Worst 2016 Chevrolet Sonic Problems
Top 3 most-reported issues with average mileage at failure.
Engine Problems
Electrical Faults
Airbags
Check the actual VIN — every car is different.
This page shows the model year's reputation. The VIN tells you about this specific car — accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks. Full report just $4.99 (vs. Carfax $44.99).
All Problems by Category
Every NHTSA complaint category for the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 13 | — | — | 62,822 mi | |
| Electrical Faults | 9 | — | — | 41,202 mi | |
| Airbags | 8 | 5 | — | 43,857 mi | |
| Fuel System | 5 | 1 | — | 77,667 mi | |
| Electronic Stability Control | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 3 | 1 | — | — | |
| Engine & Cooling | 2 | — | 1 | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Brakes | 2 | 2 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Electrical System:Ignition | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical System:Wiring:Interior/Under Dash | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Latches / Locks | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 1 | — | 1 | — | |
| Body Structure | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 1 | — | — | — |
Search Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Recalls for 2016 Chevrolet Sonic
2 NHTSA recall campaigns affecting ~336,352 vehicles.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax, and 2013-2015 Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver fails to fasten their seatbelt or if the driver leaves the key in the ignition. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection" and 114 "Theft Protection."
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax vehicles and 2013-2015 Chevrolet Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver, after turning off the ignition and leaving the key in the cylinder, waits 10 minutes or longer to open the door. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114 "Theft Protection."
Other Chevrolet Sonic Years
2016 Chevrolet Sonic — FAQ
Answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this specific model year.
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic reliable?
What are common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic?
At what mileage do problems start on the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic?
How safe is the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic?
Does the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic have any recalls?
Should I buy a 2016 Chevrolet Sonic?
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinItel.
Wider context: See the full Chevrolet Sonic reliability report with year-by-year comparison and generation analysis.
Check Your Specific 2016 Chevrolet Sonic
Real owner complaints tell you about the model. The VIN tells you about your specific car — accidents, title issues, odometer fraud.
Check Any VIN — $4.99