Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra
Design Philosophy:
Global platform, modern styling, focus on European driving dynamics
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and efficient compact car
Powertrain:
Engine (1.4L Turbo, 1.8L), Transmission (Automatic, Manual), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Audio, HVAC, Instrument Panel, Security System, Wiper/Washer
Body And Frame:
Exterior body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Interior trim, Seats
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant pump, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant hoses, pressure testing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Fluid changes, Filter replacements, Lubrication
Repair:
Engine mechanical repair, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake system service, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Fault code interpretation
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, Sensor testing, Actuator testing
Depth Of Information:
Professional-level diagnostics, complete rebuild procedures, detailed exploded diagrams, step-by-step instructions
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Scan tool for OBD-II diagnostics, multimeter, specialized tools for certain component removals/installations
Exhaust Components:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, oxygen sensors, exhaust system diagnosis
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Fuel pump, fuel filter (in-tank), fuel injectors, fuel pressure testing, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, welding procedures, door and latch adjustments
Interior Trim Removal:
Dashboard removal, door panel removal, seat removal, center console disassembly
Configuration:
1.4L DOHC 16-valve Turbocharged Inline-4
Horsepower Est:
138 hp @ 4900 rpm
Torque Est:
148 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (177 lb-ft with overboost function)
Engine Code:
LDA (for 1.8L) / Similar to GM's Ecotec family
Configuration:
1.8L DOHC 16-valve Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 with Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i)
Horsepower Est:
136 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque Est:
125 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with direct injection for 1.4L Turbo
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (for 1.8L), Premium Unleaded recommended for 1.4L Turbo for optimal performance
NHTSA Overall Rating 2010-2012:
5-Star Overall Safety Rating (when equipped with specific safety features)
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Passive Safety Systems:
Front airbags, Side-impact airbags, Curtain airbags, Seatbelt pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system (available on higher trims), SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking sensors (optional), Cruise control
Connectivity Options:
USB port, Auxiliary audio input
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, based on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (for both 1.4L Turbo and 1.8L engines, consult manual for specific GM dexos approvals)
Coolant Spec:
GM Super Coolant (Blue), ethylene glycol-based, long-life
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Complaints:
Turbocharger issues (oil leaks, wastegate problems on 1.4L), engine oil consumption, HVAC system faults, minor electrical gremlins, sometimes transmission shift quality
Chevrolet Legacy:
Long history of reliable and accessible vehicles, global brand presence
Cruze Introduction:
Launched globally in 2008, replaced Chevrolet Cobalt in North America for the 2011 model year. Designed with European market and driving dynamics in mind.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Lordstown, Ohio, USA; also produced in other GM facilities worldwide.
