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2016 Chevrolet Cruze problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze has been recalled for and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 4safety recalls
- 250owner complaints
- 19crash reports
- 6fire reports
- 14injuries reported
250 complaints, against an average of 391 for the other 7 Chevrolet Cruze model years.
Every Chevrolet Cruze model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
The components named most often in the 250 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Chevrolet Cruze owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 250 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?29 owners · 11.6%
- Why does my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze stall, lose power or shut off while driving?28 owners · 11.2%
- Why does my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze overheat?22 owners · 8.8%
- Why won't my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze start?8 owners · 3.2%
- Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?8 owners · 3.2%
Has the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze been recalled?
4 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Fuel System, Gasoline General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Chevrolet Cruze LS vehicles, equipped with a gasoline engine and a tire inflator kit instead of a spare tire. The vehicles may leak gasoline following a rear-impact crash and a rollover. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Risk: A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a lock-ring on the fuel tank that will shield the fuel tank vapor pressure sensor from damage in a rear-impact crash, free of charge. The recall began June 7, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18159.
Seats: Front Assembly: Head Restraint General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Chevrolet Cruze vehicles. A bracket used in the driver or front passenger seat-back recliner mechanism may have been incorrectly welded to the seat-back frame, as a result, in the event of a crash, the head-restraints may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 202a, "Head Restraints."
Risk: In a crash, the seat-backs for the front seats may break, increasing the risk of injury to the occupants.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front passenger seats, replacing any with seat-back frames that are incorrectly welded, free of charge. The recall began on February 28, 2017. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 17035.
Electrical System: Ignition General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Risk: If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge. The recall began on October 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 50490 and 50491.
Exterior Lighting: Headlights General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Cruze vehicles manufactured November 5, 2015, to May 26, 2016. The headlight assemblies are not marked with a three-digit identifier code used to properly aim the headlights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Assoc. Equipment."
Risk: Without the identification code, the headlights may be improperly aimed during service, reducing nighttime visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: GM will mail owners instructions and adhesive labels, with the correct code, to install on their headlight assemblies. Owners may also bring the vehicle to a GM dealership for any assistance with applying the label, free of charge. The recall began on August 11, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet Customer Service Department at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 50190.
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSAChevrolet UK Takata Drivers Airbag
Risk: On affected vehicles the chemicals in the Takata airbags may deteriorate over time which may cause the inflator to rupture and lead to serious injury.
Fix: Exchange affected airbag modules as a precautionary measure.
EU Safety GateThe propellant in the inflator of the driver airbag may deteriorate over time.If the airbags deploy, it could result in fragments of the inflator injuring the vehicle's occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
What do 2016 Chevrolet Cruze owners report?
12 of the 250 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
I am filing this complaint due to repeated mechanical and safety problems with my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. The vehicle has had ongoing acceleration problems, including times when it would not accelerate properly even with the A/C on its lowest setting. The turbocharger has needed to be replaced multiple times, yet acceleration problems have continued. I have also had oil lines randomly snap and spray oil from the vehicle. Other issues include a passenger-side seatbelt that does not work properly, a tire-pressure sensor that began cutting out after new sensors were installed, and a piece of…
car has been overheating run while i take the keys out doors will lock with keys in the ignition lots of lights will come on car will slow way down constantly adding antifreeze in it heat and air will stop working i have had trouble ever since i bought this a year ago
Manufacturer: General Motors / Chevrolet Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Cruze LT (VIN: [XXX]) Corporate Case Number: XXX Nature of Dispute: Premature mechanical failure of a major drivetrain assembly and administrative bad faith. Factual Timeline: Initial Failure & Prior Liability: At 51,490 miles, the vehicle suffered a mechanical failure of the turbocharger assembly. General Motors acknowledged defect awareness and prior liability by funding a $1,000 payout to complete the repair. Premature Secondary Failure: Just 40,000 miles after that official manufacturer repair, a certified Chevrolet…
After 3 years of having this car it’s overheating each summer requiring the coolant system, hoses, thermostat, and water pump to be replaced each summer. As well as major oil leaking after full tune ups.
My engine needed oil I checked the dip stick added the oil the next day my engine started leaking and over heating come to find out there’s a pcv issue the valve cover gasket along with multiple other seals need replaced I was unaware of anything wrong no indication of over heating I just smelled the heat and was able to see after popping the hood the radiator fan is now not working and gas is coming through the valves
While driving, I went to make a right turn and the power steering went out making the turn very difficult using manual muscle to complete the turn. Fortunately, it was in a parking lot. After the ignition was turned off for about 45 minutes, I turned it back on and the steering functioned normally. However, I am very concerned if this problem would again happen and I am driving at a speed and this problem would appear, it could possibly cause a serious accident because of the unexpected action that would be required.
The rear brakes lights have a crack causing water to leak through. The water caused damage to the converter output
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that upon returning to the parked vehicle, while attempting to unlock the doors with the key fob, the doors failed to open. The contact was able to open the door manually using the key. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle and closing the front driver's side door, the doors locked and failed to unlock. The contact depressed the brake pedal and pressed the Push to Start button, but the vehicle failed to start or unlock. The message "No Key Fob Detected" was displayed. The contact disassembled the key fob and wiped the…
Component or System Failed/Malfunctioned: The turbocharger has been identified by a GM service center as the component that failed or malfunctioned. It is available for inspection upon request at the service center where the diagnosis was made. Safety Risk: The safety of myself and others was compromised due to the vehicle stalling unexpectedly while driving. This resulted in potential rear-end collisions, as well as the inability to accelerate, posing a risk in traffic situations. Confirmation by Dealer or Independent Service Center: Yes, the issue has been confirmed by a GM service center…
Power train system (po299) A turbocharger harnesses the flow of exhaust gases that spins an internal turbine. This turbine then forces or packs air into the engine faster than normal .This action increases the horsepower of the engine. When it doesn’t work!!!!A failed turbo charger will cause a decrease in engine performance which isn’t for family . (Manufacturer recall number:A212338300 recall date 11/05/21
Hit a buck on highway. When airbags went off I felt sudden sharp pain in my left arm. I was later advised that it most likely was shrapnel from the airbag. It was obvious from the injury something hit my arm with a lot of force. The car was a total loss and in possession of insurance company. Concerned that it could have been my eye.
I WAS IN A CRASH ON JULY 27,2020,PM HOURS.I WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT ON INTERSTATE,IT BEGAN RAINING,I SLOWED DOWN & ADJUSTED TRACTION CONTROL/STABILITY CONTROL SETTING.THE CAR VEERED TO THE RIGHT FOR SOME REASON,I GOT CAR BACK IN STRAIGHT MOTION,THEN IN A SPLIT SECOND,IT SHOT TO THE LEFT OF THE ROAD WAY.I TRIED GAINING CONTROL,TO GET BACK IN THE CORRECT LANE,AND THE CAR RAN INTO THE GUARDRAIL IN TRYING TO GET CONTROL OF IT. I DO NOT THINK THAT THE RATE OF SPEED,NOR WEATHER,WERE THE ONLY REASONS FOR THIS ACCIDENT. PRIOR TO THIS CRASH,MONTHS BEFORE,AT VARIOUS TIMES,AND AND FOR NO REASON, THE SERVICE…
2016 Chevrolet Cruze: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 250 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze; the most common categories were engine (102, 40.8%), electrical system (59, 23.6%), fuel/propulsion system (35, 14%). There are 4 safety recalls. 19 complaints mention a crash, 6 mention a fire, 14 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
Across 250 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are engine (40.8% of complaints), electrical system (23.6% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (14% of complaints), power train (12.4% of complaints), air bags (8.4% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze; the most recent (campaign 18V304000, 2018-05-10) concerns Fuel System, Gasoline. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
29 of the 250 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze (11.6%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "There has been no accident to report. My check engine light comes on periodically and will remain on for a lengthy time. It is the light that looks like a water spigot. When I have it checked they say it’s either the “Turbo” or “Air Filter” . I can." (NHTSA complaint 11730730, April 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
28 of the 250 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze (11.2%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Stability Track came on randomly all of sudden car was stalling, running poorly and smell Gas , sure enough leaking Gas Everywhere, very dangerous. Lucky car did not catch on fire. I am still paying for this car. Just thankful no one got injured." (NHTSA complaint 11542265, September 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze overheat?
22 of the 250 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze (8.8%) describe the engine overheating or coolant loss. One owner wrote: "car has been overheating run while i take the keys out doors will lock with keys in the ignition lots of lights will come on car will slow way down constantly adding antifreeze in it heat and air will stop working i have had trouble ever since i bought this a…" (NHTSA complaint 11760031, August 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why won't my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze start?
8 of the 250 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze (3.2%) describe the car failing to start. One owner wrote: "My 2016 chevrolet cruze is only 4 years old. i had to replace the thermostat and after a inspection. the (vvt) variable valve timing when trying to start my car, it would click but wouldn't turn over all lights and power was on but car would not start." (NHTSA complaint 11408416, April 2021). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
8 of the 250 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze (3.2%) describe airbag warning lights or airbag faults. One owner wrote: "System failure…airbag light continues to come on and go off. It says service airbag. If John Elway Chevrolet repairs the airbag system will it impact the integrity of the airbags. The airbag light doesn’t say which airbag is defective." (NHTSA complaint 11537904, August 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own Cruze
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only.