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2016 Chevrolet Spark Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2016 Chevrolet Spark Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The service brakes are the most frequent complaint, with reports of sudden loss of braking power and related warning lights.
  • The electrical system is another area of concern, with dashboard failures and even reports of vehicle fires.
  • A critical recall addresses the passenger side frontal airbag inflator module; ensure this has been properly remedied.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 33 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Chevrolet Spark

The 2016 Chevrolet Spark offers a compact and economical package, but used car shoppers should proceed with caution. Its primary appeal lies in its fuel efficiency and maneuverability for city driving. However, a history of complaints and a below-average reliability verdict signal potential ownership challenges. Buyers should be acutely aware of reported issues with the braking system and electrical components, which can impact safety and drivability.

Critical Failure Risk

Reports indicate sudden loss of braking power, hard brake pedals, and illuminated warning lights for the brake system, ABS, and Traction Control. This issue has been reported at very low mileage.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

36
Service Brakes10
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
33
MPG
City
30
MPG
Highway
39
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious city dwellers prioritizing fuel economy and easy parking.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who prioritize long-term reliability and minimal unexpected expenses.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Chevrolet Spark Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Manual 5-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
33

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Most Common Issues

1. Braking System

Most reported

Usage: 10 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 5 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 and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Spark reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 36.

How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Spark for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 33 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Service Brakes (typical at 37 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,000+).

What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark, transmission is Manual 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

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

What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 5-spd.

What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Top complaint category: service brakes (10 reports, 27.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda Fit and 2016 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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