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Common Problems with Chevrolets
This is not a section looking to find fault with Chevrolet vehicles per se. In fact, one of the most dependable cars you can have is a Chevy.
Nonetheless, we have listed the most common problems associated with Chevrolets as officially reported by their owners.
Which Chevy is Least and Most Reliable?
Chevrolet owners may not agree with all of the data below, remaining steadfast about their car's reliability.
Even so, no matter how sturdy and reliable Chevy vehicles are, they have no immunity when it comes to common problems.
The purpose of this report is to highlight the key areas of concern to help owners identify and rectify regular failings.
So, key and Passlock systems, issues affecting air conditioning units, and cracks on dashboards, all fall into the top ten Chevy issues.
Note: According to CarComplaints.com, the Impala, Malibu, and Silverado generated most complaints resulting in reported Chevrolet problems.
Chevrolet Passlock Security Systems
One regular criticism about Chevrolet SUV and 4x4s is not being able to start them. Several reasons have been identified as being responsible for the issue. But, it seems there is a common thread.
The Chevrolet Passlock system is the root cause of a high number of complaints. In fact, well over two hundred owners reported they were having some kind of malfunction with the anti theft security system.
Common Key and Passlock Problems
- The car won't start and it illuminates a warning light. Various other related issues include owners not being able to get in the vehicle (e.g. they got locked out).
- Thus, a faulty Passlock Security System may result in issues related to locking and unlocking the vehicle, or not being able to start the engine.
- Other reports give examples of owners getting the key stuck in the ignition. Some suggested jiggling the key and pressing the brake at the same time would help to release it.
Problems with the Electrics
The Chevrolet Impala is responsible for most of the customer complaints received about electrical issues. They include:
- Battery going flat for no obvious reason.
- Engine won't start.
- Fire starting inside the vehicle.
- Windows and door mirrors suddenly stop working.
Instrument Panel Weak Spots
The two models that have common issues with the instrument panels seem to be the Chevrolet Silverado, and the Chevy Trailblazer.
There has been no shortage of owners sending in reports about instrument cluster failure. Often, it seems to fail around the 64,000-mile mark. Worse still, it seems the solution is binning it and replacing it with a new one.
Gearbox and Transmission Problems
Many Chevrolet owners have reported some kind of transmission trouble. The problem seems to manifest itself as the vehicle approaches 90,000 miles.
Two common Chevrolet transmission issues include:
- Having difficulty shifting gears manually.
- Failing to switch up between the gears.
This kind of hitch obviously puts a lot of strain on the vehicle - as well as the engine.
Furthermore, it could be dangerous if something goes wrong with the car gearbox while driving at speed.
Note: Another section contains information and advice about mechanical problems and how to save money by carrying out minor repairs yourself.
Chevy Power Steering Systems
The Chevrolet Malibu is blamed for common problems caused by a sudden loss of power steering. In most cases, the only way to fix it is to replace the steering system.
As a result, most faults relating to a power steering failure or deactivation are dangerous on public roads. Even though the fault may rectify itself after a few seconds, restarting the car may be the only other way of getting a temporary fix.
Fuel Pump Failure
Are you the proud owner of a late model Chevrolet Cavalier (e.g. 2000 to 2005)? If so, you might have already suffered problems with the fuel pump.
Recent reports suggest that Chevy Cavalier fuel pump failure is its second most common problem (and it costs around £600 to replace it).
Excessive Oil Consumption
Most Chevy owners, especially those with one of the Chevrolet Tahoe models, have complained at one time or another about it being prone to using a lot of engine oil.
Often, the piston rings will be the main cause of the trouble - especially as the vehicle nears 100,000 miles. But, sometimes you may need to replace the engine completely.
Cracks on Chevrolet Dashboards
Dashboards on older Chevy Tahoes have become noteworthy weak points. Simply put, hot climates have been causing cracks to form in the dashboard material.
Chevy Air Conditioning Systems
It is common knowledge that Chevrolet air-conditioning and heating systems are somewhat 'fragile'. A broken condenser would be considered a cheap fix. But, replacing a broken air-con compressor will be expensive.
Most of the complaints reported by Chevy owners seem to be based around air conditioning systems not working at all, or heaters blowing out cold air.
In particular, the Chevrolet Equinox is one model that blows out cold air from its heating system - as reported by disgruntled and chilly drivers in wintertime.
Common Chevy Problems Summarised
In the main, you should consider buying a Chevrolet for its durability and reliability. We made this list of common Chevy issues to help you pinpoint things that go wrong with certain models.
Worst 3 Problems Reported about Chevrolets
- 2017 Silverado 1500: Surges and jerks from 21,000 miles
- 2013 Equinox: Excessive oil consumption around 76,000 miles
- 2004 Aveo: Timing belt failure likely from 70,000 miles
Related Information and Help Guides
- Chevrolet Suburban UK (interior and specs).
- Chevrolet Tahoe UK review and price.
- A review of the fully loaded 2022 Chevy Tahoe.
- What Year Silverado Wheels are Interchangeable?
Note: The short video [8:03 seconds] explains some of the issues you may face with the 2nd generation Chevy Equinox (2010 to 2017 models).