Chevy Sonic customers who live in colder climates may have noticed performance issues with the turbocharged 1.4L I4 LUV gasoline engine. Now, possible causes for these issues have been identified, as have possible fixes to be performed by the dealer.
Per a recent report from GM TechLink, certain units of the 2012 through 2020 Chevy Sonic equipped with the turbocharged 1.4L I4 LUV gasoline engine may experience a power loss or other engine performance issues in extremely cold weather. These issues may be accompanied by an illuminated Chevy Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), as well as the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):
- P00C7 (Intake Air Pressure Measurement System – Multiple Sensors Not Plausible)
- P0299 (Engine Underboost)
- P0236 (Turbocharger Boost Sensor Performance), P2227 (Barometric Pressure (BARO) Sensor Performance)
- P2261 (Turbocharger Bypass Valve Stuck)
- P0234 (Engine Overboost)
After driving for a period of time, the performance issues may start to diminish. It’s possible that an oil leak could spring from seals and gaskets as a result of an increase in crankcase pressure as well.
According to GM TechLink, these issues may be the result of ice blockage around critical engine components. GM recommends that technicians check for blockage around the crankcase vent tube, as well as possible ice accumulation on the intake manifold blocking the PCV passage in the cylinder head. Additionally, ice accumulation may be present in the charge air cooler, restricting air flow to the throttle body, while the charge air bypass valve may also be contaminated.
To address these issues, GM technicians will disassemble and clean the charge air bypass valve in the event that it is contaminated. The intake manifold may also be replaced, as well as the charge air bypass valve if needed.
Furthermore, if the Chevy Sonic’s turbocharged engine is not producing the right boost levels and there is nothing wrong with the turbo wastegate actuator or the turbocharger itself, GM does not recommend replacing the turbo outright. Instead, technicians are instructed to clear the charge air bypass valve of any water or oil accumulation on the vacuum side port. Additionally, the intake manifold should be replaced. The intake manifold should also be replaced if contamination from the cylinder head, cam cover, or PCV pipes is found.
To note, similar issues and their related fixes may be applied to the 2011 through 2016 Chevy Cruze and the 2013 through 2021 Buick Encore.
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Comments
Never liked turbos. Now another reason not to like them.
GM produces another piece of junk .
Turbos are great when they work but they definitely add more complexity to the vehicle. I have operated one in cold climate now for three years without problems so it may just be that application.
I bought my new 2012 Chevy Sonic LTZ Hatchback with the 1.4L Turbo 6-speed manual back in December 2011. Best little car I’ve ever had! Very fun to drive as you’re working through the gears on winding, twisty, roads. Haven’t had any engine issues and still have it today. I don’t plan on selling it either.
For some “Turbo” means power, for me is spells trouble. The naturally aspirated 1.8 power output is too close to justify the complexity of the 1.4L Turbo. I find my 2012 1.8 happy to rev immediately, run hard all day, or idle through town in 5th. No recalls at all and service bulletins don’t apply, they got this one right.
We operate a 2011 1LT, a 2015 1LT both from new without issue just an easy replacement of on o-ring on oil return line from turbo. $20. 110,000 total miles. OUTSTANDING performance economy and handle from the European engineering team and lovely exterior design from one USA designer. Love thes cars. Son had a 2014 wth the naturally aspirated engine and it was perfect. Now he drives the Volt withe the 1.4L engine. Perfect.
This 1.8 NA has no issues in any weather, 117° to -2.
I purchased mine new in 2016. 98,000 miles later and to this day I’ve never had one problem with it. It still gets 40 mpg and is a fun little work car. I’ve never had an issue with any Chevrolet vehicles during my lifetime. I’m 52.
Most vehicles of every brand have some issues, more due to neglect and abuse of the owner than manufacturer defects, and complaints are more thoroughly documented than accolades.
Now that everyone is invested in making all ICEs turbocharged, the common problems will be sorted out and overcome. Hopefully drivers will learn to use them properly as well.
It’s like carb icing has returned.
I expect the 1.4 naturally aspirated is more durable than the larger of the ECOTEC family because of because it makes less power and is therefore less stressed. Apparently wasn’t designed to be turbocharged, the blower was added as an afterthought rather than preplanned.
I got turbo problems burning wires in the motor
Maybe get the naturally aspirated 1.8. Mine is a 2012, 92k. Normal maintenance and trouble free.
2013 1.4l Lt sedan. 275,000 miles later in Kansas city including -15 degree weather. No issues in cold weather. Best money on a car I ever spent.
No, oil leaks bad running or other items I saw in article.