What are the worst Chevrolet Cobalt years?

Based on NHTSA owner complaints per year on the road, the worst Chevrolet Cobalt year is 2006 - complaint rates far above this model's median. The year with the fewest problems relative to time on the road: 2010.

Chevrolet Cobalt: best and worst years

Every model year, ranked by owner complaints reported to NHTSA relative to time on the road. Click a year for its problems, recalls and trouble codes.

Years to avoid: 2006

Complaint rates far above this model's median, even after adjusting for time on the road.

Held up best: 2010

The fewest complaints relative to years on the road - at most half the model's median rate.

2010solid year574 complaints · 6 recalls 2009710 complaints · 6 recalls 2008845 complaints · 5 recalls 20071,564 complaints · 6 recalls 2006worst year2,330 complaints · 6 recalls 20051,649 complaints · 6 recalls

Ranked by complaints per year on the road (age capped at 12 years), so older years do not lead just because they have been around longer. Years under 3 years old are not judged - they have not had time to show their problems. Rates are relative to this model only and are not adjusted for sales volume.