2019 Chevrolet Cruze

The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze is a compact car that was available as a sedan or hatchback. It’s known for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some owners have reported reliability issues. The standard engine is a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Cruze’s affordability and practicality, while others dislike its somewhat uninspired styling and occasional repair needs.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report higher than normal oil consumption, sometimes requiring oil to be added between oil changes. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Some dealerships recommend performing an oil consumption test to determine the severity. Potential fixes range from replacing the PCV valve to replacing piston rings or the entire engine in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCV valve) - $3,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, loss of power, and/or the check engine light illuminating. Diagnostic codes related to turbocharger performance may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant levels dropping, overheating, sweet smell coming from the engine bay, visible coolant leaks. Common leak points include the water pump and thermostat housing.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component (water pump or thermostat housing).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop or while driving.
  • Solution: Some owners have had success with transmission fluid changes. Other owners have had success with replacing the valve body in the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300 (Fluid Change) - $800 - $2,000 (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly when the torque converter is locking up. Can also manifest as poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission flush may temporarily alleviate the symptoms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MyLink infotainment system may freeze, lag, or become unresponsive. Bluetooth connectivity problems and screen glitches have also been reported.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In some cases, the infotainment unit needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $500 - $1,500+ (Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car is left unused for a few days. Can lead to starting problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the parasitic drain. Potential causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (Depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters stop working or provide inconsistent heat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or the seat heater control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may not open or close properly, gets stuck, or makes excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubrication, track adjustment, or replacement of the sunroof motor or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze has a mix of minor and potentially major issues. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and turbocharger failure can be expensive to fix. Transmission issues can lead to drivability concerns. Electrical problems like infotainment glitches and battery drain are also frequently reported. While not all Cruzes experience these issues, potential buyers should be aware of them and consider a pre-purchase inspection. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor inconveniences to costly repairs, so careful consideration is advised.