CoolingHigh
1.4T coolant leaks (thermostat housing, water outlet, hoses) and overheating.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check coolant level and look for leaks; confirm any cooling-component replacements.
2011–2019 Chevrolet Cruze · common problems & known faults
The Cruze is an efficient compact, but the 1.4T's cooling system and PCV are the defining issues.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2011–2019 Chevrolet Cruze are 1.4T coolant leaks (thermostat housing, water outlet, hoses) and overheating, Flickering dashboard lights, radio cutting out, or intermittent loss of electric power steering and Oil mixing with coolant or a strong smell of burning oil from the engine bay. 3 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Chevrolet Cruze.
4.6/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EngineMedium
PCV/valve cover diaphragm failure causing rough running and oil loss.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Watch for a whistle, rough idle and oil consumption.
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Build the inspection planTurboMedium
1.4T turbo wear.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for turbo whine and check for smoke.
TransmissionLow
Automatic shift quality complaints.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive for smooth shifts.
IgnitionMedium
Engine misfire, rough idle, and 'Service StabiliTrak' warning on the dashboard.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold, feel for vibrations through the steering wheel, and check the instrument cluster for the EML or StabiliTrak warnings.
ElectricalHigh
Flickering dashboard lights, radio cutting out, or intermittent loss of electric power steering.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Open the bonnet and firmly wiggle the negative battery cable near the terminal. Look for loose crimping or listen for electrical arcing.
Engine / LubricationHigh
Oil mixing with coolant or a strong smell of burning oil from the engine bay.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Remove the coolant expansion tank cap to check for mayonnaise-like sludge, and shine a torch below the exhaust manifold heat shield for oil weeping from the cooler.
Body / ElectricalLow
The boot lid will not unlatch when pressing the exterior tailgate button.
- Typically appears
- 4-7 years
- What to inspect
- Press the rubber boot release switch above the rear number plate to ensure it opens. Check the rubber housing for splits that allow water ingress.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Chevy Cruze reliable?
It's efficient but the 1.4T's cooling and PCV issues are common — inspect carefully.
Do Cruze engines overheat?
Coolant leaks are common on the 1.4T; check the cooling system and history.
What is the PCV problem?
A diaphragm in the valve cover can fail, causing rough idle and oil loss — a known Cruze fault.
Why does the 'Service StabiliTrak' message appear alongside engine misfires?
On the Cruze, the engine control module disables the StabiliTrak traction system when it detects a severe misfire to protect the drivetrain. This usually points to a failed ignition coil pack or worn spark plugs rather than a genuine fault with the ABS or traction control sensors.
When should the timing belt be replaced on the 1.6 and 1.8 petrol engines?
The 1.6 and 1.8 litre naturally aspirated petrol engines use a timing belt that requires replacement every 100,000 miles or 10 years. However, water pump failure can prematurely snap the belt. Always verify the service history for belt and tensioner replacements to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
What causes the interior radio and dashboard lights to flicker randomly?
This is a well-documented fault caused by high resistance in the negative battery cable. The poor earth connection leads to voltage fluctuations, causing flickering dashboard displays, radio dropouts, and occasionally a temporary loss of electric power steering. Replacing the negative cable with an upgraded part resolves it.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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