2018 Chevrolet Cruze

The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze is a compact car known for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. It was available as a sedan or hatchback. The most common engine is a 1.4L turbocharged inline-4, producing 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Cruze’s spacious interior for its class, its user-friendly infotainment system, and its smooth ride quality. Common complaints include some reliability concerns, particularly related to the emissions system, and occasionally, a lack of responsiveness from the engine.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4 (LUJ/LUV)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust or low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Diagnosis typically involves a leak-down test to check piston ring sealing. If rings are the cause, engine repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve or related components can cause rough idling, vacuum leaks, and potentially damage the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the PCV valve or related components, such as the valve cover assembly if it is integrated.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of turbocharger failures, characterized by a loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and potentially check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6T40)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or jerky shifting between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. Some owners also experience hesitation or delays when shifting.
  • Solution: Some issues can be resolved with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. However, more severe cases might require valve body repair or replacement, or even a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining prematurely, especially if the car sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves checking for parasitic draws on the battery. Potential causes include faulty modules or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of the infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touch screen.
  • Solution: Software updates are sometimes available. If not, replacement of the infotainment system may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported cracking or warping of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the seat heaters to operate correctly, either not heating at all or overheating.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze presents a mix of potential issues, ranging from moderate engine concerns such as oil consumption and PCV valve problems to transmission issues like harsh shifting. Electrical problems like battery drain and infotainment system malfunctions, along with the interior dashboard cracks, are also notable. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, such as engine or transmission repairs/replacements, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase. The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze’s main problems include the motor being prone to PCV failure, Oil Consumption, cracked dashboards, and the harsh shifting of the transmission.