Breaking Down The Problems With 2015 Chevy Cruze

The Chevy Cruze stands out as a reliable choice, boasting fewer recalls and complaints compared to most other model years. However, there are problems with 2015 Chevy Cruze you should keep an close eye on!

When we look at various years of the compact Chevrolet Cruze, we find that the 2015 model marks the culmination of the first generation.

Admittedly, it lacks some modern features found in the updated 2016 model, such as Apple CarPlay, and its design may appear somewhat dated when placed side by side with its successor.

So, how does the 2015 Cruze fare in comparison to other model years concerning problems, recalls, and overall reliability?

Four Recalls for the 2015 Chevy Cruze

According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Chevrolet Cruze 2015 problems has been subject to 4 recalls and has garnered 199 registered complaints.

This places it roughly on par with the redesigned 2016 model, with only a slight uptick in complaints compared to the 2017 model and a mere 2 more recalls than the 2018 version.

In contrast, the 2014 Cruze exhibits nearly triple the complaint count at 561 and almost double the number of recalls, totaling seven. As for earlier models, the scores for the 2013, 2012, and 2011 variants closely resemble those of the 2014 model.

Key Removal Issue (July 2016)

This recall affected 8,367 GM vehicles, including the 2015 Chevy Cruze. The problem was the key being removable without shifting to Park, potentially causing a rollaway risk.

It stemmed from a faulty electronic park lock lever inside the cylinder lock housing, which GM will replace at no cost if needed.

Seatbelt Bolt Tightness (December 2015)

Only 15 2015 Cruze units were affected by this December 2015 recall. It was due to insufficiently tightened seatbelt bolts that could loosen under heavy loads, increasing the injury risk during an accident.

The solution is as simple as tightening the bolts, which can be done at your nearest Chevy service center.

Steering Gear Torque Issue (July 2015)

This recall involved just 10 2014 and 2015 Chevy Cruze models. It related to inadequately torqued inner tie rods, which could lead to steering gear separation, resulting in loss of control.

GM will replace the steering assembly to address this rare problem.

Parking Brake Cable Bracket Concern (February 2015)

The most extensive recall, affecting 1,733 2015 Cruze models. It centered on parking brake cable brackets that might not be securely fastened, risking the bolts coming loose.

Chevy’s Solution

None of these recalls necessitate immediate action, as they are relatively uncommon and do not pose an imminent danger to occupants.

In contrast, there is a more pressing concern with certain 2013 and 2014 Cruze models, where up to 29,019 vehicles are facing a potentially fatal issue involving airbags that could rupture during deployment, sending metal fragments toward passengers.

Is your 2015 Chevrolet Cruze part of any of these recalls? You can check by running its VIN.

The Problems With 2015 Chevy Cruze

Engine and powertrain-related issues

They are the most frequently reported problems, encompassing stalling, coolant leaks, and overheating.

Out of the 98 complaints associated with engine and powertrain troubles, many drivers have described instances where the engine suddenly cuts out and stalls, often preceded by noticeable shaking or vibrations.

Additionally, there is a notable number of reports indicating engine oil and coolant leaks beneath the vehicle, which can frequently be attributed to a malfunctioning thermostat housing.

It’s worth noting that the majority of these engine-related grievances appear to be linked to the 1.4L turbocharged powertrain.

Unfortunately, not all of these problems have official solutions at this time, and vehicle owners have mentioned making multiple visits to their mechanics in pursuit of a resolution.

Another concerning issue to be aware of is that vehicles from the 2011 to 2014 model years equipped with the 1.4L engine have been known to experience water pump leaks, leading to AC failures and engine overheating. Regrettably, this problem has also surfaced in the 2015 Cruze model.

General Motors (GM) addressed this problem by extending the warranty to cover affected components, but this extension only applies to 2011-2014 models, leaving 2015 Cruze owners without this warranty protection.

Random dash lights illuminating and sensor issues

Following engine-related complaints, there are concerns related to the electrical system in the 2015 Cruze. Owners frequently report experiencing unexpected dash warnings, such as the check engine light or tire-pressure monitoring system, intermittently activating and deactivating.

Additionally, problems are observed with the radio, turn signals, and power windows, which often cease functioning without apparent cause.

Reports also mention instances where the Check Engine light illuminates, subsequently causing the vehicle to exhibit symptoms like shaking, smoking, sputtering, and a noticeable decrease in performance.

One owner recounted diagnosing the issue and receiving a fault code indicating a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor. After replacing the sensor and the air filter, the warning light disappeared, but the performance issues persisted.

Other owners are still searching for a solution and are hoping that GM will issue a recall to address this problem.

Issues related to steering and brakes

When reviewing complaints about steering problems, a significant number of drivers have shared experiences problems with 2015 Chevy Cruze, where the steering wheel becomes locked and cannot be turned while driving at speeds below 40 mph.

One incident resulted in a collision with a telephone pole, leading to the deployment of airbags and a subsequent fire in the vehicle’s front-end.

GM has taken steps to address these steering concerns by sending out several communications. Some of these communications provide instructions on reprogramming the power steering control module to resolve a sticking or slipping sensation in the steering wheel.

Additionally, they offer guidance on diagnosing power steering fluid leaks. Although no official recall has been issued, it appears that GM is aware of the problem and has provided information to address it.

In terms of brake-related complaints, most of them mention instances where the brake pedal occasionally requires extra effort to bring the vehicle to a stop.

One driver even likened the sensation to a loss of power assist in the brakes. Several other complaints involve brake failure while driving, with one case resulting in a low-speed accident.

Upon inspection, technicians discovered that the brake master cylinder had malfunctioned, leading to a leakage of brake fluid.

Final Words

Overall, the 2015 Cruze boasts a significantly improved safety record compared to earlier models and aligns more closely with second-generation models from 2016 onward.

Recalls are infrequent, and you simply need to verify that the specific vehicle in question has not been affected or has already undergone necessary repairs.

Although there are some worrisome complaint trends surrounding the problems with 2015 Chevy Cruze, such as occasional engine stalling or instances of the steering wheel locking, overall, this model remains a commendable choice for its age, with fewer problems than many other vehicles in its class.