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2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Review: A Reliable Year For The Small Sporty Car

Rating: 4.01
Based on 100 Owner Reviews ▶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt, a compact car produced by General Motors, replaced the Cavalier. Available in coupe and sedan body styles, the Cobalt was offered from 2005 to 2010. Key trims included the LS, LT, and sporty SS. Its popularity stemmed from its affordability and available performance-oriented SS trim. Pricing ranged from approximately $14,000 to $22,000 when new. The Supercharged SS initially was a standout, though later the Turbocharged version became a performance bargain.
The Good

The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt offered a blend of affordability and practicality. Its strengths included decent fuel efficiency, particularly with the base engine, and a sporty SS trim for those seeking performance. For practical buyers, it represented a budget-friendly option. For emotional buyers, the SS offered spirited driving dynamics and a sporty aesthetic. Decent reliability when properly maintained also added to its appeal.

The Bad

The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt has some known weaknesses. A common issue is the ignition switch problem, potentially leading to stalling. Other concerns include power steering failures and issues with the fuel system. Rust can also be a problem, especially in areas with harsh winters. Potential buyers should carefully inspect these areas and review the vehicle's maintenance history.

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt: Quick Overview

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Key Specs:

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.2L Ecotec I4: (LS, LT)
    • 2.4L Ecotec I4: (Sport)
    • 2.0L Turbocharged Ecotec I4: (SS)
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.2L: 148 hp
    • 2.4L: 171 hp
    • 2.0L Turbo: 260 hp
  • Fuel Economy (Estimated):
    • 2.2L: 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
    • 2.4L: 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
    • 2.0L Turbo: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (Approximate):
    • 2.2L: 9.0 seconds
    • 2.4L: 8.0 seconds
    • 2.0L Turbo: 5.7 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not Recommended
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LS: Base model, air conditioning, basic audio system, cloth seats.
    • LT: Upgraded features such as power windows and locks, cruise control, and available premium audio.
    • Sport: Enhanced styling, sport seats, and upgraded wheels.
    • SS: High-performance model with a turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling elements. Included features like sport seats, performance gauges, and upgraded brakes.

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2008
Make Chevrolet
Model Cobalt
Trim -
Style -
Type -
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.2 L 4-Cyl.
Engine Size 2.2L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain -
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
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History
All History
Events
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Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
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What Problems Does the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Have?

The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt has been subject to several recalls and is known for some frequently reported problems. The most significant recall involved the faulty ignition switch, which could cause the engine to stall and disable safety features like airbags and power steering. This issue affected numerous GM vehicles from this era. Other common problems include power steering failures, which can make the car difficult to steer, especially at low speeds. Fuel system issues, such as fuel pump failures and problems with the fuel level sensor, have also been reported.
Long-term reliability concerns center around rust, particularly in areas with road salt. The undercarriage and body panels are susceptible to corrosion. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including slipping and erratic shifting. Engine issues, such as oil leaks and premature wear, can also occur. The SS model, while offering performance, can be more prone to issues due to the increased stress on components. Overall, a thorough inspection and a comprehensive service history are crucial before purchasing a used 2008 Cobalt.

How long will the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt last?

With proper maintenance, a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report getting 15-20 years of service. However, longevity heavily depends on consistent maintenance, including regular oil changes, timely repairs, and addressing issues promptly.
Long-term durability weaknesses primarily revolve around rust, especially in colder climates. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, may require replacement over time. The ignition switch issue, although subject to recall, can still present a long-term concern if not properly addressed. The automatic transmission can also be a weak point, with potential for failure after extended use.
Positive Owner Reviews
Suezzt
This car met all of our needs it has Am Fm Xm CD player radio Also on star cruise controls radio controls on steering wheel as well As oil life tire pressure sensors and trip Mileage
Richun123
This car is excellent if you want a car that will last you for a very long time. I’ve had it for a couple months now, gave me no problems then or now.
Geko
Loved car, Chevy- so reliable. Owned sport trim- 2.4l NA, handles awesome, is under estimated- then doubters shown. Awesome stock radio- Pioneer, stock 10” for alittle bump Car rides lows is about my only con
Negative Owner Reviews
Sports
xxxxty car underpowered noisy broke doen all the time it was a real xxxx whoever says this car is good is obviously high dont buy this crap
JackieO
Since I have gotten my car it has been acting out. The headlights wouldn't go off and constantly kill the battery. When I'm driving the car either stalls, doesn't accelerate past 30 mph, then powers down. All the mechanics say its fine but the problems are still there
pist off
NOTHING!i have had this car for 5 years now there is so many recalls on it and the dealership casa chevrolet is horrible to deal with!!!!would never recomend a chevy car to my worst enemy!!!!

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt's built-in tech and entertainment features were fairly basic for its time. Standard features typically included an AM/FM radio with a CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims might offer an upgraded sound system. There were no advanced infotainment systems or touchscreen displays available.
Driver-assistance features were limited. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, but electronic stability control (ESC) was optional.
Safety features included front airbags and side-impact airbags were available as an option on some trims.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the type of test. Generally, the Cobalt received decent, but not exceptional, scores. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, with results ranging from 'Good' to 'Acceptable' depending on the specific test. Optional features like OnStar were available, providing emergency assistance and vehicle diagnostics. Overall, the Cobalt focused on basic safety and convenience rather than cutting-edge technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Summit White
Black
Victory Red
Sport Red Metallic
Blue Granite Metallic
Silver Metallic
Liquid Silver Metallic
Precision Red
Interior Colors
Gray
Ebony

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt ranged in price from approximately $14,000 for the base LS model to around $22,000 for the SS trim. As a used vehicle, prices vary greatly based on condition, mileage, and trim level. Expect to find them in the range of $2,000 to $7,000 in today's market.
The Cobalt has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, reliability concerns, and the availability of newer, more technologically advanced vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and whether or not the critical ignition switch recall has been addressed. The SS trim typically holds its value better due to its performance-oriented nature.

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Cost of Ownership

The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is generally considered an economical car to own, but this can vary. Insurance costs are typically low. Fuel economy is decent, especially with the base engine. Maintenance costs are average, with readily available and affordable parts. However, potential repairs related to the ignition switch, power steering, or fuel system could increase expenses. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on the vehicle's condition and maintenance history. Addressing potential issues proactively can help keep costs down.

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Recalls & Defects

Steering:electric Power Assist System
Recall date 2010-03-03
Recall no. 10v073000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt and Model Year 2007-2010 Pontiac G5 Vehicles Equipped With Electric Power Steering. THE Driver MAY Experience A Sudden Loss OF Power Steering Assist That Could Occur AT ANY Time While Driving.
Consequence IF Power Steering Assist IS Lost, IT Would Require Greater Driver Effort AT Low Vehicle Speeds, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Electric Power Steering Motor Free OF Charge. Owners ARE Being Notified ON A Rolling Basis Between March 29 Through November 2010. A Copy OF THE Mailing Schedule IS Located IN THE Recall File. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 and Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes Gm's Recall NO. N100023.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2012-09-19
Recall no. 12v459000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007 Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent Vehicles Originally Sold or Currently Registered IN Arizona, California, Nevada, and Texas; Model Year 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, Pontiac G5, and Saturn ION Vehicles Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN, Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, or Texas; Model Year 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN, Arizona; and Model Year 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Nevada, Oklahoma, or Texas. Some OF These Vehicles Have A Condition IN Which THE Plastic Supply or Return Port ON THE Fuel Pump Module MAY Crack, Which Could Cause A Fuel Leak.
Consequence Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module, Free OF Charge. Notification TO Owners Began ON ON November 21, 2012. Owners Were Instructed TO NOT Bring Their Vehicles IN FOR Repair Until January 2013. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-521-7300.
Notes Gm's Campaign Number IS 12190.this Recall IS AN Expansion OF Recall 09v-419.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2014-02-10
Recall no. 14v047000
Source NHTSA
Summary This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON February 10, 2014 That They ARE Recalling 619,122 Model Year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 Vehicles. ON February 25, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 748,024 Model Year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice Vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn ION Vehicles and 2007 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine. ON March 27, 2014, GM Notified THE Agency That THE Defective Ignition Switches MAY Have Been Used AS Service Replacement Parts ON Other Vehicles, and AS A Result GM Will BE Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles. THE Part Numbers FOR THE Service Parts ARE 10392423 (a/K/a Acdelco D1461f), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This Expansion Represents AN Additional 823,788 Vehicles.
Consequence IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Switch, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Notification WAS Issued TO Owners OF 2007 and Earlier Models ON March 10, 2014, Informing Them OF THE Safety Defect. Owners OF 2008 and Later Vehicles Will BE Mailed AN Interim Letter ON April 21, 2014. All Affected Owners Will Receive Another Letter Once Parts ARE Available. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR THE Initial Recall IS 13454 and 14063 FOR THE Expansion. Gm?s Recall Number FOR THE Vehicles That MAY Have Received THE Replacement Parts IS 14092. Note: Until THE Recall Repairs Have Been Performed, IT IS Very Important That Customers Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Vehicle Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. Always Wear Your Seatbelt.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date 2014-02-10
Recall no. 14v047000
Source NHTSA
Summary This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON February 10, 2014 That They ARE Recalling 619,122 Model Year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 Vehicles. ON February 25, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 748,024 Model Year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice Vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn ION Vehicles and 2007 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine. ON March 27, 2014, GM Notified THE Agency That THE Defective Ignition Switches MAY Have Been Used AS Service Replacement Parts ON Other Vehicles, and AS A Result GM Will BE Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles. THE Part Numbers FOR THE Service Parts ARE 10392423 (a/K/a Acdelco D1461f), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This Expansion Represents AN Additional 823,788 Vehicles.
Consequence IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Switch, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Notification WAS Issued TO Owners OF 2007 and Earlier Models ON March 10, 2014, Informing Them OF THE Safety Defect. Owners OF 2008 and Later Vehicles Will BE Mailed AN Interim Letter ON April 21, 2014. All Affected Owners Will Receive Another Letter Once Parts ARE Available. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR THE Initial Recall IS 13454 and 14063 FOR THE Expansion. Gm?s Recall Number FOR THE Vehicles That MAY Have Received THE Replacement Parts IS 14092. Note: Until THE Recall Repairs Have Been Performed, IT IS Very Important That Customers Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Vehicle Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. Always Wear Your Seatbelt.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date 2014-04-10
Recall no. 14v171000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet Hhr, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE KEY CAN BE Removed From THE Ignition When THE Ignition IS NOT IN THE "off" Position.
Consequence IF THE KEY CAN BE Removed From THE Ignition When THE Ignition IS NOT IN THE "off" Position, THE Vehicle Could Roll Away: (A) FOR AN Automatic Transmission, IF THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE "park" Position; or (B) FOR A Manual Transmission, IF THE Parking Brake IS NOT Engaged and THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE "reverse" Position. This Potential FOR Rollaway Increases THE Risk FOR A Crash and Occupant or Pedestrian Injuries.
Remedy General Motors Will Notify Owners, and FOR Vehicles That Were Built With THE Defective Ignition Cylinder and Have NOT Previously HAD THE Ignition Cylinder Replaced With THE Redesigned Part, Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Cylinder and CUT And, IF Necessary, Re-Learn Two Ignition/Door Keys FOR Each Vehicle. FOR Vehicles That Were Built With THE Redesigned Ignition Cylinder or HAD THE Ignition Cylinder Replaced With THE Redesigned Part, Dealers Will CUT And, IF Necessary, Re-Learn Two Ignition/Door Keys FOR Each Vehicle. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Chevrolet Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac Owners AT 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn Owners AT 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' Number FOR This Recall IS 14113 FOR THE Ignition Lock Cylinder and KEY Replacement, and 14133 FOR Only KEY Replacements. Note: Until A Vehicle HAS Been Remedied, Owners and Operators ARE Advised That When Exiting, TO BE Sure That THE Vehicle IS IN "park," or IN THE Case OF A Manual Transmission, That THE Vehicle IS IN THE "reverse" Position and THE Parking Brake IS Engaged.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2014-04-30
Recall no. 14e021000
Source NHTSA
Summary Uci-Fram Group IS Recalling Certain Ls1328 Ignition Switches Sold AS Wells Ls1328, Duralast Ls1328, Airtex 1s6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and Ls1497 Ignition Switches Sold AS Wells Ls1497, Duralast Ls1497, Airtex 1s10961, and Carquest 53-27967, FOR USE ON Various General Motors Model and Model Year Vehicles During Repair and Replacement OF THE Original Ignition Switch. THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Affected Ignition Switches TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine and Disabling THE AIR Bags.
Consequence IF THE Ignition Switch Moves From THE RUN Position TO Accessory, THE Car Would Stall and THE AIR Bags Will NOT Deploy IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury TO THE Occupants.
Remedy Uci-Fram Group HAS Notified ITS Purchasers TO Quarantine and Return All Inventory. ANY Switches Already Installed IN Vehicles Will BE Replaced BY GM Dealers AS Part OF Nhtsa Recall 14v-047, Free OF Charge. Uci-fram's Purchasers Should Contact Uci-fram Group AT 1-800-890-2075. GM Vehicle Owners Requiring Additional Information ON That Recall Campaign Should Contact GM AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (saturn).
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Insurance

Insurance for a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Compare to Other Vehicle?

The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt competed against rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Ford Focus. Compared to the Civic and Corolla, the Cobalt generally fell short in terms of long-term reliability and resale value. The Mazda3 offered a more engaging driving experience. The Ford Focus provided similar levels of affordability.
In terms of performance, the Cobalt SS stood out against many rivals, offering a more powerful and engaging driving experience than some of its competitors' base models. However, the interior quality and overall refinement were often considered inferior to those of the Civic, Corolla, and Mazda3.
As alternatives, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are generally better choices for those prioritizing reliability and longevity, albeit at a higher price point. The Mazda3 provides a more sporty and enjoyable driving experience. The Ford Focus can be a similar alternative in terms of price and features but may have its own reliability concerns. For those specifically seeking a performance bargain, the Cobalt SS could still be a consideration, but a thorough inspection is crucial.

Ranks #1192 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
1192 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt a Good Vehicle?

The 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is best suited for budget-conscious buyers seeking basic transportation. It can be a worthwhile purchase as a used vehicle, particularly if found in good condition with documented maintenance history and the ignition switch recall addressed. The SS trim is desirable for those prioritizing performance on a budget.
However, buyers should be aware of potential reliability issues and conduct a thorough inspection before purchasing. Alternatives like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla may be better options for those prioritizing long-term reliability, even at a higher initial cost. Overall, the Cobalt can be a decent choice under the right circumstances, but careful consideration is essential.

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt Owner Reviews

4.01
Overall rating
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Danielle on April 5, 2024

Recommend for a 1st timer, but check the recalls!

First car from 15 to 23 years old. bought it used at about 80k miles. I personally loved this car. She doesn't have the sleekest look, buttons do feel cheap, and the backseat is a 2 seater with a small child seat in-between. Gas mileage was great though! I'll say I was lucky to have a dad who knew general car mechanics and could fix most problems if I ever had them, but after having the car for 5 years without my dad, I never had to take it in to a mechanic. Never made funny noises unless it was my brakes, and i'll be honest after 8 years I hadn't changed them... Wasn't until maybe a month ago at 146k that an engine light finally turned on for something to do with the timing control valve. Dad was going to fix it until someone wrecked into it 2 weeks ago. pretty sad to see her go. It has been extremely reliable for me, didn't take the best care of her but she did of me!

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lw on October 30, 2023

My lil beater

Quite bad car, a Honda Civic is a much better option, I bought one of these for 500 dollars with major structural damage, but it still ran and drove and was a lot of fun. Many offroading adventures with this thing, it was not good at it

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Hate the colbalt on March 13, 2021

Worst car I ever owned

This car has only 86,000 miles security system has it locked there are a whole lot of people with this issue and no one can solve the problem so my car just sits worse car ever

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Bobby on March 13, 2021

Constant Front End Issues & Rust

Struts, Sway links, Tie Rods, Control Arms, Ball Joints, even a Rack & Pinion. All have been fixed at least once, some multiple times. Lost a pair of brand new 70,000 mile BF Goodrich Tires to excessive inside wear after about 10,000 miles, due to a recurring issue with the left front control arm. Another thing to consider is the rocker panels & hood are heavily prone to rust. Replaced the hood, but rocker panel replacement takes a clear back seat to the multitude of other [recurring] issues that have to be prioritized first. The positives are the gas mileage, and the motor really doesn't give you issues in my experience. I'd rate it 7.5/10 as a budget neighborhood vehicle, but if you do a lot of driving this car gets a 5.5 /10. Absolute money pit.

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Suezzt on September 11, 2020

Best car I ever owend

This car met all of our needs it has Am Fm Xm CD player radio Also on star cruise controls radio controls on steering wheel as well As oil life tire pressure sensors and trip Mileage

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Richun123 on September 3, 2020

Runs excellent, very low miles & very clean.

This car is excellent if you want a car that will last you for a very long time. I’ve had it for a couple months now, gave me no problems then or now.

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Michael on August 9, 2020

Lots of shortcuts

I drove this car for 11 years. The engine never gave me any issues and I kept up with all regular and scheduled maintenance. The interior design is terrible. So many small things started falling apart. The button on the shifter knob broke off one day and i constantly had to put it back on. Then the lights for the shifter would only work if I hit the shifter. The power windows started seriously struggling and the right rear power window worked here and there (hardly ever used it). The stupid trim on the side started to turn brown. The aluminum foil wrap on the door handles started to peel, causing a very sharp edge which will cut your finger. Front speakers constantly needed to be replaced. Had to replace headlights because the water proof seal failed. Would randomly have insane power draws which would make headlights dim, dash lights dim, and fans to slow down...i had no extra accessories connected to the battery. My clock also constantly needed to be adjusted after just a few years of owning it. At 120,000 miles the car would vibrate when stopped. Motor mount was fine and a tune up had been done according to maintenance schedule. Before I go on even further about all the little things chevy failed on with this vehicle ill just wrap it up. The engine is great and has enough power to make it fun to drive. The interior is the most boring and cheaply made interior for that year of an average sedan. The electronics of that car were stuck in 1997. Literally the only difference in the head unit is they added an aux cord and took out the cassette player. If you can get one for under 3k and it is in good condition with less than 120k miles on it then buy it. I wanted to stick with chevy when I got my new car but they are way behind when it comes to sedans. If you want a sedan, go with Honda or Toyota. Youll be happy you did. Oh and last thing...THE FLOOR MATS IT COMES WITH ARE ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE. LIKE WHO DESIGNED THESE? HEY CUT OUT SOME RANDOM SHAPE AND THROW EM IN THERE!

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M on June 27, 2020

Just a car.

Service traction light is on, so they are saying we need a new or rebuilt engine, we bought the car used April 2016 75,000 miles now has 128,000. Have it serviced every 2,500-3,000 miles, this is not what we were expecting 4 years later. Not worth putting the money into it won't get that value back out of it. No more Chevy's we had problems with a Chevy S10 engine went out in it. Wow. Should have learned from the first one.

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Sports on June 27, 2020

Piece of xxxx car

xxxxty car underpowered noisy broke doen all the time it was a real xxxx whoever says this car is good is obviously high dont buy this crap

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Geko on April 9, 2020

Sleeper

Loved car, Chevy- so reliable. Owned sport trim- 2.4l NA, handles awesome, is under estimated- then doubters shown. Awesome stock radio- Pioneer, stock 10” for alittle bump Car rides lows is about my only con

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.