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 PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 1 |
| 2012 | 353 |
| 2013 | 217 |
| 2014 | 149 |
| 2015 | 114 |
| 2016 | 48 |
| 2017 | 37 |
| 2018 | 14 |
| 2019 | 8 |
| 2020 | 10 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
27% of complaints: engine — 13 distinct reports on file.
Show 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, 20240620
19% of complaints: electrical system — 9 distinct reports on file.
17% of complaints: air bags — 8 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow 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, 20180723
10% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 5 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow 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, 20170607
6% of complaints: suspension — 3 distinct reports on file.
CRASHSAFETY TIMELINE
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.
Campaign 16V257000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
Campaign 16V422000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2016 Chevrolet Sonic — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (13 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 16V257000 (electrical system, equipment) has been completed.
- Verify recall 16V422000 (electrical system, equipment) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
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 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.