2017 Chevrolet Sonic Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine issues, including stalling and power loss, are the most reported problems.
- Airbag system faults and electrical system gremlins are also common concerns.
- Despite 0 recalls, a high number of complaints and TSBs indicate underlying quality concerns.
- Excellent NHTSA safety ratings (5-star overall) provide some reassurance.
2017 Chevrolet Sonic
The 2017 Chevrolet Sonic offers a practical, if imperfect, package for the used car buyer. Its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and S6 automatic transmission deliver a combined 28 MPG, making it reasonably efficient for daily commuting. Safety is a strong suit, with a 5-star overall NHTSA rating, including perfect scores in frontal and side crash tests. However, a high volume of consumer complaints, particularly concerning the engine, airbags, and electrical system, alongside a substantial 478 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), signals potential ownership challenges. These issues can arise at various mileages, suggesting a need for thorough pre-purchase scrutiny.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints indicate engine stalling, rough idling, and significant power loss. These issues can stem from various sources including fuel delivery problems, sensor failures, or internal engine wear.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency and strong safety scores.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers prioritizing long-term dependability and minimal unscheduled repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2017 Chevrolet Sonic Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 28
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 17 reports
2. Airbags
Usage: 6 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic is 9.4/10. Reliability score is 9.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 54.
How practical is the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.7/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic is 8.4/10. Overall score is 8.4/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.0/10. Practicality 5.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
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 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 55,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
Base MSRP is $16,395.
What engine is in the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.8.
What transmission does the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
8 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
Top complaint category: engine (17 reports, 31.5% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Honda Civic and 2017 Toyota Corolla.