Commuter Car Search

[LTb1ow]

Looking for something that gets ~30mpg, and priced around 25k

So far, looking into a 2014 Cruze diesel, cause fanboi, Anyone know of any major issues they had?

[sweetbmxrider]

Why you make my thread brah?

[LTb1ow]

Why you make my thread brah?

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-Chevrolet-Cruze-d2076#listing=175253539

Found one for ya

[KirkEvil]

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-Chevrolet-Cruze-d2076#listing=175253539

Found one for ya

Doesnt have a neutral tan interior brah

[Blackbirdws6]

25k monthly. Got you. Even has an electric only mode.

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourc eContext=carGurusHomePage_false_0&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=d2260&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity2=&zip=76180#listing=172411650

[Mike]

I love my gas Cruze. No experience with the diesel though

[FlyingDutchman]

I have a 14' CTD, bought it new and I now have 63k miles. Easily one of the most underrated eco cars. Marketing was poor, probably due to the last GM passenger car diesel debacle. I believe this car was really more or less to test out the market and get some real world testing with a clean diesel that actually meets the EPA standards.

I mainly commute up and down the parkway, so my avg is 42 mpg. If you know the parkway between exits 160 and 130, it's usually heavy traffic both directions, especially in the oranges. With a light foot and refined techniques I can get 45mpg on a tank WITH traffic, including regens. In a more rural setting I know I get even better. I usually go 600+ miles between tanks not trying, so every like 8 days I fill up. Some people have squeezed 1000+ miles on a single tank which is better than 55mpg (epa rated 46mpg highway). Impressive considering the DPF/SCR epa nonsense. So it will EASILY surpass your 30mpg mark. And diesel is almost as cheap as regular. Considering most new eco cars have turbo charged setups requiring mid-grade to avoid knock/timing retard, it's worth the money. (Yes, you can run regular in these newer turbo cars, but you won't maximize efficiency)

Overall the car is well built. It only came as a top of the line model, so you'll only find leather seats with navigation, remote start and all that with a 6spd auto. My Link nav is probably my favorite of any brand I've used. One cool feature for road trips is it will display points of interest at the next three exits along your planned route on the interstates, really useful ! It also includes a lot of sound deadening due to the diesel motor so the cabin is significantly quieter than the gas variant or other 4door economy cars (speaking from experience). The ride is quiet and since it's a bit heavy you won't lose your teeth hitting a bump like some cars. The power is great, 264ft-lbs with 280ft-lbs overboost for off the line, pushes you into the seat! Kinda hurts my mileage lol Turbo is oil cooled variable geometry, so it spools up quick. One guy has over 200k and he only replaced two exhaust sensors, both under warranty. There are several with more than 100k, no issues. So reliability is up there. Although reviews may be poor due to the numerous exhaust sensor issues...

With that said, the most common issue(s) and what I've dealt with are exhaust sensor failures, but they're pretty much all covered with recalls (premature failures due to exhaust humidity from SCR/DEF). The DEF tank heaters failed in several cars, but that is now covered under a TSB, so no charge. Other than that nothing major, some oddball things surface on the forum here and there, but they're usually covered under a warranty. As I said, since this car seems more of a test mule than anything, any issue the dealer works on is usually resolved with GM TAC engineers. Most of the exhaust sensors have been updated. Last week I had a CEL for the particulate sensor and it was replaced for free (covered up to 10 years or 120k). They also reflashed the ecm with their newest software to help resolve issues some were having with NOx senors.

As far as the exhaust related issues, if you had issues that werent covered or dont like the EPA riding shotgun, there are two companies who make dpf/SCR deletes, about $1000 I believe. Since all these new sensors now have their own module attached, they are about $200 a pop (again, pretty much all under warranty) the tune would pay for itself in the long run. Only issue is only gm can reflash the factory tune from what I read. But if you choose to go that route you probably won't go back anyway.

In summary... it's a great car, excellent mileage and you could probably score one cheap due to the exhaust issues (which are mostly covered afaik). It's worth seriously considering.

Info on the LUZ engine (made in Germany, proven design in Europe that gm reworked to meet epa) http://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/gm-engines/luz/

Cruze with delete
*https://youtu.be/4JrfGIWVC7U

[ThoR294]

Camry

[BrandonDrecksage]

i have always hated/made fun of vw. i test drove a 2017 gti sport in feb. and bought it. its got some pep and i think i have only gotten one tank under 30mpg. my commute to work is 30 miles each way. 15 miles of that is bumper to bumper traffic on route 1 in the middle of the day. this car gets the same mpg that my mini used to get. the base gti can be had for well under 25k. i got the sport with the diff and bigger brakes for 25.5k on a msrp of 30k

[LS1ow]

Were gunna have some nice deals on those TDI A6/A7/Q5/Q7s when the fix goes into place

[LTb1ow]

Were gunna have some nice deals on those TDI A6/A7/Q5/Q7s when the fix goes into place

Could not afford the maintenance BS to own an Auudi

[ThoR294]

Could not afford the maintenance BS to own an Auudi

german engineering brah don't hate

[Jersey Mike]

Keith can give you some good first hand info on the GTI (http://njfboa.org/forums/showthread.php?t=67405&highlight=tdi)

[qwikz28]

how long is your commute? First gen Volts are a steal right now.

[LTb1ow]

how long is your commute? First gen Volts are a steal right now.

147 mile there, and no chance of charging there. Not a daily drive, just would be weekends.

Work commute is a 40-50 mile round trip.

[sweetbmxrider]

how long is your commute? First gen Volts are a steal right now.

They are and they are tempting for me but nowhere to plug in currently :cry: I worry about hybrid battery replacement though....

[LS1ow]

Could not afford the maintenance BS to own an Auudi

I would be able to get you everything as dealer cost. Its really not that bad.

[LTb1ow]

I would be able to get you everything as dealer cost. Its really not that bad.

Audi is too fancy for my blood regardless.

[qwikz28]

147 mile there, and no chance of charging there. Not a daily drive, just would be weekends.

Work commute is a 40-50 mile round trip.

Cruze Diesel or Mazda 3 if you want to have a little fun too. Diesel Mazdas are coming in a year or so.

[LTb1ow]

Does not need to be peppy, just need maximal mpg for the price point. And not be a prius.

[sweetbmxrider]

Does not need to be peppy, just need maximal mpg for the price point. And not be a prius.

http://images.hgmsites.net/med/chevrolet-volt_100539504_m.jpg

[unstable bob gable]

german engineering brah don't hate

Let the man get a Chevy already.

[LS1ow]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e4/df/f8/e4dff89f9ab7f490839e6f209eb3c55b.jpg

This better for you ? Its a avant so you can fit 2-3 deer in the back too

[LTb1ow]

That is very nice Beggz.

Looking at a CTD tonight

[sweetbmxrider]

While a cool attempt, the opposing camo looks silly to me :-?

[PolarBear]

You should buy an old Suburban with a 454, TH400, 3.23 gears and 28" tires for a daily :rofl:

[wretched73]

Get a mid-90's civic.

30+MPG for less than $2k

[LTb1ow]

Get a mid-90's civic.

30+MPG for less than $2k

Needs to be reliable and not a maintenance black hole. True, 100% DD defined by a non car person

[WildBillyT]

Any reason for alternative fuels/electric?

Or is straight gas OK?

[wretched73]

Needs to be reliable and not a maintenance black hole. True, 100% DD defined by a non car person

I'm going to give you a pass on that remark. My opinion, the cheaper the better. Usually when buying a commuter car the fuel savings could take years to offset the initial purchase of the vehicle.

Any reason for alternative fuels/electric?

Or is straight gas OK?

Because diezel fanboiii :rofl:

[sweetbmxrider]

Buuuuut there is resale in a newer car vs a throwaway honduh :lol: I'm cool with either to be honest but dem ctd's are quite appealing....

[LS1ow]

I actually really like the first gen Cruises. I wish they came AWD.

[LTb1ow]

Any reason for alternative fuels/electric?

Or is straight gas OK?

Any fuel is fine.

Diesel just excites me and having another turbo vehicle is fanboi heaven :bertstare:

I want something that I am not worried about breaking down, and or, something I can take people who don't know me around without worrying about anything on the car being rigged/etc etc . Basically a car I can lend to the wife, and not worry about anything.

[wretched73]

Buy a nice CTD and get it over with it. Just post hella pics and vinyl wrap all the things.

[sweetbmxrider]

And stack!

[DirtyBird]

My 05 corolla gets about 32mpg and all i do is change oil, put gas in it, and beat the piss outta it. Also has 234k on it haha

[//<86TA>\\]

How about Hyundai? My 2013 Elantra gt was 19600$ out the door, averages 34mpg, and you would be amazed how much you can fit in the thing.

[Frosty]

Stay far far far far away from the Cruze diesel IMO.

Regular gas Cruze...absolutely a winner. The diesel? No. EVERY single one we sold came back with issues, two needing engines. You've be warned. ;)

[LS1ow]

Time out. This is NJJOA, how has no one recommended a Jeep Renegade/Compass? Or just a 4cyl Tj!

[LTb1ow]

Time out. This is NJJOA, how has no one recommended a Jeep Renegade/Compass? Or just a 4cyl Tj!

Absolute not.

I said reliable and fuel efficient remember?

[LS1ow]

Absolute not.

I said reliable and fuel efficient remember?

Renegade is fuel efficient and reliable !

[ThoR294]

The volt looks tempting.

Camry is still a really good car and nice mpg for it's size.

[sweetbmxrider]

Absolute not.

I said reliable and fuel efficient remember?

Cummins R2.8 swapped turbro diesel fanboiiiii :drool:

[PolarBear]

Cummins R2.8 swapped turbro diesel fanboiiiii :drool:

:nod:

[sweetbmxrider]

Stay far far far far away from the Cruze diesel IMO.

Regular gas Cruze...absolutely a winner. The diesel? No. EVERY single one we sold came back with issues, two needing engines. You've be warned. ;)

Car to expand on this blanket statement? Also, ats thoughts?

[qwikz28]

Also, ats thoughts?

You mean Cadillac ATS?

[LTb1ow]

You mean Cadillac ATS?

Yes.

[qwikz28]

Yes.

My CTS has only 11k miles, but the drivetrain is the same. Relatively efficient, very comfortable and quiet, mostly well built. Used examples depreciate like stones and can be had for below $20k. I had a loaner ATS for my first service and it is the better driving car, while the CTS is more comfortable and spacious.

If MPGs are your main concern, though, look elsewhere. My highest average to date is about 31mpg all highway.

[ThoR294]

ATS is a gas hog. Likes premium too.

[qwikz28]

ATS is a gas hog. Likes premium too.

I've been running regular in my CTS since I got it. Did two premium fill ups and noticed no difference in performance or MPG. Manual says car will adjust for regular, so that's what I do and I drive that thing very hard, which is probably why my lifetime average fuel economy starts with a 1.

[ThoR294]

I've been running regular in my CTS since I got it. Did two premium fill ups and noticed no difference in performance or MPG. Manual says car will adjust for regular, so that's what I do and I drive that thing very hard, which is probably why my lifetime average fuel economy starts with a 1.

You might have to do a few tank fulls and more pulls on premium. It probably lowers boost and other things when youre on regular. I know my cobalt hated regular lol

[sweetbmxrider]

I'm coming from a 15mpg city average with 20 flat if I really really try on the highway, cruise at 60 :lol:

[ThoR294]

I'm coming from a 15mpg city average with 20 flat if I really really try on the highway, cruise at 60 :lol:

What's your budget lol

[FlyingDutchman]

Stay far far far far away from the Cruze diesel IMO.

Regular gas Cruze...absolutely a winner. The diesel? No. EVERY single one we sold came back with issues, two needing engines. You've be warned. ;)

Would also like more explanation. 1.4L is notorious for water pump failures and coolant leaks ! As I stated before, most CTD issues are exhaust sensor related which GM has covered and even extended warranties for some up to 120k or 10 years. I've never heard of an engine failure.

[LTb1ow]

Would also like more explanation. 1.4L is notorious for water pump failures and coolant leaks ! As I stated before, most CTD issues are exhaust sensor related which GM has covered and even extended warranties for some up to 120k or 10 years. I've never heard of an engine failure.

This was all I could come across in my searches on the car. The one I am looking at has two years left in powertrain warranty. After that would be delete kit and tune anywa.

[sweetbmxrider]

What's your budget lol

Ain't got them subaroo monies brah

[Blackbirdws6]

Ain't got them subaroo monies brah

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1c4L-AnXc7Q/hqdefault.jpg

[ThoR294]

Neither do I that's why I didn't buy a wrx lolol

[Frosty]

Car to expand on this blanket statement? Also, ats thoughts?

Sure, every single one we sold up until I left last year came back with issues. Whether it was O2 sensors failing, DEF system failures(mainly the tank heaters) or two needing engines because something failed internally I wouldn't go anywhere near the diesel Cruze. I know one guy was starting the proceedings for a GM buy back because he was fed up. Stick with what works, the gas version.

As far as the ATS, I'm not sure what issues they have since I never worked for Caddy but having owned a 6thgen(for a whole whopping 3 weeks :( ) and driving them I can tell you that the Alpha platform is amazing.

[LS1ow]

Maybe you 2 should reach out to Big Pal for some advice on the Cruze Diesel or ATS ?

[Frosty]

Maybe you 2 should reach out to Big Pal for some advice on the Cruze Diesel or ATS ?

I don't need to, I actually see stuff in the real world with real owners. :lol:

[LS1ow]

I don't need to, I actually see stuff in the real world with real owners. :lol:

I meant Adam and Mongo

If theres one thing ive learned, its trust the people that work at a dealer. When i first started at Audi 5 years ago, every one told me STAY AWAY from the twin turbo S4s and V8 S4s. I didnt listen. Bought my S4 in october of 2012 and it lasted 12k miles.

[Frosty]

I know, was just taking the opportunity to poke fun at Al.

Yeah it's good to listen to people that see it every day. Now, could my customers just have bad luck? Sure. The dealership I worked at is just a tiny sample of what's out there but it's definitely concerning.

[FlyingDutchman]

I meant Adam and Mongo

If theres one thing ive learned, its trust the people that work at a dealer. When i first started at Audi 5 years ago, every one told me STAY AWAY from the twin turbo S4s and V8 S4s. I didnt listen. Bought my S4 in october of 2012 and it lasted 12k miles.

I know, was just taking the opportunity to poke fun at Al.

Yeah it's good to listen to people that see it every day. Now, could my customers just have bad luck? Sure. The dealership I worked at is just a tiny sample of what's out there but it's definitely concerning.

Maybe true for some cars, but the CTD is a different animal. Most dealers do not service these cars properly. I wouldnt be surprised if theres no formal training on such a complex setup. Seriously, of the 4 dealers I've been to, none have any idea what Dexos 2 low SAPS oil is. An absolute must for the health of the DPF/SCR and all the sensors downstream. Why am I the owner pointing that out ?? Plus this car only takes 5w-30 and only 4.75L. There has been one case of a diesel after it was serviced by a dealer who overfilled it. Highly trained tech Im sure. Last time I went for an oil change I was told my car didn't need it because it had 67% life left, then I had to show them how to scroll through the menu from fuel filter to oil life :facepalm: Can't tell you how many times I've pulled in the dealer service department and either heard "oh I didn't know they made that in a diesel" or mostly "omg wtf that engine sounds terrible". Yeah, it's a common rail diesel, not a gas ... so yeah, tell me more how awesome service is at a Chevy dealer! Since then I do my own service, at least I know it has the right oil and not overfilled.

As I stated already, the CTD had a lot of sensor issues and DEF tank heater failures in the beginning, many of which have been sorted out. I had a few, inconvenient ? Yes. Pay for any of them? No. Mercedes, dodge, vw, etc all face the same issues. Search around. Why do you think VW cheated? This is GMs first diesel passenger car in a while and add the epa requirements to that, so expect some bugs to work out. No reason to stay far away based on your experience. Besides, it can be tuned out. The engine is made in Germany and it's a proven setup, so tell me what exactly warranted a replacement? Was it serviced right? Did the owner drive with a "noise" and trash it themselves? It has a 5 year 100k warranty anyway.

For the two people you've mentioned, there are several people with more than 100k and one I know of with more than 200k. Maybe they just got lucky..

[Frosty]

So you're basing your opinion on a few idiot dealerships? Got it.

Both engines had a bottom end failure of some sort, I wasn't having my techs pull it apart because A) they weren't getting paid for it and B) I told GM to **** off, we're wasting our time finding out why their ****box broke. That's what they have their TAC and PQC departments for. These were also low mileage cars, one only had like 3500 miles on it if I recall correctly(it's been over a year so I don't remember the exact but it was very low).

Yes I know for a fact that the vehicles were serviced correctly because they only came to my service department and there are only a few techs that touch them(NOT oil change guys). There's plenty of training on them, whether the dealerships that you went to had all of their techs go through said training is another story. Mine did. Do techs make mistakes? Absolutely but mine wouldn't make a mistake due to a lack of knowledge, that I would stake everything I own on.

Yeah I'm sure the OP really cares about tuning stuff out. I don't think he's looking to do anything to the car but drive it. I see you own a Cruze diesel, I'm glad you're happy with it, I'm just telling the OP what I saw and what we experienced in the service department. I'd personally be uneasy buying a Cruze diesel.

Also, if someone in a service department actually said "I didn't know they made them in a diesel" then GTFO of there. That's not me nor my guys. I know my **** and I don't care if I'm arrogant about it. I know what I need to know, my senior techs know what they needed to know and we made people happy. There's a reason why I led(well top 5) the region in CSI when I was in the business, there's a reason why my dealership had very little comeback issues. I can't and won't speak for other dealerships, nor can I or will I speak for every single Cruze diesel out there but I'm telling the OP my opinion based on what I saw with my own eyes, in the real world. Not based on one owner, not based on some schmuck on a message board(not saying you, generally speaking). :shrug: Take it for what it's worth.

I don't doubt that people have gone 200K on them....I've seen a Kia go that far too......does that suddenly make the Kia the most awesomest(not a word)car out there? Ahhh, no.

I also stated that I haven't worked in the dealership world since last July, things definitely could've changed. I hope they did, I'll always be a GM guy, hell when I'm physically able to go back to work I may even get back into that line of work(because I'm a glutton for punishment). I'm just going by what I saw as an actual professional in the field.

Though I will say it pisses me off hearing you say what some dealerships told you or couldn't even figure out they were on the fuel filter rather than the OLM....it's ridiculous. Either they weren't trained properly or they just don't care, either way I wouldn't let them touch my stuff that's for sure.

[unstable bob gable]

And according to Road and Track the 'lil bugger will do over 130 MPH. :)

[sweetbmxrider]

Good perspectives here, sounds like a bit of growing pains to start.

[qwikz28]

Just as an aside, and coming from f-body ownership, sometimes an enjoyable ride is worth some MPG. One of the things I have become a stickler about is highway noise. If a car has excessive road noise and/or wind noise, I won't buy it as a daily. It's always the first thing I look for now. The CTS has some soft material lining the fender wells and triple-something seals which makes the car very quiet on long journeys. Granted, if I were to do it over again, I'd skip the AWD to save a few MPG and liven up the handling, but I don't think I can live with a car that is loud on the highway, like my buddy's WRX. That thing sounds and feels like it's built from wet Amazon boxes.

Perhaps it's because most of my driving is done during the work day, and I spend most of my time driving on the telephone, but serenity is important to me. I would consider comfort as an equally important factor in your search, especially given the long distances.

[LTb1ow]

I did like the quietness of the cruze, def a huge improvement over my truck :lol:

[LS1ow]

That thing sounds and feels like it's built from wet Amazon boxes.



I must go for a ride in one of these to verify

[qwikz28]

I must go for a ride in one of these to verify

Drove it through Carlstadt, actually. Couldn't believe how many rattles that car had for a 2016. In fairness, the roads by you are crap.

[Frosty]

I did like the quietness of the cruze, def a huge improvement over my truck :lol:

You should get a SSSSSSpark

[creeper]

GTI.

[LS1ow]

Drove it through Carlstadt, actually. Couldn't believe how many rattles that car had for a 2016. In fairness, the roads by you are crap.

No surprised there. My road is one of the only thats been paved in the past 10 years.

[cycomiko]

Spark EV. It may not look great but it's not a foreign car and the mpgs are high

[ThoR294]

spark replaced by bolt.

i like the Volt better though

[LS1ow]

Our EV will be out soon

http://www.autospies.com/images/users/Agent00R/images/audi_musk.jpg

[BonzoHansen]

what a strange ad referencing the head of another company.

[Blackbirdws6]

what a strange ad referencing the head of another company.

Thought the same.

[LS1ow]

There was some banter between Elon Musk and Audis engineers about the EV world. It's just to poke fun. They did the same thing with BMW a few years back

[LTb1ow]

Foreword, Frosty, if this goes bad on me, feel free to say I told you so.

That being said, my third turbocharged vehicle.
http://i924.photobucket.com/albums/ad86/lts1ow/FB_IMG_1497613187112_zpsfh75zglz.jpg

[ThoR294]

that was quick

[Blackbirdws6]

Will it do a burnout?

[qwikz28]

Definitely like the color.

[Frosty]

Dude trust me I'm hoping I don't ever have to say I told you so I don't want to see anybody go through car problems. I was just giving you my opinion based on what I've seen working in the industry. Now does that mean every diesel Cruze is a flaming turd and will give you problems? Absolutely not there are people that have had many many trouble-free miles. I was just throwing in my experience so I wish you the best of luck with it the cruise itself is an awesome car and I hope that you only have to do basic maintenance on it.

[LTb1ow]

It came with two more years of GM power train, which helped sell it to me. After that, I can delete all the emissions stuff which removes most of the reported issues I came across. Sensors, and DEF tank etc

[ThoR294]

It came with two more years of GM power train, which helped sell it to me. After that, I can delete all the emissions stuff which removes most of the reported issues I came across. Sensors, and DEF tank etc

whats the info on it? auto or stick? im getting a new daily after the wedding :bertstare:

[LTb1ow]

Diesel only was available in six speed auto.

[sweetbmxrider]

New one is 9 speed yooooo

[ThoR294]

Diesel only was available in six speed auto.

the only diesel available to you? on chevy.cawm you can get 6 speed manual or 9 speed auto :nick:

[LTb1ow]

the only diesel available to you? on chevy.cawm you can get 6 speed manual or 9 speed auto :nick:

I did not want a new car, and the price tag that comes with em.

2014 diesel, seemed to be auto only.

[ThoR294]

I did not want a new car, and the price tag that comes with em.

2014 diesel, seemed to be auto only.

yeah. so they must have added the 6speed manual option recently

[unstable bob gable]

Very cool. Turbos for the win!

[ThoR294]

Very cool. Turbos for the win!

aye they are fun. cobalt was a blast. cruze probably nice too especially with like double the MPGs haha

[LTb1ow]

Wish it whistled like my truck and did not have regen, but, ciest le vie, dat 46mpg

[LS1ow]

no turbro sounds at all ?

[wretched73]

give it two years, once its out of warranty i'm sure it will whistle like a pig

[ThoR294]

give it two years, once its out of warranty i'm sure it will whistle like a pig

Cobalt went from 16psi to 22. Quiet to wooooooshhhhh

[unstable bob gable]

Yesterday when I was filling up I noticed how much diesel fuel has come down in price. Def a win/win for the diesel
Cruzer.

[ThoR294]

What I dont understand is apparently the 6 speed manual gets better highway mpg than the new 9 speed auto??? wtf

[WildBillyT]

What I dont understand is apparently the 6 speed manual gets better highway mpg than the new 9 speed auto??? wtf

Rotating mass maybe?

[LTb1ow]

That and usually they have to torque limit the motors on autos to protect the gears, which may affect mileage.

Speaking of, first official fill up after filling it when I took it home... 435.3 miles with 11 gallons of diesel. Savings of over 50% compared to lugging truck around.

[sweetbmxrider]

That's just fuel savings, never mind 3/4 ton maintenance etc 8-)

[ThoR294]

Rotating mass maybe?

True. Always forget damn slushboxes lol.

That and usually they have to torque limit the motors on autos to protect the gears, which may affect mileage.

Speaking of, first official fill up after filling it when I took it home... 435.3 miles with 11 gallons of diesel. Savings of over 50% compared to lugging truck around.

Since I got my morning shift back, maybe ill stick with a manual then lol. Nice 40mpg. whats your driving like? lots of city or highway

[LTb1ow]

80% highway 20% city

[LTb1ow]

Well Frosty, you were right.:|

So far, have had three codes thrown and is currently in countdown to death due to poor DEF quality.

Awaiting what the local Chevy dealer says after their "diagnosis" and then I evaluate.

[ThoR294]

wow.

[Frosty]

Seriously? Sorry man :(

[FlyingDutchman]

Well Frosty, you were right.:|

So far, have had three codes thrown and is currently in countdown to death due to poor DEF quality.

Awaiting what the local Chevy dealer says after their "diagnosis" and then I evaluate.

What codes did it throw?

[LTb1ow]

What codes did it throw?

P20EE, twice, first time I cleared it
P20E4, once

And the more fun one, the dumbass GM countdown to death on DEF quality.

[wretched73]

Sorry to hear about that. If they say its due to bad DEF tell them to test it and let you know the results. I believe a Refractometer is what they use?

[LTb1ow]

Sorry to hear about that. If they say its due to bad DEF tell them to test it and let you know the results. I believe a Refractometer is what they use?

The DEF was flushed and refilled with new fluid when I took the car back to where I got it last time for this countdown BS. If we assume they are not frauds, its got good DEF. More than likely a sensor issue.

[Blackbirdws6]

What is this countdown to death you mentioned? Like a time limit when it will just shut off the engine?

[BonzoHansen]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/0d/c0/ad/0dc0adc947663e9bf31365edde44424c.gif

[FlyingDutchman]

P20EE, twice, first time I cleared it
P20E4, once

And the more fun one, the dumbass GM countdown to death on DEF quality.

Interesting. Did you ever remove the existing DEF fluid and replace with new since it does break down? P20EE is poor SCR efficiency, hence poor quality light.

The countdown isn't GM, that's your friends at the EPA ! Low DEF will also trigger a countdown. A clogged DPF can cause a countdown to shut off. All to prevent you from driving a dirty diesel :|

Sidenote, what's the NJ inspection procedure for diesel cars?

[LTb1ow]

What is this countdown to death you mentioned? Like a time limit when it will just shut off the engine?

Yup, mid travel to Philly yesterday I ran out of time. Could not go past 65mph coming home and in like forty miles I will be limited to 55mph :-x

Interesting. Did you ever remove the existing DEF fluid and replace with new since it does break down? P20EE is poor SCR efficiency, hence poor quality light.

The countdown isn't GM, that's your friends at the EPA ! Low DEF will also trigger a countdown. A clogged DPF can cause a countdown to shut off. All to prevent you from driving a dirty diesel :|

Sidenote, what's the NJ inspection procedure for diesel cars?

Again, the dealer I got it from claimed to have flushed and then refilled the DEF tank when this countdown and code came on earlier. Obviously they did not fix whatever issue it was so I sent nasty email and took it to a third party Chevy dealer.

Still waiting for diagnosis from Chevy dealer. Are NOX sensors covered under 80k emissions warranty?

[wretched73]

Could the DEF line be clogged?

[LTb1ow]

Could the DEF line be clogged?

Or the injector itself.

Was hoping to avoid working on the car myself since it came with warranty

[wretched73]

Or the injector itself.

Was hoping to avoid working on the car myself since it came with warranty

Can't blame you for that. My wife's car is the only car I've been around with a warranty and it didn't do us any good. Hopefully it works out better in your case

[Frosty]

Any update?

[LTb1ow]

Initial issue was low DEF (there is a backstory) and then the dealer could not get the car out of the speed limit mode. Dealer called TAC and somehow they managed to reset the car which fixed it. They managed to run through all the diagnostics and every sensor checks out good. So I am happy with that, only charged me $140 for materials and diagnosis which is not terrible IMO considering they were perplexed for a couple days with it. [This is all at a third party Chevy dealer]

The back story, about a week or so ago prior to this incident, the same symptoms showed up. Angrily called dealer I bought it from they told me to bring it in. Was then told their tech flushed and refilled the DEF, fine, all the codes were gone I was happy. I wrongly assumed that they actually did the ****ing work they claimed, but, lesson learned.

And yes, super embarrassing to have the tech explaining how I need to fill the DEF every oil change :|

[FlyingDutchman]

Initial issue was low DEF (there is a backstory) and then the dealer could not get the car out of the speed limit mode. Dealer called TAC and somehow they managed to reset the car which fixed it. They managed to run through all the diagnostics and every sensor checks out good. So I am happy with that, only charged me $140 for materials and diagnosis which is not terrible IMO considering they were perplexed for a couple days with it. [This is all at a third party Chevy dealer]

The back story, about a week or so ago prior to this incident, the same symptoms showed up. Angrily called dealer I bought it from they told me to bring it in. Was then told their tech flushed and refilled the DEF, fine, all the codes were gone I was happy. I wrongly assumed that they actually did the ****ing work they claimed, but, lesson learned.

And yes, super embarrassing to have the tech explaining how I need to fill the DEF every oil change :|

There is a level sensor with a display on the DIC, not sure if you saw it. It will say "DEF Fluid Level OK" until 33%, then it will decrease and show a percentage. I usually grab a peak bottle from walmart and I'm good for another 10k miles

[sweetbmxrider]

So how are you liking it? Any words of wisdom for someone shopping? Is there a preference on year etc?

[LTb1ow]

Um, for its intended purpose of getting better mileage than my truck. Its been great. Averaging around 45mpg every week and the ability to go ~600mile on a tank is really awesome. Leather seats are decently comfy and other than the adjustment from a open bench seat roominess to the small front chairs, its been nice.

So far no issues with gas stations trying to fill it regular, but BJ's has a diesel only stand so its fairly safe from idiots. I do find it amusing when people ask if its peppy, pretty sure my truck is quicker. :lol:

Currently driving with a SES cause I need to replace a EGT sensor, believe #2 but not caring until next paycheck cause it doesn't seem to effect any of the MPG numbers. Other than that, no complaints, come spring it will need new tires and brakes but it does drive nicely.

[ThoR294]

tune it for moar boooooooost for peppy!!!

glad you're liking it. 45mpg isnt too shabby

[LTb1ow]

tune it for moar boooooooost for peppy!!!

glad you're liking it. 45mpg isnt too shabby

Once you learn to leave things alone, and not mess with em, they are magically much nicer to always drive.

Granted I did tune my truck but I managed to not fall down rabbit hole.

#gettingold

[ThoR294]

Once you learn to leave things alone, and not mess with em, they are magically much nicer to always drive.

Granted I did tune my truck but I managed to not fall down rabbit hole.

#gettingold

lmao this is true. but once you get in the habit of modding things it is hard to not touch em

[LTb1ow]

Update, car is back at dealer for the ****ing DEF poor quality countdown to F u mode

[The_Bishop]

Did they replace the sensor last time?

[LTb1ow]

This time they claimed that the downstream nox sensor was acting up, but after resetting the speed limit mode they gave it back.

[The_Bishop]

What year cruise is it? There was a NOX sensor recall for some:

https://gm.oemdtc.com/6910/15594-emissions-recall-nox-position-1-sensor-replacement-2014-2015-chevrolet-cruze

It definitely seems like a crapped out NOX sensor, but it could be the DEF injector or the pump, too.

[FlyingDutchman]

This time they claimed that the downstream nox sensor was acting up, but after resetting the speed limit mode they gave it back.

Failed downstream NOX sensor doesn't cause limp mode, just a CEL and no remote start. Usually you'll just get P11D7.

Did you pull any codes? Wonder if it's DEF tank related .. they are covered until 120k I think. Has yours been replaced?

[The_Bishop]

I thought if the NOX sensor was reading wonky, the PCM would 'assume' that the DEF was 'low quality' and start derating the drivetrain.

[LTb1ow]

I didn't have a chance to pull the code, and remote start was still working.

Dealer claims that the nox was reading weird then normal numbers.

[The_Bishop]

Did you look at the link I posted? There was a recall for NOX sensors in your year Cruze.

15594: Emissions Recall – NOx Position 1 Sensor Replacement – 2014-2015 Chevrolet Cruze

Condition - General Motors has decided to conduct a Voluntary Emission Recall involving certain 2014 and 2015 model year Chevrolet Cruze model vehicles equipped with a 2.0L (RPO LUZ) diesel engine. On some vehicles, depending on driving habits, soot may build up on the engine’s NOx position 1 sensor and / or oxygen sensor, causing the vehicle Check Engine Indicator to illuminate.

Correction - Dealers are to replace the NOx position 1 sensor and reprogram the engine control module with a modified calibration.

Since it's a recall, especially on an emissions device, should be a free fix.

[FlyingDutchman]

Did you look at the link I posted? There was a recall for NOX sensors in your year Cruze.



Since it's a recall, especially on an emissions device, should be a free fix.

I did the recall (it is free) to replace NOX1, they also run a forced regen and flashed a new tune which now makes my regen cycles at low speeds feel like pretty good cam surge. But I haven't had any CEL and usually regen at highway speeds so I just deal with it.

If you have torque pro, there is a plugin on the app store for the CTD specifically. It allows you to force a service or normal regen and allows you to see other PIDs. I forget what it was called ..

[Frosty]

Say it isn't so. I guess I just got lucky in my posts.

Like others have said, if it's the NOX sensor it's covered. I don't have access to the recall/bulletins anymore since I'm out of the dealership world but it should be a straight forward repair(provided that's actually the problem).

[LTb1ow]

Only nox 1 is covered and the one in question is not covered by any warranty.

Apparently it threw p20ee, which I think it has randomly thrown since I got it.

Delete and tune is looking good

[Frosty]

To be honest, that's probably not a bad idea. I personally don't know what's involved in that, I'm sure others will chime in but it would definitely get rid of a lot of headaches.

[LTb1ow]

What's sad is that the months when it drives normally, I love the thing. Great mileage and comfy car.

Just annoyed with a three year old car chewing up sensors

[BonzoHansen]

What's sad is that the months when it drives normally, I love the thing. Great mileage and comfy car.

Just annoyed with a three year old car chewing up sensors

My gas one started drinking antifreeze about the same time. Too bad, it was a good car except the crappy shifting trans.

Where's the gm leghumper now? Lol

[The_Bishop]

Was the NOX Sensor recall ever done on you car, though? From a quick google search, there were two different recalls, and in the second one there was an update to the PCM that is supposed to rectify the NOX Sensor 2 issue. Also, have they checked to see if the DEF injector is clogged?

Recall 1 (https://gm.oemdtc.com/6910/15594-emissions-recall-nox-position-1-sensor-replacement-2014-2015-chevrolet-cruze)

Recall 2, newer and supplants Recall 1 (https://gm.oemdtc.com/7706/17089-emissions-recall-nox-position-1-sensor-replacement-2014-2015-chevrolet-cruze/4)

[ThoR294]

My gas one started drinking antifreeze about the same time. Too bad, it was a good car except the crappy shifting trans.

Where's the gm leghumper now? Lol

my GM leghumping was satisfied when my wife's 13 focus kept eating DCT clutches every 10k miles :nick::nick::nick:

how is the car besides this DEF BS?

[unstable bob gable]

My 04 Cavalier just passed inspection and is about to turn 200k miles. I'll hump GMs leg any time.