The Chevrolet Sonic is known as the Chevy Aveo in other parts of the world. It was sold in the United States from the 2012 model year until it was discontinued in 2020. During that time, there were nearly 500,000 Sonic models sold, with the 2014 model year being the most popular.
To determine which of these Sonic models are the best and worst, you want to look at all of the data we’ve collected. Based on our evaluation, we are able to rank them from best to worst.
Before deciding which used Sonic to buy, look at all of the information. You can use it to get a used car at a great price but also gain the confidence needed to know the model year is meant to last. If you are a Sonic owner, you may want to use this data to determine if it’s a good time to sell.
Our reliability data comes from the thousands of FIXD car scanners installed in the Chevrolet Sonic models. We combine this information together with the survey results from actual Sonic owners. These two facts combine with the data on KBB values, safety ratings, fuel economy numbers, and other aspects to ensure that you know everything about each model year.
|
Best Years |
Why? |
|
2020 |
Best ownership survey ratings, high safety ratings, low cost to own |
|
2016-2017 |
Minimal chance of expensive repairs, enjoyed by owners |
|
2018 |
High-reliability ratings, good safety ratings, minimal chance of engine or transmission trouble |
|
Worst Years |
Why? |
|
2012 |
Lower reliability ratings, high cost of ownership, poor safety scores |
|
2013-2014 |
Average reliability scores, outrageous ownership costs, major mechanical issues |
|
2015 |
Average reliability ratings, higher chance of engine trouble |
Chevrolet Sonic Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG, and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year
We want you to know exactly what you are looking at while shopping for a Chevrolet Sonic. For that reason, we’ve compiled all of the information in a format that’s simple to understand. Look through the charts to gain a quick understanding of which models are the best. You can also dive deeper into the fuel economy scores, safety ratings, and average maintenance costs.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USA’s most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
We took all of the reliability scores (both from the FIXD app and owner surveys) and put them in this chart for you. By looking at this, you quickly see the average reliability ratings of Chevrolet Sonic cars based on these two scores:
- The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – all of this data is sourced from the check engine lights set by Chevy Sonics during every 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving).
- The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) – these scores are from the Chevy Sonic owners that took our comprehensive survey.
We base our chart on a 1 to 10 scale. The best Chevrolet Sonic models will earn a 10 (the highest), while the worst would rank at 1 (the lowest). Average scores are around 5.
For the most part, you can see that the lines run in a similar pattern. The exception to that rule is the 2019 Sonic model, which we didn’t have enough respondents for to get an accurate representation. Based on the other information, it would be safe to assume that the 2019 Chevy Sonic would compare to the 2018 and 2020 models.
This graph alone provides a wealth of information, but it’s not meant to be used on its own. Compare this data with all of the other statistics we provide you with to make an educated decision. If you already know which model you want to buy, jump ahead to learn more about it.
We also recommend looking at the most common reasons for the Check Engine Light on Chevy cars before deciding where to put your money.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) runs most vehicles through tests to achieve a safety rating. We take those rankings and place them in chart format, allowing you to see which models are the safest and which ones should be avoided.
In the chart above, the green line reveals the average safety rating for the Chevrolet Sonic models. This must be evaluated with the gray line that shows the averages among the vehicles we have in our database.
All of the Chevrolet Sonic models achieve great scores, except for the 2012 model. As the first in the lineup, it seems that Chevy failed to make it as safe as possible.
We know you want cheap car insurance for your used car, which is why you must pick a model that gets good safety ratings.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
| Ohio |
| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
| Georgia |
| Texas |
| New York |
| Illinois |
| Pennsylvania |
| California |
MPG – Over The Years
The Chevrolet Sonic is a compact car. Because of its smaller size, you can expect decent fuel economy numbers across the board. Yet, it’s still helpful to know which model years will save you the most money.
The graph above reveals the average Chevy Sonic fuel economy numbers by model year based on data from fueleconomy.gov. The green line shows you the average score among the trim levels. Based on this information, you see that all Sonic models either earn an average of 29 mpg or 30 mpg.
Current Market Value of All Chevrolet Sonic Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each
The Chevrolet Sonic is not an expensive car. Therefore, you can find a decent used model for well under $15,000. Yet, you want to look closely at the resale values compared to the cost of ownership because it doesn’t make sense to put more money into a car than it’s worth.
Usually, there’s a direct relationship between how reliable a vehicle is and what it’s worth. A car that spends a lot of time in the shop isn’t going to be worth as much. Additionally, mileage plays a big part in how much a vehicle is worth. That’s why you should always run your own KBB report before buying or selling a car.
If you are torn between two Chevy Sonic models that are both reliable, you may decide it’s best to choose the newer option. Not only should it provide more life, but the resale value will remain higher, just in case you want to sell it in the future. You may also get better tech features with the newer car.
When shopping for a used Chevrolet Sonic, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
Important Features Timeline
2012: Brand-new model available in sedan and a four-door hatchback configuration
2013: Bluetooth phone connectivity and blind-spot monitoring become standard, MyLink infotainment system with a touchscreen display and a navigation app is available, performance-focused RS model debuts
2014: Newly available rearview camera, forward collision warning system, and lane departure, RS sedan debuted later in the year
2015: LTZ trim includes a standard turbocharged motor and 4G Wi-Fi connectivity becomes standard with all trim levels
2016: MyLink infotainment system comes standard on LT, LTZ, and RS trim levels, manual transmission dropped from the LTZ lineup, CD player is no longer available
2017: Refreshed exterior styling includes projector-style headlights and LED daytime running lamps, rearview camera, 7” touchscreen, and a new MyLink interface become standard equipment, Premier trim becomes top option, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto become available
2018: Updated version of the MyLink infotainment system included with all models paired with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, second USB port added
2019: Base 1.8-liter engine discontinued, all Sonics come standard with a turbocharged 1.4-liter motor
2020: Two new exterior colors added, six-speed manual transmission dropped from the lineup
The Best Years of the Chevrolet Sonic
We ranked the Sonic models based on the FIXD Reliability scores used in conjunction with the other data. The Owner satisfaction score, cost of ownership, fuel economy averages, and safety ratings all played a part in our determination. We also briefly examine the top diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and recalls listed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) so you gain a greater understanding of each model.
We have excluded the 2019 Chevrolet Sonic from our Best & Worst Year list because it only had one survey respondent. However, we would feel comfortable grouping it with the closest models to it because there weren’t any major changes that year. Still, it’s important to note that a few more respondents could drastically change its ranking, so it was better to leave it out for now.
2020 Chevrolet Sonic
FIXD Reliability Score: 10/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $14,655
Fuel Economy: 29 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
Owners appear to be fond of the 2020 Chevrolet Sonic. Additionally, there aren’t many major mechanical issues to be concerned about.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2020 Sonic is 9 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2020 model earns 10 out of 10.
Crash test ratings are something to brag about with the 2020 Chevy Sonic. This model earns a 4.8 (out of 5) rating.
It’s also difficult to argue with the low cost of ownership. The 2020 Sonic shows an average of $250 per year. As the models make their way out of the factory warranty term (36,000-mile or three years limited warranty and 60,000-mile or five years powertrain warranty), this cost may rise slightly. For now, there are no major repairs to report, but those statistics could change with more respondents.
The 2020 Chevrolet Sonic suffers most often from the Turbo Underboost Condition (P0299) code and the Evaporative Emission Control System Leak – Medium (P0442) code. It is also prone to dealing with the EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition (P0496) DTC. None of these issues tend to be expensive repairs, but it’s best to visit a mechanic for more information.
The 2020 Chevrolet Sonic doesn’t suffer from any recalls or NHTSA investigations.
2016-2017 Chevrolet Sonic
FIXD Reliability Score: 6-7/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7-8/10
KBB Value: $6,936-$8,855
Fuel Economy: 29-30 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $438-$472
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
The ratings on the 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Sonic don’t dip too much lower. Plus, the cost of ownership remains low.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2016 Sonic is 7 out of 10, while the 2017 model earns 8 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2016 Chevy Sonic earns 6 out of 10, and the 2017 model is ranked 7 out of 10.
Crash test ratings continue to exceed expectations with the 2016 and 2017 Chevy Sonic. Both cars earn a 4.8 (out of 5) rating.
Even though they are a few years older than our top choices, these still have a low cost of ownership. The 2016 Sonic averages expenses of $472, while the 2017 model seems to fall at $438. There is, however, a slightly higher risk of brake or fuel system repairs with the 2017 Sonic, but not to an excessive amount.
Both models show the most common DTC as the Intake Camshaft Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 1 (P0011) code. The 2016 Sonic also deals with the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) code, which may require a new ignition coil, costing $51 to $173. There’s also the chance for the System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171) code on the 2017 Sonic. Both the 2016 and 2017 Sonic models also show a higher chance of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) DTC, which is usually a catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041.
The 2016 Chevrolet Sonic only has two recalls. In comparison, the 2017 Chevrolet Sonic has no recalls.
2018 Chevrolet Sonic
FIXD Reliability Score: 8/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $9,379
Fuel Economy: 30 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $875
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
While the ratings are high on the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic, the cost of ownership does jump a little bit, which is why it’s ranked as the last model in our best list.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2018 Sonic is 9 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2018 Chevy Sonic earns 8 out of 10.
Crash test ratings are in line with the other newer models. The 2018 Sonic earns a 4.8 (out of 5) rating.
The reason the 2018 Chevy Sonic ranked lower than the other options is that the cost of ownership jumps to $875 a year. There’s also a slightly elevated risk of expensive brake and AC/heat issues, but not enough to pass over this model.
The most common DTC with the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic is the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature Issue (P0128) code. If you must replace the engine coolant thermostat, you may spend between $477 and $512. Additionally, it shows a higher chance of the System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171) code and the Intake Camshaft Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 1 (P0011) DTC.
On the bright side, the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic only shows one recall.
The Worst Years of the Chevrolet Sonic
Using the same data to determine the best Chevrolet Sonic models, we’ve compiled a list of some model years you should avoid. These cars show more reliability issues and often have higher maintenance bills. Our ranking starts with the worst and works to the models that aren’t as bad.
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7/10
KBB Value: $3,907
Fuel Economy: 30 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,031
Safety Rating: 2.6/5
As the first model, there are a lot of issues with the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. The safety rating is pitiful, and the cost of ownership is a third of the value of the vehicle.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2012 Sonic is 7 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2012 Chevy Sonic earns 5 out of 10.
What’s alarming about the 2012 Chevy Sonic is the safety rating. It’s way below average at 2.6 (out of 5).
The cost of ownership with the 2012 Chevy Sonic is off the charts at $1,031 a year. Not only that, but this Sonic model suffers from expensive engine, transmission, and AC/heat repairs.
The most common DTC with the 2012 Chevy Sonic is the System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171) code. You will also notice a higher chance of the EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition (P0496) DTC. There’s also a chance for the common Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature Issue (P0128) code, which may require a new engine coolant thermostat costing between $477 and $512.
The other problem with it being the first model is that the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has seven recalls and two investigations.
2013-2014 Chevrolet Sonic
FIXD Reliability Score: 4-6/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6-7/10
KBB Value: $5,130-$5,532
Fuel Economy: 29-30 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,000-$1,200
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
Just after the Sonic was introduced, the 2013 and 2014 models did much better. The safety rating went up, but the cost of ownership remains high enough to be a concern.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2013 Sonic is 7 out of 10, while the 2014 Chevy Sonic earns 6 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2013 Chevy Sonic earns 4 out of 10, and the 2014 model is rated 6 out of 10.
Thankfully, the safety rating is worked out with the 2013 and 2014 Sonic models. Both earn a rating of 4.8 (out of 5).
Yet, the cost of ownership remains high. The 2013 Chevy Sonic averages $1,200 a year, but the 2014 model doesn’t do much better at $1,000 per year. Plus, both models suffer from expensive engine and fuel system repairs, while the 2013 Sonic also deals with AC/heat problems, and the 2014 model shows a higher chance of brake issues.
The two models suffer from the same three DTCs. First, you have to worry about the System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171) code. You also have a higher likelihood of seeing the EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition (P0496) DTC. Finally, both models could end up with the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) DTC, which is usually a catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041.
The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has five recalls and one investigation. The 2014 Chevrolet Sonic does slightly better with just four recalls.
2015 Chevrolet Sonic
FIXD Reliability Score: 6/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7/10
KBB Value: $5,854
Fuel Economy: 29 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $750
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
Rounding out the models you likely want to stay away from, we have the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic. While the ratings aren’t bad, it still costs a decent amount to own this model, and it’s not worth a lot.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2015 Sonic is 7 out of 10. In comparison, the FIXD Reliability score is 6 out of 10.
The safety rating is noteworthy with the 2015 Sonic models. This model year earns a rating of 4.8 (out of 5).
However, you have to think about the cost of ownership versus what the car is worth. At $750 a year, on average, you are spending a lot for a car that doesn’t have a lot of life left in it. Also, this model has a higher chance of engine, brake, and fuel system repairs.
The most prevalent code with the 2015 Chevy Sonic is the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) DTC, which is usually a catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041. It also deals with Intake Camshaft Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 1 (P0011) code and the System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171) DTC. Too many problems with this vehicle, and it may no longer be worth fixing, depending on the mileage.
The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic only has three recalls, which is better than the others on the worst models list.
FAQs
What years of the Chevrolet Sonic have engine and/or transmission problems?
Based on our data, the 2012-2015 Chevrolet Sonic models are more likely to suffer from expensive engine repairs. There’s also a higher chance of transmission repairs with 2012 models, mainly because these were the first in the lineup, so there were more bugs to work out.
What is considered high mileage for a Chevrolet Sonic?
Chevrolet Sonic cars are meant to be a budget-friendly option. Even when they were new, they didn’t cost a lot, so you can’t expect them to travel far before they lose their value. Still, compact cars, such as the Sonic, can last longer with proper maintenance. You may be able to get 150,000 miles out of it with the right care.
Based on our data, a high-mileage Chevrolet Sonic could be considered anything over 120,000 miles.
The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has the highest mileage in our surveys at 143,000 miles, but it’s not likely to go much higher than that. If you plan to buy a Chevy Sonic with a lot of miles, remember that the resale value goes down with the increased mileage on the odometer.
What other vehicles should I consider?
Chevy has gotten out of the car business, but you could still purchase a new Chevrolet Malibu, which is a much larger model. Aside from that, you would need to look at used models, such as the Chevrolet Spark or Chevrolet Cruze. You may also like the Chevrolet Trax, which is a small SUV.
Outside of the Chevy family, you could consider the MINI Cooper, Kia Rio, Nissan Versa, or Mitsubishi Mirage. There’s also the option to check out the Kia Forte, Mazda 3, or Nissan Sentra if you are okay with a car that’s slightly larger than the Sonic.
What owners of the Chevrolet Sonic like to use their car for:
Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5
| Frequent Use Categories: | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | ***** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | **** |
| Hauling/Towing | * |
| Office on Wheels | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * |
| Luxurious Driving | * |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * |
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Chevrolet Sonic reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Chevrolet Sonic owners who use FIXD.
The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Chevrolet Sonic.
This is a subjective score.
To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:
How reliable would you say your Chevrolet Sonic is?
a. Just point A to point B driving
b. A Daily Commuter
c. Good for a 100 mile road trip
d. Good for a 500 mile road trip
e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem
From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:
a. = 2
b. = 4
c. = 6
d. = 8
e. = 10
Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Chevrolet Sonic with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Chevrolet Sonic owners
- Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Chevrolet Aveo, wikipedia.org. Retrieved July 24, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Aveo#T300
- Chevrolet Sonic review, edmunds.com. Retrieved July 25, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/sonic/2020/review/
- Chevrolet Warranty, chevrolet.com. Retrieved July 26, 2023, from https://www.chevrolet.com/owners/warranty
Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.
