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2013 Chevrolet Spark Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2013 Chevrolet Spark Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Below-average reliability is the primary concern, driven by engine, powertrain, and electrical system issues.
  • Inspect the engine, powertrain, and electrical system thoroughly due to high complaint volumes.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, rated at 31 MPG combined.
  • The 2013 Spark has a history of 8 recalls, including critical safety items.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Chevrolet Spark

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark offers basic transportation with commendable fuel economy, but its below-average reliability verdict demands careful consideration for used car shoppers. With 8 recalls and 224 complaints logged with NHTSA, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues. The vehicle's compact size and 31 MPG combined make it an economical city car, but its 84 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque suggest modest performance. Numerous Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) also point to potential quality control concerns.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report frequent issues with the engine stalling or experiencing a loss of power, often at low speeds or during transitions. This aligns with high complaint volumes for the engine and vehicle speed control.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls8
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

224
Engine35
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
84HP
Torque
83 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
31
MPG
City
28
MPG
Highway
36
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

First-time car buyers on a strict budget.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a dependable, trouble-free vehicle.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Chevrolet Spark Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
4
Horsepower
84 hp
Torque
83 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic 4-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
31

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 35 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 34 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 Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

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
8 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Chevrolet Spark reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 224.

How practical is the 2013 Chevrolet Spark for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 31 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 323 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.2. Output is 84 hp • 83 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2013 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

EPA combined estimate is 31 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, fuel economy range is 28-32 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Top complaint category: engine (35 reports, 15.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Honda Fit and 2013 Toyota Yaris.

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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