Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
The 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt has notable issues, particularly with the ignition switch, power steering, and fuel system, which have led to multiple recalls. While it has 710 complaints, the most significant concern is a potential loss of power steering assist. The car may still be a viable option if these issues have been addressed, but prospective buyers should proceed with caution.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 710 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 #09V073000 SHIFT LEVER INDICATOR/FMVSS 102 & FMVSS 114 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 226 complaints
- Steering 206 complaints
- Electrical System 151 complaints
- Air Bags 72 complaints
- Engine 39 complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 36 complaints
Of the 710 complaints on file, 59 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 710 complaints, owners report 41 injuries and 5 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Ignition switch failure
How to check: Ensure ignition doesn't turn off unexpectedly during operation.
Loss of power steering assist
How to check: Check for consistent steering assistance when turning.
Electrical system malfunctions
How to check: Inspect all lights and electrical features' functionality.
Airbags may not deploy
How to check: Confirm recall fix for airbag system completion.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Observe for ignition issues or check engine lights.
Red flag: Engine sputters or stalls.
- 02
Initial acceleration
What to check: Check for steering assistance and responsiveness.
Red flag: Steering feels heavy or unresponsive.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor electrical systems like radio, wipers, etc.
Red flag: Flickering or non-functional electronics
- 04
Braking
What to check: Ensure smooth braking with no pulsing or noise.
Red flag: Brakes feel sluggish or make noise.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Listen for unusual engine or wind noises.
Red flag: Loud noises or lack of power.
- 06
Parking maneuver
What to check: Test low-speed steering ease and turning radius.
Red flag: Difficult or stiff steering at low speed.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition switch been replaced?
- Are there unresolved safety recalls?
- Have the fuel system issues been fixed?
- Are there any airbag deployment concerns?
- What maintenance records are available?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Repair history
- Recall clearance paperwork
- Recent service receipts
- Title and registration
- Safety inspection report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2009 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.