Hatchbacks generally are low-volume sellers in the states and the Chevrolet Spark is one of the least sold products in that segment for this model year. Though the current generation has been in existence since 2009, the third generation Spark was introduced to the US market only with the 2013 model year which might be one reason for its low interest despite its decent reliability records. Basic cars like these most often don’t have any concerning issues that might end up as a deal breaker, however, we have compiled the list of problems that users have reported coming across just to keep you on the safer side before getting one. With base prices starting at $12,185, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark will be going against the likes of other affordable hatches like the Honda Fit, the Kia Rio, and the Ford Fiesta.
2013 Chevrolet Spark Hatchback User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Complaints
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Engine problems- Loss of acceleration on throttle input combined with engine warning lamps is one problem that many 2013 Chevrolet Spark owners have been reporting. Knocking sounds, excessive oil consumption, reduced fuel pump performance and PCV issues are some causes of the sudden loss of power. The initial batches of this hatchback are also known for engine seizure, with the least recorded mileage of an engine replacement recorded at 15,000 miles.
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Transmission Problems- The 4-speed automatic unit on the 2013 Chevrolet Spark is reported to have a few niggles of its own. Issues such as inability to shift, loss of drive, failure to engage to drive mode, grinding noises, unintended shift to neutral, and jerk when shifting between ratios are commonly reported by owners. Most of these occur intermittently, thus diagnosing an exact cause has been difficult for the dealer. Also, reports on the requirement of a transmission replacement are very rare though.
Electric System complaints
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A/C Issues- The HVAC system on the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, as reported, fails to cool the cabin when the vehicle is on idle. Although owners report replacing multiple parts including the compressor, the problem does seem to persist. Although the owners were told that the issue is being considered by the manufacturer, no records of a working remedy are available. Some unofficial domains do suggest the use of a different Freon which seems to have worked for a few owners.
Structural issues
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Hood latch problems- Corroded hood locks on the 2013 Chevrolet Spark cause the hood to remain partly open. If a driver operates the car unaware of this, it could swing wide open, obstruct visibility, or even hit the windshield. Several owners have been reporting about this issue requiring the manufacturer to roll out a recall for inspection, and replacement of the affected part with a better corrosion-treated unit.
Safety Complaints
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Airbags Issues- Software troubles with the passenger detection system on the 2013 Chevrolet Spark causes it to illuminate the passenger airbag warning light despite the seat being occupied. Although the sensors were replaced, the issue persisted for owners. It was later detected that the airbag inflator itself was the cause, which was replaced under recall (ID-14V298000) for suspected failure.
2013 Chevrolet Spark Hatchback Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
10th June 2016 |
16V422000 |
No warning chimes |
Vehicles equipped with ‘Bring Your Own Media’ radio may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver fails to fasten their seatbelt or if the driver leaves the key in the ignition, increasing the risk of injury or a crash. |
The dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall began on July 22, 2016. |
|
2 |
28th April 2016 |
16V257000 |
No “Key left in ignition’ warning chime. |
Vehicles equipped with Bring Your own media radio may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver fails to fasten their seatbelt or if the driver leaves the key in the ignition, increasing the risk of injury or a crash. |
The dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule.
|
|
3 |
24th September 2014 |
14V593000 |
Secondary hood latch corrosion |
The secondary hood latch may prematurely corrode at the latch pivot causing the striker to get stuck out of position, preventing it from properly engaging the hood latch, causing it to open while driving, and increasing the risk of a crash. |
The dealers will replace the striker with a new part that has superior corrosion protection, free of charge. The recall began on January 7, 2015 |
|
4 |
6th June 2014 |
14V298000 |
Passenger frontal airbag inflator failure |
An improper weld on the passenger side front airbag inflator may result in the airbag not deploying, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
|
The dealers will replace the passenger-side front airbag, free of charge. The recall began on July 30, 2014. |
Should you buy a used 2013 Chevrolet Spark Hatchback?
The Chevrolet Spark is a likable all-rounder compact hatchback that has earned a top spot in our rankings this year for its style, practicality, and affordability. This pocket-friendly hatchback is decently reliable and the post-sales maintenance costs are also strictly on the lower side. The only bad side, as reported by owners, is the mechanical reliability in the long run, which may be a bit disappointing for this class given that this hatch is basic to the core. Complaints and recalls are on the lower side relatively speaking, but caution is required when browsing for one used, especially when the mileages are nearing or over the six-digit marker. The 2013 Chevrolet Spark still is a recommendation for our side when bought brand new, however, used ones with higher mileages may require some experienced hands to run through things before you decide to put your money down.
