2011 Chevrolet Chevy

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, organized by category and engine/transmission option. The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze was a compact car offered with several engine and transmission choices. One of the most common engines was the 1.4L turbocharged inline-4, producing around 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. Other options include a 1.8L naturally aspirated engine. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. People generally liked the Cruze for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but disliked it for its reliability issues and occasionally sluggish performance.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light, oil leaks. This often involves the intake manifold failing.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold and PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, sweet smell from the engine. Often stemming from the water outlet or water pump.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty water outlet/water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change, software update, or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or shaking at highway speeds, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noise from the rear suspension, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Radio/Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio turning off and on, freezing, or displaying incorrect information.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the radio unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical problems, including lights not working, power windows not functioning, or issues with the key fob.
  • Solution: Reprogram or replace the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (very expensive) or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner detaching from the roof and sagging.
  • Solution: Re-glue the headliner, or replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, while appreciated for its fuel efficiency and comfort, suffers from several common issues. The 1.4L turbo engine is particularly prone to problems such as turbocharger failure and PCV system issues. The automatic transmission can also experience harsh shifting and torque converter problems. Electrical glitches, such as radio malfunctions and BCM failures, are also relatively common. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with repair costs varying significantly depending on the specific problem. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.