2010 Chevrolet Cobalt — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $3,500–$6,500. There are 2 high-severity known issues you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
A cheap, basic compact remembered mostly for the ignition-switch recall that became a national scandal. The final-year cars are simple and durable enough, but the recall history and the sheer age make the VIN check and a careful inspection non-negotiable.
Known Issues for the 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
The defective ignition switch could shut off the engine and disable airbags. A massive recall followed. Confirm the switch was replaced on the VIN — this is a safety-critical item.
Repair cost range: $0 recall
Electric power steering failures caused a recall; assist can cut out suddenly.
Repair cost range: $0 recall to $800
The Ecotec engines develop oil consumption and PCV-related issues.
Repair cost range: $300-$1,500
Cheap materials that rattle and wear.
Repair cost range: n/a
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Ignition switch or steering recall not completed
- ✗Oil consumption
- ✗A very cheap car with no records
- ✗Salvage title
Good Signs
- ✓All safety recalls closed with documentation
- ✓Manual transmission for simplicity
- ✓Honest, documented maintenance
Found a specific Chevrolet Cobalt?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.
Get My Verdict — $7.99No account required. Delivered to your inbox, usually within minutes.
Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.
More from Chevrolet
Similar cars & sedans