2016 Chevrolet Sonic recalls and problems
The 2016 Chevrolet Sonic has 2 safety recalls and 48 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Chevrolet dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2016 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2016 Chevrolet Sonic recalls
Recall 16V-422: Electrical System, Equipment
Problem: General 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."
Risk: Without audible indicators, the driver may not fasten their seatbelt, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall began on July 22, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 45340.
Recall 16V-257: Electrical System, Equipment
Problem: General 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."
Risk: Without audible indicators, the driver may leave the key in the ignition, increasing the risk of theft.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 17130.
2016 Chevrolet Sonic problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 13 | |
| Electrical System | 11 | |
| Unknown or Other | 8 | |
| Air Bags | 8 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 5 | |
| Suspension | 3 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 3 | |
| Power Train | 3 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 2 | |
| Structure | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 1
- Electrical System › Wiring › Interior/Under Dash — 1
- Electrical System › Ignition — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 48,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 Chevrolet Sonic complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Chevrolet Sonic years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic: 16V-422 (electrical system, equipment), 16V-257 (electrical system, equipment). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic?
Owners report engine problems most often (13 reports), followed by electrical system (11). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 48,000 miles.
Are Chevrolet recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Chevrolet dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.