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Chevrolet Cruze: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2019 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2019 (89/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2019 89 · 2017 79 · 2018 76 · 2015 75

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

201989/100
Buybest year

20 complaints · 2 recalls

201876/100
Buy

109 complaints · 3 recalls

201779/100
Buy

201 complaints · 2 recalls

201674/100
Buy

247 complaints · 4 recalls

201575/100
Buy

251 complaints · 4 recalls

201451/100
Caution

698 complaints · 10 recalls

201367/100
Caution

585 complaints · 5 recalls

201259/100
Caution

864 complaints · 7 recalls

201159/100
Caution

731 complaints · 7 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2019?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2019 Chevrolet Cruze head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Chevrolet Cruze as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.