Are Chevrolets Good Cars? [Reliability and More!] | FINN (2024)

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    Chevrolets are reliable cars that deliver fine performance, safety and longevity — but what else should you consider before buying a Chevy? Find out here.

    Read time

    4 minutes

    Date

    05.25.2023

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    When a Swiss racing car driver co-founded the "Chevrolet Motor Company" in 1911, he probably didn’t imagine it would become a world-renowned car brand well over a century later.

    Now a division of General Motors, Chevrolet is one of the most recognizable car brands in the US and beyond. This alone is a testament to how good and reliable Chevrolet cars are — and you should have few concerns if you are considering a Chevy either to buy, lease or as a car subscription.

    There’s an extensive lineup to consider but what can you expect if you opt for a Chevy? Most people choose Chevies for their reliability, style and affordability. Let’s take a look at the main factors that contribute to the reliability of these vehicles — notably their safety, engine performance and great use of technology.

    Are Chevrolets Good Cars? [Reliability and More!] | FINN (7)

    Reliable Chevrolet models

    One of Chevrolet’s most famous models — the Impala — was produced from 1958 until 2020. Another model, the Camaro, started production in 1966. Both models are now discontinued but they remain a good measure of the general dependability of Chevy models.

    Today, you can rely on the following Chevrolet mainstays (amongst many others) for performance, safety and longevity:

    • Chevrolet Equinox- A compact SUV that scores well for reliability, roominess and fuel efficiency (one of the most popular Chevrolet models).
    • Chevrolet Silverado - Recent improvements made to the cabin materials and driver-assistance technology, especially, have increased the reliability of the ever-popular Silverado truck from Chevrolet.
    • Chevrolet Bolt EV- This more recent addition to the Chevy family of hatchbacks has an electric-only range of 259 miles, which is one of the best around.

    Are Chevrolets reliable?

    When assessing a car’s reliability rating, we combine the industry standing of the brand name alongside research into consumer reports that assess serious complaints about the cost, performance failure, safety or downtime of vehicles.

    Problems might include engine issues, climate systems, suspension, exhaust, brakes, in-car electronics, and so on.

    Which is better: Toyota or Chevy?

    Chevy is often compared to Toyota because both manufacturers provide some of the most affordable and popular vehicles on U.S. roads.

    In the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study 2023, which takes into account the number of consumer complaints per 100 vehicles, Chevrolet features in fifth place out of more than 30 brands. It is placed above Toyota but below Toyota’s premium brand, Lexus, which leads the way.

    Do Chevrolet cars last long?

    How do dependability and reliability translate to longevity?

    Provided you service and maintain your Chevrolet, you can expect your new car to have a lifespan of about 200,000-300,000 miles. That usually means between 13 and 20 years, depending on the level of usage. Some Chevies even make it comfortably to 300,000–400,000 miles on the clock.

    4 major factors contributing to Chevrolet’s reliability

    Here are some factors that make Chevrolets so reliable.

    1. Safety

    Safety is always an important reliability factor. One of the best ways to assess this is with the IIHS safety rating, which measures crashworthiness and crash avoidance, amongst other safety features of vehicles. The brand’s excellent safety record is evidenced by many examples, such as the Chevrolet Blazer and Traverse SUVs, which both perform well in IIHS tests.

    Safety technology that was once considered “premium” is now increasingly incorporated into standard Chevy models. This includes a pedestrian braking system, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, backup cameras, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and forward collision alert.

    2. Engine

    Powerful gas and diesel powertrains are the norm for Chevrolet vehicles and you should have no problems with their fuel economy. The Chevrolet Trailblazer four-wheel-drive, for instance, has a combined city/highway miles per gallon (mpg) of 31 while the Blazer comes in at 21-25 mpg.

    The extensive lines of Chevrolet SUVs, trucks and sedans have recently been supplemented by electric vehicles and hybrid engines too.

    3. Tech features

    Chevrolet’s excellent use of technology enhances not only the safety and engine performance but also efficiency and the driving/passenger experience.

    Apple Carplay, Android Auto and USB charging ports allow the same type of reliable connectivity on the go as you’d expect anywhere these days. There’s even a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot available on most recent Chevy models to keep you connected.

    4. Warranties

    Chevrolet offers strong warranties, which help provide peace of mind for buyers. These include bumper-to-bumper limited warranties as well as warranties for powertrain, emission control, rust, roadside assistance, etc.

    The bumper-to-bumper warranty covers the entire vehicle for repairs, including parts and labor, and will correct any defect in materials or workmanship for three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first).

    Other Chevrolet considerations

    Even with the renowned reliability of Chevrolets, all car owners should be aware of other considerations and potential downsides when choosing a new vehicle. Here are some factors that you might want to consider with Chevies.

    Maintenance costs

    Chevrolet models average around $9,625 for maintenance and repair costs during their first 10 years of service. This is slightly above average and may increase the total ownership costs.

    Depreciation

    If you buy a Chevy, you’ll need to factor in the depreciation of the vehicle, which is comparable to other brands. To avoid having to worry about depreciation, consider a lease orcar subscription instead.

    Malfunctioning electronics

    There have been some reports of electrical faults with Chevrolet Corvettes, Bolts and Silverados. This may be anything from a wireless connectivity issue to a major engine problem.

    So, are Chevrolets good cars?

    It should be apparent from the above that Chevrolets are good, reliable cars that deliver fine performance— with few of the worries that affect drivers who make bad car choices.

    Are Chevy cars worth buying?

    Affordability, relatively low recall rates and very reasonable cost of ownership make Chevrolet an excellent brand to consider buying — but buying a car online (or offline) is not your only option. One of the beauties of modern-day car choices is that you can opt for a lease or car subscription instead of owning a car outright.

    Are Chevrolets Good Cars? [Reliability and More!] | FINN (8)

    Get your Chevrolet with a car subscription

    A FINN car subscription can help you drive a Chevrolet for less — and without the hassles normally associated with car ownership.

    With a subscription, you pay one monthly charge that covers everything, including insurance, registration, maintenance and roadside assistance. No down payment is necessary. Subscriptions also provide flexibility because you’re not locked into lengthy contracts.

    Are Chevrolets Good Cars? [Reliability and More!] | FINN (2024)
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