2016 Chevrolet Cruze Safety Report
2016 Chevrolet Cruze: Strong crash ratings, but notable engine and electrical complaints, plus four safety recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze
Reliability Score
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Overheating/Failure Numerous complaints describe engine overheating, smoke, burning odors, and turbocharger failures, often leading to reduced power or complete vehicle shutdown. Some complaints mention issues with the thermostat housing and coolant leaks. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Airbag System Malfunction Complaints include the 'Service Air Bags' warning light illuminating, indicating potential system faults. One complaint reported shrapnel injury from an airbag deployment during a crash. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Fuel System Leak (Recall) Recall for 2016-2018 Cruze LS vehicles with tire inflator kit, where a fuel leak can occur, increasing fire risk. Several complaints mention gas smells and leaks. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Seat-Back Recliner Weld Defect (Recall) Recall for incorrectly welded seat-back recliner mechanisms, which could cause seat-backs to break in a crash, increasing injury risk. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Ignition Key Removal Without Park (Recall) Recall for electronic park lock lever allowing key removal without transmission in PARK, leading to potential vehicle rollaway. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions Issues reported include radio turning off, blinkers not working, 'shift to park' message preventing locking, and general electrical failures. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Brake System Issues Complaints mention check engine light with 'Service Brake System' message, and vehicles stalling when brakes are applied. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze:
Frequent reports of overheating, turbocharger failure, smoke, burning smells, and reduced engine power. This includes issues with the manifold absolute pressure sensor and coolant leaks.
A variety of miscellaneous issues not fitting specific categories, including general vehicle malfunctions and unspecified component failures.
Illumination of 'Service Air Bags' warning light and concerns about airbag system integrity.
Problems with the radio, blinkers, 'shift to park' message, and general electrical failures.
Issues related to the transmission and overall power delivery, sometimes linked with engine problems.
Brake system warning lights, vehicle stalling upon braking, and general brake performance concerns.
Reports of fuel leaks, gas smells, and issues affecting the vehicle's propulsion.
Complaints about the steering wheel pulling to one side, oversteering, and power steering warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze received strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star frontal), indicating good performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, it has 242 owner complaints, including 19 crashes, 6 fires, and 14 injuries, suggesting real-world safety concerns. Four recalls address significant issues like fire risk from fuel leaks and seat integrity. While it performs well in crash tests, the volume and nature of complaints and recalls indicate potential safety vulnerabilities.
What are common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze are related to the ENGINE (41 complaints), including overheating, turbocharger failures, and coolant leaks. Other common problems involve the UNKNOWN OR OTHER category (18 complaints), AIR BAGS (15 complaints) with 'Service Air Bags' warnings, and the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (14 complaints) with various malfunctions.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
Yes, the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze has four recalls. These include recalls for potential fuel leaks increasing fire risk, incorrectly welded front seat-back recliner mechanisms, an electronic park lock lever issue allowing key removal without the transmission in PARK, and improperly marked headlight assemblies affecting visibility.
How does the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze performed well in NHTSA crash tests, receiving an Overall 4-star rating. Specifically, it earned a 5-star rating for Frontal crash protection, and 4-star ratings for Side crash and Rollover resistance.
What should I look out for if buying a used 2016 Chevrolet Cruze?
If considering a used 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, pay close attention to the engine for signs of overheating, turbocharger issues, or coolant leaks. Check for any 'Service Air Bags' warnings or electrical system malfunctions. Ensure all four recalls have been addressed by checking the vehicle's VIN with NHTSA or a Chevrolet dealer. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze has good crash test ratings, its significant number of engine and electrical complaints, coupled with four safety recalls, suggests potential reliability and safety concerns. Thoroughly investigate recall completion and have a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine and electrical systems before buying.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Chevrolet Cruze
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. The data includes 242 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 19 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 14 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 4 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.