Does the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic, the most recent reported on May 27, 2018 (Seats). Check a specific car by its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic?

Owners have filed 15 complaints with NHTSA. The most frequently reported area is electrical system (6 complaints), followed by engine (4).

How many 2018 Chevrolet Sonic complaints mention a crash or fire?

0 of 15 complaints report a crash and 0 a fire; 0 injuries were reported in total. Complaints are unverified reports from owners.

2018 Chevrolet Sonic recalls and problems

1 recall and 15 owner complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic.

recalls

owner complaints

complaints mentioning a crash

mentioning a fire

Recalls apply to specific production ranges. To see whether a particular car still has an open recall, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for safety recalls are free at authorised dealers.

2018 Chevrolet Sonic recalls

Seats

NHTSA campaign 18V342000 · reported May 27, 2018 · General Motors LLC · 71 vehicles potentially affected

The problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. A joint in the driver's seat-back frame may not be properly welded, reducing the strength of the seat-back frame.
The risk: In the event of a rear-impact crash, the seat-back may fail, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat-back, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18178.

Most reported problems

Areas named in owner complaints to NHTSA. One complaint can name several areas.

Electrical system6
Engine4
Seats2
Unknown or other2
Wheels2
Air bags1
Exterior lighting1
Fuel system, gasoline1
Fuel/propulsion system1
Parking brake1

What owners report

Recent complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. These are unverified accounts from owners, not findings.

Oct 14, 2026 · Electrical system
My 2018 Chevrolet Sonic 1.8L has experienced repeated complete battery discharge and electrical failures over approximately two years. The factory infotainment system does not consistently shut down after the ignition is turned off. I must follow a specific shutdown procedure or occasionally remove the infotainment…

Jul 22, 2025 · Engine
Dear GM Executive Office, I am writing in frustration and disappointment after being told today by Chevrolet Customer Assistance that the case I opened (Case # […]) was simply a "dealer complaint" and that no further help would be offered - despite my vehicle exhibiting a recurring, safety-related malfunction covered…

May 15, 2025 · Fuel system, gasoline · 85,000 miles
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine was idling roughly. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel. The contact stated…

Nov 6, 2022 · Unknown or other
My car has had CAM shaft issues upon buying the car. I have taken the car to Chevrolet in Dallas and in Forney, TX and the car still has the same issue. My car engine check light has remained on and consulting a personal mechanic, they informed me that this could be a recall issue and that I should report it.

Jun 28, 2022 · Air bags · 15,000 miles
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Sonic. The contact stated that while a 95-pound passenger was seated in the front passenger’s seat, the air bag system was deactivated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to determine a failure and indicated no failure was found. The manufacturer was notified of…

Sonic model years compared

Year	Recalls	Complaints	Crashes	Fires
2015	3	114	15	3
2016	2	48	8	1
2017	0	37	6	1
2018	1	15	0	0
2019	0	8	0	0
2020	0	10	0	0

Across all years, the 2012 Sonic has the most complaints (354). All Chevrolet Sonic years →

Questions

Does the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic have any recalls?: Yes. NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic, the most recent reported on May 27, 2018 (Seats). Check a specific car by its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Sonic?: Owners have filed 15 complaints with NHTSA. The most frequently reported area is electrical system (6 complaints), followed by engine (4).
How many 2018 Chevrolet Sonic complaints mention a crash or fire?: 0 of 15 complaints report a crash and 0 a fire; 0 injuries were reported in total. Complaints are unverified reports from owners.

Source: NHTSA recall and complaint data, updated October 27, 2026. Latest complaint received October 14, 2026.