How common are engine problems in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze?

NHTSA lists 337 engine-related complaints for the 2011 model year, making up 46% of all 732 complaints filed for that year.

Is there a recall for engine fires in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze?

Yes. Recall 12V288000 covers 2011 and 2012 Cruze models where spilled or dripping oil, such as after an oil change, could collect near the engine shield and ignite. GM's remedy modifies the engine shield to prevent fluid contact.

At what mileage do engine problems typically appear?

NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 59,937 miles for engine-related complaints on the 2011 Cruze, though individual reports range widely.

Did the 2011 Cruze engine recall fix the fire risk?

Some owners report that fires occurred even after the recall remedy was performed, with smoke and flames again originating in the engine compartment.

How does the 2011 Cruze compare to other Cruze years for engine complaints?

The 2011 model's 46% share of complaints tied to the engine is higher than most other Cruze years, which range from 29% to 46% depending on the year.

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Engine Problems

NHTSA lists 337 engine-related complaints for the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 46% of all 732 complaints filed for the year. A related recall (12V288000) addresses oil dripping onto the engine shield and igniting, and many owner reports describe engine-compartment fires and smoke.

Engine complaints: 337; 46% of 732
Crashes reported: 9
Fires reported: 17
Injuries reported: 6
Median mileage: 59,937 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Owners describe smoke or an odor coming from under the hood while driving at low-to-moderate speeds, often followed by visible flames within minutes.
Several reports describe the vehicle catching fire shortly after an oil change, with owners noting no prior warning signs before smoke appeared.
Some complaints describe fires occurring even after the recalled engine shield modification was performed, with smoke and flames again originating in the engine compartment.
A few owners report sudden vehicle shutdowns while driving, accompanied by dashboard warning lights, jerking transmission behavior, and loss of engine power.
Multiple reports note that engine fires fully destroyed the vehicle, with flames spreading from the engine bay to the rest of the car within minutes.

When 2011 Chevrolet Cruze engine complaints were filed

First complaint May 16, 2011, latest Sep 9, 2026.

337 complaints filed with NHTSA from 2011 Q2 to 2026 Q3; peak 2015 Q1 (21).

Engine recalls for the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

NHTSA 12V288000Jun 22, 2012Engine413,148 vehicles
Engine and engine cooling
General motors (gm) is recalling certain model year 2011 and 2012 chevrolet cruze vehicles manufactured from october 2, 2009, through may 31, 2012. Spilled or dripping oil (such as after an oil change) may collect in the engine shield (bellypan) near hot engine or exhaust system surfaces. As a result, the oil and the engine shield may ignite and burn.
Risk: Either condition could result in an engine compartment fire, possibly causing injury or death.
Remedy: Gm will notify owners, and dealers will modify the engine shield to prevent fluid from contacting the shield. Also, on vehicles with a manual transmission, dealers will apply a protective tape to the electronic power steering wire harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge to the owner. The safety recall began on july 10, 2012. Owners may contact the chevrolet owner center at 1-866-694-6546.

Engine complaints by Cruze model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

20100 (0%)
2011337 (46%)
2012338 (39%)
2013254 (43%)
2014265 (38%)
2015114 (45%)
2016114 (46%)
201782 (41%)
201833 (30%)
20196 (29%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze?: NHTSA lists 337 engine-related complaints for the 2011 model year, making up 46% of all 732 complaints filed for that year.
Is there a recall for engine fires in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze?: Yes. Recall 12V288000 covers 2011 and 2012 Cruze models where spilled or dripping oil, such as after an oil change, could collect near the engine shield and ignite. GM's remedy modifies the engine shield to prevent fluid contact.
At what mileage do engine problems typically appear?: NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 59,937 miles for engine-related complaints on the 2011 Cruze, though individual reports range widely.
Did the 2011 Cruze engine recall fix the fire risk?: Some owners report that fires occurred even after the recall remedy was performed, with smoke and flames again originating in the engine compartment.
How does the 2011 Cruze compare to other Cruze years for engine complaints?: The 2011 model's 46% share of complaints tied to the engine is higher than most other Cruze years, which range from 29% to 46% depending on the year.