2020 Chevrolet Spark

The 2020 Chevrolet Spark is a subcompact hatchback known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and easy maneuverability, making it a popular choice for city driving and first-time car buyers. It is only available with one engine option, a 1.4L Ecotec Inline-4 producing 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. The transmission options were a 5-speed manual or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Drivers often praise the Spark’s nimble handling and user-friendly infotainment system. Conversely, some criticisms include its limited rear passenger space and less-than-stellar acceleration.

Engine

1.4L Ecotec Inline-4 (LV7)

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated with codes indicating catalytic converter inefficiency. Potential sulfur smell, reduced fuel economy, and/or failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, poor fuel economy, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration. Diagnostic codes pointing to a faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected oxygen sensor (upstream or downstream).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• CVT Shudder/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering during acceleration, particularly at low speeds. Hesitation or delayed response when pressing the accelerator. Some owners report a feeling of “slipping.”
  • Solution: A CVT fluid change may alleviate the issue if caught early. More severe cases may require a valve body replacement or, in extreme circumstances, a complete CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Change: $150-$300, Valve Body: $800 - $1500, Replacement: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Premature CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure, inability to accelerate, loud noises from the transmission, or transmission warning lights illuminated.
  • Solution: CVT replacement is typically the only option in this scenario.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive to touch, or crashes and restarts unexpectedly. Intermittent loss of features like Bluetooth connectivity or navigation.
  • Solution: Sometimes a software update can resolve the issue. In other cases, the entire infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update may be free, replacement $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery dies overnight or after a short period of non-use. Difficulty starting the engine. Can be caused by parasitic draw from electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnostics to identify the source of the draw, followed by repair or replacement of the offending component. A new battery may also be required if the old one is damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200 for diagnostics, $100+ for battery replacement, additional costs depend on draw found.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles, particularly the driver’s side, can break due to the plastic components failing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Upholstery Wear/Tears
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear, cracking, or tearing of the seat upholstery, particularly on the driver’s seat.
  • Solution: Seat cover replacement or professional upholstery repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Chevrolet Spark, while an affordable and practical choice, does have some reported issues. The most concerning relate to the CVT transmission, which can suffer from shuddering, hesitation, and even premature failure, with repairs potentially costing several thousand dollars. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and catalytic converter problems can also be costly to address. While not all Sparks will experience these issues, it’s essential for potential buyers to be aware of them and thoroughly inspect the vehicle, especially if it has the CVT transmission.