2016 Chevrolet Sonic: common problems and reliability
One of the worst Sonic years.
One of the Chevrolet Sonic years to avoid. All Sonic years
48 owner complaints, most about engine. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 2016 Sonic?The 2016 Chevrolet Sonic has 48 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system.
Safety record for the 2016 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2016 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Sonic years only. How we score it
Is 2016 a good year for the Sonic?
Across the 5 Sonic model years we track, complaint volume runs from 8 (2019) to 48 (2016). With 48 complaints, the 2016 Sonic sits above the model's median of 14.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2016 Sonic
electrical system:software
Campaign 16V422000General 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. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver fails to fasten their seatbelt or if the driver leaves the key in the ignition. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection" and 114 "Theft Protection."
equipment:electrical:radio/tape deck/cd etc.
Campaign 16V257000General 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. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver, after turning off the ignition and leaving the key in the cylinder, waits 10 minutes or longer to open the door. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114 "Theft Protection."
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is sharply divided and highly dependent on individual vehicle history and powertrain.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Sonic. See the full Sonic owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Sonic listings typically run $5,995–$11,127 across 2012 to 2020 model years.
Other Sonic model years
Compare every Sonic year side by side to see how 2016 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Sonic against its rivals
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