7 Costly 1.5L Chevy Engine Problems That Will Drain Your Wallet

Let me tell you something straight up – I’ve been wrenching on cars for over 15 years, and the Chevy 1.5L turbo engine is one of those units that makes me appreciate why people are switching to electric vehicles.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not here to bash General Motors completely. But after seeing dozens of these engines roll into my shop with the same predictable problems, I’ve got some hard truths to share with you.

Here’s what we’re covering today:

• The 7 most expensive problems you’ll face
• Real repair costs (no sugar-coating)
• Which model years to avoid at all costs
• Why EV owners are smart to stay electric

Quick Facts: 1.5L Chevy Engine at a Glance

Specification	Details
Production Years	2016-2022
Engine Code	LYX
Vehicles Affected	Equinox, Terrain, Malibu, Cruze
Average Lifespan	140,000-160,000 miles
Most Expensive Repair	Engine block replacement ($8,000-$12,000)
Reliability Rating	Below average ❌
Recommended Purchase	New only ✅ (avoid used)

The 7 Most Common 1.5L Chevy Engine Problems

1. Engine Block Cracking – The $10,000+ Nightmare

This is the big one, folks. The one that makes grown men cry and sends vehicles straight to the junkyard.

What happens: The aluminum block develops hairline cracks, usually around the cylinder walls or coolant passages. Once this happens, you’re looking at coolant mixing with oil, white smoke from the exhaust, and eventually complete engine failure.

Why it happens: GM tried to make this block as lightweight as possible. The result? An aluminum casting that can’t handle the thermal stress of turbocharging, especially when the engine runs hot.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Coolant mysteriously disappearing
• White or blue smoke from exhaust
• Engine overheating without warning
• Milky oil on the dipstick
• Sweet smell from engine bay

Repair cost: $8,000-$12,000 for complete engine replacement

Most affected years: 2016-2019 models (early production runs were the worst)

PRO TIP: If you’re looking at a used Chevy with this engine, walk away if there’s ANY history of overheating. The damage might already be done, even if symptoms haven’t shown up yet.

2. Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves – The 60,000 Mile Tax

Direct injection engines are supposed to be more efficient, right? Well, they come with a hidden cost that dealerships don’t tell you about.

The problem: Unlike port injection engines that spray fuel over the intake valves (keeping them clean), direct injection sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber. This means the intake valves never get washed, and carbon deposits build up like barnacles on a ship’s hull.

When it hits: Usually around 40,000-80,000 miles, depending on driving conditions

Symptoms:

• Rough idle that gets worse over time
• Loss of power, especially during acceleration
• Poor fuel economy
• Engine misfires or hesitation

The fix: Walnut shell blasting – a process where crushed walnut shells are blasted at high pressure to remove carbon deposits.

Cost: $800-$1,200 every 60,000-80,000 miles

Why this matters for EV folks: Electric motors don’t have intake valves. Period. No carbon buildup, no expensive cleaning services.

3. Turbocharger Failure – Winter’s Worst Enemy

Here’s something that’ll make you appreciate electric heating: turbochargers hate cold weather, and the 1.5L’s turbo is particularly sensitive.

The root cause: In cold temperatures, oil doesn’t flow properly through the tiny passages that feed the turbocharger. The result? Metal-on-metal contact, bearing failure, and eventually complete turbo death.

Peak failure period: 80,000-120,000 miles (sooner in northern climates)

Warning signs:

• Loss of power during acceleration
• Blue or white smoke from exhaust
• High-pitched whistling or whining sounds
• Oil leaks around turbo housing

Repair cost: $2,500-$4,000 (parts and labor)

Regional impact: If you live anywhere that sees real winter, multiply your risk by 2-3x.

PRO TIP: Never drive aggressively until your engine is fully warmed up. Those first few minutes of driving are when most turbo damage occurs.

4. Timing Chain Stretch and Failure

Modern engines use timing chains instead of belts because they’re supposed to last longer. GM’s 1.5L proves that “supposed to” and “actually do” are two very different things.

What goes wrong: The timing chain stretches over time, throwing off the precise timing between the crankshaft and camshaft. In severe cases, the chain can jump teeth or break completely.

Timeline: Problems typically start appearing around 100,000-150,000 miles

Symptoms you’ll hear:

• Rattling noise from engine, especially on startup
• Rough idle that won’t smooth out
• Engine hesitation or loss of power
• Metal shavings in the oil (very bad sign)

Repair cost: $3,000-$5,000 (more if internal damage occurs)

The scary part: If the chain breaks while driving, you could be looking at complete engine destruction. This is what we call an “interference engine” – pistons and valves occupy the same space at different times.

5. Coolant System Failures and Overheating

The cooling system in the 1.5L is like a house of cards – when one component fails, it often takes others with it.

Common failure points:

• Water pump: Usually fails around 80,000-100,000 miles ($800-$1,200)
• Thermostat: Can stick closed, causing overheating ($200-$400)
• Radiator: Plastic end tanks crack over time ($600-$1,000)

Why it’s critical: Remember that engine block cracking problem we talked about? Overheating is usually what triggers it.

Warning signs:

• Temperature gauge climbing higher than normal
• Coolant puddles under the car
• Steam from under the hood
• Sweet smell (coolant) in cabin or engine bay

PRO TIP: Check your coolant level monthly. If it’s dropping and you don’t see obvious leaks, you might have internal engine damage starting.

6. Sensor Failures – The Electronic Headache

After 100,000 miles, the 1.5L turns into a Christmas tree of warning lights. Here’s what typically fails:

Oil pressure sensor ($200-$400)

• False low oil pressure warnings
• Can cause engine to go into limp mode

Mass airflow sensor ($300-$500)

• Poor fuel economy
• Rough idle and hesitation

Oxygen sensors ($250-$400 each)

• Failed emissions tests
• Poor fuel economy
• Check engine light

Throttle position sensor ($200-$350)

• Erratic idle
• Poor acceleration response

The pattern: Once one sensor fails, others often follow within 6-12 months. Budget for multiple sensor replacements after 100K miles.

7. Start-Stop System Disasters

GM’s attempt to mimic electric vehicle efficiency with their start-stop system is, frankly, a disaster waiting to happen.

How it works: The system automatically shuts off the engine at red lights and restarts when you lift your foot off the brake.

Why it fails: Your starter motor and battery aren’t designed for hundreds of start cycles per day. The result is premature wear on both components.

Common problems:

• Engine won’t restart (leaving you stranded)
• Battery dies prematurely
• Starter motor failure
• Excessive engine wear from constant restarts

Repair costs: $800-$1,500 for starter replacement, $200-$400 for battery

The workaround: Most owners disable this system permanently, which defeats its purpose entirely.

Year-by-Year Problem Analysis

2016-2017: The Dark Ages ❌

These were the first production years, and boy, did it show. Highest rates of engine block cracking, timing chain problems, and overall reliability issues. Avoid at all costs.

2018-2019: Still Problematic ⚠️

GM made some improvements, but these years still see significant engine block issues and premature turbocharger failures. Proceed with extreme caution.

2020-2021: Getting Better ✅

Better quality control reduced catastrophic failures, but carbon buildup and sensor issues remain common. Acceptable if buying new with warranty.

2022: Final Year ✅

Most reliable version of this engine, but still suffers from inherent design flaws. Best option if you must have this engine.

Vehicles Affected by These Problems

Chevrolet Equinox (2018-2022)

• Most common platform for this engine
• Highest number of reported problems due to volume

GMC Terrain (2018-2022)

• Essentially identical to Equinox mechanically
• Same problems, different badge

Chevrolet Malibu (2016-2022)

• Longest production run with this engine
• 2016-2017 models particularly problematic

Chevrolet Cruze (2016-2019)

• Discontinued due to poor sales and reliability issues
• Compact car applications seem most affected

PRO TIP: The Equinox and Terrain see the most problems simply because they’re the most popular. The engine issues are identical across all platforms.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Visual inspection:

• ✅ Check for oil leaks around turbocharger
• ✅ Look for coolant stains or puddles
• ✅ Inspect oil cap for milky residue
• ✅ Check exhaust for blue or white smoke

Test drive red flags:

• ❌ Rough or unstable idle
• ❌ Loss of power during acceleration
• ❌ Unusual noises from engine bay
• ❌ Temperature gauge running hot

Documentation must-haves:

• Complete service records
• Evidence of regular oil changes
• Any warranty repairs performed
• Timing chain service history (if applicable)

What is the Problem with the 1.5 Turbo Engine on the 2018 Chevy Malibu?

Many owners of the 2018 Malibu with the 1.5L turbocharged engine are frustrated, since major issues with the car make for big and costly bills. Figuring out these problems equips buyers with helpful knowledge and alert owners to possible issues.

Problems Related to Oil Use

Excessive oil consumption is the most common problem found in the 1.5 turbo engine of Malibu vehicles built in 2018. It is common for owners to discover their cars going through oil much too fast, so they have to add oil more often than their service intervals suggest. The problem is caused by piston rings that are not perfectly sealed, letting oil find its way into the cylinders and burn up during routine use.

Most engines begin to use too much oil around 20,000 to 50,000 miles, but there are situations when the problem starts sooner. In many cases, owners learn there is an issue when the low oil pressure light turns on and if left unresolved, the engine can suffer serious damage. General Motors said that using up to one quart of oil every 2,000 miles was normal, even though it was not.

Timing Chain Stretch and Failure

Another serious concern occurs when your timing chain stretches early which can result in your engine failing. The timing chain ensures that the valves and pistons are on time, so if it stretches or breaks, the pistons may hit the valves, leading to deformed valves, harmed pistons and destroyed cylinder heads.

Symptoms of timing chain problems include:

• Rattling noises from the engine, especially during cold starts
• Rough idling or engine misfires
• Metal shavings in the oil
• Check engine light activation
• Complete loss of power

Thermostat Housing Leaks

It’s common for the plastic thermostat housing on 1.5 turbo engines to crack and allow coolant to leak. When this small issue is ignored, it can cause your engine temperature to rise sharply. The repeated heating and cooling of the appliance make the plastic housing brittle which ends in cracks and the loss of coolant.

Signs of thermostat housing failure include:

• Coolant puddles under the vehicle
• Sweet smell of antifreeze
• Engine temperature fluctuations
• White steam from the exhaust

Carbon Buildup in Direct Injection System

The direct injection system, while improving fuel efficiency, creates carbon buildup on intake valves over time. Unlike port injection systems that naturally clean the valves with fuel, direct injection sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber, leaving intake valves susceptible to carbon deposits.

This buildup can cause:

• Reduced engine performance
• Rough idling
• Hesitation during acceleration
• Increased fuel consumption
• Knocking or pinging sounds

Turbocharger Problems

Some 2018 Malibu owners have experienced turbocharger failures, typically manifesting as loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, or unusual whistling noises.

Turbocharger issues often result from oil contamination or inadequate lubrication, sometimes related to the oil consumption problems mentioned earlier.

Is a 1.5L Chevy Engine Good for Long Drive?

If you are planning to drive long ranges, your 1.5-liter engine will work well under certain conditions such as its design, your vehicle’s weight, driving surface and personal targets.

Even though older models struggle, today’s 1.5L engines can run smoothly over longer distances. But before driving, it’s wise to know their benefits and problems.

1.5L Engines Add Advantages for Long Driving

For long trips, a 1.5L engine is useful mainly because it uses fuel very efficiently. Riding on the highway with a smaller displacement engine often lets you use 35-45 MPG, cutting down on fuel expenses over long trips.

Because of direct injection, increase in turbocharging for many modern models and advanced engine systems, these engines operate at peak efficiency.

Smooth Highway Driving From highway speeds onward, you may find that your 1.5L engine runs well for steady cruising. Nowadays, cars are designed to keep up with road speed limits without straining too much and most models come with turbochargers that add extra power when you need it.

Cheaper to Drive Owners of smaller trucks can expect them to run on less oil, use less efficient filters and may require fewer maintenance expenses. For travelers who road trip a lot, this strategy makes taking a trip over long distances more affordable.

Because they are leaner on fuel, you can expect 1.5L engines to create fewer emissions for each mile traveled on a long trip.

Considerations and Limitations

Power Limitations While adequate for most driving situations, 1.5L engines may feel underpowered when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, especially when encountering steep grades or high altitudes. Passing slower vehicles on two-lane highways may require more planning and patience compared to larger engines.

Engine Stress During Extended Operation Smaller engines must work harder to produce the same power output as larger engines, potentially leading to increased wear during extended high-speed driving. However, modern engines are designed to handle sustained operation, and proper maintenance can mitigate most concerns.

Noise and Vibration 1.5L engines may produce more noise and vibration than larger, smoother engines, particularly when working hard. This can become fatiguing during very long drives, though modern vehicle isolation techniques have significantly reduced this issue.

Turbocharger Considerations Many modern 1.5L engines feature turbochargers to boost power output. While this improves performance, turbocharged engines may require premium fuel for optimal performance and can be more sensitive to maintenance schedules. Additionally, turbo lag may be noticeable during sudden acceleration needs.

Optimizing 1.5L Engine Performance for Long Drives

Proper Maintenance Regular oil changes, clean air filters, and proper tire pressure are crucial for optimal performance during long drives. Turbocharged 1.5L engines are particularly sensitive to oil quality and change intervals.

Driving Technique Maintaining steady speeds, anticipating hills and traffic conditions, and avoiding aggressive acceleration can help 1.5L engines perform more efficiently during long drives.

Load Management Keeping vehicle weight reasonable and using roof-mounted cargo carriers judiciously can help prevent excessive strain on smaller engines.

Route Planning Understanding your route’s elevation changes and traffic patterns can help you anticipate when the engine might need to work harder and plan accordingly.

Real-World Performance

A lot of drivers take cross-country journeys in cars with 1.5L engines and say they perform well and offer great economy. Expectations should be reasonable and you should understand well what the engine can do and cannot do.

With 1.5L engines, the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra have made long journeys reliable for drivers. Yet, the lackluster 1.5L turbo engine found in the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu shows that motor reliability must be studied before making plans for driving far, implying that all small engines aren’t always good.

Should You Buy a Vehicle with the 1.5L Engine?

Let me give it to you straight – this isn’t an engine I’d recommend to my own family members.

New Purchase: Maybe

If you’re buying new, you’ve got warranty coverage for the first few years. Just understand that your out-of-warranty costs will be significant.

Used Purchase: Run Away

The reliability issues combined with expensive repairs make used examples a financial gamble you’re likely to lose.

Regional Considerations

If you live in a cold climate, multiply all these problems by 2-3x. The turbocharger and start-stop system particularly hate cold weather.

The EV Alternative Perspective

Here’s why these problems make electric vehicles look brilliant:

No engine block to crack – Electric vehicles are solid-state devices with no internal combustion, coolant systems, or thermal stress.

No carbon buildup – Electric motors don’t burn fuel, so there’s nothing to deposit on internal components.

No turbocharger complexity – Electric motors provide instant torque without complicated forced induction systems after charging with a competible level 2 charging station.

Minimal moving parts – An electric motor has about 20 moving parts versus 2,000+ in an internal combustion engine.

Lower maintenance costs – No oil changes, spark plugs, timing chains, or coolant flushes.

10-Year Cost Comparison

Maintenance Item	1.5L Chevy	Electric Vehicle
Oil changes	$1,200	$0
Major engine repairs	$5,000-$15,000	$0
Transmission service	$800	$0
Spark plugs/ignition	$600	$0
Coolant system	$1,500	$0
Total difference	$9,100-$19,100	$0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 1.5L Chevy engine problems?

Engine block cracking, carbon buildup, turbocharger failure, and timing chain stretch are the most expensive issues. Sensor failures and coolant system problems are also frequent after 100,000 miles.

How much does it cost to fix 1.5L Chevy engine problems?

Minor issues like sensors cost $200-$500, while major problems range from $2,500 (turbo replacement) to $12,000 (engine block replacement). Budget $3,000-$5,000 for typical high-mileage repairs.

Which model years of 1.5L Chevy engines should I avoid?

Avoid 2016-2017 models completely due to high block cracking rates. 2018-2019 are still problematic, while 2020-2022 are more reliable but still have inherent design flaws.

Is the Chevy 1.5L turbo engine reliable?

No, reliability is below average with most engines requiring major repairs between 100,000-150,000 miles. The aluminum block design and turbocharger issues make it less reliable than competitors.

How long do 1.5L Chevy engines last?

Average lifespan is 140,000-160,000 miles with proper maintenance. Some reach 200,000+ miles, but expect expensive repairs after 100,000 miles regardless of maintenance quality.

What vehicles have the problematic 1.5L Chevy engine?

Chevrolet Equinox (2018-2022), GMC Terrain (2018-2022), Chevrolet Malibu (2016-2022), and Chevrolet Cruze (2016-2019) all use the same LYX 1.5L turbo engine.

Can 1.5L Chevy engine problems be prevented?

Some issues can be minimized with religious maintenance, quality oil, and gentle driving habits. However, design flaws like weak engine blocks and direct injection carbon buildup cannot be completely prevented.

Should I buy a used car with a 1.5L Chevy engine?

Generally no, unless it’s very low mileage with complete service records and you’re prepared for expensive repairs. The risk of catastrophic engine failure makes used examples poor financial choices.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

After 15 years of working on engines, I can tell you that the Chevy 1.5L turbo represents everything wrong with modern small-displacement, high-stress engine design.

The bottom line: If you’re considering a vehicle with this engine, understand that you’re signing up for expensive repairs and potential catastrophic failures.

My honest recommendation: If you’re already driving electric, stay electric. If you’re considering the switch, these engine problems are excellent motivation to make the jump.

If you must buy one: Stick to 2020-2022 models, buy new with extended warranty, and budget $2,000-$3,000 annually for maintenance and repairs after 100,000 miles.

The automotive industry is moving toward electrification for good reason. Engines like the 1.5L Chevy turbo are expensive reminders of why internal combustion is becoming obsolete.

Your wallet will thank you for choosing electric.

John Mitchell is an ASE Master Technician with over 15 years of experience specializing in engine diagnostics and repair. He has worked on thousands of GM vehicles and currently operates an independent automotive shop in Michigan.