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Chevrolet Cobalt Problems

The Chevrolet Cobalt was GM's compact car from 2005-2010, replacing the Cavalier and competing against the Civic and Corolla. With 20,208 complaints and a troubling 160 reported deaths, the Cobalt's ignition switch defect caused one of the largest recalls in automotive history. Understanding this history is critical for anyone considering a used Cobalt.

20,208
Total Complaints
29
Total Recalls
13
Model Years
160
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2007 2006 2005
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1996 2000 2002

Common Problem Categories

Steering 7,848
Electrical System 2,978
Fuel/propulsion System 2,210
Air Bags 1,222
Fuel System, Gasoline 1,004

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2017 2 0 0 0 Good
2016 2 0 0 0 Good
2012 2 0 0 0 Good
2011 4 0 0 0 Good
2010 1,588 6 152 18 Average
2009 1,830 5 206 18 Average
2008 2,204 5 216 40 Average
2007 3,998 5 344 42 Avoid
2006 6,112 4 544 50 Avoid
2005 4,458 4 300 34 Avoid
2002 4 0 2 0 Good
2000 2 0 0 0 Good
1996 2 0 0 0 Good

Chevrolet Cobalt Years to Avoid

The 2006 Cobalt is the worst model year, with the highest concentration of ignition switch failures that could cut engine power and disable airbags while driving. The 2005-2010 models all have the ignition switch defect that was eventually recalled in 2014 after years of complaints and deaths. The 2008-2010 models had power steering motor failures that could make steering difficult. The 2007 model year had timing chain issues in the 2.2L engine. Never buy any Cobalt without verifying the ignition switch recall was completed.

Best Chevrolet Cobalt Years

The 1996-2004 Cavalier (Cobalt predecessor) avoided the ignition switch issue. If you must buy a Cobalt, the 2009-2010 models with verified recall completion and the SS performance variant are the better choices. The Cobalt SS with the 2.0L turbo has a following among enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions