Is the Chevrolet Cruze Reliable?
2011–2019 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Chevrolet Cruze? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Chevrolet Cruze Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 2 | 13 | 1 | — | 52 | Fair |
| 2018 | 3 | 81 | 8 | — | 52 | Fair |
| 2017 | 2 | 137 | 3 | — | 49 | Fair |
| 2016 | 4 | 200 | 5 | — | 42 | Poor |
| 2015 | 3 | 197 | 13 | — | 41 | Poor |
| 2014 | 5 | 523 | 62 | — | 27 | Poor |
| 2013 | 2 | 503 | 17 | — | 27 | Poor |
| 2012 | 5 | 718 | 18 | — | 27 | Poor |
| 2011 | 4 | 540 | 36 | — | 27 | Poor |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Cruze Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Cruze scores 30 points below the average sedan. Consider checking years with lower complaint volumes.
Known Chevrolet Cruze Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 2912 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chevrolet Cruze reliable?+
The Chevrolet Cruze scores 42/100 on our reliability index — rated "Poor." Across 9 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 30 recall campaigns and 2912 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Cruze is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2019 Cruze achieved the highest reliability score of 52/100 with 2 recalls and 13 complaints.
How many miles does a Cruze last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Chevrolet Cruze owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Cruze will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Chevrolet Cruze Research
Check a Specific Chevrolet Cruze VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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