2008 Chevrolet Cobalt

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 845 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Chevrolet Cobalt years to avoid. Which Chevrolet Cobalt years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
75,248 milesMedian miles at failure

674 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 75,000–90,000 miles.

Most common 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt problems

252 of the 845 complaints (30%) are about the steering.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering238
29420
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system189
030
Electrical System111
210
Air Bags · airbags77
25224
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system28
101
Engine21
110
Seat Belts14
101
Suspension12
001
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration11
200
Steering › Electric Power Assist System11
201

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt steering problems

30% of all complaints

252 of the 845 complaints are about the steering. This is what owners describe:

  • loses steering assist or the wheel locks26% · 66
  • sets off warning lights on the dash16% · 40
  • loses power9% · 23
  • knocks, grinds or clunks4% · 9

Share of the 252 steering complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
65,800 mi
median of 222 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
68 steering complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
31 · 4 · 21
in these complaints
Recalls on the steering
“The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the message "Steering Locked" was displayed. The contact stated that the steering wheel was significantly difficult to turn; however, he drove the vehicle to the residence. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle the following day, the steering wheel operated as needed.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 7, 2023 at 171,117 miles
“The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the power steering suddenly malfunctioned and the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 8, 2021 at 76,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2008: 8 complaints, 3 about the steering'082009: 25 complaints, 9 about the steering2010: 92 complaints, 68 about the steering'102011: 55 complaints, 16 about the steering2012: 78 complaints, 13 about the steering'122013: 42 complaints, 13 about the steering2014: 146 complaints, 27 about the steering'142015: 80 complaints, 22 about the steering2016: 61 complaints, 24 about the steering'162017: 56 complaints, 14 about the steering2018: 51 complaints, 12 about the steering'182019: 42 complaints, 12 about the steering2020: 39 complaints, 6 about the steering'202021: 34 complaints, 7 about the steering2022: 13 complaints, 3 about the steering'222023: 12 complaints, 2 about the steering2024: 5 complaints, 0 about the steering'242025: 4 complaints, 1 about the steering2026: 2 complaints, 0 about the steering'26Recall 10V073000 (steering)Recall 12V459000 (fuel system)Recall 14V047000 (airbags)Recall 14V171000 (electrical system)NHTSA investigation PE20011NHTSA investigation PE10005
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2008 Cobalt peaked in 2014, with 146 filed that year. Owners had filed 55 complaints about the steering before the first recall that covers it, 10V073000 in March 2010; 197 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch14E021000
Filed Apr 30, 201414,529 vehiclesUCI-FRAM Group

Defect. UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.

Risk. If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.

Remedy. UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).

Electrical System › Ignition14V171000
Filed Apr 10, 20142,191,014 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.

Risk. If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.

Remedy. General Motors will notify owners, and for vehicles that were built with the defective ignition cylinder and have not previously had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. For vehicles that were built with the redesigned ignition cylinder or had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Chevrolet owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac owners at 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn owners at 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' number for this recall is 14113 for the ignition lock cylinder and key replacement, and 14133 for only key replacements. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.

Air Bags14V047000
Filed Feb 10, 20142,190,934 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on February 10, 2014 that they are recalling 619,122 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 vehicles. On February 25, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 748,024 model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion vehicles and 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine. On March 27, 2014, GM notified the agency that the defective ignition switches may have been used as service replacement parts on other vehicles, and as a result GM will be recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR vehicles. The part numbers for the service parts are 10392423 (a/k/a ACDelco D1461F), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This expansion represents an additional 823,788 vehicles.

Risk. If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. An interim notification was issued to owners of 2007 and earlier models on March 10, 2014, informing them of the safety defect. Owners of 2008 and later vehicles will be mailed an interim letter on April 21, 2014. All affected owners will receive another letter once parts are available. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for the initial recall is 13454 and 14063 for the expansion. GM’s recall number for the vehicles that may have received the replacement parts is 14092. Note: Until the recall repairs have been performed, it is very important that customers remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the vehicle key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Always wear your seatbelt.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump12V459000
Filed Sep 19, 201249,768 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007 Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent vehicles originally sold or currently registered in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Texas; model year 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, Pontiac G5, and Saturn ION vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in, Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, or Texas; model year 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in, Arizona; and model year 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Nevada, Oklahoma, or Texas. Some of these vehicles have a condition in which the plastic supply or return port on the fuel pump module may crack, which could cause a fuel leak.

Risk. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Notification to owners began on on November 21, 2012. Owners were instructed to not bring their vehicles in for repair until January 2013. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-521-7300.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System10V073000
Filed Mar 3, 20101,050,889 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 CHEVROLET COBALT AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 PONTIAC G5 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRIC POWER STEERING. THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST THAT COULD OCCUR AT ANY TIME WHILE DRIVING.

Risk. IF POWER STEERING ASSIST IS LOST, IT WOULD REQUIRE GREATER DRIVER EFFORT AT LOW VEHICLE SPEEDS, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING MOTOR FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS ARE BEING NOTIFIED ON A ROLLING BASIS BETWEEN MARCH 29 THROUGH NOVEMBER 2010. A COPY OF THE MAILING SCHEDULE IS LOCATED IN THE RECALL FILE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 AND PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 OR AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 2 name the 2008 Cobalt.

Fuel Line LeakPreliminary evaluation PE20011Closed
Opened Jul 5, 2020Closed Aug 17, 2023fuel and propulsion system

On July 5, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE20-011 to investigate instances of metal fuel lines under the vehicle corroding and leaking fuel in model year (MY) 2008 through 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt and 2008 through 2009 Chevrolet HHR passenger cars manufactured by General Motors (GM). The metal fuel lines are corroding and leaking fuel in the area between the front and rear wheels on the driver's side of the vehicle before the muffler. Most consumers allege a fuel odor and/or an observable fuel leak that alerts them to the condition.The subject metal fuel lines have a …

Electric Power Steering FailurePreliminary evaluation PE10005Closed
Opened Jan 27, 2010Closed Jul 19, 2010Led to recall 10V073000steering

In a March 1, 2010 letter, General Motors Corporation (GM) provided a defect information report to NHTSA regarding a problem that could result in sudden loss of power steering assist in certain model year (MY) 2005 through 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt and MY 2007 through 2010 Pontiac G5 vehicles equipped with electric power steering (EPS).The letter indicates that the loss of steering assist could occur at any time while driving and that, once assist is lost, a message is displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC) and a chime sounds to inform the driver.The letter further states that steering …

Technical service bulletins

946 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2008 Cobalt. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 363electrical system 167engine 109fuel system 53equipment adaptive/mobility 45transmission 37wheels 29visibility 27
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

PIT5236GService campaignMar 31, 2016electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

03-00-91-001IService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 6, 2023steering

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

15-00-89-004FService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 7, 2023steering

This service bulletin provides technicians with updated information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.

120232002BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 5, 2020steering

This technical bulletin provides a procedure to eliminate a power steering noise due to extremely low temperatures.

PI0671AService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 17, 2017steering

This preliminary information bulletin provides information for diagnosing a power steering fluid leak at the fluid reservoir.

PIE0351BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 9, 2016steering

This engineering informational bulletin is ending the need of information from the field on vehicles with the conditon of loss of power steering assist after completing campaign 10023 or 14115 has been completed

PIE0351Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 1, 2016steering

This preliminary informational bulletin requests information on vehicles with a condtion of Loss of Power Steering Assist After Campaign 10023 or 14115 Has Been Performed

Showing the newest 6 of 9 bulletins about the steering, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Air BagsCrash
Filed Jul 23, 2026WV

No deployment during head on collision totaling vehicle of faulty air bag

Air BagsCrash
Filed Jul 20, 2026WV

Head on collision, airbag did not deploy

Steering
Filed Jun 25, 2025TX

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that the power steering suddenly failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was turned off for a while and restarted for the power steering functionality to return. The failure was persistent. The contact stated that the power steering warning light flashed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who informed the contact that it was a known failure with the power steering. The mechanic confirmed the power steering failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 6, 2025PA

The fuel line is leaking fuel on the drivers side near the passenger door. The leak is to the point where it is pooling under the door on the ground.

Electrical System
Filed May 19, 2025TN

The ignition doest work right n want release the key the car dies n stalls while driving we was almost hit by a trooper n he called we spoke to 2 people n they had a gm call us n they said that this has been a big concern of these cars n we tried n tried to get it fixed n they say sorry can't can they when something they built wrong kills me or my family my vin [XXX] 2008 CHEVY COBALT [XXX] IS MY NUMBER INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Air Bags
Filed Apr 7, 2025259,000 milesOR

Our vehicle has had zero accidents the airbag light showed up on dashboard stating check airbags. Then as far as electrical the headlights seem to turn on there own at times. We feel this perhaps is a recall not known yet.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 7, 2024FL

I have 2 recalls with the ignition and switch. I went to Regal chevrolet in Lakeland Florida and was told essentially there's nothing they could do and if they did look at it I'd be charged $200 to have it looked at plus $219 a hour based on what needed to be done. I then called Stingray Chevrolet in Plant City Florida and was told that there was no listed recall or it had already been serviced, which on the national website clearly states the opposite, and they refused to even look at it or attempt to fix it, recall or not. My key snapped in the ignition so after being told by 2 chevrolet dealerships essentially "sorry about my luck" I called out a locksmith who extracted the piece of key in ignition and attempted to code several new cut keys. Everything failed. I'm now out almost $500 based off 2 dealerships refusing to assist with a clear recall. I need this fixed and have been without a vehicle for 3 weeks. If somebody could please assist me I'd greatly appreciate it. I feel like it is wrong and somewhat cruel for Chevrolet dealerships to be as they were based off a clearly stated and documented issue.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 3, 2024GA

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V047000 (Air Bags, Electrical System). The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 9, 2024IN

The gas lines rusted out and the fuel pump is pooring gas out of it. I just bought the car 2 weeks ago smelled gas hit u set the car it was pouring out. I was going to fix it my self then while looking up the parts I ran across the fact they recalled both parts but not for my vin . What can I do. I'm gonna catch on fire

Seat Belts
Filed Jul 15, 2024TX

My back seat belts don’t work properly. It takes 10-20 mins to try to get it to come out to buckle up. It locks up no matter how many times to let it roll up and try again. It’s happened since I’ve owned my car since 2019-2020. It’s the back seat belts only

Air Bags
Filed May 23, 2024CT

When the driver's side window on my 2008 Chevy Cobalt is fully open/down, the "Service air bag" warning light comes on. This seems to be the exact same issue that resulted in a recall on the 2010 model (NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V500000). When I called Chevrolet corporate customer service regarding this, they explained the model years were manufactured the same, and the reason my year did not have a recall could be that there were not enough reported complaints on it. It is very concerning, since as my dealer indicated, the airbag system seems to be disabled when in this condition. I put today's date as the when the incident occurred, but it's been a condition for the last few years.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 4, 2023GA

2008 Chevy Cobalt has become unsafe to drive as it is leaking fuel out the bottom of car

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 11, 2023PA

Gas Line corroded near Driver rear wheel due to design of gas line bracket/shield. A bit of research finds that this is not an uncommon occurence and is solely based on the poor design of the shield. Gas leaks on driveway and smell of raw gasoline promoted the finding of this issue. It required complete replacement of gasl line and a total of over $1,000 in total cost.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 13, 2023OH

Heavy fuel leak

Steering
Filed Sep 7, 2023171,117 milesIA

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the message "Steering Locked" was displayed. The contact stated that the steering wheel was significantly difficult to turn; however, he drove the vehicle to the residence. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle the following day, the steering wheel operated as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the steering column needed to be taken apart to install an unknown switch. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V073000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 171,117.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 8, 2023PA

Fuel lines have developed a leak near exhaust in rear of car. The line has rusted at the part that attaches line to the under body of the car

Air Bags
Filed Aug 3, 2023UT

My speedometer jumps and shows a message of POWER STEERING. It makes my fuel line jump as well. I've recently gotten my starter fixed because my car wouldn't start. My tire warning stays on and my tires are new and set at the right PSI. My ABS comes and goes ALL THE TIME and nothing needs to be fixed. My car jerks really hard when all of this is going on.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 26, 202368,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle made an abnormal sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the air bag pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 68,000.

Seat Belts
Filed Jun 18, 2023TX

The back right seat belt and the back left seat belt lock up so much while trying to buckle in that we can hardly use them. I have tried everything from moving to up towards the roof to pulling down , getting in the trunk to release the seats. I have had this car for almost 3 years and it always does this. Please help! My email is. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 12, 2023NY

Fuel lines corroded, very dangerous, had to replace at a high cost to me.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 8, 2023MO

Vehicle has a fuel leak from rear of vehicle. Smells of fuel in cabin. Found shields wet with fuel. Seems there should be some recall on this. This is the 2nd cobalt I've owned with the same issue.

Steering
Filed Feb 2, 2023125,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving out of a parking space, the steering wheel became firm, and the power steering warning light illuminated. The contact was able to drive home. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was contacted and stated that there was no recall for the failure. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 125,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 14, 2023OH

I have a major fuel leak in a fuel line close to the drivers side rear wheel . It's so bad that it was leaving a line of gas on the road as I drove. It smelled of gas a few days prior but I was unable to tell where it originated from.

Fuel System, Other
Filed Dec 12, 202270,000 milesMN

The contact's son owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact's son stated while driving at approximately 30 MPH, he could smell gasoline inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact’s son stated that once he had parked the vehicle, he saw fuel leaking from underneath the rear driver’s side wheel well. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel line was corroded and needed to be replaced. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: PE20011 (Fuel System, Other). The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

Steering
Filed Nov 14, 2022PA

My Power Steering failed. I was trying to turn into my drive way and I couldn’t turn my steering wheel. Mine and my children's safety were at risk because It could have caused an accident. There are other Chevy cobalts that are recalled for the same problem as mine but for some reason my VIN is showing that my cobalt isn’t recalled for it. There were no warnings other than the dash saying “POWER STEERING” as my steering wheel stopped turning.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Aug 30, 2022170,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that the vehicle was leaking fuel on the passenger’s side in front of the rear tire. The contact stated that the fuel odor was also inside the cabin of the vehicle while driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the fuel line had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 27, 2022NJ

On July 17,2018 I saw my 2008 Chevy Cobalt was leaking fuel in my driveway around the driver's side rear tire. I had it towed to my in-town mechanic, as I have Triple A. Paid $613.37 to replace the fuel line. On August 15th, 2022 same exact problem on my 2010 Cobalt. Another $553 to replace the fuel line. Chevrolet sent out a very confusing POSSIBLE recall letter in March 2013. But never officially told owners they would fix the problem with a recall letter. There have been many complaints on this problem on 2005-2010 Cobalts.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 21, 2022OK

I was drivein on high way in my car got hard to trun so i stoped and let my uncle drive cause he is more stronger then from that point it got harder to trun it amost locked up on me who know what would have happen but i was almost to my house so we were ablue to get it here then i called my car lot and i hade to drive it there it was so impossible to do but with the help of my uncle he got it there and im in school and stuck with out a car intell its fixed and i have to pay laber wait on part to come in thay say etc its just alot and thank god i was not alone

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 1, 2022OH

The fuel lines on this 2008 cobalt have rusted out and leaving a visible fuel leak puddle after parking. The leak occurs in front of the driver side rear wheel. This area has a heat shield over the fuel line underneath which traps moisture and road salt. This leak has caused me to park my vehicle outside as a safety precaution and not drive it. The leak is near the exhaust which is a large safety risk in my opinion. I am taking to the dealer to have them confirm and quote out repair cost.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 23, 2022IL

I have to replace my fuel lines due to them rusting out over the left rear wheel well. I noticed a distinct smell of gas for a couple of rides to or from work. After a couple of rides, the smell was very strong and I happened to notice the gas dripping down under the car upon inspection. It was taken to a auto repair shop where I was told that this was a serious hazard and the gas lines would have to be replaced costing me $650. The mechanic said that the lines has rusted causing the leak. He also mentioned that this was a common problem with the 2008 chevy cobalt.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 7, 2022VA

Power steering is locking up while driving. Windows won’t go down.

Steering
Filed Jun 7, 202291,000 milesIN

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle the vehicle experienced power steering failure. The contact drove the vehicle to her destination at approximately 30 MPH without a power steering assist. The contact stated that when she returned and started the vehicle the power steering had regained functionality. The contact stated that the failure had recurred twice in the past three months. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic or dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000.

Steering
Filed Jun 6, 2022MI

Power steering assist goes out randomly. Looked up VIN and said does not affect this vehicle, however, it is malfunctioning.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 30, 2022OH

I own a 5-speed manual transmission which should roll freely while in neutral. after starting engine while on a slight incline in a parking lot, the vehicle would not roll in neutral, as if all brakes were being applied. i thought that by driving the vehicle on the road the brakes would free up, but they did not. i shut the engine off and on a few times but that did not make a difference. i could only move forward at 5-10 mph in first gear to get the vehicle home, which fortunately was just 5 blocks away. something smelled terrible like burning wires or brake pads. even after letting the vehicle sit in my driveway for a few hours it would not free up the brakes which were being applied. then i read a tip on an internet users forum: remove a fuse labeled "ABS2" and voila! it freed up the brakes! i can drive the vehicle normally but obviously without ABS capability. now my 19 yr old grandson, who turned the vehicle over to me because of this issue, states this happened to him on two different occasions *while driving on the road!* imagine having your brakes applied while at full speed: THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH

Electrical System
Filed Apr 7, 2022IL

The accelerator pedal constantly fails to activate immediately after turning it on. it used to happen on cold or rainy days. It now fails to activate all the time. Took it to an independent service center and they said it could be the wiring due to water getting in the car. My car did have a leak and it was fixed but many months after these issues started occurring. I get a check engine light with a service traction control, service esc, and code p2138 is shown.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Mar 8, 2022187,000 milesKS

The contact's sister owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked or being driven, there was a fuel odor detected. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with Code: P2270. Additionally, there was a leak in the fuel pump. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 187,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 18, 2021WA

I can smell a gas leak inside and outside of car just bought car for girlfriend don't want it to catch fire and kill her and daughter baby in car

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 4, 2021IL

The fuel line rusted through and were leaking gas right next to the exhaust pipe! This should not happen!!! I’ve never had to replace fuel lines due to rust on any vehicle I’ve ever owned!!! Inferior metal and or poor design had to contribute to this! Thank God the car didn’t start on fire or blow up. My friend has a 2009 Cobalt and had the same problem!!! It cost me $1478.79 to repair this defect!! No warning other than the terrible gasoline odor!!! Please do something about this before someone is killed!!!

Electrical System
Filed Oct 30, 2021OH

The receptacle that holds the brake light gets so hot that it melts and has melted the plastic around it as well. The bulb won’t stay lit because of this therefore the brake and turn signal lights constantly burn out and it could cause an accident due to lack of signaling and could also very easily start a fire. It started about 2-3 years after we bought the car new with just having to just replace the bulbs much too often, yearly, then a couple of times a year, and now the bulbs are not even lasting a month and the components are actually melting.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Oct 18, 2021200,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, he noticed gasoline was leaking from underneath the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to his residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000. The VIN was not available.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 12, 2021MD

There is a fuel leak with dripping towards the back of the car. I noticed that there is a current NHTSA investigation into such leaks so wanted to let you know of another example.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 3, 2021MA

Fuel leaking from body near left-rear wheel well.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 3, 2021MA

Fuel line leaking in front of REAR LEFT tire. Looks to be due to rust causing the leak

Fuel System, Diesel › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Filed Sep 29, 2021150,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, she smelled a fuel odor. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated she veered to the side of the road and exited the vehicle to determine the origin of the odor. The contact stated the odor was coming from outside of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic who diagnosed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The contact stated the failure had been reoccurring and the fuel was leaking underneath the vehicle while the vehicle was running. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V459000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 11, 2021CO

The fuel system has developed a small leak, for now near the left rear tire. I cannot pinpoint the exact location of the leak due to the heat shielding around the lines. My concern is the proximity of the fuel leak to the exhaust system and potential fire hazard. A dealer has not looked at my car, however I have performed maintenance on enough vehicles and aircraft to know when there is a fuel leak. There are no warning lights associated for the leak thus far, there is a tendency for the the vehicle to need to prime itself by cranking in the morning or in cold temperatures.

Steering
Filed Sep 8, 202176,000 milesDC

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the power steering suddenly malfunctioned and the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V073000 (Steering). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 76,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 7, 2021GA

Began smelling gas while i was driving, took to mechanic to get checked. fuel line was cracked at the fuel pump. had to replace whole assembly.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 1, 2021MI

Gas pump repaired in recall again leaking

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 30, 2021IN

This is additional information in regards to my first reported complaint of my fuel lines leaking. Mechanic stated my car was definitely unsafe and surprisingly my car didn't catch fire. Used a full tank of gas just driving 15 miles. Lost thar much fuel due to leak.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 25, 2021IN

My 08 Chevy Cobalt has major fuel leak leaving puddles by left rear wheel. Very strong smell odor, losing more gas than putting in. I lost 5 gallons of gas in a 3 mile radius. Took to a repair shop and mechanic said the fuel lines are rusted from one end to the other and Chevy(GM) does not make fuel lines for a repair. At risk for car blowing up.

Complaints 1-50 of 845, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2006
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20171000Routine
20161000Routine
20121000Routine
20112000Routine
2010574674Fatalities reported
2009710675Fatalities reported
2008 — this page84551413Fatalities reported
20071,5646167Fatalities reported
20062,3306148Fatalities reported
20051,64961211Fatalities reported
20022000Routine
20001000Routine
19961000Routine

Compare every Cobalt year →

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt: questions buyers ask

Is the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt a good car?

It is not among the Cobalt years to avoid. Owners filed 845 complaints, against about 1,205 for a typical Cobalt year. The most common complaint is about the steering (30%).

What is the most common problem with the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt?

The steering: 252 of the 845 complaints (30%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (26%), sets off warning lights on the dash (16%) and loses power (9%). The typical report comes at 65,800 miles.

How many recalls does the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt have?

5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 30, 2014. The largest, 14V171000, covered 2,191,014 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 75,248 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 65,800 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt?

Yes, 2 times. The latest, PE20011 ("Fuel Line Leak"), was opened Jul 5, 2020 and closed Aug 17, 2023.

Are there service bulletins for the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt?

The manufacturer filed 946 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (167), the engine (109) and the fuel system (53). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

13 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 30, 2014. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.