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 separate from the vehicle, potentially dropping the fuel tank and causing a fuel leak.
The airbag recall affects the driver's frontal airbag, which in a severe crash may deploy only its first stage rather than the intended two-stage sequence. The second stage is what cushions the driver at higher impact forces, so a partial deployment raises the risk of injury in a serious collision. On the electrical side, vehicles equipped with a Calix-branded charging cord have a wiring issue where the cord's insulation can wear away and expose live wires, creating a shock risk when someone handles the cord while it is plugged in. Finally, vehicles with a Bring Your Own Media radio may fail to sound the audible chime that warns the driver they have left the key in the ignition, which can make it easier for someone to steal the vehicle.
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.
