Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt has a notable number of complaints and recalls, especially regarding the steering, fuel system, and electrical components. Notably, the ignition switch issue and power steering problems have been major concerns. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect these systems due to historical problems, while bearing in mind that the overall data reveals multiple issues across various components.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 845 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
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 309 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 202 complaints
- Electrical System 166 complaints
- Air Bags 98 complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 40 complaints
- Engine 36 complaints
Of the 845 complaints on file, 76 report a crash and 14 a fire; across all 845 complaints, owners report 79 injuries and 13 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Loss of power steering assist
How to check: Turn the wheel at slow speeds to assess steering feel and effort.
Faulty ignition switch
How to check: Ensure the key cannot be removed in a non-off position.
Airbag deployment failures
How to check: Check for any airbag or indicator light warnings.
Fuel pump failures
How to check: Inspect fuel pump for signs of wear or irregular noise.
Multiple ignition-related issues
How to check: Test all key positions and check engine start-up.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from engine or any warning lights.
Red flag: Engine sounds rough or warning lights on
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe any dashboard warnings, especially airbag light.
Red flag: Airbag warning stays on
- 03
Steering maneuvers
What to check: Assess ease of steering at low speeds.
Red flag: Steering requires excessive force
- 04
Initial acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth acceleration without hesitations.
Red flag: Hesitation or stuttering in acceleration
- 05
Highway driving
What to check: Ensure vehicle maintains straight line without excessive corrections.
Red flag: Difficulty maintaining straight path
- 06
Braking
What to check: Feel for consistent brake pedal pressure and responsiveness.
Red flag: Soft or unresponsive brake pedal
- 07
Parking
What to check: Test tight turns and listen for steering noises.
Red flag: Noise or resistance during parking maneuvers
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition switch been replaced?
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Are there any known fuel system issues?
- What is the current condition of the airbag system?
- Has the power steering system been serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall completion certificates
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
- Warranty records or extended warranty
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2008 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.