IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2011 Chevrolet Lacetti

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2011 Chevrolet Lacetti. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Throttle Body Carbon Buildup and Idle Surging

ModerateFuel System

On 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol engines, oily crankcase blow-by gases and exhaust deposits accumulate around the throttle butterfly valve and idle air control passage. Over time, the gummy carbon deposits prevent the throttle plate from returning to its precise baseline position, resulting in fluctuating engine revs, stalling when depressing the clutch, and hesitation upon accelerating from junctions.

Est. Repair Cost: £120–£280
Warning Signs:

Unstable engine idle speed that hunts between 700rpm and 1,500rpm, Engine cutting out unexpectedly when stopping at traffic lights or roundabouts, Sticking or jerky accelerator pedal travel under gentle initial throttle application, Illuminated Check Engine Light with diagnostic codes related to idle air regulation

What to Inspect:
  • Remove the air intake trunking and check the throttle bore and butterfly plate for dark sticky residue
  • Start the engine and observe whether the revs stabilize cleanly when blipping the throttle
  • Inspect the idle air control stepper motor and associated vacuum hoses for splits or blockages
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Failure and Tone Ring Corrosion

ModerateBrakes

The wheel speed sensors and ABS reluctor tone rings fitted to the front and rear hubs are exposed to harsh UK road salt and winter grit. Corrosion builds up beneath the reluctor rings, causing them to crack or distort, while road grime breaches the wheel speed sensor wiring connectors. This causes erratic speed signals, false ABS triggering during gentle low-speed braking, and permanent illumination of the ABS warning light.

Est. Repair Cost: £140–£320
Warning Signs:

Permanent illumination of the amber ABS warning lamp on the instrument binnacle, Pulsing or vibration through the brake pedal under gentle braking in dry conditions, Loss of anti-lock braking function, causing an automatic failure at the annual UK MOT inspection, Stored wheel speed sensor signal fault codes in the ABS electronic control module

What to Inspect:
  • Scan the ABS electronic control unit with an OBD tool to determine which wheel position is logging faults
  • Visually inspect the toothed ABS reluctor rings on the drive shafts and rear hubs for cracks or missing teeth
  • Check the sensor wiring harnesses near the wheel arches for chafing, corroded pins, or loose mountings
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Imprecise Heavy Manual Gearshift

MinorGearbox & Transmission

The Lacetti manual gearshift is imprecise and heavy, with a long, rubbery throw and reluctance to engage gears, especially second and third. Worn gear-linkage bushes and synchro wear make the change vague and tiring in stop-start UK town driving. Auto Express described the Lacetti gearbox as heavy and reluctant, and the fault is easy to reproduce on a test drive by shifting through every gear.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£300
Warning Signs:

Vague, rubbery gearshift action, Difficulty engaging second or third, Heavy gear lever action, Grinding on gearchanges

What to Inspect:
  • Shift through all gears on a test drive
  • Check for crunching into second or third
  • Feel for slack in the gear lever
  • Ask about any gearbox or linkage work
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2011 Chevrolet Lacetti

  • Check documentary proof of timing belt and water pump replacement every 40,000 to 60,000 miles or 4 years, as belt snap causes catastrophic valve-to-piston contact
  • Test for smooth engine idling and crisp throttle response, checking for sticking throttle bodies or clogged idle control valves
  • Inspect the underbody, rear chassis sills, and suspension subframes for structural road-salt corrosion
  • Ensure the ABS and airbag warning lamps illuminate during the ignition bulb-check and extinguish cleanly upon engine start
  • Check all electric window switches and remote central locking fobs, as interior wiring looms can degrade
Check a 2011 Chevrolet Lacetti by Registration