IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2011 Chevrolet Cruze

The Cruze five-door hatchback arrived in the UK in 2011 with a sleeker rear and a more powerful 122bhp 1.6, giving buyers a more practical alternative to the saloon.

What changed for 2011

  • •Five-door hatchback body added in mid-2011, giving a more practical load area than the saloon.
  • •1.6-litre petrol power was increased from 113bhp to 122bhp.
  • •Hatchback equipment included Bluetooth and a touchscreen on higher trims; check the individual car's specification.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Front lower arm bushes and drop links causing knocks and uneven tyre wear.
  • !Rear light units and number plate bulbs that fail intermittently.
  • !Oil leaks from the rocker cover and sump that can give an MOT advisory.
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Diesel Oil Dilution and DPF Clogging

SeriousEngine

Incomplete DPF regenerations lead to fuel entering the oil sump. If not caught, this can lead to engine "runaway" or bearing failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £150 (Oil change) to £2,000+ (DPF replacement)
Warning Signs:

Rising oil level on dipstick, DPF warning light, Frequent "active" regenerations (high idle)

What to Inspect:
  • Check the oil level; it should not be above the "Max" mark
  • Ask about the car's typical usage (motorway vs town)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

M32 Gearbox Bearing Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Like its Vauxhall cousins, the 6-speed manual gearbox can suffer from bearing wear, eventually leading to total failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Whine in 5th or 6th gear, Gear lever movement under throttle, Notchy gear selection

What to Inspect:
  • Motorway test drive to listen for transmission noise
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Cooling System Thermostat and Water Pump Failures

ModerateCooling System

The thermostat housing and water pump are common failure points. The plastic thermostat housing can crack, and the water pump can develop leaks, leading to overheating.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£500
Warning Signs:

Temperature gauge rising, Coolant smell from engine bay, Heater blowing cold, Low coolant level

What to Inspect:
  • Check the temperature gauge during the test drive
  • Inspect the thermostat housing for cracks
  • Look for coolant stains around the engine
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Electrical Sensor and Warning Light Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Various sensors including crankshaft position, oxygen, and mass air flow sensors can fail, triggering warning lights and causing poor running. The electronic boot release is also a known failure point.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£400
Warning Signs:

Engine management light, Rough running or stalling, Electronic boot release not working, Multiple warning lights

What to Inspect:
  • Check for stored fault codes
  • Test the electronic boot release
  • Ask about sensor replacement history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

  • Choose the 1.6 or 1.8 petrol if most mileage is short urban trips, to avoid diesel particulate filter issues.
  • Check that the hatch's electrical release and tailgate seals operate correctly.
  • Inspect the underside for kerb damage to the front lip and undertray.
  • Ensure all recalls have been completed by a Vauxhall or Chevrolet-capable specialist.
20102012
Check a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze by Registration