Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, controls, diagnostics
Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module diagnostics and replacement
Diagnostics:
Includes detailed diagnostic strategies, scan tool data interpretation, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting trees for all electrical and mechanical systems.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations and resolutions
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounding points, and connector pinouts
Calibration:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors and modules (e.g., steering angle sensor, throttle body, transmission control module) after replacement or adjustment.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and specific procedures.
Torque Specs:
Extensive list of torque specifications for all fasteners, critical for proper assembly and safety.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution, designed for clear printing of text and diagrams
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for 2.4L; Direct Injection (DI) for 1.4L Turbo and 2.0L Turbo
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Performance
0-60 Mph Approx 1.4T:
8.5 - 9.5 seconds (depending on transmission and trim)
0-60 Mph Approx 2.0T:
6.0 - 6.5 seconds
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Standard Early:
5-speed Manual (M24) on 2.4L and some 1.4L Turbo models
Transmission Standard Late:
6-speed Manual (M32 or similar) on 1.4L Turbo and 2.0L Turbo models
Optional
Transmission Optional Early:
6-speed Automatic (6T40/6T45) on 2.4L and some 1.4L Turbo models
Transmission Optional Late:
6-speed Automatic (GF6-2 or similar) on 1.4L Turbo and 2.0L Turbo models
Features
Transmission Features:
Adaptive shift control, manual mode (TapShift on automatics)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 181.0 - 182.5 inches (4597 - 4636 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.0 inches (1778 mm)
Height:
Approx. 58.0 inches (1473 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 105.7 inches (2685 mm)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.0 - 16.0 cubic feet (425 - 453 L)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000 - 3300 lbs (1361 - 1497 kg) depending on engine and trim
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Typically rated 5-Star overall safety rating (varies slightly by year and test)
IIHS Ratings:
Good in most categories, often earning Top Safety Pick designations in later years.
Active Features
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), available Rear Vision Camera, available Forward Collision Alert, available Lane Departure Warning
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear side-impact airbags, roof-rail airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Systems:
Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system available on higher trims, featuring touchscreens, AM/FM/SiriusXM satellite radio, CD player, USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional navigation.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features include Rear Vision Camera, Park Assist, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB connectivity for media playback and device charging.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions (refer to manual for severe conditions).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000-45,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 20,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Iridium spark plugs typically recommended for 100,000 miles replacement interval.
Coolant Flush:
Initial drain and fill at 5 years or 150,000 miles, then every 3-5 years or 75,000-100,000 miles thereafter.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil 1.4T:
SAE 5W-30, Dexos1™ Licensed Synthetic Oil (e.g., GM Part # 19417690, 88865208, or equivalent)
Engine Oil 2.4:
SAE 0W-20, Dexos1™ Licensed Synthetic Oil (e.g., GM Part # 19300656, 88865207, or equivalent)
Coolant:
GM Dex-Cool® Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange) - SAE 50/50 mix (e.g., GM Part # 12346290 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid (e.g., GM Part # 19299620 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron® VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., GM Part # 88864354 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Manual Transmission Fluid, GL-4, SAE 75W-85 (check specific manual for exact spec)
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Turbocharger oil supply line leaks (1.4T), water pump leaks, starter motor issues, some transmission control module (TCM) issues, potential for oil consumption in some 1.4T engines.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles for a broad market.
Model Evolution
Model Introduction:
The Chevrolet Cruze was introduced globally as a replacement for the Chevrolet Cobalt and other compact models. It was developed on the global GM Delta II platform.
First Generation J300:
The J300 generation, covering these model years, was a significant step forward in refinement, safety, and global appeal for Chevrolet's compact offering.
Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2015 model year, introducing updated styling and features.
Production
Production Locations:
Global production, including Lordstown, Ohio, USA; Ramos Arizpe, Mexico; and various plants in Asia and Europe.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Earned IIHS Top Safety Pick awards in various years for its safety performance.
Consumer Reports:
Mixed reviews from Consumer Reports over the years, with particular praise for refinement and fuel economy (especially turbocharged models), but some concerns regarding reliability in certain areas.