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2014 Chevrolet Spark Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2014 Chevrolet Spark Report

Overall Score

7.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The engine and powertrain are the most frequent sources of complaints, with owners reporting stalling, loss of acceleration, and transmission issues.
  • A high number of recalls (9) and complaints (262) indicate potential underlying quality concerns.
  • The electrical system is another area prone to failure, contributing to overall reliability worries.
  • Despite its flaws, the Spark achieved a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2014 Chevrolet Spark

The 2014 Chevrolet Spark presents itself as an economical city car, but a closer look reveals significant reliability concerns for used car shoppers. With a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, this model is plagued by early-life failures, particularly in its engine and powertrain. Numerous complaints and recalls, including recurring issues with the hood latch and suspension, suggest potential quality control issues. While it offers decent fuel economy (33 MPG combined) and a 4-star overall safety rating, potential buyers must be aware of the high probability of costly repairs.

Critical Failure Risk

Numerous complaints detail the engine stalling or losing power unexpectedly, often at low mileage. This is frequently linked to issues within the engine control system or fuel/propulsion system.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls9
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

262
Engine49
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
84HP
Torque
83 lb–ft @ 4200 rpmLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
33
MPG
City
30
MPG
Highway
37
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.1/ 10

Practicality

5.2/ 10

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

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing low initial cost and fuel efficiency above long-term dependability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a reliable daily driver with minimal unexpected repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Chevrolet Spark Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 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 @ 4200 rpm
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
MSRP Range
$12,170 - $16,385
EPA Combined MPG
33

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 49 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 41 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: $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
9 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2014 Chevrolet Spark reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark is 7.1/10. Reliability score is 7.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 9. Owner complaints: 262.

How practical is the 2014 Chevrolet Spark for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.2/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 33 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 323 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 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: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $3,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

MSRP range is $12,170 - $16,385.

What engine is in the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.2. Output is 84 hp • 83 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm.

What transmission does the 2014 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark, fuel economy range is 30-39 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

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

What are the most common engine problems on the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Top complaint category: engine (49 reports, 18.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

This model year has 9 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2014 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2014 Honda Fit and 2014 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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