other options. I've had some issues with emissions every year, which has been a bit frustrating. Just thought I'd share my thoughts with you. Let me know if you have any questions!
Lourdes Eichmann 2024-10-09
I bought this car 1 yr ago with 29,000 miles on it, and have had nothing but issues! I have been to dealer literally 18 times! Constant shaking and rough idle that they say is "normal". They have replaced an A/C hose of some kind, water pump, thermostat, camshaft position sensor, head gasket, and 2 motor mounts, stitching on rear seat and that's just what i can think of off the top of my head. It doesn't have a good throttle at all, but once you get going its fine. Really loud engine for such a small car, and gas mileage is crap! Cheap car in price, cheap car in quality. I guess you get what you pay for, but don't waste your money. Once the warranty is out your out of luck!!!!!
Nathanael Mraz 2024-09-07
I have identified several issues with this car that have become more prevalent as it has aged, including malfunctioning sensors, transmission issues, and a gear shift assembly that can become stuck in traffic. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved with the right expertise and attention.
Ken Steuber 2024-07-20
The car requires frequent repairs, even after the warranty period. This has resulted in significant expenses, making it difficult to keep up with car payments. Therefore, I would not recommend purchasing this car.