The 2009 Cobalt lasts around 250,000 miles with only some key and fuel pump issues. At $3,764 – 6,595, it’s a very good value for a reliable and sporty compact car.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt a Good Used Car?
- Yes, 2009 is a good year for the Cobalt. Owner reviews like the low maintenance costs, stable suspension, and comfortable front seats.
- Reliability ratings are above average. Avoid models from 2005–2007, and go with a 2008–2010 which have fewer problems.
- Performance is average from the base 4-cylinder, but the turbo engine is powerful.
- The Cobalt is reasonably safe, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is great, at up to 30 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Cobalt?
- Consumer Reports says tweaks to the Cobalt have reduced engine noise, but it has low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Cobalt a 4.4/5 liking the smooth suspension, but disliking the lack of interior storage.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Cobalt 4.1/5 and enjoy the upscale interior, but say the engine is not very smooth.
What Common Problems Does the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt Have?
Problems found on the 2009 Cobalt include keys stuck in the ignition, excessive fuel smells, and failed sensors.
Keys getting stuck in the ignition are the most common complaint from owners at around 50,000 miles. Replacing the ignition cylinder solves the problem, and costs around $250.
Fuel smells are mentioned by owners at around 85,000 miles. The problem is caused by the fuel pump module and is addressed with a recall and costs nothing to have replaced by a dealership.
Camshaft position sensor failures happen at around 100,000 miles. The sensor gets worn out over time, and replacing the part costs about $200 depending on local labor rates.
There are 6 fairly serious recalls, with the most important ones for a cracked fuel pump and electronic power steering failures which both increase the risk of injury.
How Long Will the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt Last?
A well maintained 2009 Chevy Cobalt should last around 250,000 miles, similar to highly rated competitors like the Mazda3. Regular annual maintenance costs are a bit higher than rivals at $455 per year, according to data from Repair Pal.
Most 2009 Cobalts will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace brake hoses for $150, sunroof motors costing $500, and suspension control arm bushings which cost $275.
I have had relatively few problems. There were a few recalls after I first bought the car but the dealership took care of those.
No problems once so ever. It's very reliable and it still works like brand new. It has 100,000 miles on it so it's getting old.
The gas pipes needing replaced. Sensors are horrible. But the car has been reliable. Is that good enough.
No the Chevrolet cobalt ls does not have any problems wrong with the car. The car is in very fair condition.
I have had a few problems with the brake pads and a certain other few problems but not too serious but still pretty bad.
The interior does not hold up well, the chrome on the door handles bubbles and peels, the pocket on the back of the passenger seat tore and the knobs have all scratched.
It has a lot of problems. I am currently having issues with the transmission. I also have issues with the thermostat and also with the alternator prematurely going out.
No problems except for aging. I keep the regular maintenance done and it has over 100,000 miles. I have replaced tires and brakes. One thing I discovered this year is the gas pipe developed a leak and the replacement was expensive. The design is all one pipe from the gas tank to the front and then back. So it is not an easy fix. The gas pipe is positioned right next to the exhaust pipe. The gas pipe is insulated for safety but after 10 years the insulation wears away and the heat of the exhaust pipe causes a hole in the gas line. I consider this a design flaw.
How Much Is the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt Worth?
Blue book values range from $3,764 – 6,595, which makes the Cobalt about $2,000 cheaper than a Honda Civic or Hyundai Elantra. When new, the price range was $15,660 to $23,525. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Cobalt?
There are three models of the Cobalt available. Technology was just updated for the 2009 model year, and the car was discontinued after the 2010 model and replaced with the Cruze in 2011.
LS is the entry-level model with:
- 15-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- OnStar
- 4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX Input
LT is a step up adding features such as:
- 16-Inch Aluminum Wheels
- Power Windows & Locks
- Remote Vehicle Starter
- Cruise Control
- Bluetooth Phone Connectivity
SS is the sport-focused model and has:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Sport-Tuned Suspension
- Brembo Front Brakes
- Suede Sport Seats
- Unique Exterior Styling With Spoiler
What Engines Come In the Cobalt?
- The base engine is an average-powered 2.2L 4-cylinder which makes 155 horsepower and gets up to 30 MPG combined.
- Available exclusively on the SS model is the powerful 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, which produces 260 horsepower and gets up to 25 MPG combined. Performance is excellent, taking 5.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Cobalt Come In?
How Big Is the Cobalt?
The 2009 Cobalt is a compact car available as both a 2-door coupe and 4-door-sedan, similar in size to the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla. Passenger room is okay, but the backseats in the sedan are a bit cramped for taller adults.
Cargo space is very good for a compact car with 13.9 cubic feet of room, which will fit 3-4 suitcases.
How Does the Cobalt Compare to the Competition?
The Chevrolet Malibu is a competitor from the same brand that costs about $3,000 more. Passenger room and cargo space are better in the Malibu, but the Cobalt is sportier and more fun to drive. We recommend the Cobalt, since there are fewer complaints from owners.
The Honda Civic is another rival, which costs about $2,000 more. Where the Civic stands out is with a more comfortable interior, but power is better in the Cobalt. We recommend the Cobalt for the 2009 model year since it’s a bad year for the Civic, but it’s closer in other years.
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Cobalt?
Yes, it is dependable and cost effective. The gas mileage is adequate and the repairs are relatively inexpensive.
Yes, good mpg and it has never failed me since I bought it. I still have the car to this day. I've had the car for almost 11 years now.
Yes it is. It has been reliable with little issue. Main problem and expense has been replacement of gas pipes.
Yes it is a very good vehicle.. I really love how it drives and ride. I don't know what else to say beside yes it is a very nice car and everyone should have one like this one.
Yes it is a good car because I hardly ever have anything wrong with it and it is a nice compact small car.
It is a basic car that gets excellent gas mileage and handles well. For a single mom and one child, it has been the perfect car.
I have come across a lot of problems with this car so no. It is not a good vehicle because of all the issues underneath the hood.
Excellent little car. Very roomy and comfortable sitting on it. Has a big trunk for carrying things. I have a friend who uses a wheelchair and the chair fits easily in the trunk. It has been a very dependable car.
