2012 Chevrolet Sonic engine problems
Owners reported engine problems in 87 complaints for the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 17% of the complaints on file. It is the 2nd most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 87 17% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 48,000 miles 63 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 3 and 3
- Injuries and deaths
- 2 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When engine problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 14 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 9 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 19 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 11 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 2 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 4 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 2 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 2 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 0 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 0 |
| 200k+ miles | 0 |
What the data shows
Of the 63 engine complaints that report mileage, the median is about 48,000 miles, and 67% were reported before 60,000 miles.
These complaints mention 3 crashes, 3 fires, 2 injuries.
What owners wrote
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 chevrolet sonic. The contact stated that there was a burning plastic smell in the interior of the vehicle and was causing discomfort to the contact's nose, eyes, clothes and taste. The contact stated that the odor would be come uncomfortable after being in the vehicle for a minimum of 45 minutes. The vehicle was taken to the dealer five times who confirmed the smell but was unable to determine the cause of the failure.
Takata recall I was driving and I tried to brake at an intersection due to a red light and there was a car in front of me, I was unable to use the brakes because the pad got stiff and it didn't allow me to brake, I had to use my emergency brake but I hit the car in front of me .
Other problems reported for the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
- Drivetrain & axles 151 complaints
- Electrical system 59 complaints
- Air bags 34 complaints
- Suspension 19 complaints
- Fuel system 18 complaints
- Brakes 17 complaints
- Cruise control 16 complaints
- Wipers, windshield & visibility 16 complaints