What are the most common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

Below-average reliability verdict requires thorough inspection.

How many recalls does the 2016 Chevrolet City Express have?

The 2016 Chevrolet City Express currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2016 Chevrolet City Express a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Below-average reliability verdict requires thorough inspection. Two critical safety recalls demand immediate attention: passenger airbag system and fuel tank temperature sensor harness. High TSB count suggests a propensity for various system issues. Fuel economy is a strong point, rated at 25 MPG combined. Front-wheel drive and a 2.0L engine provide adequate power for urban use. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express.

2016 Chevrolet City Express Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Below-average reliability verdict requires thorough inspection.
Two critical safety recalls demand immediate attention: passenger airbag system and fuel tank temperature sensor harness.
High TSB count suggests a propensity for various system issues.
Fuel economy is a strong point, rated at 25 MPG combined.

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Overview

2016 Chevrolet City Express

The 2016 Chevrolet City Express is a compact commercial van built for utility. It offers practical cargo space and decent fuel economy for its class, powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission driving the front wheels. While it aims to be a workhorse, its reliability record and safety ratings warrant careful consideration for used buyers.

Critical Failure Risk

A potentially misrouted Fuel Tank Temperature (FTT) sensor harness can lead to a short circuit in the fuel pump fuse. This recall addresses a critical safety concern related to fuel delivery.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$900 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns2

Service Bulletins481

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Small business owners needing a basic, fuel-efficient cargo van for light-duty urban use.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers requiring a highly dependable vehicle for critical daily operations.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Chevrolet City Express Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Van
EPA Combined MPG: 25

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel Tank Temperature Sensor Harness Issue

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Occupant Classification System (OCS) Sensor Fault

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet City Express reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet City Express for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Tank Temperature Sensor Harness (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet City Express use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express, body style is van.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet City Express use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet City Express, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet City Express?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Ford Transit Connect and 2016 Nissan NV200.