Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt
The 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt has significant recall and complaint data, especially concerning steering, fuel, and electrical systems. Six recall campaigns and numerous complaints indicate potential reliability issues. Checks are necessary for power steering, fuel system, and ignition switch problems. Approach with caution due to high complaint counts in critical areas.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,560 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #14E021000 Aftermarket Replacement Ignition Switches NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V171000 Key Can Be Removed when Ignition is not Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V047000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V459000 Fuel Pump Module May Crack NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10V073000 ELECTRIC POWER STEERING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09V419000 FUEL PUMP MODULE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 686 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 283 complaints
- Electrical System 281 complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 150 complaints
- Air Bags 144 complaints
- Suspension 75 complaints
Of the 1,560 complaints on file, 116 report a crash and 16 a fire; across all 1,560 complaints, owners report 109 injuries and 7 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Power steering failure
How to check: Check for ease of steering, especially at low speeds.
Ignition switch defect
How to check: Ensure ignition key is secure and functioning.
Airbag system failure
How to check: Verify airbag readiness light turns off after ignition.
Electrical system failures
How to check: Inspect dashboard for warning lights on start-up.
Fuel system issues
How to check: Check for fuel leaks or odor near tank.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises or extended cranking.
Red flag: Loud knocking or failure to start
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Watch for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Check for smooth and responsive steering.
Red flag: Hard or jerky steering feel
- 04
Steady cruising
What to check: Monitor for electrical glitches or issues.
Red flag: Blinking dash lights or gauges
- 05
Hard braking
What to check: Observe for unusual noises or pulling.
Red flag: Squealing or significant veer
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure engine accelerates smoothly and powerfully.
Red flag: Hesitation or power loss
- 07
Parking
What to check: Check power assist and release of steering.
Red flag: Heavy steering or non-release
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition switch been replaced?
- Are there any unresolved recall issues?
- What maintenance has been done on the steering?
- Have the airbags ever deployed?
- Is there a history of electrical problems?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.