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2019 Chevrolet Cruze Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2019 Chevrolet Cruze Report

Overall Score

8.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain and engine issues are the most common complaints, indicating potential for stalling and reduced performance.
  • Two recalls were issued, one for the rear brake system and another for the automatic transmission's start/stop accumulator.
  • The Cruze delivers strong fuel economy, with a combined EPA rating of 32 MPG.
  • NHTSA crash test ratings are excellent, with 5-star overall, frontal, and side crash scores.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Chevrolet Cruze

The 2019 Chevrolet Cruze offers a practical package with commendable fuel economy, but its reliability record warrants careful consideration for used car shoppers. While it achieved top marks in NHTSA crash tests, its mechanical integrity is shadowed by a significant number of complaints and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). The powertrain and engine are the most frequently cited areas of concern, suggesting potential for costly repairs down the line. Buyers should prioritize thorough inspections of these systems.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints frequently cite issues with the powertrain and engine, including stalling, rough idling, and loss of power, sometimes linked to the turbocharger or timing chain.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

26
Power Train5
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
32
MPG
City
28
MPG
Highway
38
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.7/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel economy and strong safety ratings over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Chevrolet Cruze Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze.

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

Vehicle Specs

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

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 5 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 4 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Belts and Hoses

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

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

FAQ

Is the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 26.

How practical is the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.7/10. EPA combined economy is 32 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze is 8.4/10. Overall score is 8.4/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Belts and Hoses at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $900).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

Base MSRP is $22,595.

What engine is in the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

EPA combined estimate is 32 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

6 standard and 7 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

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

What are the most common power train problems on the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

Top complaint category: power train (5 reports, 19.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

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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