1986 Chevrolet Nova
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 4
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1986: 4 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1986 | 4 |
| 1987 | 15 |
| 1988 | 11 |
| 1990 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Steering
1 of 4 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving at speeds not exceeding 20MPH vehicle began spinning out of control resulting in a serious accident, and car being totaled. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-01-24
Seat belts
1 of 4 total reports mentions: seat belts.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer was involved in rear end accident. Seatbelt did not lock, causing driver to hit windshield.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-08-19
Fuel system, gasoline
1 of 4 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing tank assembly.
Engine and engine cooling
1 of 4 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline.
Show complaint excerpts
Loud whining noise is heard at highway speeds. Please explain. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-06-07
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1986 Chevrolet Nova — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Steering: 1 report on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 1 report on file for this year.
- Fuel system, gasoline: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1986 Chevrolet Nova reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1986 Chevrolet Nova?
- The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1986 Chevrolet Nova have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.