Chevrolet Cruze II (J400) (2015 – 2019)

Reliability score : 6.8/10

The second-generation Chevrolet Cruze (codename J400) marks a clean break from its predecessor. Based on General Motors' D2XX platform, it loses up to 113 kg, gains in rigidity, and adopts a much more aerodynamic and sleek silhouette. Designed primarily for North America, South America, and China, it was not officially marketed in Western Europe following the withdrawal of the Chevrolet brand at the end of 2014 (although a few examples may have been imported individually or sold in Eastern Europe). It stands out for an excellent level of comfort, careful soundproofing, and an infotainment system (MyLink) that was very advanced for its time, integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. However, its career was cut short in North America (production ended in 2019) due to the drop i

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The second-generation Chevrolet Cruze is a highly accomplished compact sedan in terms of comfort, onboard technology, and efficiency. However, buying it used requires great caution if you opt for the 1.4 Turbo (LE2) petrol engine, by far the most common. The 2016 and 2017 models suffered from serious cracked piston issues linked to the LSPI phenomenon. Buying advice: Strictly favor a model from the 2018 model year onwards, or demand a flawless maintenance history proving that oil changes were done on time with certified GM dexos1 Gen 2 (or Gen 3) oil. If these conditions are met, the Cruze represents an excellent financial deal thanks to its steep depreciation compared to the Japanese leaders.

Common issues

Défaillance du système PCV (reniflard) intégré au couvre-culasse Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶
00 – 600 USD
Surveiller la consommation d'huile et le voyant moteur. Le remplacement du couvre-culasse est souvent nécessaire.
Fuites de liquide de refroidissement (boîtier de thermostat, pompe à eau, durites) Medium
🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km
💶

50 – 800 USD (selon la source de la fuite)
Vérifier régulièrement le niveau de liquide et l'absence de taches sous le véhicule.
Problèmes de turbochargeur (sifflement, perte de puissance, consommation d'huile) High
🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km
💶
500 – 2 500+ USD
Respecter scrupuleusement les intervalles de vidange d'huile et utiliser l'huile recommandée.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £70 – 130
Timing chain £750 – 1 400
Clutch £750 – 1 350
Complete brakes £300 – 550
Estimated annual budget £450 – 850

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.