2019 Chevrolet Spark Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson2 Critical Recalls
2019 Chevrolet Spark Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The airbag system is the primary concern, with reports of malfunctions in accidents.
  • Inspect service brakes thoroughly for any signs of wear, noise, or reduced effectiveness.
  • Potential powertrain issues, including transmission anomalies, warrant attention.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, rated at 33 MPG combined.
Overview

2019 Chevrolet Spark

The 2019 Chevrolet Spark presents itself as an economical city car, offering respectable fuel efficiency. However, a closer look reveals a concerning pattern of reliability issues. The most prominent concerns revolve around the airbag system, with reports of both non-deployment and excessive force, a critical safety flaw. Service brakes and powertrain components also show up in owner complaints, sometimes at relatively low mileage. With 2 recalls and 18 complaints logged with NHTSA, and a high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (132), this Spark demands careful pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints range from airbags failing to deploy in accidents to deploying with excessive force, causing injury. A recall addressed the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) preventing deployment.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel economy for city driving.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing long-term dependability and minimal repair worries.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Chevrolet Spark Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

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

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 7 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 2 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection

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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Chevrolet Spark reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 18.

How practical is the 2019 Chevrolet Spark for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.3/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. EPA combined economy is 33 MPG. Seating capacity is 4.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

Base MSRP is $17,095.

What engine is in the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2019 Chevrolet Spark use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Chevrolet Spark use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Spark, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

Top complaint category: air bags (7 reports, 38.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Chevrolet Spark?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda Fit and 2019 Toyota Yaris.