Engine
2.0L 4-cyl
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.
Fault profile
Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.
When it fails
The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.
Vehicle age when the failure occurred
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 190 of 190 complaints with a usable failure date.
Odometer when the failure occurred
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 167 of 190 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).
Known issues
The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.
Brakes
155 complaint records2 fire reports5 crash reports
"BOUGHT MY 09 COBALT SS WITH LESS THAN 1,000 MILES AND MY REAR BRAKES SQUEAL AND GRIND HORRIBLY WITH ONLY 11,500 MILES. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse brakes parts in the directory →
Parking brake
18 complaint records
"REAR BRAKES HAVE BEEN DEVELOPING GROOVES BEING CUT INTO THE ROTORS. MAKES METAL SCRAPING/RUBBING/SCREECHING NOISE DURING BRAKING. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse parking brake parts in the directory →
Air bags
8 complaint records3 crash reports
"MY AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON FOR MY PASSENGER SEAT. I HAVE TAKEN TO A DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID THE SPECIFIC CODE IS NOT COVERED BY A RECALL. THEY SAID MY PASSENGER PRESENCE MODULE NEEDS REPLACED...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →
Federal defect investigations
Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.
| Investigation | Status | Component | Subject |
|---|---|---|---|
| PE20011 opened Jul 2020 | closed Aug 2023 | Fuel/Propulsion System | Fuel Line Leak On July 5, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE20-011 to investigate instances of metal fuel lines under the vehicle corroding and leaking fuel in model year (MY) 2008 through 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt and 2008 through 2009 Chevrolet HHR... |
| PE10005 opened Jan 2010 | closed Jul 2010 | Steering | Electric Power Steering Failure - led to recall 10V073000 In a March 1, 2010 letter, General Motors Corporation (GM) provided a defect information report to NHTSA regarding a problem that could result in sudden loss of power steering assist in certain model year (MY) 2005 through 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt and MY 2007... |
Transport Canada recalls
Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.
| Recall | System | Units (CA) | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015010 2015-01-09 | Steering | 1,988 | Certain vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving. |
| 2014126 2014-04-10 | Other | 367,972 | On certain vehicles, a defect may allow the ignition key to be removed from the ignition switch when the key is not in the "Off" position. |
| 2014101 2014-03-31 | Other | 132,243 | A safety defect may exist in ignition switches sold as service replacement parts. The defect could allow the ignition switch to unintentionally move from the “run” position to the “accessory” or “off” position with a corresponding... |
| 2010059 2010-03-02 | Steering | 252,581 | Certain vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving. |
| 2009076 2009-03-11 | Other | 31,458 | On certain vehicles, the transmission shift cable adjustment clip may not be fully engaged. Should this occur, the shift lever and the actual position of the transmission gear may not match. |
Service bulletins and warranty extensions
Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.
| Bulletin | Type | Component | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13598 Sep 2025 | Unknown Or Other | New Vehicle Monitoring Programs Section in IVH | |
| PIC5650M Aug 2025 | Unknown Or Other | This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. | |
| PIP5601C Jul 2025 | Unknown Or Other | This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC. | |
| PIT5074R May 2025 | Unknown Or Other | This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. | |
| 04-06-04-051J Sep 2024 | Engine | This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive. |
Show 55 more bulletins
| Bulletin | Type | Component | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08-07-30-026I Sep 2024 | Power Train | This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. | |
| 02-00-89-002X Sep 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only). | |
| PIT3271P Sep 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. | |
| General Communication Aug 2024 | SERVICE CAMPAIGN | Electrical System | Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). |
| 05-03-08-002J Aug 2024 | Suspension | This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak. | |
| 01-00-89-010S Aug 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern. | |
| 05-06-04-022V Aug 2024 | Fuel/Propulsion System | This bulletin provides information on the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Licensed Brands and the TOP TIER Diesel Fuel Licensed Brands that are recommended for use in all GM vehicles and the TOP TIER FUELS website URL. | |
| 09-06-04-026Y Aug 2024 | Electrical System | This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2. | |
| 01-06-01-011P Aug 2024 | Engine | This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption. | |
| 16-NA-158 Jul 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This service bulletin describes the U.S. Dealer Special Tool Loan Program process. | |
| 24-NA-141 Jul 2024 | Power Train | GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. | |
| 04-06-04-051I Jun 2024 | Fuel/Propulsion System | This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive. | |
| 16-NA-383 Jun 2024 | Engine | This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up. | |
| 18-NA-099 Jun 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim. | |
| 24-NA-098 Jun 2024 | Electrical System | This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information. | |
| 08-07-30-035H May 2024 | Power Train | This bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid. | |
| 16-NA-119 May 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information to cover GMs policy on performing GM covered vehicle services and maintenance on vehicles originating/sold in Canada. | |
| 09-00-89-008G May 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process. | |
| 06-00-89-029V May 2024 | Seats | This service bulletin includes information on Interior Cleaning - Instrument Panel (IP), Hard or Plastic Surfaces, Seats, Carpet, Leather, Vinyl, Fabric Cleaner, Stain Remover, Restorer - Product Availability. | |
| 10-08-110-001K Apr 2024 | Unknown Or Other | This service bulletin provides information on proper use of floor mats. | |
| 13-08-116-001J Apr 2024 | Electrical System | The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them. | |
| 15-00-89-004G Apr 2024 | Engine | This service bulletin provides technicians with information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage. | |
| 00-03-10-006P Apr 2024 | Wheels | This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Tire Radial Force Variation (RFV). | |
| 10-08-45-001H Mar 2024 | Electrical System | This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish. | |
| 16-NA-383 Mar 2024 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up. | |
| 07-00-89-037S Mar 2024 | Equipment | This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs. | |
| 22-NA-074 Feb 2024 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system. | |
| 19-NA-044 Feb 2024 | Fuel System | This service bulletin provides information on the cold start control system in DI engines to reduce cold start emissions and improve fuel economy. | |
| 16-NA-338 Feb 2024 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This Warranty Admin service bulletin provides guidelines for Dealers Not Required and for Dealers Required to Contact the PQC for engine or transmission assembly replacement and explains the PQC process, GWM Transaction submission, vehicle service record retention and proper... | |
| PI0281K Jan 2024 | Structure | This preliminary informational (PI) bulletin provides information to dealership personnel which may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. | |
| 18-NA-099 Jan 2024 | Equipment | This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim. | |
| 02-08-42-001J Jan 2024 | Exterior Lighting | This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage. | |
| PI1394B Jan 2024 | Power Train | This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine. | |
| PI0592I Jan 2024 | Electrical System | This preliminary information (PI) provides information om Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes (E4398, E4399, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491 or E6961). | |
| 23-NA-219 Dec 2023 | Equipment | This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories. | |
| 03-00-91-001I Nov 2023 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns. | |
| 01-06-01-011O Oct 2023 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption. | |
| 17-NA-170 Oct 2023 | Wheels | This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement. | |
| 02-00-89-002W Sep 2023 | Equipment | This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only). | |
| 10-00-89-006J Sep 2023 | Equipment | This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only). | |
| 07-08-49-020R Sep 2023 | Electrical System | This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide. | |
| 23-NA-153 Sep 2023 | Engine And Engine Cooling | The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay. | |
| 18-NA-073 Aug 2023 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement. | |
| 15-00-89-004F Aug 2023 | Power Train | This service bulletin provides technicians with updated information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage. | |
| 01-00-89-010R Aug 2023 | Equipment | This service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern. | |
| 04-06-04-051H Aug 2023 | Fuel System | This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive. | |
| 09-06-04-026X Jul 2023 | Electrical System | This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2. | |
| 99-09-40-005I Jul 2023 | Seat Belts | This service bulletin provides information on availability for a seat belt extender. | |
| 01-06-01-011N Jun 2023 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption. | |
| 13-08-116-001I Jun 2023 | Electrical System | The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them. | |
| 16-NA-158 Jun 2023 | Equipment | This service bulletin describes the U.S. Dealer Special Tool Loan Program process. | |
| 04-07-30-013E Jun 2023 | Engine And Engine Cooling | This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on automatic transmission shift and engine driveability concerns and/or MIL ON due to aftermarket oil bath air filter use. | |
| 02-00-89-002V Jun 2023 | Equipment | This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. Dealers Only). | |
| 08-07-30-026H May 2023 | Power Train | This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. | |
| 12-03-10-001E May 2023 | Wheels | This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Vibration Shortly After Tires are Mounted/Preventing Vibration from Wheel Slip (Tire Sliding on Wheel). |
Showing 60 of 180 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.
Before you buy this vehicle
A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.
- Brake hard once from speed on an empty road.A pull to one side, a pulsing pedal, a pedal that sinks at a stop, or an ABS light that stays lit are the brake complaints on this vehicle presenting themselves.
- Set and release the parking brake on a slope.A brake that will not hold or will not release matches this vehicle's parking-brake cluster.
- Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
- Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.
Parts search directory
The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.
Open the parts directory for this Chevrolet Cobalt SS →