2016 Chevrolet Cruze Problems: Single Engine Option Has Serious, Recurring Issues Not Yet Recalled

Apr 6, 2022

On paper, the 2016 Chevy Cruze looks to be reliable, with just a handful of recalls and few registered complaints. However, a closer look reveals the sole engine option may stall at highway speeds, causing unsafe conditions.

2016 Chevrolet Cruze - Photo by Chevrolet

Key Points

Just four recalls have been issued for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, and only 183 complaints have been registered.
The model’s most significant recall concerns fuel leaking and catching fire, though, only in specific conditions.
Random engine stalling causing dangerous road conditions is the biggest, most widespread problem with the 2016 Cruze.
No recalls have been issued for any of the car’s engine problems, leaving owners to front the shop bill.
Ultimately, buyers would do best to avoid the 2016 Cruze in favor of the 2017 model, specifically to get the new 1.6L diesel motor.

Four Recalls Have Been Issued for the 2016 Cruze, With the Most Severe Resolving a Potential Fuel Leak After an Accident

Marking the first year of the model’s second generation, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze looks surprisingly reliable on paper, especially considering its troublesome early days.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued four recalls for the 2016 Cruze. None are too alarming or likely.

The most concerning recall involves fuel leaking after a rear-end crash and catching fire. Cruze models from 2016 to 2018 were affected and include only models that are an LS trim with a gas engine and have a rear-tire inflator kit instead of a spare.

Less severe recalls for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze include:

Key may be removed while transmission is in park, creating a possible rollaway hazard.
Some 2016 Chevrolet Cruzes have misaligned headlights that may reduce nighttime visibility.
Cruze models from 2016 and 2017 may have a poorly welded passenger seat recliner bracket.

2016 Chevrolet Cruze - Photo by Chevrolet

Owner Complaints Reveal the 2016 Chevy Cruzes’ Main Problem is With Engine Stalls, Creating Dangerous Situations

Of the nearly 200 owner complaints registered with the NHTSA, about half encompass engine and powertrain problems.

The 2016 Chevy Cruze only offers a single 1.4L engine option. Most commonly, owners mention problems with the motor stalling while driving, creating some pretty scary situations.

“I have a 2016 Chevy Cruze, and at least three times it has died while driving 30-50 miles per hour…”, states one owner in their registered NHTSA complaint.

The main problem with the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze is that no recalls exist for any reported engine complaints. Many owners mention having found a fix only to later report the problem recurred and persists.

No fix for the Chevy Cruzes’ stalling problems has yet been confirmed. Reports claim the issue derives from any number of different problems.

2016 Chevrolet Cruze - Photo by Chevrolet

Poor Engine Design Leads to Several Symptoms, With Owners in the Forums Mentioning the Motor Overheating, Surging, and Weak Fuel Economy

There are also numerous reports of owners having to replace the engine’s intake manifold, which supplies the engine with air and then circulates what’s expelled for cleaner emissions.

Owners report the motor running rough, surging, overheating, burning excessive oil, and getting poor fuel mileage.

According to an admin for Cruze Talk forums, “The Cruze 1.4L Turbo engine has a terrible PCV check valve design that afflicts 100% of cars… It’s not a matter of if, but when, it will fail.”

They then detail the different codes the issue might throw, as well as the process of checking and replacing the valve at home. One reply mentions the DIY fix costing $60, while another states shops charge closer to $220.

2016 Chevrolet Cruze - Photo by Chevrolet

Electrical and Brake System Issues Round Out the Problems With the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze

After powertrain and engine problems, NHTSA consumer complaints mention random electrical bugs and issues with the brakes and stability control systems, which are concerning but not very prevalent.

Not too worrisome, the radio apparently cuts out for some drivers. However, many who have experienced this mention the car then shuts off, turns back on, and displays a “Service Stabilitrak” warning.

Finally, the brake’s power control module may fail, causing reduced stopping power, and in some cases, the brakes may quit altogether.

“When stopping, an initial press of the brake pedal would not engage the brake like usual. I had to push all the way down to get the vehicle’s brakes to engage,” says one registered NHTSA complaint. “This has happened three times driving under 20 mph.”

2016 Chevrolet Cruze - Photo by Chevrolet

2016 Chevrolet Cruze: Good on Paper, but a Closer Look Reveals Serious Issues

At first glance, the 2016 Chevy Cruze looks to be a gem, with no major recalls and limited complaints. However, dig into those complaints a little more, and the model has some serious engine problems, with no alternative motor being available.

A better choice would be the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze with its new 1.6L diesel motor.

Photos: Chevrolet

Frequently Asked Questions

By Stephanie Stephan | Apr 6, 2022

Is the 2016 Chevy Cruze Reliable?

The 2016 Chevy Cruze was given only an “average” reliability rating of three out of five by J.D. Power and is the subject of 70 NHTSA complaints for its engine and 50 for its electrical components. Owners report cracked pistons, stalling, overheating, and deceleration in the engine below 100,000 miles, and issues with the auto stop, battery, radio, and interior display.

Does the 2016 Chevy Cruze Have Transmission Problems?

Transmission complaints are minimal for the 2016 Chevy Cruze and it was not included in GM’s previous transmission gear recalls. However, owners do report problems with hard shifting and jerking, and TSBs exist for throttle body reprogramming to correct both rough engine idle and the Cruze’s shifting performance.

Owner Reviews

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S. Smith on August 11, 2022

Do NOT Buy a Chevy!

My 2016 Cruze Turbo has left me stranded 4 or 5 times with known issues. It ONLY HAS 30,000 miles on it (in Aug 2022)!! It has blown the radiator fluid twice, once at about 10k miles and now again and overheated. I'd have to pull my receipts to remember all the other known issues it's had, but one was an issue with the turbo that caused the car to DANGEROUSLY come to a crawl of about 3 miles per hour. Thank my lucky stars I was already coming up to a red light and was already about to start breaking when it abruptly slowed almost to a stop. I literally couldn't get it to move any faster and had the other people behind me also not been starting to slow down, I would have easily been rear ended. That was on the last time it left me stranded which was just 7 months ago, in Jan. Once it very politely left me stranded on the side of a 4 lane highway at about 20k miles, I forget what that issue was, but something different than the others. I think one time I was able to limp it home maybe. Anyway, this is literally the WORST car I have had. And Chevy doesn't care, they just brush it under the rug like they didn't stick everyone with complete lemons. DO NOT BUY A CHEVROLET. THEY ARE NOT TRUST WORTHY. Unless you enjoy riding in tow trucks, being without your car multiple times a year, and paying for known issues. Yes, I have had to pay the dealership for portions of the very expensive repairs on KNOWN ISSUES. Only 30,000 miles and it's not going to get better. Can't wait to be rid of it.

JLC on March 31, 2023

Code P0001

Guess I’ll start with recent problem. Had to replace the engine around 150,000 miles due to code p0011. A month later the cylinder head was replaced. Then about 1 year later the another cylinder head was replaced but I was told GM sent a damaged cylinder head. So that cylinder head is being replaced as we speak. The service manager told he he can’t tell me this will not happen again. But I spent over $7,000 on a remanufactured engine that came with a 100,000 mile warranty. GM need to recall any vehicle with P0011 code because they don’t know how to fix the problem nor do the mechanic at these shops. Then GM take a long time to reach back out to the dealership. The only number to GM is customer services then that takes 24-48 hours for a turn around. If you don’t stay on top of it then they don’t call back. The government need to make GM buy all their Cruze back since they don know how to fix the problem. I now need a Major Repair that is going to cost more than 3000.00 car doesn't run and I still owe money. 2016 Engines are Junk!!!!!!!!!

Kieona Manning on October 17, 2022

P0011 code can’t be fixed

Guess I’ll start with recent problem. Had to replace the engine around 150,000 miles due to code p0011. A month later the cylinder head was replaced. Then about 1 year later the another cylinder head was replaced but I was told GM sent a damaged cylinder head. So that cylinder head is being replaced as we speak. The service manager told he he can’t tell me this will not happen again. But I spent over $7,000 on a remanufactured engine that came with a 100,000 mile warranty. GM need to recall any vehicle with P0011 code because they don’t know how to fix the problem nor do the mechanic at these shops. Then GM take a long time to reach back out to the dealership. The only number to GM is customer services then that take 24-48 hours for a turn around. If you don’t stay on top of it then they don’t call back. The government need to make GM buy all their Cruze back since they don’t know how to fix the problem.

Pam and John, Cocoa Florida on July 17, 2022

Still paying payments but it's sitting in the driveway!

We had our 2016 Cruise towed to the dealership after it stopped working. It sat there for almost two weeks while they told us that they were looking at all of its problems. We went to pick it up when they told us it would take $1,200.00 to fix it and there were no warranties for a leaking manifold, something about the pump, and it needed a new radiator with hoses and all of the fixings. We then took it to a well known auto shop and they told us that the problem was something completely different and that it would cost $1,700. It has been sitting in the driveway for a couple of months and we are making payments. We don't know what else to do or which one to trust. We can't make up our minds what to do with it! Sad. We have had a few Chevys before the Cruise but we will never buy another Chevy and we would never recommend Chevy to anyone - quite the opposite - don't buy them! Chevy should be ashamed.

Shae on June 30, 2021

Stays in the shop!!!

We bought a Cruise lt w 30000miles from a dealership. 3 weeks after vacuum systemwent out. In the year we have had it and the 60000miles we had added it has had the vacuum system go out 3 times, blown head sket, turbo went out 2 times, radiator hose, starter, battery 2times, once it leaked acid onto the transmission lines, additional 1800,headlite were aimed up in, radio button, air compressor, I think, it was air conditioner issue, tire sensors constantly, the mechanic agreed it gets to hot to quickly but no cause is found. I picked it up Friday from the dealership, and my car was hesitating, losing power, and the check engine light is back on!!! When Ido actually gets to drive it it's great. Love the acceleration, room, gas mileage, radio, but the repairs are financially ruining us!

G. Maynard on June 27, 2022

2016 White Chevy Cruze Limited LS 1.8L Eco-Tec

One owner 68;500 miles. Engine Check Light p0011 VVT sensor variable valve timing senser three times changed out 50 miles later engine Check Light comes on same exact code three different times. Noticed oil burning smell in passenger compartment while driving a few times. After my wife wittiness this same car in LS trim engine fire and then speaking with my mechanic who also shared he also saw a white one like mine burned up on a freeway in Houston and advised me to get rid of this fire trap before I become a next victim to this problem. He also mentioned that the problem with repeated engine code has been on all Chevy Cruzes coming through the shop. I got rid of this car because I didn't not want the continued problem to trap me in a engine fire.

T Eckert on November 23, 2022

Mostly good, but...

2016 Cruze with manual transmission, 170,000 miles. Only major engine work I've had done is replaced the turbo and some clutch components that failed. I like a smaller efficient car and this has pretty consistently given me 38-42 mpg (lot of highway driving). Biggest problem - lack of power, especially when it's cold. The first 60k or so miles were great, then it started losing power. The new turbo helped a little, but it still has problems. Several shops haven't been able to figure it out. It's been more good than bad, so I'd still buy it again.

Josh M on October 24, 2021

Car at a value price, but expect below standard quality and options.

The engine has known cooling system failures with the engine that parts are constantly requiring to be replaced, ie water pump, hoses, plastic assemblies. This vehicle has had parts fail on the engine that gm has recalled but dealers act like they cannot find the recall. The interior of the vehicle is small, a normal size adult cannot sit in the back without the front seats being pushed up almost all the way to the dash, the quality of the interior is subpar, poor performance from a turbo-powered engine, lack of integrated smart technology.

S. Dodson on November 20, 2022

Manual Transmission issues

My car has been in the shop now for 3 weeks and 2 different shops within those 3 weeks. The first shop couldn't figure out what was wrong with the transmission only that it wouldn't go into R or 5th and 6th. The second shop said that it throws so many codes that they have no idea what the main issue is. They have to tear the transmission completely apart in order to figure it out. It's not even at 75k yet for miles. I had a 75k mileage appt for it, but i had to cancel it because it's still in the shop. Waste of money.

Ann Chapman on February 10, 2022

Don't buy a Chevy cruise

I brought 2016 had low mileage and when I hit the 70,000 mark I had to replace the normal wear and tear. 1st the car has a turbocharged engine which gets hot they put plastic parts in this car don't know why. But anyways the car runs great until other things had to be replaced. Now I've 11305 miles on it got fixed until my engine light came on now it is saying my turbocharger is bad. If I had known about this car I wouldn't have gotten it. I still owe on it and the book value is low which means I loose out.

Joel on May 17, 2022

Cruze is the worse car do not buy

I can’t even begin to list the problems I’ve had with this car it makes me sick to even say how much I’ve spent to try and fix this car…cat converter,,water intake outlet,,maf sensor,, throttle body,, pcv,,vvt solenoids twice both O2sensors,,complete re-wiring of the car, crankshaft position sensor(that was fun to do )😤 intake manifold,,fuse panel,coolant leaks,,amongst many other things now I have service stabilizer track and traction control and goes into limo mode

Lisa on September 21, 2022

Worst car ever

I just boughT my car March this year and I already having issues. August I had to pay $1600 for water pump and pulley,new coils and cover. Now my stability trak and Power steering since comes on. My car smell like rotten eggs so It might be a catalytic converter or something. Oh and my batterykeeps going dead and the tow people said it’s my alternator probably! I’m making car payments on this car and I’m supposed to go out of town this weekend! Worst car ever

Diane on June 18, 2022

Last 6 months several issues

1stthe injectors started leaking causing overheating problems heater goes out and then after a month later the air conditioner goes out and valve covers leaking never had problems the1st 6 years then it begins to fall apart nearly over 6 thousand dollars in repairs really dissatisfied and before it was even 2 years old the interior started chipping painton the rear camera and driver door

Judy C on December 9, 2021

There is nothing interesting about it.

The seat, driver, hurts my back, it is difficult to see to reverse, the air conditioner is poor, does not cool the car unless on high. It is supposed to be able to access carplay, but I just do not seem to be able to access it. I have 6 compression fractures of my spine. I have tried all ways possible to adjust the driver’s seat for my spine, it just does not fit well.

Roy Good on July 19, 2021

Not a happy camper

I've had my Cruze for 3 yrs and it's been plagued with problems from day 1. Had to have the engine changed at 80,000 miles and it's been off the road more than it's been on since with electrical issues, overheating issues, running rough issues it's just the worst car I've ever owned. My whole life I've been a Chevy guy but not after this car!!!

John on March 23, 2022

Mechanical issues

At 61000 km the turbo booster had to be replaced. At 96000 km the water pump had to be replaced. The only good thing is that it was covered under power train warranty. At 102000 km the mass air flow sensor went. This was only 226.00 if i put it in myself. Who knows what shop labour would be. Thank god they decided to quit making this model.

Ireland M on February 24, 2022

Would not recommend this vehicle.

The vehicle is constantly forcing air out of the tires, we get flats way too often. There are too many blind spots and you can't see over the hood well to know what's in front of you. The engine breaks down out of nowhere, and often. There is always something wrong with it and there is always something that needs to be fixed.

Bri S on September 21, 2021

Cute compact car with hella problems.

Check engine light. Overheating issues, gas guzzler, the car is very nice inside but had electrical issues as well. I've taken the car out of town multiple times about 4 hours away however it seems to still give me issues after many repairs to the vehicle. Nice ride and very cute but has lots of problems.

Adelaide H on September 18, 2021

Okay Chevrolet Cruze lt sedan.

Coolant leaks, engine issues, overheating, radiator problems, hose leaks, ac issues, small backseat, coolant, and radiator fluid reservoir issues. Sunroof, power seats, cotton tan seats, turbo, backup camera, flexible steering wheel, seats are deep and comfortable. Enough headroom to move.

Amelia F on September 13, 2021

2016 Chevy Cruze turned out to be a lemon.

My car only has 24,000 miles on it and it is had to have the engine replaced. Before that, it was in the shop to replace the pistons. It loses power and does not accelerate often. It is a company sedan and has a sporty look to it. But the mechanical issues make me not like the car.

Gregory S on February 25, 2022

Little lemon! Little lemon!

Lower gas mileage than listed. Tires keep losing air. Small interior. Shuts down at stoplights. No electric seats. No moonroof. Costly maintenance and costly repairs. Uncomfortable seats. No leg room in the rear for passengers. No help from the dealership for recurring problems.

Haley V on November 29, 2021

I like the touch screen and the back up camera

With my car being a little under 4 years old. I have had many problems with it. Like needing a new transmission and having an oil leak. I would not recommend getting another Chevy Cruze. I'm very disappointed with my car choice. It has cost me a lot of money to fix the problems.

Megan W on January 1, 2022

Chevy Cruze nonstop problems.

There are engine issues nonstop. All of a sudden starts using up a ton of gas. The water pump was replaced twice in 6 months. The thermostat heating control circuit was replaced twice. The engine starts making clicking sounds and there is always something going on with the car.

Frieda wilson on October 11, 2023

The trunk battery compartment in the trunk

After a hard rain my battery area in the trunk filled with water and its haopen to alit of ppl and they haven't did a recall on this dangerous situation you don't know it's building back there until something go wrong.. The dealership should honor fixing this without a warranty

Brittani S on June 19, 2021

The little red car that tried It's best.

No cruise control. Motor to small. The water pump went out too quickly. Has no power. Is very small on the inside. The motor makes a ticking noise. Barely fit a car seat in the back. It's really low to the ground. Only have 57,000 miles on it and the rotors need replaced.

Vicki U on June 17, 2021

Compact car but has 4 doors. Has more problems than features.

Trunk space small, electrical issues, gas mileage okay, engine problems, power steering problems, things break off easily in the car, tire issues, battery issues, lots of recalls, hidden issues that cost a lot of major repairs, not good resale value, mechanical problems.

Eternity S on January 9, 2022

Overheating nightmare, do not buy.

Constant overheating issues. I have had the thermostat replaced 3 times since I got the vehicle. I have also had to have the water pump and o2 sensor replaced. Not the greatest car by Chevrolet. Seems like I have a new issue every 6 months. Do not buy a Chevy Cruze.

Mary G on November 9, 2021

My woes of a Chevy Cruze.

It is a great car if you prefer something small. The trunk has nice space. I have had several issues. Windows both stopped working randomly. Transmission slips with not enough miles to have issues already. Not what I have typically experienced with Chevys.

Curtis J on July 23, 2021

Chevy Cruze. Just alright

Power steering failed at 7000 miles. Performance is terrible considering it's an economy car, although manual transmission spices it up. Other than the power steering, it's been very reliable. Comfort is OK. Not many features considering its price point

Rachel H on November 20, 2021

I wouldn't recommend this car to anyone.

When I got the car there were around 40, 000 miles on it, I had it for about a month before I started having problems with the car. The nicest and newest car I have ever had and also the most problematic. Wouldn't recommend this car to anyone.

Stacy on October 6, 2022

Your Turbo WILL FAIL before 80,000 miles!

Driving on highway when my Turbo failed. 8/23/2022..Towed to the shop. My engine was cracked in half! I’m still waiting for a used engine 10/5/2022 will be trading it in!I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER CHEVY

Jennifer S on September 24, 2021

May look nice, but horrible car.

The water pump went out shortly after 30000 miles, it has no power, especially on hills and though it says turbo there is no turbo to this car. The screen goes out randomly so I am assuming faulty fuses.

Calon Stewart on August 20, 2022

2016 chevorlet cruze ltz

My cruze is amazing.Car At 120000 miles and i have no problem with it. Dont listen to 1 star review They probably hate cruze. I love my car

john on July 8, 2022

Me and my family was almost killed in 2016 cruise

We was in wreck gril pulled out in front of us and the car caught on fire right away and nearly killed us all

Josh Barrett

After 13+ years of hustling in the exciting world of car sales, Josh Barrett took off to travel the world with his dog Teemo. He's since been an automotive journalist and editor for Vehicle History as an original member of the content team. His works can also be found on automotive sites AutoChimps and CashCarBuyers, including in-depth transmission troubleshooting guides and car-care advice.