IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2011 Chevrolet Orlando

The Orlando went on sale in the UK in early 2011 as a seven-seat compact MPV on the Cruze's Delta II platform, offered with a 1.8 petrol or 2.0 VCDi diesel and a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

What changed for 2011

  • •Seven-seat compact MPV on the Delta II platform shared with the Cruze, with a 5-star Euro NCAP result in 2011.
  • •1.8 petrol and a 2.0 VCDi diesel in 130 and 163PS forms were available, with 6-speed manual and automatic gearboxes.
  • •A 1.4 Turbo petrol joined later and the trim ladder included LS, LT and LTZ.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Front lower arm bushes and drop links producing knocks on heavily loaded family cars.
  • !Corroded rear brake discs and calipers on cars used mainly for school runs.
  • !Worn rear dampers and bushes where the car has regularly carried seven occupants.
2
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Automatic Gearbox (6T40/6T45) Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The 6-speed automatic can suffer from internal "wave plate" failure or solenoid issues if the fluid is not changed regularly.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£3,000
Warning Signs:

Slipping between gears, Harsh shifting, Loss of reverse gear

What to Inspect:
  • Ensure the automatic shifts cleanly when both cold and hot
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Cooling System and Thermostat Issues

ModerateCooling System

Like the Cruze, the Orlando suffers from thermostat housing failures and water pump leaks. The plastic housing can crack and cause coolant loss.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£400
Warning Signs:

Temperature gauge rising, Coolant loss, Heater performance issues, Sweet smell from engine bay

What to Inspect:
  • Check coolant level and condition
  • Inspect thermostat housing for cracks
  • Test heater performance
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2011 Chevrolet Orlando

  • Test the third-row seats and floor-fold mechanism; broken latches and stiff hinges are easy to miss.
  • Prefer a fully stamped service history, as the 2.0 VCDi's oil and DPF care matters a lot on UK short-trip use.
  • Check the 6-speed automatic for smooth shifts, since neglect of fluid changes can lead to costly gearbox faults.
  • Check the dual-mass flywheel and clutch on diesel manuals, especially if the car was used to tow.
2012–2015
Check a 2011 Chevrolet Orlando by Registration