The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze promised fuel efficiency, a comfortable ride, and a modern design at an affordable price. But does it live up to its promises years down the line? Reliability and consumer satisfaction are crucial factors when considering a used car, and the 2017 Cruze has a mixed reputation in both areas, requiring a closer look to understand its true standing.
Peeling Back the Layers: What Do the Reliability Ratings Say?
When diving into the reliability of any car, it’s important to consult various sources to get a well-rounded perspective. Let's explore what the experts and owners have to say about the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze.
J.D. Power: While J.D. Power's ratings can fluctuate yearly, they generally offer a good overview. Historically, the 2017 Cruze hasn't consistently ranked at the top of its class in J.D. Power's reliability surveys. You'll often see it falling somewhere in the middle, indicating average reliability compared to other compact cars. It's best to consult the specific J.D. Power rating for the year you are considering purchasing.
Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports is another valuable resource, known for its in-depth testing and owner surveys. Their ratings often reflect the long-term ownership experience. The 2017 Cruze has received mixed reviews from Consumer Reports, with some years showing better predicted reliability than others. Dig into their archives to find the specific ratings and owner feedback for the 2017 model year.
RepairPal: RepairPal provides a reliability rating based on factors like repair frequency, severity, and cost. They assign a reliability score compared to other vehicles. Checking RepairPal's rating for the 2017 Cruze can give you a good idea of potential repair costs and the likelihood of needing repairs.
Important Note: It's crucial to remember that these ratings are based on averages. Your experience with a 2017 Cruze can vary depending on factors like the car's previous maintenance, driving habits, and even regional climate.
Real-World Experiences: What Owners Are Saying
Beyond the expert ratings, the true test of a car's reliability lies in the experiences of its owners. Let's delve into what 2017 Cruze owners are reporting.
Common Issues: Owners have reported issues with the 2017 Cruze, including:
- Cooling System Problems: This is a recurring theme, with reports of coolant leaks, thermostat failures, and issues with the water pump. These problems can lead to overheating and potentially serious engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Turbocharger Issues: The Cruze's turbocharged engine can experience problems with the turbocharger itself, leading to reduced power, increased oil consumption, and even complete turbo failure.
- Electrical Problems: Some owners have reported electrical issues, such as problems with the infotainment system, sensors, and other electrical components.
- Transmission Problems: Both the automatic and manual transmissions have been reported to have issues, including slipping gears, rough shifting, and complete transmission failure, although this is less common.
- PCV Valve Failure: The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve system can fail, causing engine issues and potentially leading to oil leaks.
Positive Feedback: It's not all negative! Many owners appreciate the 2017 Cruze for its:
- Fuel Efficiency: The Cruze is known for its excellent fuel economy, especially on the highway.
- Comfortable Ride: The Cruze offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a good choice for long commutes.
- Modern Features: The 2017 Cruze comes with a range of modern features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, smartphone integration, and available safety technologies.
- Affordability: The Cruze is often more affordable than other compact cars, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Where to Find Owner Reviews:
- Edmunds: Offers owner reviews and ratings, providing a diverse range of perspectives.
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB): Includes owner reviews and ratings, along with expert reviews and pricing information.
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): While primarily focused on safety, the NHTSA website also allows owners to submit complaints and reports, which can provide valuable insights into potential problems.
- Chevrolet Cruze Forums: Online forums dedicated to the Cruze are a treasure trove of information, with owners sharing their experiences, tips, and solutions to common problems.
Digging Deeper: Common Problems and Potential Solutions
Let's take a closer look at some of the most common problems reported with the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze and explore potential solutions.
Cooling System Issues:
- Problem: Coolant leaks, thermostat failures, water pump issues.
- Solution: Regular coolant checks and flushes are crucial. Inspect the cooling system hoses and connections for leaks. Replace the thermostat and water pump as needed. Consider upgrading to a more durable aftermarket thermostat.
Turbocharger Issues:
- Problem: Turbocharger failure, reduced power, increased oil consumption.
- Solution: Use high-quality synthetic oil and change it regularly. Avoid aggressive driving habits that can strain the turbocharger. Listen for unusual noises from the turbocharger. If you suspect a problem, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately.
Electrical Problems:
- Problem: Infotainment system glitches, sensor failures, other electrical issues.
- Solution: Check the battery and charging system. Inspect the wiring harness for damage. Consult a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair electrical problems. Software updates may resolve some infotainment system issues.
Transmission Problems:
- Problem: Slipping gears, rough shifting, transmission failure.
- Solution: Perform regular transmission fluid changes according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Avoid aggressive driving habits that can strain the transmission. If you experience any transmission problems, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately.
PCV Valve Failure:
- Problem: Engine issues, oil leaks.
- Solution: Regularly inspect the PCV valve and replace it if necessary. Consider installing an aftermarket PCV valve with improved durability.
The Importance of Maintenance: Keeping Your Cruze Running Smoothly
Regardless of the car's inherent reliability, proper maintenance is crucial for extending its lifespan and preventing problems. Here are some key maintenance tips for the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze:
- Regular Oil Changes: Use high-quality synthetic oil and change it according to the manufacturer's recommendations (or even more frequently if you do a lot of city driving).
- Coolant Flushes: Perform regular coolant flushes to prevent corrosion and maintain optimal cooling system performance.
- Transmission Fluid Changes: Change the transmission fluid according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Air Filter Replacement: Replace the air filter regularly to ensure proper engine performance and fuel efficiency.
- Spark Plug Replacement: Replace the spark plugs according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Brake Inspections: Have your brakes inspected regularly and replace the brake pads and rotors as needed.
- Tire Rotations: Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.
- Regular Inspections: Have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic regularly to identify and address potential problems early on.
Consumer Satisfaction: Beyond Reliability
Reliability is just one piece of the puzzle. Consumer satisfaction also encompasses factors like:
- Comfort and Features: As mentioned earlier, many owners appreciate the Cruze's comfortable ride and modern features.
- Fuel Economy: The Cruze's excellent fuel economy is a major selling point for many owners.
- Value for Money: The Cruze's affordability makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Driving Experience: While not a sports car, the Cruze offers a decent driving experience, especially on the highway.
- Dealer Service: The quality of service at Chevrolet dealerships can vary, which can impact overall satisfaction.
Measuring Consumer Satisfaction:
- Owner Surveys: Websites like Edmunds and KBB collect owner reviews and ratings, providing valuable insights into overall satisfaction.
- Customer Satisfaction Indices: J.D. Power and other organizations conduct customer satisfaction surveys that can provide a broader perspective.
What To Look For When Buying a Used 2017 Cruze
If you're considering buying a used 2017 Chevrolet Cruze, here are some key things to look for:
- Maintenance Records: Ask to see the car's maintenance records to get an idea of how well it has been cared for.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it. This can help identify any potential problems that may not be obvious.
- Check for Recalls: Check the NHTSA website to see if there are any outstanding recalls for the car.
- Test Drive: Take the car for a test drive to see how it performs. Pay attention to the engine, transmission, brakes, and steering.
- Negotiate the Price: Be prepared to negotiate the price, especially if the car has any known issues.
- Check the Car's History: Get a vehicle history report from a reputable provider like Carfax or AutoCheck to check for accidents, title issues, and other potential problems.
- Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay close attention to any unusual noises coming from the engine, transmission, or other components.
- Inspect the Cooling System: Check for coolant leaks around the engine and radiator.
- Check the Turbocharger: Listen for any unusual noises from the turbocharger.
- Test the Infotainment System: Make sure the infotainment system is working properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze a reliable car? The 2017 Cruze has mixed reliability ratings. Some common issues include cooling system and turbocharger problems, so a thorough inspection is crucial.
What are the most common problems with the 2017 Cruze? The most frequently reported problems involve the cooling system, turbocharger, electrical system, and PCV valve. Regular maintenance can help mitigate these issues.
Is the 2017 Cruze good on gas? Yes, the 2017 Cruze is known for its excellent fuel economy, especially on the highway. This is one of its major selling points.
Is the 2017 Cruze a comfortable car? Many owners find the 2017 Cruze to be comfortable, offering a smooth ride, particularly on longer journeys.
Should I buy a used 2017 Chevrolet Cruze? If you're considering a used 2017 Cruze, have it thoroughly inspected by a mechanic beforehand. Consider its price, fuel economy, and features against potential maintenance costs.
The Final Verdict
The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze offers a compelling package of fuel efficiency, comfort, and modern features at an affordable price. However, its reliability record is mixed, with some common issues reported by owners. Thorough research and a pre-purchase inspection are essential before making a decision.