NHTSA Owner Complaint Log
This page lists owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA and do not by themselves prove a defect or defect rate.
Data synced from NHTSA on May 4, 2026
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for repair; however, the mechanic found a fuel leak and an abnormal gasoline odor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 17,311.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. In addition, the power steering failure warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was turned off. The contact stated that while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle was started, and the power steering failure warning light was off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall with a similar failure description; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 154,824.
Steering went out while driving
There is a leak in the fuel lines that is just awful. Constant while driving Many others have experienced as well. Leaves huge puddles of gas
OEM headlights had become dim and one could no longer be aimed, so I ordered these replacements through Amazon. I paid $92 to have them installed, and the mechanic let me know that the high beams could not be activated, except by holding the turn signal, making it dangerous to steer. In addition, when the headlights are on they create so much RF, the radio no longer gets most AM or FM stations. The mechanic confirmed, they are wired incorrectly, but did not wish to attempt to rewire them.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start and was jumpstarted; however, the auto theft warning light illuminated, and the key could not be removed from the ignition. The contact was able to drive the vehicle however, the locks failed to lock the doors, and there was a clicking sound when the windows failed to roll up or down. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel. The contact stated that the tank was full however, the next day the fuel tank was empty. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 161,595.
Loosing power steering
My car turned off while I was driving and almost caused me to crash into an 18 wheeler. Thank God I turned on my emergency signal and the truck swerved!. I would of died. I was stuck in the middle of the road and luckily some passersby helped me push it into a commercial parking area. I tried to start it again and it wouldn't start. But, when I turn my key into the off position, my car tried starting by itself. It was scary. It was checked by a mechanic, prior to this happening, because the car was hard to start. The mechanic told me to find out if there is a recall. However, I did some research and there was a recall on the ignition switch and fuel pump. The ignition switch was faulty causing the car to turn off while moving and two people died as a result. I entered the VIN # and it didn't show any recalls.
My Cobalt 2009 has gas leaking in front of the back driver's side wheel. This has been report it seems by several people online that I have found. Why can not GM cover this repair in a recall? I've tried to call around for pricing but most garage's won't give me a quote over the phone. The best I got was that this would cost around 2000-3000 for replacement. But it seemed like a shot in the dark on the pricing. I called the local dealership near me in Darian Connecticut, and was told that this was not covered under any recall. Corrosion protection coverage expired in 2019 from GMs site. But why would a fuel line be made of a metal that rust and is near the hot exhaust requiring a heatshield on the pipes? Aftermarket repairs seems to be either Braided Stainless Steel around Nylon, or Some Nickel/Copper Piping using compression fittings that plumbers use.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated after arriving at his residence, he became aware of a puddle of fuel underneath the vehicle. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.
There is a gas leak an after reviewing online there are several complaints of chevy colbalt 09 owners whos car forms a gas leak on the driver side of the car near back seat. There is a very strong smell of gasoline and seems to be a repeated issue
Fuel leak very strong gas smell
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that there was a strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle while driving and while the vehicle was parked. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that there was a fuel leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 152,816.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that after driving to a local store and turning off the vehicle, the contact then returned to the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that the fuel level sensor circuit and cam shaft position sensor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 153,000.
Vehicle is leaking fuel from rusted fuel line near drivers side rear tire. Apparently a common issue with this model with no recall.
steering is going out. when turning slowly it’s hard to turn it back straight.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that she smelled an abnormal odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the fuel lines were replaced; however, the failure recurred. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V459000 (Fuel System Gasoline). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was unavailable.
2009 Chevy Cobalt, Driving to work Friday January 13 2023, noticed heavy smell of gasoline. parked car and noticed a puddle just in front of the drivers side rear tire. Got it home and did an inspection of the area and discovered a fuel line leak when car is running and line is under pressure. It is a big leak seemingly caused by rust developing on the line because of a heat shield trapping water and debris. This leak is very close to the hot exhaust system. Fire is an obvious possibility. I'm afraid to even drive it to a shop. I plan on having it towed.
Fuel leaking from near top of tank/pump. Sounds similar to other recalls though my VIN is not currently included. Noticed fuel smell in garage and could see fuel from top of tank. No indicators showing a malfunction.
Fuel pump leak: fuel pump line started spewing fuel over ground during engine start. Engine wouldn’t not start due to high pressure fuel leak.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while operating the vehicle the check engine light would remain illuminated and the odor of fuel was present inside the vehicle. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the fuel had leaked from near the rear passenger-side wheel area. The contact discovered that the leak was due to a corroded and damaged fuel line. In addition, it was discovered that the fuel line connecting to the fuel filter was corroded and damaged. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 97,600.
The vehicle had an instance of hard starting, then I became aware of the odour of fuel in my car which quickly made me exit the vehicle as the fumes were strong. Liquid fuel was leaking out of the left rear in from of the wheel area, in proximity to the exhaust system
Strong smell of gas inside vehicle. Gas is leaking from vehicle. Known problem of fuel leakage and vehicle recalls.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that the odor of fuel was present inside and outside of the vehicle. Additionally, the odor was present whether the vehicle was on or turned off. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The contact stated that no visible fuel leaks were present. The local dealer was contacted regarding the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V459000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 150,000.
While parking my 2009 Chevy Cobalt the power steering became difficult. It was like it stopped working at times. Then it began again and then it completely stopped steering and the steering locked. I turned the car off and checked the vehicles power steering fuses. They were all fine. Then turned the car back on to see if the problem still continued and it started working. I rushed home hoping it would work. Once I pulled into my driveway the power steering completely stopped working again. I see that there was a recall in the past but may not be available any longer but seems like they should still correct the issue.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering assist and became difficult to steer. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the power steering failure occurred at various speeds. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V073000 (Steering). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000.
Leak in fuel line
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering assist warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 67,504.
Wiring harness is located too close to the human under the driver's seat. Exposes the driver to electrical frequencies that could be avoided if the wire harness was a further distance away from the human. Also, the the fuel line rusted through after 9 years about 9 inches away from the rear axle where the metal tape ends around the fuel line. The metal tape seems to allow more moisture to become trapped around the fuel line; which promotes rust and a leak where the metal tap ends. After the metal tape, the fuel line is in good condition on this specific vehicle. The fuel leak is about 0.5 inches wide and a lot of gasoline drips / leaks after the car is started. The rust particles are located after the fuel filter; which may promote the rust particles to reach the engine via the rusted fuel line. The car has trouble starting (a delay) and needs to have the key turned twice due to the leak. The leak is very close to the muffler, so it seems like it would be at risk of catching on fire if the muffler was hot enough or if it were traveling on a long trip or going up or down a steep hill. The vehicle has been inspected by police. There were no warning lamps or lights.
Noticed gas smell inside and outside of car.
My power steering seemed very loose. I zig zag across the road.Trying not to hit a telephone pole.Slipped into a ditch. Got back on the road for a few seconds but still no control. Finally car went into the woods hit a tree and was totaled.I don't care if vin says no recalls my steering didn't exist that day.
Fuel line leak occurred at approximately approx. 76,700 miles requiring immediate repair as gasoline was leaking out at a continuous rate. Dealership indicated this is a common issue with the Cobalt. No warning lights other than difficulty starting vehicle and then smell of gas.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle intermittently experienced a loss of power steering assist. The power steering assist warning light was illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
There is gas puddling around the driver rear tire. I saw an article, which can be found here: https://www.thecarconnection.com/news/1128764_more-than-600-000-chevy-cobalt-and-hhr-models-investigated-for-fuel-leaks Gas leaking is an obvious safety problem due to the risk of fire or worse. The symptoms began yesterday - February 11, 2022. I did bring the vehicle to Bob McCosh Chevrolet in Columbia, Missouri. They reported there are no recalls on that system. But as the article link above confirms, I am certainly not alone in this problem. I believe this problem is being investigated but no recall has been issued. I will also follow up with the service manager at Bob McCosh Chevrolet in Columbia, Missouri. I will escalate to the regional service manager for Chevrolet. In the meantime, it would be very helpful if the weight of the FHTSA could get behind this problem. I can be reached at [XXX] if you have additional questions. My email is [XXX]. Thank you. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
The contact's mother owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while his mother was starting the vehicle, the passenger's side air bag made clicking sounds. Additionally, the engine would rev, and the vehicle would shake while idle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who replaced the fuel filter, spark plugs, and ignition coils; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 106,864.
I noticed the smell of fuel originating from the near the left rear well a few days ago (~1/1/2022). I took my car to a mechanic who confirmed fuel leaking out from a line located near the left rear well. The mechanic claims the leaks are caused by corroding metal fuel lines and was due to poor engineering/ design of the car. The gas line is rusted and leaking, there is a strong odor of gasoline at the rear drivers side tire of my car and I can feel/ see the fuel leaking. I have been driving my 4 month old son around in that car for months and had no idea fuel was leaking and I was putting both of our safety at risk! I called my local chevy dealership about fixing it and they said it will be at least $1300 to repair the leak and more if the gas tank needs to be replaced. I am taking the car to the dealership on 1/18/2022. There were no signs of anything wrong besides the strong smell of gas.
I have noticed when car is parked in garage that there is a gas odor present in the garage. It appears the gas odor is the strongest around the driver side, rear wheel. I do not yet see any severe drips anywhere but it is enough to cause concern about parking the car in a closed up garage. especially in winter with a heater running... I have not yet brought it into a dealer to have it checked. This car is located in a midwest climate where salt is used on roads which would cause possible issues with corrosion.
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while reversing at an undisclosed speed, the electric power steering assist failed, and the steering wheel was difficult to maneuver. The power steering warning message was displayed. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact of NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V073000 (Steering) that was associated with the VIN. The dealer also informed the contact to bring the vehicle in for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.
Derive airbag idiot light is on and service airbag message is on
My car has a fuel leak. I looked up to see if there was a recall and there was but not for my VIN. This is a serious and dangerous issue and one I think Chevrolet needs to fix. Why are some cars covered and others not with the same issue.
SERVICE AIRBAG MESSAGE COMES ON WITH WARNING LIGHT MOSTLY IN COLDER TEMPERATURES AND WHEN TURNING THE VEHICLE. THIS IS RANDOM AND DOES NOT OCCUR ALL THE TIME. HAPPENS WHEN JUST STARTING THE VEHICLE AND ALSO WHEN IN MOTION AND TURNING. DEALERSHIP IS UNABLE TO FIND AN ISSUE. OCCASIONALLY HAPPENS JUST WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT. HAS HAPPENED OVER THE LIFETIME OF OWNERSHIP OF THE VEHICLE. UNKOWN IF AIRBAGS WOULD WORK PROPERLY IN A CRASH!
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that a fuel odor was detected while the vehicle was parked and while driving. The contact noticed there was fuel leaking on the ground where the vehicle was parked. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and while the vehicle was on the lift, the contact observed there was corrosion on the fuel tank and fuel lines and a fuel leak next to the driver’s side exhaust pipe. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the mechanic. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000. The VIN was unavailable.
fuel line has corroded badly by the rear left wheel, possibly due to the material used for the line and by road salt being captured by a heat shield. The car now leaks fuel badly whenever we try and move it. The poor design (heat shield) and poor choice of materials (appears to be steel) have caused this leak. A fuel line shouldn't be made of steel.
Fuel line leaking - 2ft diameter puddle of gas in garage started July 23, 2021. Located just in front of left side rear tire. Currently car is parked outside awaiting repair. Could have burned house down. No warning lamps no symptoms, started smelling gas in house after dinner. Vehicle has not been inspected since leak began.
whenever i would go to speed up my ecs active light would pop up, now it’s been popping up every time my wheel isn’t straight and randomly. it’s scary because it causes my car to bog down and the steering feels weird and my brakes get really rough
The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The contact stated that while his wife was reversing the steering wheel became inoperable. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle to his residence. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 142,993.
key got stuck in ignition ,now wont start car , now airbag light is on
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 CHEVROLET COBALT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, THE POWER STEERING MALFUNCTIONED CAUSING THE STEERING WHEEL TO BECOME VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN IN EITHER DIRECTION. DURING THE FAILURE, THE POWER STEERING FAULT MESSAGE DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER HAWK CHEVROLET LOCATED 2001 W JEFFERSON ST, JOLIET, IL 60435 WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT YET CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.
THERE'S A WHINING TYPE NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING AND A WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED GOING DOWN A HILL IT MAKES A SHUTTER CLINKING SOUND TOO FROM THE STEERING. ALSO AT TIMES IT WILL GET TIGHT FOR NO REASON. THEIR IS ALSO PLAY LIKE IN THE STEERING. I CAN MOVE BACK AND FORTH AND YOU'LL HEAR CLUNK/CLINK NOISE.
STEERING IS STIFF. GETTING HARD TO TURN