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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.

7.5

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
63,700 miles
Total Complaints:
4 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (3 reports)
  2. replace power steering motor (1 reports)
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt steering problems

steering problem

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2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Owner Comments

problem #4

Jun 222011

Cobalt LTZ 2.2L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 56,607 miles

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

As this problem was resolved on 06/22/11, I did not expect another problem. However, on 06/17/15 POWER STEERING started flashing on my dashboard. I am taking the car to the dealer to see if this problem can be resolved again. On the outside it looks beautiful but is tough on my pocketbook. Looking for a replacement vehicle.

- bfaulkner, Hamilton, Canada

problem #3

Sep 012012

Cobalt LS 3.2L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 78,000 miles

The car steering wheel locks up when I park it. I have to push on the brakes and turn the wheel repeatedly to get it to loosen up, so I can start it and get back home. It seems if it cools down the wheel unlocks easier. It does not happen all the time. The key switch is loose and I have to jiggle it to get it to start, Definitely a problem. I have had it parked since I found out about the recall. GM contacted me about 4 months ago by mail, and said when the ignition switch was available they would notify me, I am still waiting? It is parked and not being driven because of the Recall notice. I put a non OP on my 2005 Cobalt because I am now afraid of the wheel locking up and causing me an accident. There is certainly a problem with the steering and ignition switch, I hope this can be fixed soon, so I can drive it or sell it, since is now my second Vehicle. I like the Car other then the potential problem of my steering and ignition switch locking up, wish they would fix it soon with the right parts that I can trust.

Linda

- Linda J., Redding, CA, US

problem #2

Sep 182010

Cobalt 2.2L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 44,000 miles

My Cobalt is going to the dealer for the third time with the power steering recall. I honestly don't think they've even attempted to fix the problem with the power steering motor. Fortunately, when it's lost power steering completely I've not been on the road. Hell, twice I wasn't even in gear, still in park!! Twice, if in gear, either reverse or drive, I get a clicking noise, the thermometer freaks as well as the gas gauge!! What's it gonna take to fix this Sylvester Chevy???

- Diane L., Clarks Summit, PA, US

problem #1

Feb 012010

Cobalt

  • Manual transmission
  • 76,000 miles

GM HAS CALLED A RECALL ON THE 2005 CHEVY COLBALT FOR POWER STEERING PROBLEMS.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703807904575097134094293008.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

- Lora J., Leesburg, VA, US

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