Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (torsion beam axle, shock absorbers), wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion), steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, diagnosis.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads, rotors), parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis, hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
12-volt battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, exterior trim, underbody protection, frame alignment, rust repair.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control panel, diagnosis.
Not consistently awarded Top Safety Pick status across all years/models, but generally good ratings in frontal offset and side impact.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak electronic stability control (on some models).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, LATCH child seat anchors, OnStar communications system (optional/subscription-based).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Systems:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 playback. Optional upgrades include satellite radio, upgraded speaker systems, and a touch-screen infotainment system on later models.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited; Primarily focused on ABS and traction control. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Optional OnStar telematics system providing emergency assistance, navigation, and hands-free communication.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic oil (consult manual for specific engine/oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 150,000 miles (240,000 km) or 10 years for Dex-Cool coolant (GM P/N 12346132, coolant type is crucial).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified) for most engines. Consult manual for exact specification and API service category.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron VI (GM P/N 88861123 or 19250866) for 4-speed automatic transmission.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Interior trim rattles, occasional electrical gremlins (window regulators, power locks), catalytic converter failure, clutch wear (manual transmission), piston slap in some 2.2L engines.
Ss Specific Issues:
Turbocharger cooling system issues, clutch upgrades may be needed for spirited driving on SS models.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles for the mass market since 1911.
Model Evolution
Cobalt Introduction:
The Chevrolet Cobalt was introduced for the 2005 model year, replacing the Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire. It was available as a coupe and sedan.
Second Gen Refresh:
The second generation (2005-2010) received minor styling updates and feature revisions throughout its run, including the introduction of the high-performance Cobalt SS Supercharged and later Turbocharged models.
Production
Production Plant:
Lordstown Assembly, Ohio, USA
Production End:
Production of the Chevrolet Cobalt ended in 2010 in North America, succeeded by the Chevrolet Cruze.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Jdpower Ratings:
J.D. Power and Associates ratings varied by year, with some models receiving average to below-average initial quality and dependability scores. This manual helps address potential issues.
Edmunds Reviews:
Edmunds reviews often highlighted the Cobalt's value proposition and sportiness in SS trims, but noted shortcomings in interior refinement and ride quality compared to some competitors.
Certifications
Certification Details:
N/A (Manual is a factory-produced document, not a vehicle certification).