Toyota Fj cruiser problems
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled mid-size SUV produced by Toyota between 2006 and 2022. Introduced as a concept car at the January 2003 North American International Auto Show, the FJ Cruiser was approved for production after positive consumer response and debuted at the January 2005 North American International Auto Show in final production form.
The FJ Cruiser was built by Toyota subsidiary Hino Motors in Hamura, Japan, between 2006 and 2022. The vehicle shares many structural underpinnings with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.: 96 The FJ Cruiser entered the Japanese market on 4 December 2010, announced on 25 November in that year.
On 5 November 2013, Toyota USA announced the 2014 model year Trail Teams edition would be called the "Ultimate Edition" and that the 2014 model year would be the last for the FJ Cruiser in that market. It continued to be made for sale in other markets such as Australia until its export to that market was discontinued in August 2016. As of April 2022, it was still sold in markets such as Chile, the Middle East, the Philippines and Southern African Customs Union countries.
On 1 October 2022, Toyota announced that the FJ Cruiser would be discontinued in the Middle East by December 2022, along with a final edition model.
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Toyota Fj cruiser model years
Common Toyota Fj cruiser problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Toyota FJ Cruiser, several common problems have been reported:
- Faulty Drivetrain Components:
- Specific to FJ Cruisers with automatic gearboxes, drivers have reported problems like bad CV joints, rattling noises from bad bearings, and driveshaft issues. These issues can result in stability problems, noises, and difficulty in maintaining control over the vehicle, affecting the overall driving experience.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Faults:
- While not as severe as transmission or drivetrain problems, TPMS faults can compromise safety by failing to warn about insufficient tire pressure. Addressing TPMS malfunctions is crucial to ensure safe driving and receive timely low-pressure warnings when necessary.
- Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Issues:
- The FJ Cruiser's low-pressure fuel pump, responsible for delivering fuel to the combustion chambers, is known to stall, leading to engine stalling while driving. This poses a significant safety risk, especially at higher speeds. Prioritizing a thorough check of the fuel pump before purchasing a used FJ Cruiser is essential to avoid potential engine stalling issues.
These problems highlight key areas of concern for Toyota FJ Cruiser owners, emphasizing the importance of thorough inspections and maintenance to ensure a safe and reliable driving experience.
What problems does the FJ Cruiser have?
Depending on the model year, the Toyota FJ Cruiser commonly develops drivetrain problems like vibration and loud road noise. Other common issues for the Toyota FJ Cruiser include a shaky steering wheel, loose foot rest pedal, bad driveshaft, and shuddering engine.
Is the FJ Cruiser a reliable car?
While the FJ Cruiser is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of needing repairs or maintenance in the future.
What year to avoid FJ Cruiser?
FJ Cruiser owners have made 96 complaints about the 2007–2014 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 40th out of 81 Toyota generations in overall reliability , with some transmission and body concerns.
What is the best year for the Toyota FJ Cruiser?
Sales for the debut year of the FJ Cruiser validated all of Toyota's efforts for the project. More than 56,000 examples were purchased in the U.S. alone, according to Carsalesbase. In fact, the 2007 model year was the best for the FJ Cruiser.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Fj cruiser years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Fj cruiser cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Fj cruiser model years:
- Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Toyota Fj cruiser 2008
- Toyota Fj cruiser 2010
- Toyota Fj cruiser 2012
- Toyota Fj cruiser 2014
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Fj cruiser model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Fj cruiser years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Fj cruiser car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Fj cruiser , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Service brakes problems
- Suspension problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Fj cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Fj cruiser model years
A total of 25 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 Fj cruiser model years
There were a total of 8 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 Fj cruiser model years
There were a total of 15 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 882 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Fj cruiser . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Fj cruiser vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Fj cruiser 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: JTEBU11F180
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased steering wheel rotation before the vehicle started to maneuver in either direction. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 197,000.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- VIN: JTEBU4BF8AK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: No proper rust protection causing corrosion and irreparable transmission damage.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: JTEBU11FX70
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: -Toyota recalled the vehicles using the same/similar frame has the same rusty issues, like Tacoma. This recalled made me pay attention on this issue and I found the my FJ cruiser is no longer 100% safe while driving. -The frame of the body is very rusty after years which is not normal. I believe most owners of this model having the same issue. There are rust everywhere under the body, when change some parts, it was really hard to do so, need the fire gun to burn all the screws. And the exhaust system all rusty and leaked as well, cost me a lot of money to fix. -The frame may broken anytime while driving which is risky to me and my passengers. -No dealers would like to fix that frame for me unless to pay a huge amount of Labour costs, which is higher than the value of the car. -it has been inspected by more than 5 car specialists and body shop workers, saying that frame is dying and won’t last for long, maybe will completely broken in a few years. -There is no issues on mechanics, just the under body rust. It happened a lot of years maybe 5-7 years before. -I’m from Canada.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-05
- VIN: JTEBU4BF8DK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser. Upon having the vehicle inspected by a State Inspector, the contact was informed that there was significant corrosion on the undercarriage of the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to a dealer and was informed that the corrosion failure was a result of normal wear and tear. The contact was referred to an independent mechanic who specialized in vehicle undercoating to prevent further corrosion damage to the vehicle. Despite the vehicle being treated for the corrosion damage, the contact was recently informed that the corrosion damage had worsened, and that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was notified of the failure; the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-16
- VIN: JTEBU11F670
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While towing my boat, the rear frame to which the trailer hitch is a part of, ripped down both side of the frame. Basically, the rear frame of the truck is barley holding on by rust. The hitch and frame section are dangling down. Rust has completely eaten through the entire frame after closer inspection.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-26
- VIN: JTEBU11F08K
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Premature frame rust
Toyota Fj cruiser 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-09
- VIN: JTEBU4BF5CK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Frame rust through.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-09
- VIN: JTEBU11F270
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: My fj cruiser has terrible rust on the frame. It literally looks like it was stored in the ocean for 50 years. This vehicle is from 2007 and should not have this much rust.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-27
- VIN: JTEBU11F970
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that the driver's side seat belt failed to retract, causing the contact to have to manually put the seat belt in place. The contact stated that the failure recurred several times and progressed where the seat belt would not retract. The contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V098000 (Seat Belts) and the dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 191,700. The contact stated vehicle has been repaired, and this case may be closed.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-20
- VIN: JTEBU11FX70
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE SEATBELT DOES NOT RETRACT ON MY 2007 TOYOTA FJ CRUISER.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-14
- VIN: JTEBU11FX70
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The fj cruiser is a common issue for rot/ rust on the frame of the vehicle, I have clean the frame often during the winter months and my frame is continuously rusting and rotting the frame of the vehicle I have decided to not drive the vehicle till the frame is either replaced or repaired due to the safety concern of driving it on the road, numerous others have same incidents of the holes in the frame due to rust the manufacturer did not put any kind of corrosion treatment on the frame to stop this from happening the frame flexes when accelerating and is not safe for anyone to including my passengers or other people on the road
Toyota Fj cruiser 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-23
- VIN: JTEZU4BF1CK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: No dealer is willing to fix recalls.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-26
- VIN: JTEZU11F670
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that the front driver’s side seat belt retractor and locking mechanism was inoperable, failing to secure the driver as needed. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V098000 (Seat Belts). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-08
- VIN: JTEBU4BF4EK
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Excessive frame rust causing safety issue with suspension and crash danger. Yes my vehicle is available for inspection. My safety as well as other drivers safety are put at risk if the suspension fails causing my vehicle to veer into on-coming traffic. The problem is on going and can be confirmed by a dealer or independent service. My vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, but is available for inspection upon request. No warnings lamps. This is an undercarriage issue that is hidden by the tires and the body that sits on the frame.
Toyota Fj cruiser 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-02
- VIN: JTEBU11F78K
- Components: WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The frame of the vehicle is rotted out. Holes in it. Front to back , side to side ROTTED. TOYOTA DEALER looked at it at my request when it was in for service and said it was very bad. I’m [XXX] on Social Security, I cannot afford a frame or a new car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Fj cruiser
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 65 recalls for different components of the Toyota Fj cruiser.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Fj cruiser 2014
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-13
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
- Model: Toyota Fj cruiser 2009
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-02
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Model: Toyota Fj cruiser 2007
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-02
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Model: Toyota Fj cruiser 2008
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-02
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Model: Toyota Fj cruiser 2010
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-02
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
Latest negative Toyota Fj cruiser car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Fj cruiser car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
This vehicle may not be the best fit for families with infants or small children as it may not provide enough space for them.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Some may call it a mid-life crisis, but I call it fun. The 2008 FJ Cruiser is a break from the norm, a good one, and has to be one of the most fun vehicles on the market today. The inside reminds me of an early 70s Chevy Blazer: cool. The driving position is excellent, and the seats are comfortable. One can't help but feel safe with all the standard air bags, stability controls, and just the sheer size of everything. The FJ says cool simplicity vs. sophisticated. Fuel economy is not great, but is better than many SUVs. While not for everyone, the FJ is easily the best car I have ever owned. Do you get up in the morning excited to get in your ride? Not to rub it in, but I do.
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Vehicle year: 2013
Great to hear that it meets your driving needs!
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Vehicle year: 2007
We bought this car in July and immediately headed to Arizona, Northern California and Washington. We drove it on highways and up steep dirt roads. The car loves to climb, but it's great on the highway too. We put 8k miles in 6 weeks, and we loved every moment of the trip.
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Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! I've been considering buying a FJ since 2006, but I had mixed feelings about the radical design. I was used to buying practical cars like Accords and Camrys, so buying a FJ would have been a big change for me. However, I finally realized that I wanted a vehicle with personality, not just a truck. That's why I decided to purchase the 2010 TT, and I'm so glad I waited. The 2010 version addressed a lot of the FJ's shortcomings, including a back-up camera, reduced turn radius, improved gas mileage, and standard unleaded gas. I plan to keep it for at least 10 years! Thanks for listening.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Fj cruiser?
Ricky Feil 2024-11-12
Vehicle year: 2009
I noticed that the paint on the outside of the FJ scratches easily, and the plastic interior scratches even easier. It's disappointing that for an off-road vehicle, the design seems cheap and poorly executed. Additionally, the premium gas at $2.98 a gallon seems excessive for a vehicle that only gets 15 miles in the city and 20 on the highway. On the bright side, the FJ rides nicely and has good pick-up when you need it. However, it's frustrating to have to run premium gas and worry about the paint. I also found that the windshield cracks easily due to the upright design, which is similar to the Hummer. Rocks don't skip off, which is surprising for an off-road vehicle. I had to fix 5 small dings before the last one gave way to a 16
Ralph Dickinson 2024-09-01
Vehicle year: 2009
I have owned several SUVs in the past, including Nissans and Jeeps, and recently purchased the FJ for my family's needs. While there are some design elements that could be improved, such as the dark interior and limited visibility, I have found that the FJ's performance in snowy conditions is not up to par. Despite trying different tires, I have found it to be unsafe to drive in these conditions, especially with the nervous anti-lock brakes. In comparison, my previous Xterra performed better, and the Jeep was the best. Additionally, I have found that the stain-proof seats can be difficult to clean due to dog hair getting caught in the open fibers. Overall, while the FJ has some areas for improvement, I am confident in my assessment of its performance in snowy conditions.
Ruben Lind 2024-08-07
Vehicle year: 2012
#1 - The engine has great power. #2 - Unfortunately, the radio display is difficult to see during the day, making it hard to know what station you are listening to. #3 - The back camera is poorly built and too small, making it difficult to see objects. #4 - It seems that there is only one power supply for the entire car. #5 - I regret buying an FJ Cruiser after less than 1200 miles because Toyota's customer service failed to offer a solution to the problems I encountered. #6 - The windshield seems to be poorly designed as it catches every flying object.
Leon Fahey 2024-08-04
Vehicle year: 2013
#1 - The engine has great power. #2 - Unfortunately, the radio display is difficult to see during the day, making it hard to know what station you are listening to. #3 - The back camera is poorly built and too small, making it difficult to see objects. #4 - It seems that there is only one power supply for the entire car. #5 - I regret buying an FJ Cruiser after less than 1200 miles because Toyota's customer service failed to offer a solution to the problems I encountered. #6 - The windshield seems to be poorly designed as it catches every flying object.
Domingo Erdman 2024-07-28
Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! I was thinking about getting some extra medical coverage for my vehicle insurance. I've noticed that when people get in and out of the back seat, they tend to hit their heads. Also, the interior panels aren't quite up to Chevy's usual build quality and fit. Additionally, the front windshield wipers tend to chatter and not lay flat in cold weather, which can be a bit frustrating. Lastly, I've noticed that the exterior paint scratches pretty easily. Just thought I'd share my experience with you!