2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Review: A Bad Cheap Car With A Short Life Expectancy

A bad year for the Cobalt with power steering and engine problems, shortening the lifespan to 150,000 miles. Due to so many issues it’s cheaper than other compact cars at $2,746 to $6,929.

2006 Chevrolet Cobalt: Quick Overview

• The 2006 Chevy Cobalt reliability is poor with a lot of power steering and engine problems. Going with a 2007 or newer model is a better choice, the 2006 is a year buyers should avoid.
• Three 4-cylinder engine choices are available. The entry-level motor has average power for the class, and the one found in the SS has great power for a small car.
• Average fuel economy for a compact car at 25 MPG.
• Safety ratings are okay, with 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
• Consumer Reports said the Cobalt is quick but lacks the quality of other compact cars with a lower-than-average owner satisfaction rating.
• We don’t recommend the 2006 Chevy Cobalt, which ranks 18^th out of 22 compact cars, based on owner reviews. Mechanical problems, and low quality parts make it one to avoid.

What Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Have?

There are more complaints with the Chevy Cobalt than other compact cars from 2006. The 2007 model has half the number of owner complaints, making the extra $500 worth the cost to upgrade.

Keys getting stuck in the ignition is one of the most common complaints, happening around 60,000 miles. Under the steering column there is a button which will release the keys. There are several ignition switch recalls, and in some cases Chevy may replace the ignition for free. If the problem is not covered by the recall, then replacing the key cylinder costs about $320.

Power steering problems are failing frequently around 77,000 miles. The power steering system is known to turn off while driving, making steering much harder. There is a recall on the electronic system, but if your issue is not covered by the recall then a replacement is about $400.

Engine stalling and shutting off is another common problem, occurring around 80,000 miles. Some owners have been able to solve the problem by cleaning the throttle body and injectors for $70.

There are 6 recalls, which is an average number for older cars. The recalls include the headliner trim, fuel pump module, electronic power steering, and ignition switch. The most serious recall is for power steering, since failures increase the risk of an accident.

How Much is the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Worth?

Blue book prices range from $2,746 to $6,929, making the Cobalt more affordable than competitors including the Sentra and Corolla. When new, prices ranged from $12,990 to $20,490. Depreciation is average for the class, losing about 12% of its current value per year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

LS is the basic entry-level model with:

• 15-Inch Steel Wheels
• Cloth Seating
• Manual Adjustable Driver’s Seat
• Air Conditioning

LT is a step up offering features including:

• 15-Inch Alloy Wheels
• Power Windows & Locks
• Cruise Control
• Interior Lighting
• Upgraded Seating

LTZ is the luxury version of the sedan, adding:

• 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
• Leather Seating
• Premium Stereo System

SS is the sport-focused coupe with:

• 17-Inch Alloy wheels
• More Powerful Engine
• Cloth Seating
• Sport Suspension
• Rear Spoiler

SS Supercharged is the flagship coupe adding onto the SS with:

• 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
• A More Powerful  Supercharged Motor
• Leather Seating
• Boost Gauges

How Long Will the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Last?

A regularly maintained 2006 Chevy Cobalt will last about 150,000 miles, which is much worse than other compact cars.. Repair Pal estimates regular annual maintenance costs to be $453, which is about $100 more expensive than many competitors including the Civic and Corolla.

As the Cobalt ages there are some maintenance items owners should prepare to address. They include head gasket replacements for $1,500, new coolant reservoirs costing $450, as well as exhaust manifolds which cost $375.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is similar to other compact cars from 2006 in the Chevy Cobalt, but is very outdated by modern standards.

• Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with 4 speakers.
• Optional upgrades include a 7-speaker Pioneer premium stereo system.
• Standard safety features include air bags. Optional upgrades include anti-lock brakes, and OnStar communications.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is very good in the Cobalt SS Supercharged compared to other compact cars from the same year. The larger engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7 seconds.

• The base engine has average power with the 145 horsepower 2.2L 4-cylinder found in the LS, LT, and LTZ models.
• An upgrade for the SS model offers more power than rivals with 171 horsepower 2.4L 4-cylinder.
• The most powerful engine is the 2.0L supercharged 4-cylinder with a healthy 205 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Cobalt?

Similar in size to other compact cars including the Civic and Elantra, the 2006 Cobalt is available as a coupe or sedan. The seats are uncomfortable, and there’s limited legroom in the back seats. Cargo space is good, with 13.9 cubic feet of room in the trunk, fitting 3 to 4 suitcases.

How Does the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 18^th out of 22 compact cars from 2006 based on owner reviews, the Chevrolet Cobalt is near the bottom of the class.

One of the highest-rated compact cars from 2006 is the more expensive Toyota Corolla. The Corolla has much higher long term reliability ratings, but the Cobalt has better performance. Overall, the Corolla is a better choice, though on the used market since they last longer.

Another rival is the Honda Civic, which is also more costly. The Civic has lower ownership costs, on the other hand, the Cobalt has less controversial styling. The Civic is a better compact car though, and will outlast a Cobalt.

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt a Good Car?

No, the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is not a good car. We base our decision on research including 272 verified owner reviews giving the car a below-average rating of 3.8/5 with serious steering problems reported.

Where the Cobalt misses the mark is with mechanical problems, and the resulting higher ownership costs. The positives include good acceleration with the SS models, and a quieter cabin than rivals.

Overall, the 2006 model year is bad, with 2007 offering improvements for only $500 more.