This page covers 4 recalls, 149 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic.
28–32 mpg combined
7.4–8.4 L/100km
Compact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 4 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2014 Chevrolet Sonic draws complaints spread across a few systems, with the engine and electrical system leading by complaint volume. On the engine side, owners frequently describe oil leaks, coolant leaks, overheating at idle, and abnormal noises, particularly on cold starts, sometimes accompanied by a burning smell inside and outside the cabin. Electrical complaints cover a range of issues including power steering assist cutting out unexpectedly while driving, along with door lock irregularities and other accessory malfunctions. Airbag-related complaints round out the top three reported systems. A recurring thread across engine reports is fluid loss, owners mention both oil and coolant escaping, often paired with concerns about heat buildup.
149
Total Complaints
11
Crash-Related
3
Fire-Related
5
With Injuries
By System
The 2014 Chevrolet Sonic has 4 recalls, the most serious involving fuel tank mounting brackets that can break free from the vehicle, allowing the tank to drop and leak fuel.
The airbag system also has a concern: a loose electrical connection in the steering column can prevent the driver's frontal airbag from fully deploying in a severe crash, leaving the driver with less protection than intended. On the electrical side, certain vehicles equipped with a Calix-brand charging cord have wiring that can become exposed, creating a shock risk if the cord is handled while plugged in. The lowest-severity recall affects vehicles with a Bring Your Own Media radio, where the radio may not sound an audible chime when the key is left in the ignition after the engine is shut off, which can make it easier for the vehicle to be stolen.
At a glance
What can fail
The radio may not sound a warning chime if the driver leaves the key in the ignition, turns off the engine, waits 10 minutes or more, and then opens the door.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the radio software at no cost to restore the warning chime function.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A loose electrical connection in the steering column can prevent the driver's front air bag from deploying fully in a severe crash, limiting it to first-stage only instead of both stages.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and tighten or replace loose terminals in the steering column connector to restore full air bag deployment capability.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The insulation on the engine block heater cord can crack in cold temperatures, exposing the wires underneath.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the engine block heater cord with a new cord rated for temperatures down to minus 40 degrees Celsius.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front fuel tank strap bracket may have insufficient welds and separate from the vehicle.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the front fuel tank strap bracket and repair it as needed at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
