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2017 Chevrolet Spark Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2017 Chevrolet Spark Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Brake system failures are a primary concern, with reports of sudden malfunctions and loss of response, even at low mileage.
  • Powertrain issues, including transmission control module problems and acceleration hesitation, are frequently reported.
  • Airbag system concerns include non-deployment and a recall for the passenger side frontal airbag inflator.
  • Electrical system failures, such as intermittent component operation and complete power loss, pose significant risks.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Chevrolet Spark

The 2017 Chevrolet Spark offers subcompact practicality with decent fuel economy, but its below-average reliability rating warrants careful consideration for used car buyers. While it achieved 33 MPG combined, its significant number of complaints, particularly concerning the powertrain and service brakes, alongside a high TSB count (302), suggest potential ownership headaches. Safety ratings are not available, and one recall was issued for the passenger side frontal airbag inflator.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints frequently cite acceleration issues, jerking, and transmission control module (TCM) problems, particularly with the CVT transmission. Some reports indicate significant oil consumption.

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

42
Power Train8
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
33
MPG
City
30
MPG
Highway
38
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

5.1/ 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 fuel efficiency over long-term dependability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Chevrolet Spark Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
33

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 8 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 7 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 Brake System - Inspect Air Filter

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 (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 2017 Chevrolet Spark reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 42.

How practical is the 2017 Chevrolet Spark for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.1/10. 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 314 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 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 Brake System - Inspect Air Filter at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Brake System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Base MSRP is $16,325.

What engine is in the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2017 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

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 Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Chevrolet Spark use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Spark, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the most common power train problems on the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Top complaint category: power train (8 reports, 19% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Chevrolet Spark?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Honda Fit and 2017 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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