2014 Chevy Cruze problems and solutions: What are the most common problems with Chevy Cruze?

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Chevy Cruze is one of the first-gen Cruze models from Chevy that comes with a lot of issues. Failure of the engine due to lack of fuel or the leakage of air and oil turns out as a serious issue.

Overheating of the engine, transmission problems, and electrical problems are some of the common issues the users have to face. However, it doesn't make this specific model an unreliable one as most of the issues are solvable.

Even though Chevy has discontinued the production of Cruze models, still car enthusiasts look for used ones. Therefore, knowing about its problems and solutions is necessary.

1. Chevy Cruze engine overheating problem

2. Transmission problems

3. Water pump issue

4. steering issue

5. valve cover leaks oil and air

6. electrical problems

Does Chevy Cruze have a lot of problems?

The first-gen Chevy Cruze models indeed come with a some problems. Some of these problems are major, which are costlier, and require quick solutions at the same time.

On the other hand, you’ll also get several minor problems that are easy to get rid off. Take the Thermostat as an ideal example of this.

However, problems that are related to the engine, cooling system, transmission, or electrical are worth solving immediately.

Now, what are the problems you typically have in a 2014 Chevy Cruze?

However, our team has done a huge amount of research on this first-gen Chevy Cruze to identify the issues. We’ll tell you about the issues and the possible solutions here.

1. 2014 Chevy Cruze engine overheating problem

The Cruze's engine stopped suddenly in the midway of the trip. The reason behind the stalling of the vehicle may be because of the overheating of the engine. Three major things can cause overheating to the car’s engine.

• Leakage on the water pump.
• A faulty air cooling system.
• Defective head gaskets.

On both occasions, the coolant system of the engine gets interrupted resulting in unwanted engine heating.

More issues are noticeable due to the engine's overheating. It's common to have unusual smoke under the hood of the car that can stop the engine suddenly. It can also cause further damage to the car's engine.

Again, you may not get a proper speed or acceleration on the vehicle due to the loss of engine power. If the vehicle has a turbocharger, it may be damaged or faulty that causing the lack of acceleration.

Solution:

The solution to getting rid of these engine problems is to identify the water pump leakage and replace it. Moreover, if the fan clutch in the air coolant is bad, replace it as soon as possible.

The smoke is created because the water in the water pump is overheated or inadequate. So, either change it or fill the pump with adequate water, you can change radiator fans.

Also, never mind replacing the turbocharger in order to get the intended acceleration.

2. 2014 Chevy Cruze have transmission problems

Transmission problems in a Cruze can affect the smooth driving experience. Due to the faults in the transmission gearbox, the vehicle's performance may go down. One major transmission issue is noticeable in shifting the gears.

Most of the users have faced problems in shifting the gear from two to three, three to four, or vice-versa. However, a few reasons are there to cause these transmission problems.

• The insufficiency of fluid or lubricant in the gearbox.
• More than the necessary amount of friction in there.
• Had an odd smell from the gearbox.

As a consequence of the faulty transmission, the vehicle will neither change gears smoothly nor let you have a smoother drive.

Solution:

When it's about solving the transmission problem, you need to hire an expert and disassemble the gearbox. Get to know the actual reason behind the issue.

Maybe, adding more lubricant or fluid in the gearbox can get you rid of this problem.

3. Water pump issue in Chevy Cruze

Water pump failure is one of the most common and major issues to let the Chevy Cruze to fail. It's directly related to the coolant or air-cooling system of the engine.

And as an immediate consequence of the water pump failure, you will have an overheated engine. Water pump leakage is a major reason for the pump to fail. Here are the other reasons –

• It can leak due to corrosion.
• If the sealant isn’t perfect, it can cause unnecessary leakage.
• Insufficiency of cool water.

Solution:

The most noteworthy effect of the water pump failure is the overheating of the engine. And the most rightful solution you have to solve the problem is to replace the faulty water pump.

4. steering issue in Chevy Cruze

The driver loses his control over the vehicle as a consequence of the steering issue. However, the issue with the steering is that it seems to stick on an idle position for a few seconds stopping the wheels from moving on.

Undoubtedly, it creates a risky situation for both the driver and the passengers, if there is any.

Solution:

The solution to this steering sticking or locking problem is to diagnose the reason behind it. If the steering system needs maintenance or replacement, go for it without any second thought.

5. Chevy Cruze valve cover leaks oil and air

The odd smell from underneath the hood tells you about the oil leakage. Meanwhile, the sudden engine stopping and overheating means air leakage.

On both occasions, the engine is affected, and it's clearly noticeable. Some symptoms of oil and air leakage are –

• An odd burning smell from under the hood.
• The reduction of fuel efficiency.
• Facing issues regarding the acceleration.
• Engine overheating.
• The engine stops functioning suddenly.

On most occasions, the valve cover is responsible causing such unwanted oil and air leaks in the engine.

Solution:

Sealing transmission lines and cooler lines perfectly is a great initiative to stop these leakages. Moreover, a proper valve cover replacement is another way to get rid of this problem.

Also, you can replace the thermostat housing in order to ensure a reliable engine performance without leakage and overheating.

6. electrical problems in Chevy Cruze

Why does the vehicle suddenly stall, or the trunk opens up without any command? It's because there's a huge amount of electrical problems available in Chevy Cruze.

• There is unusual popping up of the trunk.
• The car doesn’t automatically start sometimes.
• Faulty locking and unlocking of the doors.
• The radio may stop working.
• The lights won't illuminate correctly.

The problems can be caused due to many reasons including a dead battery, worn wires, blown fuses, bad alternator, etc.

Solution:

The severe electrical problems can result in a malfunction of the entire vehicle. However, you can get the problem solved by diagnosing the dead battery and replacing it immediately.

Moreover, the replacement blows fuses, worn wires, battery cables, and terminals can solve the problem.

7. Thermostat fail in Chevy Cruze

The failure of a thermostat can lead you to a faulty engine cooling system. And you know the consequences of having a bad cooling system.

It can overheat the engine rapidly and decrease the performance level of the vehicle.

Solution:

However, you need to believe that if there’s a problem, there has to be a solution. In that case, you only need a new thermostat and a coolant to get a well-functioning thermostat to uphold the engine’s performance.

8. 2014 Chevy Cruze MAF sensor failure

MAF sensor or mass airflow is a useful sensor to keep up the engine’s performance level. However, the sensor can still fail due to various reasons.

• If it’s clogged up with dirt or debris.
• If the owner hasn’t gone through regular maintenance services.

However, it's not the only sensor that can fail and affect the engine's efficiency. O2 sensor and MAP sensor are two more important sensors that have a direct impact on the engine.

Solution:

Don’t hesitate to go for the regular maintenance services to gear up the engine’s performance. Also, make sure these crucial sensors don’t get clogged up with any dirt or debris.

9. Piston sound

The vehicle's acceleration has had noticeable problems for a few days. Moreover, you aren't having a pleasant time while making the vehicle idle.

The reason for both these problems can be the same as it is the cracked piston.

Solution:

The best solution you have to get through these problems is to replace the cracked piston with a new one.

How long will a 2014 Chevy Cruze last?

2014 Chevy Cruze can last up to nearly 15 years. However, the numbers can be a bit less or more depending on how many miles you drive the vehicle per year.

On average, the vehicle will let your drive for 150,000 to 250,000 miles varying from moderate to rough driving. However, you will have to maintain the car well and do any minor replacements if needed within this period.

Is it worth buying a 2014 Chevy Cruze?

Standing today, if you are looking for a brand new Chevy Cruze, it’s impossible to find as the company has discontinued the production. However, a used model is still worth buying.

Even though this specific model comes with a lot of faults, it's tough to ignore the performance. The technicians have solutions to let you not bother with any of these problems.

Moreover, regular maintenance can save you from getting unknown issues in the car that will downgrade the performance.