2015 Chevrolet Cruze Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine issues, including overheating and stalling, are the most common complaints, demanding close inspection of the cooling system.
- Electrical system problems, such as intermittent failures and dashboard malfunctions, are prevalent and can impact drivability.
- Multiple safety recalls, particularly for steering and parking brake components, highlight potential systemic quality concerns.
- With 948 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), expect a history of known issues that may require ongoing attention.
2015 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2015 Chevrolet Cruze offers a compact car package with decent fuel economy, but its below-average reliability record warrants careful consideration for used car shoppers. While it achieved high NHTSA safety ratings, a substantial number of owner complaints and recalls point to potential mechanical and electrical weaknesses. The most frequent issues reported involve the engine, electrical system, and power train, suggesting a need for thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Critical Failure Risk
The 1.8L engine in the 2015 Cruze is susceptible to overheating, often due to coolant leaks or thermostat failure. This can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$2,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 138–151HP
- Torque
- 125–280 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing initial purchase price over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a dependable, low-maintenance vehicle.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2015 Chevrolet Cruze Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 138-151 hp
- Torque
- 125-280 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- MSRP Range
- $16,170 - $26,485
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 97 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 47 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 378.
How practical is the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 425 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.4/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Cooling System (Water Pump, Thermostat) (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
MSRP range is $16,170 - $26,485.
What engine is in the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.8. Output is 138-151 hp • 125-280 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze, fuel economy range is 25-46 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
Top complaint category: engine (97 reports, 25.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2015 Honda Civic and 2015 Toyota Corolla.