2011 Chevrolet Cruze Review: A Compact Car That Suffers From Serious Breakdowns

Alex Showalter

Nov 6, 2021

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is an unreliable compact car with a price range of $5,489 to $9,087. It has a nice interior for its class, but the high cost of ownership makes it a bad value and one shoppers should avoid.

The Good

An upscale, quiet cabin for a car at its price point.
Suspension and steering are very good, feeling nimble and stable through turns.
Both engine options are fuel-efficient for its class.

The Bad

Serious mechanical problems are common, including transmission failures.
Performance is very weak, even for a compact car.
Cabin room is smaller than most competitors, making it less comfortable to drive.

2011 Chevrolet Cruze: Quick Overview

2011 is the first year the Chevy Cruze is available in the United States, with an all-new exterior and powertrains.
Reliability is below average, serious problems are more common than other compact cars.
Two engines are available in the Cruze. The turbocharged motor is more efficient, but both are underpowered.
The Cruze ties for 3^rd out of 29 compact cars in fuel-economy, getting a combined rating of up to 32 miles per gallon.
Safety is above average in the Cruze, getting a five-star rating in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The 2011 Cruze ranks near the bottom of the compact car class. It is a headache to own and will spend a lot of time in the shop. If you need a compact car, there are better choices.

Expert Ratings

KBB

4.2/5

U.S. News

8.1 /10

Cars.com

3.9/5

Positive Owner Reviews

Alfred A

It will let you know when the tires goes to low. Plus it will alarm you when it's time to get the oil change.

First off i like how the car looks and rides. It's a gas saver. And it has a sunroof. It has enough room for my whole family.

ELIANNA R

My car gets amazing gas mileage and it only takes about thirty dollars to fill up

Problems are that the coils degrad, and when the AC is on it sometimes smells like gas overall i love my chevy.

David M

Chevy Cruze has a nice shape almost sports car shape. Spacious and roomy.

Car sometimes shows that it is overheating but it is not. A/c is somewhat weak. Drives very well, good gas. Interior is great, I feel safe in my car, great value for money and I would definitely recommend anyone to buy this vehicle also very reliable. Also quite a smooth drive.

Patricia C

My 2011 Chevrolet Cruze rs.

My Chevy Cruz has been performing without fail and has had only minor maintenance required in over 9 years. Other than regular oil changes, I have only had to replace the brakes, an occasional belt, and windshield wipers. I have also had to check n for 1 recall.

Dawn D

It's a small car and gets good mileage.

It's small but big enough. I like the color - it's unique. It gets good mileage. It's reliable.

Natalya Sharrock

Comfort, convinience....

Nice car, easy to drive. Airbag blowed in my face and I alsohad some bruises after accident, which totaled the car...., frount of the car was gone...., but its a safe nice car for women, who dont know about mechanical part of the car or how to do anything on the vehicle....

Kristin L

2011 Chevy Cruze LTE review.

I really enjoy this car. It is a smart car, that's old enough you can still do some work yourself if need be. It tells me my oil life, tire pressure, it even tells me to be careful when the roads are icy. And the option for on star is nice. My interior is black and red, it is literally the perfect little car for a small family.

Britnie G

One of my favorite details on my car is the crash detection monitor.

I am obsessed with my new car. It has a ton of interesting features that are fun to keep just figuring out! The only thing I can say that I dislike about my car is how small it is, I love a big car and my Cruze is just really small. Other than that I love my new car!

Negative Owner Reviews

Rebekah B

2011 Chevy Cruze is the worst.

I have had the Chevy Cruze for almost 2 years and have had so many problems with it. Everything seems to break in it one after the other. It has overheated. It gives false reads for low tire pressure. My brakes have been checked and are fine yet it keeps telling me something is wrong. The volume will randomly cut down and will not go back up when I am driving. Overall this car is the worst I have ever had.

Grand Rapids owner

Avoid the Cruze

I would not recommend the Chevy cruze to anyone,, it's been nothing but a headache and will chew up your wallet if you let it,, get rid of it now!!

Trina W

All in all I do not recommend this vehicle. It is cute and comfortable.

It has had coolant system problems since I got it. Every month or so there’s an expensive problem with the vehicle. It is cheap on gas, and gets great gas mileage but it is not reliable. There also is not cruise control, which really makes traveling long distances not ideal.

Chandani P

Would not buy Chevy Cruze even if brand new.

Too many malfunction with the CPU of the car. Too expensive to fix. Would never buy again. It is very unsafe to drive. Engine problems occurred more few times a year. If you do not have a warranty you will be paying too. Much out of pocket. I do not recommend to buy this car.

Wayne Hodge

Straight GARBAGE!!!

Worst car ever made PERIOD!!!

Disapponted

GM Karen customer service only cares about warranties

When your Cruze falls apart and you have questions in reguards to why you are paying for things unnecessary. The GM customer care ambassador Karen tells you well it’s not under warranty! Terrible service! You would never see this at Honda! Will never buy a Chevy again!!!! No wonder they are in financial crisis again and closing shops! It’s cause they make bad cars and use faulty parts. That’s what a service agent told me when I asked why I was back the second time for the same problem . So basically they admit to using faulty parts so this way guess you gotta come back. Then charge you for things not done...... Make sure you double check with another Mechanic. I checked with 3 ! What I paid for wasn’t done ! And the actual problem wasn’t dealt with!!!! Reaching out for help at GM is a waste of time!!!! You talk to one person they brush you off to another. Then ( Karen customer service ambassador) will tell you it’s not under warranties so well basically too bad for you! All this takes about a month of wasting your time . And THEY honestly don’t care you have pics and other mechanics to prove it! There slogan should be”We don’t care cause your not under warranty! “”” Go to a dealship who cares and wants your business

Bob S

Do not buy a Cruze it will cost you more than it's worth.

The car is an eco friendly car. It has absolutely no power when trying to run more than one thing in the car, if you have the air conditioning or heat on and step on the gas the response time is terrible of the car ever does go. The engine gaskets are horrible and break down easily and leak oil everywhere, I have had to replace the same gasket 3 times and 2 others once.

Denise H

Don't buy one. They are not put together very well and have to many problems and recalls. When you press on the accelerator it tends to jerk at times to the point where you think the car is going to stall. Their just not worth the money.

It turned out to be a lemon. I bought it brand new in 2011 and have constantly had to put money in it for repairs. It has had a lot of recalls and it jerks a lot when you press on the accelerator at times. When you turn on the heat or air it has a horrible smell which is a known issue that gmac can't seem to fix. Will never buy another Chevy again because of this. The sad thing is that Chevy is the only cars I have ever own.

What Problems Does the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Have?

The 2011 Chevy Cruze has more problems than any other model year. The 2011 Cruze problems include jerky acceleration and electrical system flaws. Transmission failures are the most common problem. Failures happen around 65,000 miles, and require a complete replacement. Frequent engine problems are also noted, including issues with the throttle body and intake manifold. Owners also mention water pump problems leading to coolant leaks. The 2011 Cruze has more problems than other compact cars on the market.

There are seven recalls affecting the 2011 Cruze, average for a car its age. Recalls include steering components, transmission shift linkage, fuel tank welds, oil leaks, brake assist, and the key can be removed when the car is not in park. All of the recalls are serious, but the most important is the fuel tank welds failing. If the tank welds fail the entire fuel tank can fall out of the car, increasing the risk of a fire.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is more affordable than other compact cars, with a price range of $5,489 to $9,087, depending on the model and mileage. When new, it had a price of $16,525 to $22,225. The Cruze depreciates at an average rate, losing 46% of it’s value in the first five years.

LS is the base model. Standard features include cloth seating, 16-inch steel wheels, power windows, remote entry, and a stereo system with six speakers and AUX connections.
LT is in the middle of the lineup. Added features include cruise control, remote start, a power driver’s seat, leather seating, steering wheel audio controls, USB connectivity, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
LTZ is the flagship model. Upgrades include heated exterior mirrors and front seats, chrome trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, and rear parking sensors.

136 HP 27-30 MPG

View Details

LT w/1FL

138 HP 28 MPG

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ECO w/1XF

138 HP 30-33 MPG

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LT w/1LT

138 HP 28 MPG

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LT w/2LT

138 HP 28 MPG

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LTZ

138 HP 28 MPG

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How Long Will the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Last?

Based on ownership data and the high number of complaints with the 2011 Cruze, we estimate it will only last 100,000 to 150,000 miles with proper care. Below average for its class. Repair Pal also estimates it’s more expensive to maintain than other compact cars, with costs around $610 per year.

Kelsie R

The Chevy Cruze is very reliable. I have never had a problem with it other than replacing the battery, but that happens with most cars at some point. I have had the car since 2012 and have had to replace the battery twice that I am aware of.

Steve H

Since I have owned it, other than general maintenance I have had zero problems. Plus general maintenance is rather inexpensive for this particular vehicle.

R A

Yes I have never had any problems with it. It is been working perfectly in all weather conditions absolutely great.

Julie B

Very reliable. Over 100,000 miles and still running well. Average miles per gallon are just over 30. The only problem I had lately are coolant hoses leaking.

kylie r

It is very reliable! I have never had any problems. Never do I ever have to worry about my car not getting me anywhere.

Paula B

Very reliable, haven't had too many problems with it. However engine light always comes on but it's nothing major.

Ashley M

It does it is job but with the headache of multiple things breaking on the car and needling replace such as intake valves and windshield wiper motors.

Madison B

I have found it to be extremely reliable. I had a few issues with some recall notices, but I took it in to an authorized gm mechanic and they fixed all of them at no cost to me.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

Technology in the Cruze is average for its class and age. OnStar is a nice feature, but there isn’t anything that helps it stand out compared to other compact cars.

Base technology in the Cruze includes a stereo system with six speakers, CD/MP3 playback, an AUX input, and OnStar connectivity.
Upgrades include a nine-speaker stereo system, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation.
For safety, there are 10 airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a vehicle stability control system. Optional parking sensors are available on the LTZ model.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is weak in the 2011 Cruze compared to its rivals, going from 0 to 60 in 8.5 seconds.

The base engine is a 1.8L four-cylinder engine with 136 horsepower.
The LT and LTZ models have a more efficient turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder engine with 138 horsepower.

What Colors Options are Available?

How Big is the Cruze?

The 2011 Chevy Cruze has similar exterior dimensions to other compact cars, but it feels smaller inside. Legroom is average in the front seats, but the rear seats do not fit adults comfortably. Cargo space is above average, offering 15.4 cu. ft. of room in the trunk, enough for four suitcases.

How Does the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Compare to Other Cars?

Based on owner reviews, the 2011 Chevy Cruze ranks 20^th out of 29 compact cars, putting it near the end of its class. One of the highest-ranking competitors is the Volkswagen Golf, which has a similar cost of ownership, but much better reliability scores and fewer reported breakdowns. The Golf is also more practical since it is a hatchback and can fit more cargo. Between the two, the Golf is a better choice with similar pricing.

Another rival to the Cruze is the Toyota Corolla, which is one of the most reliable compact cars on the market. The Chevy has better technology, and more luxurious interior materials than the Toyota. Where Toyota wins is overall build quality and cost of ownership. A Corolla will last longer and is a better car than the Cruze.

Ranks #20 Small Cars by Owners

2011 Subaru WRX

4.68

2011 Volkswagen Golf

4.58

Tie

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

3.9

Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze a Good Car?

Based on our research and ownership data, the 2011 Cruze is not a good car. Positives include fuel-efficient engines and a comfortable ride. They do not outweigh the negatives, though. With common transmission failures and a compact cabin, it is not a good car. Overall, if you’re looking for a compact car, there are better choices on the

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Lance on February 15, 2023

Transmission replaced and constant oil leaks

I bought this car new in 2011. Eco model. Love the mileage, and the new price back then ($17k), but I had a transmission failure (replaced under warranty), clutch failures (replaced under warranty), and constant oil leaks, resulting in burning oil smell in the cabin when the engine is hot and I stop moving. No one has been able to fix the oil leaks, including Chevy. Super frustrating issue. Most recently the AC evaporator core developed a leak and had to be replaced also which was expensive. Overall, this has been an expensive car to own. I am just holding on to it as my daily driver bc I don't want a car payment, and it now seems fairly reliable. Finally.

Brooke on March 13, 2024

In the shop constantly

Bought this car in 2011 and has given me non stop issues since the first year, despite having maintained the vehicle properly. Antifreeze leaks from hoses (even from the dealership), thermostat, radiator and yes the same parts break over and over. Oil leaks (everyother year the oil cooler broke right after warranty expired) gaskets, valve cover etc. Not a realiable car unless you enjoy losing your mind fixing the same problems and being broke down and stranded. Its in the shop now I told them to keep it lol.

John Dreibelbis on January 24, 2023

Good handling, peppy, reliable, satisfied.

At 95000 miles I keep up maintenance and car has been economical, fun, comfortable, reliable and a good value. We bought second one in 2016!

Non Chevy cruise buyer! on June 12, 2022

Terrible

Never ever buy one!

Rob on January 24, 2022

Owner

I bought one of these quite used, with 110 000 miles on it. It's been quite reliable, only item replaced outside of normal maintenance being a valve cover gasket. It's pretty good on gas, 35-40mpg on the highway, usually about 25-30mpg in the city. While its quite slow in a straight line, even with a manual trans; it's quite fun to throw into turns. You can fit 4 people in it comfortably, 5 is cramped. The automatic transmission in the 2011 specifically sucks, I would not recommend this model year unless it's a manual like mine.

Lovie on August 9, 2021

Owner

Excellent car! Gas saver! Great turbo!

John D on June 22, 2021

It drives from point a to point b.

Oil leak no one can seem to find. Was recalled recently for some engine issues. It is a great city car though since I do not have to drive it much and it is only to get from a to b. Nothing fancy, good on gas, and cheap. I probably wouldn't buy it again though because I haven't been super happy with Chevy vehicle service.

Klayton J on June 17, 2021

Does not seem like it’ll last much longer, at 100,000 miles now.

The heated seat does not work on one side, which seems to be a trend with these. The electronic throttle cable makes it a little slow. To start accelerating. Defroster does not work because a cheap plastic actuator broke in the dash. Transmission does not shift all that smooth at 100,000 miles.

Virginia W on June 16, 2021

It is an awful vehicle and I would not recommend it to anyone.

We bought this car about 4 months ago and it has given us nothing but problems! I absolutely hate it. We have had it in the shop multiple times and nothing has been completely fixed on the car. From the shaking and sputtering when you accelerate to the car just dying. It is awful.

Rebekah B on June 15, 2021

Likes and dislikes about Chevy Cruze.

Things I like about my vehicle: gas mileage is incredible, can fit car seats even though small. Things I dislike about my vehicle: everything under the hood is basically plastic, which means it will not last forever. Everything is starting to break under the hood and needing to be replaced and it does not even have 70,000 miles on it. You shouldn't put plastic under the hood where it gets really hot.

Ivie R on June 10, 2021

Pretty good just a few issues.

Love the car overall, I bought it used and it still has a long life to go! Have ran into a few issues with normal use but also being the fault of how the car was made. My favorite feature about the vehicle is the heated seats, especially during the cold winters! Overall I would recommend the car it is pretty reliable with just a few issues.

Patricia S on June 10, 2021

A nice small good on gas car.

It's good on gas, handles nicely. Smooth ride. Has good gas mileage a nice sound system. Clear Bluetooth. Easy to use Bluetooth. Dealership was very nice and very honest. They made sure I knew how to move everything I needed and easy to use ac. A nice strong ac.

Vincent D on June 9, 2021

150,000 miles in a Chevrolet Cruze.

It is very reliable, but with one issue where the car tells me it is overheating but is not. I believe we were able to fix this issue though. We had to change multiple sensors in the vehicle in order to remedy this issue and I think we finally were able to remedy this. The car currently has approximately 150,000 miles on it and did need a replacement engine about 20,000 miles ago. This was because of a leaking head gasket.

Lilac E on June 4, 2021

Cruze for years - a car I can depend on.

The car has a very large gas capacity, and I get excellent miles per gallon. I averaged around 27 miles per gallon when I first bought the vehicle a couple years ago, and it was pre-owned at that point. Now, I still get a high amount at around 25 miles per gallon. I have had to repair a couple things in the car, like some spark plugs here and there, but I have never had a major issue with the vehicle. The radio has a very nice quality to it for how old the car is, and it is gotten me through about four years of driving. It is very impressive for how old of a car it is! The cloth seats are very comfortable and I have an easy time cleaning them. My only complain really would be that I get a lot of reminders on my dashboard to change my oil, even if my oil has been freshly changed and the previous notification has been removed. I cannot seem to fix that problem, but it is more annoying than it is an actual problem. There is a lot of space in the car and in the trunk. I deliver a lot of groceries for work, and it has helped me out with that many times.

Emily C on June 3, 2021

2011 Chevy Cruze partial let down.

It is reliable, however has some electrical issues that are not bad but kind of annoying. My windshield wipers get stuck upwards every time I use them and I have to physically push them down, if not, you'll be fighting trying to see between two blades your whole drive. Other than that, good car. Up to almost 200,000 miles on it and still runs good so long as you keep up with it.

Taylor H on June 2, 2021

This is a great vehicle for a teenager or older couple due to It's small size.

It is a really great “starter” vehicle for your teenager. It does not have much room so it wouldn't be a good family car. My Cruze has not ever given me any problems. I just try to make sure I keep up with all the maintenance work it needs. Overall these are really great cars for younger or older people.

Tyra G on May 25, 2021

You can drive it automatic or you can switch it to stick shift to drive.

With having the Chevrolet Cruz, I havent experienced much problems with. I hope that's a good thing, but as far as performance goes it's faster than I expected it to be and pickup speed very well. I enjoy driving on the highway the most with it. This car is very reliable again I have not had any problems I have been keeping up with oil changes and changing the tires when needed. The best feature about this car to me is that it will literally tell you what percentage your oil is on and if you have low air in one of your tires it will let you know how much air is in the tire as well as how much air you should have in the tire.

Tomi Y on May 23, 2021

The Chevrolet Cruze is fuel, comfort, and weather efficient all in one!

My 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. It gets about 35 - forty miles to the gallon on the highway and is the perfect commuter car for my husband. He works seventy miles away from home. It also performs well in snow and rain. The seats are made to wear it feels like they are molded to your body when you first sit down. Everything is within reach so there is not any distracted driving.

Renee B on May 20, 2021

It is a great car, you should totally buy it.

My car is great! I have had zero issue with my cruzes and it drives smooth. Other people who have driven my car even say it feels like a race car. Gas is decent and good car for teens. The car also has good speakers and a good steering wheel setup. Good car.

Olivia O on May 16, 2021

I love that my vehicle has heated seats.

My vehicle has a lot of engine related issues, especially with the exhaust. There are also a ton of recalls on my vehicle that I constantly have to get repaired. The a/c cooling fan is extremely loud and always sounds like there is a problem with it, but every time I go to get it repaired, the mechanic says that nothing is wrong.

Brooke H on May 14, 2021

2011 Chevy Cruze, baby blue in color, four door.

I bought my car used and it came with 140k miles on it. Issues I had from the start being used was replacing hoses that blew and my ignition went out. Other than those problems I have had no other issues nor have I had to fix anything that's gone wrong. I love the vehicle and glad I found it when I did.

Tamra H on May 6, 2021

Reliable and affordable. Sad they are not making Cruze any longer.

I have had no significant mechanical issues in the 8 years I have owned this car. It has been reliable with minimal maintenance. I regularly had lube/oil/filter but did not do most of the recommended additional maintenance. It has been a reliable, affordable vehicle.

Jessica P on May 2, 2021

One of the most reliable car.

The 2011 Chevy Cruze is definitely a reliable car. I do not think these cars would really give you mechanical problems as long as you keep up the maintenance. The only thing I’d prefer if the car had some features that I would benefit from like a back up camera, Bluetooth in the vehicle, and possibly a sunroof. Other than that the car is a good car.

Ben L on May 1, 2021

I do not think that this vehicle is worth the hustle.

The battery connection system is too flimsy. I have had to take it to the shop far too often for an 8 year vehicle. The batteries I have bought do not last longer than a year (and I buy quality batteries) it is been a problem. In addition the upholstery is falling apart. I would have hoped for better quality.

Lynn M on April 28, 2021

I probably would not purchase this car again.

The car does not get great gas mileage. After a stop it is very sluggish to accelerate. The driver's seat is not very comfortable for my height of 5 feet. The drivers side air vent will not adjust far enough to reach me. I have put a lot of money for car repairs in the past few years.

Nicole L on April 16, 2021

Decent but not that great.

The Chevy Cruze was perfect for about 100,000 miles. Then a bit afterwards, the transmission went out, which was the first major problem. After that, I have had to replace all of the wheel bearing sensors. The trunk has always had issues. At times it stops working and I have to bungee cord it down until I can get it fixed again. However, these are about all the issues the car has had, and it is at almost 200,000 miles. Overall, the car is not terrible. It is definitely made for more urban areas and not really a long distance kind of car.

Victoria P on April 11, 2021

Overall a great purchase!

Overall vehicle has been great. Comfortable and visually pleasing interior. Mileage is also a plus! The trunk holds a good amount for trips and vacations. I like how the car tells you when your tires are low on are and how you can visibly see the speed you are going. Any issues I have had so far have been minor. Would definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a good car.

Courtney D on April 4, 2021

My Chevy Cruze has been a reliable car for me over the last seven years!

This has been a very reliable car for me. Taken across the country for a five week road trip but after that trip I started noticing some problems with the engine and had to get it fixed. I wish there was cruise control on this model but the car has been very good to me otherwise. It gets good mileage and the interior is still like new after all these years. The truck is surprisingly a very large size so you can pack a lot in for it being a small car. Overall a good vehicle that I enjoy driving.

Gabriela R on April 4, 2021

Great make, horrible model.

I don't recommend this model. Every time I get something fixed, something else breaks. The transmission keeps overheating. The performance is horrible. When I hit the gas it does not want to go anywhere. There is no get up and go. I wish I had done my research on this model before I purchased it.

Paul T on April 1, 2021

Great ride: great price: great gas mileage!

Great gas mileage, great safety features, and comfortable ride. The way the vehicle handles is exceptional, takes corners so well. Plenty of interior room up front. The back seats are set back making for more head room. I love the gm warranty that comes with the vehicle, which seems to cover all the major things that could go wrong.

Heather B on April 1, 2021

Great comfortable car with good gas mileage!

The car we drive most often is my husbands Cruze, it gets great gas mileage. It is also very comfortable, my only complaint on comfort is the steering wheel. I cannot rest my hand in the bottom of the wheel. We have also had a couple issues with vibration in the speakers. Still overall it drives great for the year and we do like the car!

Caitlyn B on March 31, 2021

My car has heated seats and looks very appealing to the eye.

The one bad thing about it is it is just overall small, but it does have good gas mileage and a good sound system. The trunk is very spacious, the car features plenty of air bags and working seatbelts. This car is fast and touchy, it has an appealing look and would be a good fit for a college student.

Ruth D on March 30, 2021

Easy cruising in the Cruze.

I love the blue color of my car, but I wish it had cruise control. Good gas mileage and easy to park, compact. There are some blind spots by the doors while driving too, but really I like my car it has been low maintenance. There was one issue with it last winter because it is not driven very often, but if people drive to work it would be able to handle it.

Stephan W on March 30, 2021

A personal review of my 2011 Chevy Cruze.

It has had a number of recall repairs. It's tough to start after getting gas. If acceleration is to aggressive, it lurches. The trunk can only be opened from the key fob. The tires continuously need air. It is very gas efficient. It runs very quietly.

Taylor B on March 29, 2021

All black 4-door sedan with all black leather interior.

This car has lasted wonderfully for the 8 years I have owned it. I have driven from Ohio to Florida several times without issues. It is a very sleek looking car with the comfort of leather seats. Other than routine upgrades such as tires and the a/c I have had no major issues with this car.

Brittney R on March 29, 2021

2011 Chevy Cruze with a price too good to be true because it was.

The Chevy Cruze is great on gas and healthier for the environment being an eco model. The inside is roomy and sleek looking. Equipped with an iPod and auxiliary port. Many issues around 80,000-100,000 miles. Including multiple, leaking gaskets, coolant issues and serpentine belt. Cheap car but not reliable mechanically.

Penny H on March 29, 2021

2011 reliable Chevy Cruze.

This has been a great car. It is powerful, stylish body, and has many interior features,. I have had few mechanical problems even with high mileage (140,00 miles) on car. It has been very reliable and I have never had it break down and need it towed. The only problem is body rust.

Autumn R on March 28, 2021

Chevy Cruze not a good family car.

Sticky gas pedal. Air conditioning circulation is not great. It sputters when idling. Turn radius is decent. Have had to replace windshield twice. CD player and sound system are not good. Speakers sound terrible. Phone system does not recognize voice commands you have to say the number slowly to use the hands-free system. Tire monitor system broke 4 years after purchasing. Tires frequently lose pressure. Gets good miles per gallon. Only have to fill up about every two to three weeks. Not very spacious. If there is a car seat in the back the passenger seat has to be all the way up to the dash with very little leg room. Not a good car for anyone with more than one child. Small trunk space also.

Pete B on March 28, 2021

Smooth ride and great pickup

Great pickup. Some issues with ac, but resolved with a repair. Seats are comfortable and it's a smooth ride.

Natalie V on March 27, 2021

It would be alot better to purchase the vehicle brand new.

Love how it drives. Hate how quickly it breaks down. Love how interior is set up.

Garrett P on March 26, 2021

Cruze. The Cruze is a great car with a lot of cool features.

It is very comfortable with lots of features that make the car safer and more modern. The only problem I have ever had with my Cruze is some transmission issues with leaking oil but other than that the Cruze handles good and drives pretty good in the snow or slush so I don't really have any complaints. I love my car.

Britney S on March 26, 2021

2011 Chevy Cruze blacked out

The car is great on gas. However, I come across small problems often. The car also has a feature of jerking and the turbo takes time to pick up. Otherwise the design and features of the car are great. A full tank lasts me 2 weeks and the car is very durable

Regan R on March 25, 2021

2011 Chevy Cruze Problems

It gets really good gas mileage, especially on highway. My car has had problems with the brakes though. I have had to get my brakes bled several times and have had to replace the vacuum pump. I have had problems with the A/C and heating system as well. The indoor handles for the doors are made cheaply and the plastic overlay on them has come off almost entirely on all doors. The car gets wear-and-tear fairly easily.

Joy F on March 24, 2021

It is a small compact car. It comes in different colors from bright to dark.

My Chevy Cruze is a very good and reliable car. I have had no issues with it at all. It gets great gas mileage and also drives very smoothly. The only issue I do have with my Chevy Cruze is that it is way to small. There is not enough leg space inside the car in the front or back.

Rich W on March 23, 2021

Solid and dependable auto.

A couple of factory recalls. Good vs. Rust here where winters are wicked. It has been dependable. Decent gas mileage. Good for my needs.

Megan S on March 22, 2021

My wonderful amazing Cruze.

I have the 2011 ltz Cruze. I really do love it! I am still learning all the gadgets. My leather interior is still in good condition. I love how it can get up and go right now. The only thing I don't like is it goes horrible in the snow and a little bit of mud.

Kyle E on March 21, 2021

Not bad, not great. Not for all.

Acceleration is horrible. The Cruze also underperforms in miles per gallon. Mine only gets about 21 miles per gallon. It is also a pretty small car, so not recommended for tall people or older people or those with back issues. All that said I still think it is a decent car.

Amanda R on March 19, 2021

It is a very reliable car. I have had very few mechanical issues with it.

I like that it can fit in smaller spaces. I wish there was more room, however plenty can fit in. I love that it is a manual.

Savannah on March 17, 2021

Absolute Trash Car

Bought this car used, was in great condition, safetied and certified. Within a day of getting it, engine light popped up. Took it back to the shop to get some sensors cleaned, ended up spending $800 to get air intake and sensor replaced. Wheel bearing went within a week, then misfiring began happening. Replaced PCV valve, MAF sensor. Now the car won’t start and costs $800 for a new starter. Put over $1000 into this car, and ended up not working in the end. I’ve been able to fix most of it myself, but if you don’t know anything about cars I suggest getting a car that doesn’t need a trip to the shop every week. I usually pick my cars well and really check them out before purchasing, but judging by the other reviews I know GM cars are c**p. I’d rather walk everywhere for the rest of my life than own another Chevy Cruze.

jim l on March 17, 2021

Battery {new} goes down every day or two

2011 cruze bought used 4years ago for wife she drives around town only maybe less than 4000 miles annually.battery goes dead every couple days.starts with a jumper,new battery again dealer has no clue .trunk can only be opened with key fob.check engine light back on again overnight battery now reads 4.2 volts. This car is a large pain in my butt i .live with the hood up.

Samuel P on March 17, 2021

Affordable, comfortable, stylish, and dependable. It gets great gas mileage.

It has been known to have transmission issues after 100,000 miles, so I would not recommend getting one past that. The performance is great, it drives really smooth, the handling is extraordinary, and it keeps most of the outside noise outside. It is very reliable and gets great gas mileage, about 40 average. The comfort is not the best, so I would recommend getting one with leather seats. It is great for long car rides. It is a good commuter vehicle.

Michelle V on March 17, 2021

It is perfect for what I am doing right now, the speakers are loud and perfect.

I definitely have problems with my oil, it leaks very often. When I push on my brakes a burning smell comes out of the vents and smoke will also shoot through. When I come to a stop my car tends to 'pulse', I have no idea what that is from. My car was sold to me by a nearby neighbor, it was sold with 3 blown out tire sensors.

Haley P on March 16, 2021

2011 Chevy Cruze- it'll get you where you need to go.

I have had trouble with both my heat and air conditioner working. The last two years I have had to send it to the shop because of it. I always have trouble with the engine overheating also. Those are the only problems I have really had. My Cruze drives really well and is very smooth. It is comfortable to sit in and is small but still roomy. I have the feature of heated seats but they do not work in my car- I am not sure why. The Chevy Cruze has a really nice design on the interior and exterior.

Hayley A on March 16, 2021

Comfortable and overall quality.

I bought this car used, but very low on mileage. (around 60,000) I have had to replace the thermostat, which was really expensive and needed immediately because of the Midwest winter. The mechanic told me that it is a common problem for this make and model. Otherwise, the car has run great and has given no problems. It is easy to drive and comfortable. I am not sure how it would be with having kids as it is more compact, but it definitely works for my husband and I currently.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.