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CarComplaints.com Notes: The Cobalt was introduced to replace two of Chevy’s smaller cars, the Cavalier and Prizm. But the compact’s fresh start that Chevy was hoping for was riddled with issues, most notably widespread power steering failure.

The power steering failed so often that GM was forced to issue a recall in March, 2010. Great, but what about other problems like the key getting stuck in the ignition or all the other electrical demons this car possesses?

And, oh yes — then there’s the terribly dangerous issue where the Cobalt randomly shuts off while driving. As it turns out, that problem is related to GM’s massive 2014 recall for a dangerous ignition switch defect. A recall that eventually ballooned to 2.6 million vehicles in one of the automotive industry’s biggest scandals.

10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
0 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2005 Chevrolet Cobalt accessories - interior problems

accessories - interior problem

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2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Owner Comments

problem #1

Jul 262010

Cobalt

  • miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Had my wife's 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt in for the power steering recall. The only problem we had prior to the recall was the failed rear control-arm bushings on both front control arms (both failed within the same month). Now, after having the recall performed, we are having problems with (of all things) loss of power steering. The traction control light comes on, the brake safety interlock clicks (under the automatic gear selector in the center console), and we have no power steering! I cannot let my wife drive this in this condition, as she is small and not strong enough to crank on the steering wheel without the power-assist. I called the dealer and was advised that I could bring it in to see if there is a problem with the part replaced in the recall - but I would have to pay for the diagnostics. Called Chevy and got nowhere with them as well. Left the car at our mechanic's shop this morning to get a more reliable diagnosis!!

- Machesney Park, IL, USA

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