2016 Chevrolet Sonic
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
- Complaints
- 48
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- Engine
Campaigns on file for 2016
None on file
27% of complaints
Complaints per year
2016: 48 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 1 |
| 2012 | 354 |
| 2013 | 217 |
| 2014 | 150 |
| 2015 | 114 |
| 2016 | 48 |
| 2017 | 37 |
| 2018 | 15 |
| 2019 | 8 |
| 2020 | 10 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine
27% · 13 reportsShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The ESC and oil pressure warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-06-20
Also filed under Electronic stability control (esc)
Electrical system
23% · 11 reportsMost commonly citing interior/under dash and ignition.
Air bags
17% · 8 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Car was in motion going down the highway. Stopped at a redlight. Continued qhen light turned green but not fast as the next light was turning red. Brake failure resulted in a car accident.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-07-23
Also filed under Service brakes
Fuel/propulsion system
10% · 5 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Cars computer/programming is remotely controlled ,brakes tranmission lights suspension do notb perform as intended by manufacturer.hacking involved while driving stationary freeways/city streets.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-06-07
Suspension
6% · 3 reportsSafety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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2016-05-26Electrical system, equipment16V257000 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.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
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2016-07-22Electrical system, equipment16V422000 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.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall began on July 22, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 45340.
Buy-smart checklist
2016 Chevrolet Sonic — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 13 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 11 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 8 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 16V257000 · Electrical system, equipment
- Recall 16V422000 · Electrical system, equipment
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic is rated "better than typical".
- What are the most common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.