2006 Chevrolet Cobalt

The 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt was a compact car offered in coupe and sedan body styles. Engine options included a 2.2L Ecotec I4 producing 145 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4L Ecotec I4 producing 171 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. People liked the Cobalt for its fuel efficiency and sporty handling, especially the SS models. Common dislikes included the cheap interior materials and the ignition switch issues that led to a major recall.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec I4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, possible engine misfires, and a whistling sound coming from the engine bay.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, difficulty starting after refueling, rough idling, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Ecotec I4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup; check engine light; possible engine misfires or loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, loss of power, and decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the VVT solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high without a corresponding increase in speed, difficulty accelerating, and delayed engagement of gears.
  • Solution: This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty torque converter. Depending on the severity, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the car sits noticeably lower than the front, especially when carrying passengers or cargo.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs or add air shocks to compensate for the sag.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension when going over bumps, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling while driving, loss of power, and inability to start the car. This issue was linked to several accidents and injuries.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition switch with the redesigned part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: Recall # 14V047000
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows stop working or operate slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly on the driver’s side, can break easily.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the roof and begins to sag.
  • Solution: Re-glue the headliner or replace the entire headliner assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt has several common issues, ranging from relatively minor problems like intake manifold gasket leaks to more serious issues like ignition switch failures. The ignition switch issue was subject to a major recall. Other notable issues include timing chain problems on the 2.4L engine and transmission problems with the 4-speed automatic. The severity and cost of these issues vary widely, but some can be quite expensive to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.