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2018 Chevrolet Sonic recalls and problems

The 2018 Chevrolet Sonic has 1 safety recall and 15 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Chevrolet dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
15
Crashes / fires
0 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2018 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2018 Chevrolet Sonic recalls

Recall 18V-342: Seats

Reported May 27, 2018 · 71 vehicles affected · General Motors LLC

Problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. A joint in the driver's seat-back frame may not be properly welded, reducing the strength of the seat-back frame.

Risk: In the event of a rear-impact crash, the seat-back may fail, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat-back, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18178.

2018 Chevrolet Sonic problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System6
Engine4
Seats2
Wheels2
Unknown or Other2
Exterior Lighting1
Steering1
Visibility/Wiper1
Seat Belts1
Parking Brake1
Fuel/Propulsion System1
Air Bags1

Most reported parts

  • Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 28,000 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 2018 Chevrolet Sonic complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Electrical System · reported Oct 14, 2026
My 2018 Chevrolet Sonic 1.8L has experienced repeated complete battery discharge and electrical failures over approximately two years. The factory infotainment system does not consistently shut down after the ignition is turned off. I must follow a specific shutdown procedure or occasionally remove the infotainment fuse to prevent battery drain. On October 10, 2026, after a three-day trip, the vehicle was completely dead. My 2,000-amp portable jump starter could not start it. Another running vehicle had to supply power before it would start. The vehicle then operated and restarted normally for…
Fuel System, Gasoline · at 85,000 miles · reported May 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine was idling roughly. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel. The contact stated that the canister purge valve had previously been replaced, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the canister purge valve needed to be replaced a second time. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware…
Unknown or Other · reported Nov 6, 2022
My car has had CAM shaft issues upon buying the car. I have taken the car to Chevrolet in Dallas and in Forney, TX and the car still has the same issue. My car engine check light has remained on and consulting a personal mechanic, they informed me that this could be a recall issue and that I should report it.
Air Bags · at 15,000 miles · reported Jun 28, 2022
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that while a 95-pound passenger was seated in the front passenger’s seat, the air bag system was deactivated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to determine a failure and indicated no failure was found. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The failure mileage was 15,000.
Electrical System · reported Apr 30, 2022
The has as well as mileage is not accurate and it constantly changes even while not driving which is adding more miles to car than actually is and you will never know how much gas you have in car truly which is safety concern especially if you are driving on interstate and can’t tell how much gas you have in car and suddenly run out of gas while other are behind you going 70 mph which can cause a wreck

Other Chevrolet Sonic years

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Compare all Chevrolet Sonic years · All Chevrolet models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic: 18V-342 (seats). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (6 reports), followed by engine (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 28,000 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.