Market Position:
The 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt was positioned as a compact car, competing in a segment with strong contenders like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus. It aimed to offer value, fuel efficiency, and a sporty driving experience, especially in its higher trims.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against popular vehicles known for reliability and fuel economy. The Cobalt sought to differentiate itself with styling and performance options, particularly the SS variants.
Key Features:
Available in coupe and sedan body styles. Offered a range of Ecotec engines emphasizing fuel efficiency and power. Known for its solid chassis and sporty handling, especially in the SS Supercharged model.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition systems, basic transmission overview.
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes (ABS, EBD basics), wheels, and tires.
Electrical:
Lighting, instrumentation, power outlets, battery, fuses, basic warning lights.
Body And Comfort:
Doors, windows, seats, climate control, audio system, interior and exterior lighting.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems (LATCH), child security locks.
Driving Controls:
Operation of steering wheel, pedals, shifter, parking brake.
Instrumentation And Indicators:
Understanding dashboard lights, gauges, and warning indicators.
Climate Control Operation:
Use of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
Audio System Operation:
Basic functions of the factory radio and speaker system.
Routine Checks:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid), tire pressure, washer fluid.
Fueling Procedures:
Correct fuel type, capless fueling system operation (if applicable).
Maintenance Schedules:
Recommended service intervals for oil changes, tire rotations, etc.
Lighting Controls:
Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting.
Wiper And Washer System:
Operation and fluid refills.
Child Restraint Installation:
Proper use of LATCH system and seat belt mounting for child seats.
Keyless Entry And Remote Operation:
Operation of key fobs, remote start (if equipped).
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level understanding of vehicle operation, features, and basic maintenance. Does not cover detailed diagnostic or repair procedures (which would be found in a Service Manual).
Length:
171.0 inches (Coupe), 176.7 inches (Sedan)
Height:
55.2 inches (Coupe), 56.7 inches (Sedan)
Trunk Volume:
13.6 cubic feet (Coupe), 15.0 cubic feet (Sedan)
Curb Weight Est:
2750 - 3050 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating 2005:
5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating 2005:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Rating 2005:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Rating 2005:
4 Stars
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Safety Features:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, three-point seat belts, LATCH child seat anchors, child security rear door locks.
Infotainment System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, with optional satellite radio (XM) and premium audio systems available on higher trims. Aux input might be present on some units, but Bluetooth was rare for this model year.
Driver Assistance Features:
Standard features focused on passive safety. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were not prevalent in this segment for 2005.
Connectivity Features:
Primarily focused on basic audio connectivity. OnStar system may be available on some models, providing telematics services.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
First flush at 150,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles thereafter (using Dex-Cool or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Automatic: Check condition at 100,000 miles, change as needed. Manual: Check condition, change as needed (refer to specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified, Dexos 1 (or equivalent spec for the era, likely API SN or SM)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (with filter) for 2.2L Ecotec
Coolant Specification:
GM P/N 12346290 (Orange, Long-Life Coolant - Dex-Cool) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
GM P/N 12345670 (or equivalent power steering fluid)
Known Issues Common:
Occasional reports of ignition coil failures, catalytic converter issues, and some electrical gremlins (e.g., door lock actuators). Ecotec engines are generally robust but require adherence to maintenance schedules.
Brand Heritage:
Chevrolet, established in 1911, is a cornerstone of American automotive manufacturing, known for a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to performance trucks.
Model Evolution:
The Cobalt replaced the Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire. It was developed on GM's global Delta platform, sharing underpinnings with the Saturn Ion and Chevrolet HHR. The 2005 model year marked the introduction of the Cobalt.
Production Years:
2005-2010
Manufacturing Locations:
Lordstown, Ohio, USA