2019 Chevrolet Sonic Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2019 Sonic boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating good crash protection.
- Expect combined fuel economy of 29 MPG, making it a reasonably efficient daily driver.
- The most significant ownership risk is the engine cooling system, with documented leaks and component failures.
- A reported turbocharger failure at around 47,600 miles highlights a critical component vulnerability.
2019 Chevrolet Sonic
Critical Failure Risk
Multiple reports indicate failures in the cooling system, including coolant leaks, overheating, and premature wear of the water pump and thermostat housing. These issues can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 138HP
- Torque
- 148 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing safety ratings and fuel efficiency.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2019 Chevrolet Sonic Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 138 hp
- Torque
- 148 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- MSRP Range
- $15,420 - $21,520
- EPA Combined MPG
- 29
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Most Common Issues
1. Fuel System
Most reportedUsage: 2 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 2 reports
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
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FAQ
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 10.
How practical is the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.7/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 422 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic is 8.2/10. Overall score is 8.2/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
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: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Cooling System (Water Pump, Thermostat) (typical at 65,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $1,200).
What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
MSRP range is $15,420 - $21,520.
What engine is in the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.4. Output is 138 hp • 148 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
8 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic, fuel economy range is 26-34 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common fuel/propulsion system problems on the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
Top complaint category: fuel/propulsion system (2 reports, 20% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda Civic and 2019 Toyota Corolla.