While Chevrolet has manufactured some fine vehicles over the years, some models have significantly more problems than others. Discover right now what models top the list in the complaints department and the problems Chevy owners complain about.
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Two Models to Think About Before Buying Used
Buying a used Chevy over a new one can be a great way to save money due to the still overly inflated prices we are seeing today. However, choosing the wrong model can make the difference between savings…and winding up with a money pit of a problem.
Related article: Old Chevy’s Worth Buying Over New Ones
According to the Haynes manuals website, “The most problematic model Chevrolet over the years has been the Impala, which has generated 4772 complaints from owners on carcomplaints.com. However, the Malibu isn’t that far behind on 4611 complaints.”
A Summary of Complaints
That said, the staff of Haynes Manuals have come up with a list of common problems owners are finding not just in the aforementioned models, but shared by other models as well that can help the used car shopper to be wary of potential problem deal-breakers by knowing what to look for before making that used car purchase.
However, with the right Haynes manual for your model you can still come out ahead due to some of the common problems listed are well within the semi-skilled DIY mechanic looking to make a good deal even better.
Top 10 Chevrolet Problems
1. Passlock problems---The Chevrolet Passlock system has a history of not allowing the car to be started and has even physically locked owners out of their vehicles. Unfortunately, this is a job best left for the dealership…but at an average cost of $520!
2. Transmission problems---The staff at Hyanes warns that “Lots of Chevrolet owners have experienced transmission troubles, quite often at around the 90,000-mile mark, but sometimes earlier,” that range from minor repairs to complete replacements. Expect an average cost of repair at more than $3,000.
3. Electrical problems---The potential problems here are seemingly endless. “The Chevrolet Impala alone suffers issues including failing to start, windows and door mirrors, suddenly ceasing to operate, and batteries going inexplicably flat. A couple of cars have even gone on fire,” states Haynes. The good news is that armed with a Haynes manual and an electrical tester you could beat an average repair cost of $450.
5. Instrument problems---Instrument cluster failure at around the 64,000-mile mark is not uncommon in Silverado’s and Trailblazers. The only fix is that of replacement; however, DIY owners can cut cost by avoiding labor charges and possibly even salvaging one from a junk yard.
6. Fuel pump problems---According to Haynes, “If you have a Chevrolet Cavalier from just after the turn of the millennium, there’s a fair chance that it will suffer a fuel pump failure. This is the second most common problem to afflict the car, and costs an average of $700 to put right. So why not save cash by buying the part and fitting it yourself. Easy with Haynes.”
7. Cracking dashboard problems---Beware of Tahoes from hotter climates which tend to have a notable cracking problem with their dashboards. Repair costs at around $200.
8. Oil consumption problems---Potential used Tahoe buyers will want to know that excessive oil consumption could be a problem in models approaching the 100,000 mile mark. A cylinder compression test is warranted before buying along with some advice from an experienced Tahoe mechanic as repair costs can reach $5500.
Related article: The Most Important Used Car Test You Should Do Before Deciding to Buy a Used Car
9. Air-conditioning problems---The staff at Haynes warns that, “The air-conditioning system on many Chevys is known to be quite fragile. The cause can be anything from a broken condenser to an air-con compressor that has given up the ghost.” Expect an average cost of repair is $1,110 from your neighborhood dealership.
Related article: Do This with Your Car’s AC System Before Going to a Mechanic
10. Vortec V8 Woes---Chevy’s 5.3-liter Vortec V8 has a history of rough running engine complaints you will want to investigate further before buying. Expect a four-figure repair/rebuild cost that can be lessened with some DIY help from Haynes.
And finally…
For additional news related to Chevys, here are a few articles for your consideration:
• Chevy Trucks to Buy and Not Buy Explained by a Chevrolet Mechanic
• Classic Chevy Engine Swapping Consideration
Timothy Boyer is a Torque News automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.
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