2018 Chevrolet Spark Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Excellent fuel economy (33 MPG combined) makes it inexpensive to run.
- Significant consumer complaints center on brakes, engine hesitation, and powertrain control.
- A high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicates potential for numerous minor issues.
- No official NHTSA safety ratings are available, requiring careful buyer due diligence.
2018 Chevrolet Spark
The 2018 Chevrolet Spark offers commendable fuel efficiency in a compact package, making it an economical choice for city driving. However, its appeal is tempered by a concerning number of consumer complaints, particularly regarding the engine, fuel/propulsion system, vehicle speed control, service brakes, and powertrain. These issues, coupled with a high TSB count, suggest potential for frequent, albeit often minor, problems that could impact ownership experience. Safety ratings are notably absent, adding another layer of uncertainty for used car shoppers.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints indicate hesitation or stalling during acceleration from a stop, and the transmission struggling to select appropriate gears. This can lead to a lack of immediate response when needed.
Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$1,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.
Full Recall History →Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by small boot, and limited seating.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious commuters prioritizing fuel economy above all else.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers prioritizing long-term reliability and minimal unexpected repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Chevrolet Spark Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 4
- Transmission
- Automatic (variable gear ratios)
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 33
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See the full 2018 Chevrolet Spark buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 2 reports
2. Fuel System
Usage: 2 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $75 - $125
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Spark reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 11.
How practical is the 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Brake System (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $1200).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
Base MSRP is $14,875.
What engine is in the 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2018 Chevrolet Spark use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark, seating capacity is 4.
What body style is the 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Chevrolet Spark use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Spark, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).
What are the most common engine problems on the 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
Top complaint category: engine (2 reports, 18.2% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Chevrolet Spark?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Honda Fit and 2018 Toyota Yaris.