Your local GM dealership can check that all recall-related work has been performed to the vehicle you’re considering if you provide them with its VIN number.
If opting for a model with the manual transmission, be sure to check that the clutch isn’t on its way out. Any slipping or grinding could be a sign of a worn clutch or even transmission trouble, and a mechanic (or mechanically-inclined friend) can help check things out if you’re unsure how.
Note that squeaking, vibrating or grinding during light to moderate braking probably means your used Cobalt candidate needs a brake job, and that any popping or clunking sounds from the suspension could indicate a worn-out or damaged part. Some owners say their Cobalt’s suspension components have worn out prematurely-- so a good going-over of the vehicle’s underside by a mechanic is recommended.
Additionally, some owners have complained of ‘thin’ or easy-to-chip paint, meaning a full check over of the vehicle’s body is in order, too.
If considering one of the higher-performance Cobalt models, you’ll also want to scrutinize any modifications relating to the engine or chassis, ensuring you’re not investing in someone else’s headache. Intake and exhaust upgrades are typically acceptable and safe if installed correctly, but models with modified engine electronics, a modified turbocharger or supercharger, or other extensively altered systems should be avoided by all but those in the know about Cobalt tuning.
Note that excessive oily buildup in the tailpipe could indicate a worn oil seal in either a turbocharged or supercharged engine, and that any of smoke, hesitation or ‘jerky’ performance under wide-open or moderate throttle could be signs of trouble, too. If considering a turbocharged or supercharged Cobalt model, try and bring someone familiar with the vehicle along for the ride-- or visit a GM mechanic for a check over.
Ultimately, Cobalt looks like a fairly decent value in a used car-- especially considering that it appears mainly free of serious problems, and that its resale values should keep pricing fairly low. If the model you’re considering checks out mechanically and has all recall work up to date, you’ll likely become one of thousands of owners who enjoy Cobalt’s sportiness, fuel efficiency and comfort.
If opting for a model with the manual transmission, be sure to check that the clutch isn’t on its way out. Any slipping or grinding could be a sign of a worn clutch or even transmission trouble, and a mechanic (or mechanically-inclined friend) can help check things out if you’re unsure how.
Note that squeaking, vibrating or grinding during light to moderate braking probably means your used Cobalt candidate needs a brake job, and that any popping or clunking sounds from the suspension could indicate a worn-out or damaged part. Some owners say their Cobalt’s suspension components have worn out prematurely-- so a good going-over of the vehicle’s underside by a mechanic is recommended.
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| 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt (Photo: General Motors) |
Additionally, some owners have complained of ‘thin’ or easy-to-chip paint, meaning a full check over of the vehicle’s body is in order, too.
If considering one of the higher-performance Cobalt models, you’ll also want to scrutinize any modifications relating to the engine or chassis, ensuring you’re not investing in someone else’s headache. Intake and exhaust upgrades are typically acceptable and safe if installed correctly, but models with modified engine electronics, a modified turbocharger or supercharger, or other extensively altered systems should be avoided by all but those in the know about Cobalt tuning.
Note that excessive oily buildup in the tailpipe could indicate a worn oil seal in either a turbocharged or supercharged engine, and that any of smoke, hesitation or ‘jerky’ performance under wide-open or moderate throttle could be signs of trouble, too. If considering a turbocharged or supercharged Cobalt model, try and bring someone familiar with the vehicle along for the ride-- or visit a GM mechanic for a check over.
Ultimately, Cobalt looks like a fairly decent value in a used car-- especially considering that it appears mainly free of serious problems, and that its resale values should keep pricing fairly low. If the model you’re considering checks out mechanically and has all recall work up to date, you’ll likely become one of thousands of owners who enjoy Cobalt’s sportiness, fuel efficiency and comfort.
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