What 201 owners told NHTSA about the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Limited

THE ENGINE HAS EXCESSIVE BLOW BY FROM THE OIL FILLER CAP. HAVING A MISFIRE ON CYLINDER NUMBER 1 AND IDLING ROUGH. THERE ARE SEVERAL THREADS ONLINE CONCERNING THIS ISSUE BEING CAUSED BY WORN PISTONS AND PISTON RINGS.

NHTSA ODI 11739100

Recently my car's check engine light and the message "Service Stabilitrak" started coming up on my car, then my car started shaking while idling. I quickly took the car to my mechanic who assessed it, replaced my spark plugs, which did not solve the issue, and recommended I go to the dealership. In between these appointments my car was consistently shaking while idling and I would have difficulties accelerating especially after coming to a complete stop and often while making turns, this worsened after adding fuel to my car. The nearest Chevrolet dealership did a compression test and found that the psi in cylinder 1 was only 85, while the rest of the cylinders are 180 psi. They reported "internal engine damage causing misfire on cylinder 1" and quoted the repairs and replacement engine at $9500, almost double the value of the car if the engine was working. The codes P0300 "Engine Misfire Detected" and P0301 "Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected" were the two relevant codes in the report. However the car only has 49,860 miles on it. I see that other people have reported this issue as well and it continues to happen. Additionally, if the manufacturing issue or defect has not been rectified what are the chances of this happening again down the line with the same issue? This is a clear manufacturing defect in the engine of these cars that make them a safety hazard on the road. There is no telling when and where my engine may completely give out despite the car being low mileage and well taken care of. GM and Chevrolet should and must rectify this issue.

NHTSA ODI 11737526

Car is currently not drivable due to strong smell of gas coming from under the hood. Findings, gas is leaking into the engine and car will not crank. Diagnostic machine indicates poor fuel to fuel injector causing a gas leak within the engine.

NHTSA ODI 11708707

My 2017 Chevy Cruze had the throttle body replaced by STG Auto Group in Montclair, CA. A few months after the repair, my car began shaking violently and then shut off in the middle of the street while I was driving on 11/17/2025 This created a serious safety hazard for me and other drivers. When I took the vehicle to a local auto zone once the vehicle turned on , they told me the throttle body “needs cleaning,” but a new throttle body should not get dirty within a few months. This suggests improper installation or a defective part. The problem returned even though the part was recently replaced. I immediately called the dealership who fixed it and the manager stated I’d have to wait to the following week for another inspection and that I can not be squeezed in . The vehicle is still unsafe to drive because it shakes and can stall unexpectedly. I am concerned because this issue has happened more than once and could have caused an accident. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11700010

My turbocharger is failing. My car has 83,000 miles, but had to get a completely new engine at 37,000 miles. So the engine is less than 50,000 miles old. My check engine light has turned on and it’s is the turbo charger. General Motors has a Special Coverage Adjustment N232395330 that covers models with the same engine as the Chevy Cruze. However, because the model is not listed they are refusing coverage under this adjustment. The adjustment specifically covers the turbocharger, a component or the engine. But since my model is not listed it is not covered despite having the same engine. My turbocharger began failing while I was driving on the grapevine in California. Luckily I was able to make it to my destination but had it failed over the grapevine that would have put me and my passengers in an unsafe situation. It is unacceptable that an engine with less than 50,000 miles on it which has been maintained with frequent oil changes be having this issue yet not be covered under an SCA that acknowledges the issue just doesn’t list the model.

NHTSA ODI 11690501

Check engine light say turbo charger problem code is P0299, i have googled this issue and its pretty common on this vehicle as well as prior years of chevy cruzes. There should be an investigation as to why this issue is so common.

NHTSA ODI 11676497

The Cruze has always been slow to accelerate which made passing a problem. In May 2025 we were driving on [XXX] in Detroit and the engine light came on the dashboard. We were able to drive the car without propulsion to Lansing, a distance of 90 miles. Feldman Chevorolet said the code for the light was engine turbo-charger. That's a $3K repair. We have no choice but to drive the car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11673940

My 2017 Chevrolet Cruze LT (VIN: [XXX] 1.4L turbo, ~85,000 miles) is inoperable due to cracked pistons, a known issue in 2016–2017 models causing misfires and power loss (TSB 18-NA-171). I seek GM goodwill assistance for repair costs (~$3,877–$10,500) and am exploring legal options, as no recall or class-action lawsuit currently exists. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6

NHTSA ODI 11662199

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the door latches independently unlocked and locked. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure had occurred with all four doors. The contact stated that the RPM occasionally increased unintendedly. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer twice; however, the failure was not duplicated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,994.

NHTSA ODI 11653936

We believe the auto stop is malfunctioning. When stopping at a light the car will go into auto stop and then die. It won't restart without getting out of the car, alarming and locking it, then unlock and get back in. This is our second 2017 cruze hatchback, both purchased brand new. The first one was doing the same thing less than 2 months after we bought it. Dealership couldn't figure it out, we caused enough of a scene for them to put us in another brand new one. Obviously, a car randomly dying on the road is a safety issue. We did have our first one checked out by the dealership, Autonation Chevrolet Gulf Freeway in Houston, and they couldn't find anything wrong and couldn't recreate the issue, which is why they got us in a second one. This one didn't start doing this until a couple months ago, at at 8 years old. No warranty, and we haven't had it checked out by anyone yet. It's worth mentioning that we also had this issue with our 2017 Traverse, 3 years in. Same dealership, couldn't recreate the issue, we ended up trading it in. No lights or warning lamps of any kind appeared.

NHTSA ODI 11645776

Slave cylinder failure. At approximately 125,000 miles, the slave cylinder began to fail. Clutch pedal would only come back up about half way, and would need to be pulled the rest of the way up. Associated problem is difficulty putting car into gear. Took vehicle to dealership for other warranty work and asked to investigate. Dealership ignored request. Took back separate time for other faulty parts and was ignored again. Other part failure was turbo waste gate. Internal spring failure caused turbo waste gate to become stuck open, not allowing boost to build. Caused check engine light and severe lack of power. Replaced part with aftermarket, and problem disappeared. Investigation into cause revealed low quality spring that broke internally. Dealership visits within extended warranty period were ignored/ told could not replicate issue, despite suggestions of potential causes, including waste gate failure.

NHTSA ODI 11638575

My 2017 Chevy Cruze engine failed with only 38,000 miles on it (Case [XXX]). After it happened, I read that this is a known problem (see link below). I hope that GM will consider a recall on this item in order to save others from this experience. When I contacted GM and Chevy about this in late August, I was hoping that GM would take full responsibility for what clearly appears to be a manufacturing defect in Cylinder 1. I was deeply disappointed that it took GM so long to respond to this request, and that the compensation was no more than the cost assistance that I was offered at the dealership originally. I will never buy a GM vehicle again, and will be sure to tell my friends and family about my dissatisfaction with owning a 2017 Chevy Cruze. [XXX] Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11633238

When it’s cold outside the air induction signal comes on and comes off. This is the second time I had this service within a year. Mechanics advised me that there is nothing wrong with my vehicle and drives smooth that the code P1101 maybe a recall because they have been seeing it much frequent on Chevy Cruze 2017,2018

NHTSA ODI 11628906

At just over 70k miles the engine began running rough. Diagnostic showed cylinder 1 pressure issues from cracked piston requiring engine replacement. This vehicle has had all recommend service since owning it.

NHTSA ODI 11599316

To whom it may concern, I am writing to express my deep disappointment and frustration regarding my recent experience with my 2017 Chevrolet Cruze. It has come to my attention that there is a known issue with the piston in the engine of this model, and unfortunately, I have fallen victim to it. This issue has caused significant inconvenience and expense for me. As a loyal Chevrolet customer, I expect better quality and reliability from your vehicles. I urge you to address this matter promptly and take responsibility for the faulty piston in the engine of the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze. I trust that you will take appropriate action to rectify this situation and restore my confidence in your brand. Case # 9-12557961076

NHTSA ODI 11584805

1st cylinder misfire with only 60,000 miles on it. Research shows this is an issue yet GM Chevy has not recalled it. Not a simple fix it requires new engine

NHTSA ODI 11556035

The piston in my front cylinder cracked while traveling causing safety issues including, inconsistent speeds, poor acceleration, engine cutting off while driving. While no accident/injury occurred while driving in this instance, it would have been easy for something to happen. The garage I took it took recommended against driving it as it could shut down at any time on the road.

NHTSA ODI 11547188

The Service Stabilitrak light came on at the same time as the check engine light. When this happened the first time I had it checked, it gave the Code P1101. I payed to having the Massive air flow sensor fix, than a few days after having massive air flow sensor replaced.The Service Stabilitrak and engine light came back on. The engine started to misfire I took it back to the car dealer shop and I was told that it was a Cylinder in the engine. The dealers shop at first couldn't tell me why it was doing this. After the car dealer ship opened up the engine they said that engine needed to be replacement.

NHTSA ODI 11543957

The engine failed and needs replacement due to low compression and constant misfire on cylinder #1, according to the dealership. I sold the vehicle because of the repair costs that were required. The vehicle’s mileage was 47,664 at time of inspection. A Chevrolet dealer confirmed the issue, and GM acknowledged that the issue occurred. The check engine light turned on a few weeks before the failure was diagnosed, and the light began flashing about a week before it was diagnosed. The Service Stabilitrak light also turned on at the same time as the check engine light.

NHTSA ODI 11541970

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the spark plugs and ignition coils were replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that there was a misfire in cylinder #1. The vehicle was taken to another independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the piston was fractured, and the engine block needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

NHTSA ODI 11537760

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40-45 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated and the vehicle decelerated to 30-35 MPH. Additionally, the vehicle made abnormal rattling sounds and failed to exceed 30-35 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the knock sensors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred two months later. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where the knock sensors and the engine were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer, Zimbrick Chevrolet Service (1877 W Main St #200, Sun Prairie, WI 53590), where the knock sensors and the knock sensors terminal were replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Engine Control Module (ECM) needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist because the vehicle was out of warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

NHTSA ODI 11534297

Vehicle had a cracked piston. Now the vehicle is very sluggish while accelerating from a stop. Burns a tremendous amount of fuel. Vehicle is also stalling frequently. It’s been to Chevrolet twice and a mom and pop shop and nobody can figure out what the problem is.

NHTSA ODI 11533975

Based off my mechanic's assessment and that of a Chevrolet dealership, one of the cylinders in my Chevy Cruze is no longer firing. The dealership believes at least one of the pistons needs to be replaced. The car is available for inspection. The car is unreliable to drive, as I drove up a freeway incline it slowed to a dangerously low speed for freeway driving. The dealership has confirmed they believe it is an issue with the piston but will not confirm without charging $2800 to dismantle the car and are not able to guarantee they will be able to fix the issue. Diagnostics were run on the car at Putnam Chevrolet in Burlingame CA. There were no warning lamps or messages prior to a major issue with the cars functionality. The issue first appeared June 15, 2023 without any warning. The engine light came on and the car was not functioning properly, plus a notification to "service Stabilitrek". I have found mention of the same problem on consumer forums. Cracked pistons are a KNOWN issue on this make and model but there are no recalls and the car is just outside of the warranty.

NHTSA ODI 11534172

I purchase this car in 2017 apprentices 2017 Cruze at the time it only have four thousand miles it has 80,000 MI it was a fuel injector pump replaced next to the engine at everybody there knew that the car was defective due to the fact that they have several men that don't know what they're doing and working on these cars are unprofessional workers and everybody here knows that they keep repairing cars and they need to send them back to the manufacturer for DFCS and numerous problems they said everybody here got nothing but junk cars and they need help to replace them immediately in this car the cruise and the Malibu the odometer kept sticking and going bad and they did replace it once and then they replaced it again and they left the park open in the vehicle you always have to get so many oil changes with this and then the one-time the Auto stop feature had got stuck on a train track and it was very hard to get that car off we had got frightened and had jumped off the car over here in Milwaukee off of 2nd street or 1st Street we're trying to report whatever we can so I can get a replacement vehicle or sometimes the rear camera was defective to it didn't always come on right away

NHTSA ODI 11531233

Car very suddenly started having slow acceleration, and vibration felt during acceleration. Check engine light on with StabiliTrak warning message on dashboard. Rough idle and vibration felt in cabin. Difficulty accelerating at traffic light and car seemed to almost stall at one point. Diagnosed at the dealer with cracked pistons in engine with code P0300 for random misfire. 2017 Chevy Cruz has passed the power train warranty by 1 year. Mileage odometer reading is about 58200. GM is not willing to replace without charging $4700 for replacing the faulty piston components in the engine even though this poses safety hazard for regular driving. After some research, this seems to be a widely known problem of this generation Chevy Cruz and GM has even changed the part number of the piston assembly to replace the faulty pistons in engine. This needs to be a recall!

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