What's Wrong with the 2nd Generation (2016–2019) Cruze?

Cruze owners have made 83 complaints about the 2016–2019 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 49th out of 80 Chevrolet generations in overall reliability, with some engine and electrical concerns.

Compare With Other Cruze Generations

CHEVY CRUZE OWNERS: Is your Chevy Cruze a Lemon? Is it always in the shop?

The Consumer Protection Attorneys of Alex Simanovsky & Associates, LLC are currently representing Chevy Cruze owners with claims against General Motors for Lemon Law and Breach of Warranty. You may be entitled to a refund, replacement or cash compensation. Their services are at no cost to the consumer. Get free Lemon Law help! Click here for more information.

Click here for more information

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

2nd Generation (2016–2019) Cruze Key Numbers

  1. 4 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 83 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 49th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 80 eligible generations.

Recent 2nd Generation (2016–2019) Cruze News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  1. Excess gas –– we’ve all had it, no-one likes it, and the same holds true for your braking system.

    GM says it needs to bleed the brake systems of 230,000 cars because the vehicles have rear brake caliper pistons that have hydrogen gas trapped inside that could be released into the brake systems. ZF, the manufacturer of the brake pistons, didn't properly temper and chrome-coat the pistons, causing hydrogen gas to remain trapped in the bodies of the pistons.

    This problem may cause your brake pedal to feel “spongy” but it’s unclear if it affects stopping distances.

    keep reading article "There is Excess Gas Buildup in the Brake Caliper Pistons of 230,000 GM Vehicles"

  2. Have you heard about the lawsuit that says the side blind zone alert system in the 2013-2018 Chevy Cruze is defective?

    The lawsuit claims that the system fails because the sensors are poorly sealed and over-exposed to elements like debris and road spray.

    GM has filed a motion to dismiss the case saying the plaintiffs are blind to the fact that of 250,000 Cruze vehicles with the Enhanced Safety Package, only 40 (0.016%) needed service during the warranty period according to the lawsuit.

    The decision is pending.

    keep reading article "GM Says Blind Zone Alert Lawsuit Can’t See the Facts"

  3. Chevy started offering an optional "blind zone alert" safety upgrade with the 2013 Cruze. However, they placed the system's sensors on the rear bumper which, according to a new lawsuit leaves the system suceptible to spray from the rear wheel wells.

    The sensors and wiring are allegedly sealed poorly and allow water and debris to affect the systems, leaving owners with non-working systems they paid for.

    Because of the defective design, dealers allegedly can't effectively repair the systems and any damaged sensors are installed in the same problematic locations. The plaintiffs in the case said replacement sensors were on back-order when they brought their car in for service.…

    keep reading article "Can Water or Snow Confuse the Cruze's Blind Zone Alert?"