Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Chevrolet Sonic - part 1

Multiple attempts to fix camshaft/ camshaft position sensor. Causes car to decelerate at high speeds. Shaking while at high speeds.

See all problems of the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

Dear gm executive office, I am writing in frustration and disappointment after being told today by Chevrolet customer assistance that the case I opened (case # [xxx]) was simply a "dealer complaint" and that no further help would be offered - despite my vehicle exhibiting a recurring, safety-related malfunction covered under special coverage n232395330 - turbocharger replacement. To whom it may concern, I am writing to formally request a resolution regarding a recurring and unresolved issue with my son’s 2018 Chevrolet Sonic premier (turbocharged engine), VIN: [xxx] this past January we brought the vehicle to ziegler Buick GMC of lincolnwood an authorized due to overheating and a warning light. We paid $210 for a diagnosis and an additional $520 for a repair, totaling $730. The only action taken was the replacement of the coolant reservoir. The issue was not fully diagnosed, and the root cause was not addressed. On [xxx], the same issue has returned: red heat warning light illuminated after less than one mile of driving. Coolant reservoir nearly empty upon inspection. Engine went into reduced power (“limp mode”). Scanner showed only a low coolant level but no additional actionable codes. Vehicle also displayed a change oil warning, likely triggered by overheating. This vehicle has a known history of turbocharger and coolant system defects, which have been acknowledged in gm technical service bulletins and customer satisfaction programs. I have reason to believe this situation qualifies for one of those programs. Despite paying $730 for a prior repair, the vehicle is now exhibiting the same safety-related malfunction, putting my son at risk of engine damage and breakdown. We have also taken the car to mike anderson Chevrolet twice for inspection and they reported finding nothing. I am respectfully requesting the following: a thorough inspection and diagnosis of the entire cooling system and turbocharger information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foi.

See all problems of the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine was idling rough. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel. The contact stated that the canister purge valve had previously been replaced, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the canister purge valve needed to be replaced a second time. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

Vehicle enters into catalyst monitor too early. Monitor fales indicating that the catalyst is below efficiency threshold. A vehicle is run for a significant amount of time before being allowed to enter the driving conditions for the catalyst monitor, monitor will pass. This indicates that there is a programming failure, not an actual component failure. Theory has been tested multiple times. Catalyst had also been tested by temperature sensor as well as by taking readings with a gas analyzer before and after the catalyst. Everything indicates the catalyst is well within operating parameters. Theories, test, and confirmations have been conducted by a certified technician and mechanical engineer.

See all problems of the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

I have replaced the same part now 4 times. I have multiple receipts. Cause the car the shut off or slow down while on the highway.

The thermostat housing and water pump keeps failing and leaking. The seat heaters dont work. The car started leaking antifreeze real bad which cause it to overheat and lock up. Yes it has been confirm by a dealer that alot of the chevys been coming for new thermostat housing and water pumps. No vehicle was only inspected by a dealer. The overheating like came on and then 10 seconds later the car locked up.

See all problems of the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

I purchased this car 2 years ago and it has caused me absolutely nothing but trouble. We have replaced the fan 4 times (twice due to the resistor thats part of the fan failed), headgasket job, intercooler punctures (once inward, once outward), failed valve cover, intake maniford, turbo seals twice, failing check values, new relays for the fan (twice), another drive belt, and now I go outside and theres a puddle of coolant under my car. I have sunk over $8,000 into this car and it has been the worst financial decision ever. Why do the parts keep failing? why isnt there a heat gage in the dang car so I know its too hot before the light comes on?.

See all problems of the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while pulling into the garage, the high engine temp waring light warning light illuminated, and the engine was overheating. The contact immediately turned off the vehicle. The contact stated there was coolant underneath the front of the vehicle. The contact had learned that the water pump failure was common for the vehicle and believed that the water pump had failed. The contact was able to identify an extended warranty for the failure. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure when it was confirmed that the VIN was not covered under warranty or recall. The manufacturer had referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,400.

Was driving in heavy rain when car suddenly cut power and decelerated showed code 84 and the cel came back with p2138. It is a known issue that rain gets up into the connector and causes a malfunction.

The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 mph, the vehicle lost motive power. The esc and oil pressure warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the intake plenum gasket and other unknown parts needed to be sealed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 36,299.

See all problems of the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

There is no temperature indicator and the car overheats. This caused the hose to the coolant to leak. I had the housing unit replaced but then the car still ran hot. I had the get the whole thermostat replaced. No forum could assist with the replacement of the 2019 as if this year model doesn’t exist and the part needed doesn’t fit properly making my car inoperable.

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the entire vehicle was shaking. The contact stated that after the vehicle was left idling, the shaking and vibration diminished; however, when the vehicle was shifted into drive(d) and the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle was slow to respond. The contact stated that the vehicle was slow to gain forward momentum while attempting to merge into traffic or ascend a grade in the road. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the turbo needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.

Stalls when reduced speed. Cel constant. Codes indicate emission promlem. Cleared by replacing intake valve. Cel came back on.

See all problems of the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

The contact owns a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that there was fluid leaking from underneath the hood. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a water pump and the thermostat housing failure. The contact discovered technical service bulletin: 14371b; however, the vehicle was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was unknown.

1st occurence at approximately 37k miles on vehicle has issue based on climate temperature sensor triggers a computer code 84 vehicle goes into limp mode to prevent engine failure however, this happens instantly no time to react and more than one occasion creating a hazardous driving situation in heavy traffic, vehicle also overheats creating hazardous leaks of anti freeze at boiling temperatures ability to burn anyone who comes in contact. This remains an ongoing issue with vehicle, vehicle now back in possesion of bank santander consumer USA, this is being reported to protect any innocent parties involved to avoid injuries or even fatality.

See all problems of the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

Water pump is leaking in front of motor.

We have had to deal with severe overheating issues and failing parts our entire ownership of this vehicle, both of which then cause other parts to fail, as the parts are so poorly made and heat sensitive. We have replaced the turbocharger (twice), intake manifold + valve cover (twice), catalytic converter, the radiator (three times), the cooling fan (twice), the maf sensor (twice), and much more. All of this has been done over the course of 18months. This has easily been the most expensive car we have ever owned due to the constant repairs, all of which has been because of failing parts and overheating.

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, upon coming to a complete stop, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The traction control and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 117,000.

Steering wheel will lock up when you turn on car, we took it to paradise Chevrolet, and they found power steering module has update available however need 12 volt battery to be a higher cca to reprogram p/s volt battery testing at 356 cca recommend replacing battery and reprogramming p/s module. Of course, this was not covered under our protection plan and should be covered, I had to pay. $578. 37 my car is only six years, and this should not be happing. 11/27/23 vehicle shuts off while driving this has happened three time to us. We cannot drive the car it is not safe. 12/19/23 had it tow to paradise Chevrolet. This car is not safe to drive. We have a protection plan its useless.

The heating and cooling system has failed numerous times. The water outlet has been defective causing the engine to overheat along with the thermostat housing. The water outlet failed within a month of buying the car. It wasn't even 3 years old and only had 60 000 miles on it. Last month it failed. Just last week the thermostat housing failed. Now today the water outlet failed again. This car really needs investigated and have parts recalled. It's not fair to have a car for this short of time to have these issues. Each time it's been repaired by a certified mechanic.

Vehicle has 53k miles. I have had the error code p0011 (camshaft, vvt bank 1 too advanced) for most of the time I've had this car. Spend thousands at a certified dealership to get this issue fixed, only for it to pop up again. I was told the solution for this code is a new engine. This was after I spend thousands and my power train warranty expired. Oil changes and routine maintenance were all done in timely manner. This engine was built to fail.

Car has problems starting after gas is put in it u have to step on gas peddle several times to get it to start car does not have working backup camera in it or even a working radio in it car has a check engine light on I took it to were I ought it twice they cleared codes out of car but codes come back on all the time I would like to exchange this vehicle if possible can u help me manns performance vidalia GA 30474 is were it was purchased 6/01/2023 this has been a issue since I got from dealership crack in window after having it two weeks even with windows cracked sitting in the yard.

See all problems of the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic 🔎.

My cars coolant is leaking and the source is unknown. My car has overheated twice and my mechanic has been unable to find what needs to be repaired. The coolant has need to to be filled twice within a 6 month period. Now my car is having other issues with the catalyst system that lead me to believe the coolant leak might be affecting these other parts. My catalytic converter was already replaced and the same code has popped up 4 months later.

On 4/1/2023 my engine light went on. I had my nephews look at it. See pictures below for engine read and how oil mixed with antifreeze. Also note service paperwork. Gaskets were not up to quality to keep the oil sealed in its compartment. Manager called and tried to take care of issue because he only uses genuine parts but was told there was an issue with this part and until there were more fatalities or more people complained noting could be done. He was not happy. They did the best they could resorting to youtube videos and imagination. When I got it back, it was like brand new. Two days later, my engine light came on again. You will find the new engine reading which again had the oil mix with the antifreeze and no oil left. The engine would blow/seize or worse if I kept driving it. I am on disability and live alone. I cannot afford the unpredictability of having something happen to me on the road or where I am suppose to the money. I complained before to a manager at a dealership when I had a problem with my motor when my car was still new. He told me it was supposed to be like that. I keep revving in the middle of traffic lights and people were on my backend when I would get out of work at 3:00 am. The car was recalled two months later to replace many individual motor parts. I am too old and anxious to play these games. Please seriously have look into this please. Thank you for your time.

My auto started out with a check engine light. I noticed the engine smelled of overheated radiator and coolant smell. Parts were replaced for fix (hose). . . But check engine light continued as well as the overheated coolant smell. The auto was placed for checking on machine for codes for check engine light, but none of codes made sense to mechanic. Told to bring back for further testing/looks. Brought back several times. No idea what was wrong but last time I was told I needed to leave for extended testing and test driving as gears were not shifting in d struggled engine for me, no acceleration and rpms raced at times. (dangerous and unpredictable on highway and in town). Now I turned in for testing to chev mechanic, and now am facing a part that was replaced in control of electrical (over $500) and after they repaired that and tested I am told that I have a total transmission repair over $5200 - for a 2014 auto!!! it was in with dealership mechanics a total of 6-7 times. I was informed the electrical controls were confusing the engine reactions. Auto a dealers for $5200 + $500 repairs now 20230702 and problems seen & looked at since March for smell of overheating radiator, fix if hose (wonder if really needed), continued check engine light, refill of radiator fluid, codes checked and did not give correct evaluation. Eventually the transmission needs replaced out, at time that there is rpm revs, no acceleration while driving and gears heard to struggle in engine. Mileage now over 97000. Estimate on mileage, I do not have all documentation before me. Extended powertrain warranty from dealership started at year 2015!!! anything older not allowed, so I am told I have to pay the entire bill.

Unknown.

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that after the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for routine oil change services, there was a smell of oil inside the vehicle. The contact then stated that while the vehicle was parked, smoke was coming from underneath the hood and after opening it, there was coolant leaking out. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle had not yet been taken to an independent mechanic or a local dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed that the warranty had expired. The approximate failure mileage was unknown.

Throttle housing cracked. Lessing the power in the engine.

Overall and to the best of my knowledge, the malfunctioning and failures on my vehicle were the suspension and engine. They are the culprits and it’s honestly very scary and traumatizing to have them completely fail, especially since no one is ever prepared for accidents and/or potential death to happen. Otherwise it wouldn’t be called an accident. With the suspension overall, it’s just awful. Cv axel, control arms, everything with the suspension just failed. With driving over the tiniest bump on the road you feel your is about to literally fall apart at any minute because of the clunking and metal in metal noises it produces. The engine is faulty as well and I am pretty sure the faulty engine happens due to the faulty suspension. When I look under my car there’s something leaking. I don’t know what it is, but it’s poses a safety risk not only for the driver and the passengers, but also to the rest of the world. I know that there was a recall early on about fuel tank breakage or something that could lead to fire ignition. But my vehicle according to my VIN wasn’t on this recall. I have contacted the dealership and a certified service center to inspect these issues. It’s been roughly 4 weeks now and they have been extremely negligent and apathetic. With these issues, everyone’s safety is at risk. My suspension went out and could’ve caused a more catastrophic accident. A fire could’ve broken out with other vehicles surrounding me cause major injuries and death. I’ve seen and read many posts and testimonials and threads online from various independent resources that state very very closely the same issues. Almost verbatim. I’ve been trying to get these issues inspected by the dealership, but they all give me the runaround and don’t want to fix not find a solution. The check engine light has always been on since I’ve owen the vehicle and the dealership where I purchased this vehicle said having the check engine light on is okay. I need help getting repairs done!.

2013 Chevrolet Sonic 1. 8 l , fuel system lean ,mass airflow sensor, in limp mode preventing acceleration, gas tank when added gas. . . . Shuts down after start up-fuel system/gasoline; may cause possible fuel leak and could combust, alarm system and locks don't properly function - electric system equipment, insufficient welds. . . Around fuel tank and front of vehicle on bottom by driver's side could also cause combustion, bcm codes that came up were communication, electrical, fuel, windows, and airbags! autozone codes were po171 and co561-77,I looked up recalls , several came up for my make and model but weren't specific to my VIN# however my vehicle is doing everything pertaining to them! and I looked up if there was any special coverage on it and said there is. . . Before 120k miles or ten years time. And I was never notified of it & never received anything in the mail . . .

A few months after this car was purchased, we received the notice regarding recall 14234 for our 2012 chevy Sonic. However, when we brought it to the dealership, they stated that our vehicle didn't fall under the recall. I told them we were experiencing shaking while shifting and it seemed like the exact same issue. Now about 1 year later with less than 100,000 miles, the car will not shift properly into 3rd gear. The auto repair shop informed us that we need to get a new transmission among many other related repairs. We seem to have the exact same issue as reported in the recall; however, we continue to be informed that our vehicle does not fall under the umbrella of the recall. After doing a number of searches it seems that this is a common story. All these 2012 chevy Sonics have the same issue yet do not fall under the recall.

Once again, my doors unlocked then relocked, my dashboard lights went out and the engine stalled. I was on the ku campus when this happened 3 times within 6 blocks. This is getting very scary, especially when I am in a busy area of town. No codes have ever popped up. This has been happening since may 2022. I will keep reporting, hopefully there will be a recall soon. Very frustrated with this situation!.

3 times yesterday - September 1, 2022, my car locks unlocked then locked again and the engine stalled. Dash lights did not go off, but the car died 3 times in a matter of 10 minutes.

Purchased this vehicle in February 2022 with 105,000 miles. Oil sticker indicated recent oil change and oil color was light and clear. The day after purchase the check engine light came on. Diagnostic scan indicated bad thermostat assembly and 2 oil sensors needed replacement. Radiator fluid was low. Ac didn't cool. Repairs completed almost $900. The check engine light came on again the next day. The check engine and check oil lights/alarms need to be actual gauges. The vehicle overheated 3 times due to low coolant and faulty fan sensor fuse. Where is all the coolant going? a leaky hose was replaced but it didn't fix the coolant leak. Of course the car will easily overheat so I keep coolant with me to avoid being disabled during rush hour traffic on the interstate in 105 degree temperatures. The engine continues to run hot and the check engine light stays on. The oil light/alarm is something new that started last Monday after driving 20 miles to yukon, ok. No warning of any problem until I exited onto the service road to wait for a green light. The oil alarm/light turned off upon acceleration but returned again when the idle rpm went below 1000. Repairs were estimated at over $2200 for a new oil pump. I requested an engine flush and oil change instead since an oil pump could not be located. The oil filter was found to have collapsed but a new oil filter did not fix the low oil pressure at idle. So many defects with this vehicle!!! what the heck???? odometer reading today is 107,364. It seems chevy has manufactured a car that will barely make it past 100,000 miles and repair parts aren't available? something isn't right with this picture. This car isn't safe to drive. Sincerely, not-okay in okc, ok.

Multiple parts in my engine have malfunctioned in the past year, the most recent being a tube bursting and getting coolant everywhere. Other problems have been with valves, temperature gauges and even the radiator. It’s like something new breaks every month. I have had every issue fixed and usually I don’t get a warning lamp until I’m broken down on the side of the road.