The Good
The 2005 Cobalt offered a blend of practicality and style. Its strong points included decent fuel efficiency, particularly with the base engine. The SS trim appealed to emotional buyers with its sporty performance. For practical buyers, its affordability and relatively comfortable ride for a compact car were attractive.
The Bad
The 2005 Cobalt was known for some reliability issues, including problems with the ignition switch (later subject to a recall), power steering, and sensors. Rust could also be a concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Potential buyers should carefully inspect these areas before purchasing.
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt: Quick Overview
Key Specs for the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt:
- Engine Options:
- 2.2L Ecotec I4 (Base, LS, LT): 145 horsepower
- 2.0L Supercharged I4 (SS): 205 horsepower
- Horsepower:
- 145 hp (2.2L)
- 205 hp (2.0L Supercharged)
- Fuel Economy: (estimated)
- 2.2L: 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 2.0L Supercharged: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: (estimated)
- 2.2L: 8.5-9.0 seconds
- 2.0L Supercharged: 6.5-7.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Basic features, manual windows and locks, cloth seats.
- LS: Added features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an upgraded audio system.
- LT: Further upgrades including cruise control, remote keyless entry, and enhanced interior trim.
- SS: Sport-tuned suspension, performance tires, sporty exterior styling, and bolstered seats. The supercharged engine was exclusive to this trim.
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2005 |
Make | Chevrolet |
Model | Cobalt |
Trim | - |
Style | Coupe 5-Speed Manual |
Type | Coupe |
Category | Subcompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | LORDSTOWN |
Dimensions
Doors | 2-Door |
Curb Weight | 1300.9 kg |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | 140.97 cm |
Overall Length | 458.47 cm |
Overall Width | 172.47 cm |
Wheelbase Length | 262.38 cm |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.2-L L-4 DOHC 16V |
Engine Size | 2.2L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
Transmission Type | Manual |
Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $13,625 USD |
Invoice Price | $12,739 USD |
Delivery Charges | $565 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Have?
Other common problems included:
- Power steering failure: Owners reported loss of power steering, making the car difficult to steer, especially at low speeds.
- Sensor issues: Problems with the oxygen sensors and mass airflow sensor were also frequently reported.
- Fuel System: Some owners reported issues with the fuel system
- Rust: Rust, particularly on the undercarriage and around the rear wheel wells, was a concern in regions with road salt.
- Electrical issues: Various electrical problems, including issues with the instrument cluster and lighting, were reported.
How long will the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional, and electronic stability control (ESC) was not widely available, even as an option, in the earlier model years.
Safety features included front airbags as standard, and side airbags were available as an option.
Crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) varied. Some ratings indicated adequate protection in frontal crashes, but side-impact protection was sometimes rated lower. It's important to check the specific ratings for the body style (coupe vs. sedan) and model year when considering safety performance. Later model years saw some improvements in safety features and crash test results.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Prices and Market Value
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Cost of Ownership
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Fuel Efficiency
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Recalls & Defects
Structure
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Steering:electric Power Assist System
Electrical System:ignition:switch
AIR Bags
Electrical System:ignition
Electrical System:ignition:switch
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Compare to Other Coupe?
Reliability was a significant weakness for the Cobalt compared to the Corolla and Civic, which are known for their dependability. The Focus presented similar reliability challenges.
Price-wise, the Cobalt was often more affordable than the Corolla and Civic, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives to consider include the Honda Civic (for reliability and resale value), the Toyota Corolla (for its dependability and fuel efficiency), and the Mazda3 (for its sporty handling and attractive design). If reliability is a top priority, the Civic or Corolla are generally better choices. If budget is a primary concern and you find a well-maintained Cobalt, it could be a viable option, but a thorough inspection is essential.
Ranks #226 Coupe
1 | 2023 Toyota GR Supra | (0.0★) |
2 | 2023 Lexus RC F | (0.0★) |
3 | 2011 Honda CR-Z | (5.0★) |
4 | 2023 Subaru BRZ | (5.0★) |
5 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | (4.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW 4 Series | (0.0★) |
7 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | (4.0★) |
8 | 2014 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
9 | 2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Nissan GT-R | (0.0★) |
11 | 2015 Hyundai Veloster | (0.0★) |
12 | 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0★) |
226 | 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt a Good Coupe?
Thomas on January 2, 2023
05 cobalt nightmareCar has multiple problems, keys stuck, and now I can put the shifter in gear without brake, this all started when my mother had the car & gave it to me, I have changed 3 alts, and starters 2 batteries and still can't drive the vehicle
Ladybug on May 28, 2021
Great car, overly price at the time of purchase.This is a great car. Totally love it. It has 1800 miles on it/ 2005 purchased/ but now over 138000 on it. I want to see it turn over one more time to hit 200k. All highway miles. Handle well on the highway. Headlights are not the greatest. It stopped on me driving at 60 mph which was not good. Power steering is getting bad. Outside paint job on top is the worse I have had on any car purchased. My Cobalt still going and its 2021.
Kris2783 on October 5, 2020
Save your money!Let's start off with the exterior, the damage to the top coat they use to protect the paint is just horrible!! My car looks just terrible, next we will move onto how badly the under body gets so rusted just from sitting on a street!! No grass, no dirt no piles of anything just a parking spot in a lot it got so bad I needed to replace the fuel line & the filtration line, I was leaking gas & not even a check engine light came on!! Lastly this is the pne that really gets me upset, after paying almost $500 to replace those lines two day's later the anti theft light came on & now my car won't start!! Nobody will help me nor take responsibility for it happening on their watch! So I'd love to know how to get this car running again, I've tried all the you tube advice on reprogramming the key yet NOTHING works, that anti theft light just won't go off!! Please help someone????
Batman on June 10, 2020
DeadlyThis car is not something I'd buy again there deadly and dangerous. I wish I'd had known what junk it was before I bought mine
Amy In on September 21, 2019
Had to replace to many parts.I have had nothing but ignition problems with my Colbalt. It was 1st done on Recall and now it's out again at my expense, I am on disability and can not afford all the repairs.
Ramona B on July 3, 2019
Very reliable, fun to driveI bought this car brand new back in 2005. It's great for a single person or a couple . Good power when you need it easy to drive around town and on the highways.
Morgan.King on February 13, 2019
Think of something and you'll replace itI've replaced almost the whole car and the problems only get worse I'm more or less scared to drive the car and you fix it once you'll fix it until it no longer runs.
David on January 27, 2019
Good car Good ValuePlenty of front legroom for a small car. Engine very quiet and smooth. Gets good gas mileage. Very good vehicle for the money I paid.
Abeamon on January 25, 2019
Car cuts off when stopping for light or stop sign,This is a very dangerous vehicle. I do not recommend it to anyone. Fix the problem i see mutiple complaints of the same thing. It
JenNKY on December 1, 2018
A great value and very dependableI drove this car off the dealership lot brand new in 2005. It has been very dependable and great on gas and mileage. Although. I did recently buy a new car I have decided to keep it as a back up. I love my little silver cobalt!