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2016 Chevrolet Cruze Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2016 Chevrolet Cruze Report

Overall Score

7.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Engine stalling and loss of power are the most prevalent complaints, impacting drivability and potentially leading to costly repairs.
  • Electrical system failures, including complete vehicle shutdowns, are a significant concern, with some reports indicating fire risks.
  • The fuel system recall (18V304000) addressing potential gasoline leaks is critical; confirm it has been addressed.
  • Steering system issues, such as locking or stiffness, are also reported, posing a safety risk.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Chevrolet Cruze

The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze offers decent fuel economy and a comfortable ride, but its below-average reliability verdict raises concerns for used car shoppers. With 383 complaints and 5 recalls, potential buyers must be aware of common issues, particularly concerning the engine and electrical systems. The vehicle earned a respectable 4 out of 5 stars for overall safety from NHTSA, but this should be weighed against its mechanical vulnerabilities. High TSB counts suggest a complex history of known issues requiring dealer attention.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant number of complaints cite engine stalling, often without warning, and a general loss of power. This can be linked to issues with the fuel system, ignition, or engine control modules. Some owners report problems with the auto start/stop feature exacerbating these stalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

383
Engine98
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
32
MPG
City
28
MPG
Highway
39
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.7/ 10

Practicality

5.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing fuel economy over long-term dependability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience and minimal repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Chevrolet Cruze Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
32

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 98 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 58 reports

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 and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cooling System Inspection

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
5 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze is 7.7/10. Reliability score is 7.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 383.

How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.5/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot. EPA combined economy is 32 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 348 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 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 - Brake System Inspection - Cooling System Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Control Module (ECM) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

EPA combined estimate is 32 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

Top complaint category: engine (98 reports, 25.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda Civic and 2016 Toyota Corolla.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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