2018 Chevrolet Sonic
Only 15 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 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 15
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2018
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2018: 15 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
Only 15 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Electrical system
6 of 15 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
My 2018 Chevrolet Sonic 1.8L has experienced repeated complete battery discharge and electrical failures over approximately two years. The factory infotainment system does not consistently shut down after the ignition is turned off.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-10-14
Engine
4 of 15 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Dear GM Executive Office, I am writing in frustration and disappointment after being told today by Chevrolet Customer Assistance that the case I opened (Case # [XXX]) was simply a "dealer complaint" and that no further help would be offered -...
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-07-22
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine was idling roughly. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-05-15
Also filed under Fuel system, gasoline
Wheels
2 of 15 total reports mention: wheels.
Seats
2 of 15 total reports mention: seats.
Show complaint excerpts
My driver seat drops a level while I drive . Very dangerous and hazardous.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-11-14
Visibility/wiper
1 of 15 total reports mentions: visibility/wiper.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2018-06-28Seats18V342000 General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. A joint in the driver's seat-back frame may not be properly welded, reducing the strength of the seat-back frame.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat-back, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18178.
Buy-smart checklist
2018 Chevrolet Sonic — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Engine: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Wheels: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 18V342000 · Seats
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic 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 2018 Chevrolet Sonic?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.