Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

2017 Chevrolet Cruze pre-purchase inspection checklist

What to check before you buy, built from NHTSA recall data, owner-reported failures, and mechanic intel. Print it or bring it to your mechanic.

Pre-purchase inspection · 2017 Chevrolet Cruze
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2017 Chevrolet Cruze
LS / RS / LT / Premier (2nd gen, 2016–2019)
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The 2nd-gen Cruze (2016–2019) is a competent compact sedan let down by a chronic 1.4T timing chain issue and documented oil consumption. With a clean maintenance record and no signs of chain rattle it’s a decent buy at a low price point — but skip any car with deferred oil changes. The 1.6T diesel variant is smoother but emissions-equipment dependent; only buy one with full DEF/EGR service history.

Items to check
14
Open recalls
1
NHTSA complaints
520
Top concern
Engine / Powertrain

Timing Chain (1.4T)

1.4T timing chain stretch — cold-start rattle

High Risk
The 1.4L LUJ/LUV engine is prone to timing chain elongation, especially with infrequent oil changes. Symptoms: metallic rattle on cold start lasting more than a few seconds. Repair is $800–$1,400 and effectively mandatory once rattle begins.
Cold-start the engine with hood open. Any metallic chain rattle lasting >3 seconds = walk away or negotiate hard. Ask for all oil change records.
Est. cost: $800–$1,400 timing chain kit + labor Source: GM TSB #PIP5555 / widespread 1.4T owner reports

Engine Oil Consumption

Excessive oil consumption (1.4T)

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Many 1.4T Cruzes consume 1 qt per 2,000–3,000 miles from piston ring wear. GM issued TSBs but no recall. Check the dipstick at viewing.
Check dipstick level. If significantly below full, ask owner how often they add oil. Low oil accelerates chain wear.
Est. cost: $0 (monitor) to $2,500+ (piston rings) Source: GM TSB #PIP5122 / NHTSA complaint database

Coolant loss — intake manifold gasket

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Some 1.4T units develop slow coolant loss from the plastic intake manifold area. Check overflow tank level.
Inspect coolant reservoir level and color. White residue at cap = concern.
Est. cost: $300–$600 Source: Owner pattern reports

Recalls

Open recalls — VIN check (this is not a Takata car)

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No Cruze of any model year appears on the GM Takata affected-vehicle list, which runs to the 2007-2014 full-size trucks and SUVs plus the Pontiac Vibe, Saturn Astra and older Saabs. The Cruze airbag recalls that do exist are a 2013-2014 driver-inflator campaign and a 2014-only roof-rail inflator campaign covering cars built in a three-week window in spring 2014. A second-generation 2017 car is outside all of them.
Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and require every genuinely open campaign closed. A seller discounting this car for a Takata repair has not checked.
Est. cost: Free dealer repair for anything genuinely open Source: GM Takata affected-vehicle list / NHTSA

Brake booster vacuum pump leak

High Risk
The brake booster vacuum pump can develop an internal leak, reducing brake assist. Symptom: harder-than-normal pedal.
Test brake pedal firmness at low speed. Hard pedal = have the booster vacuum pump inspected.
Est. cost: Free dealer repair Source: AutoVetting editorial

Transmission & Electrical

6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual

Low Risk
6AT (Hydra-Matic 6T30) is generally reliable. Manual is more engaging. Test all gears; look for hesitation or flare.
Test from cold. Ensure smooth shifts 1–6. Manual: check clutch engagement point.
Est. cost: $150–$250 fluid service Source: GM drivetrain standard

Infotainment / MyLink

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MyLink system can freeze or lose Bluetooth pairing. Software updates resolve most issues.
Test CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, and radio before purchase.
Est. cost: $0 software update Source: GM TSBs

Documentation

Oil change history — most important document

High Risk
On this engine, oil change frequency is the single best predictor of timing chain and ring condition. 5,000-mile intervals or less = good; 7,500+ = caution; unknown = red flag.
Request all receipts or dealer service printout. No records = price accordingly.
Est. cost: n/a Source: AutoVetting editorial

NHTSA Recalls (verify completion via VIN)

Multiple
Open recalls — VIN check (not a Takata vehicle)
No Cruze appears on the GM Takata affected-vehicle list. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and require every genuinely open recall closed before purchase.
After you buy: common DIY repair guides
Planning the upkeep this car will need? Our step-by-step guides cover oil changes, brake pads & rotors, battery replacement, transmission fluid, coolant flushes, and spark plugs — each with the tools, parts, torque specs, and common mistakes that matter. Browse all repair guides →

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