CHEVROLET CRUZE (2009)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 446 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,957
£163/month
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Average
Road Tax
£265
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 12-25
1598cc Petrol
Check Carefully
72% pass rate, £1957/year to run. 10 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~42 mpg
Based on 1598cc
Higher estimate due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the CHEVROLET brand average of 76%.
At 17 years old, 72% of CHEVROLET CRUZEs from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 446 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 95,741 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
95,741
Average miles
125,800
Expected for age
The average 2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE has 95,741 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 125,800 miles for a 17-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 79% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 72%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
CHEVROLET CRUZE by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE
The 2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE is a small family car with a 1598cc petrol engine. 446 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 95,741 miles at 17 years old, CHEVROLET CRUZE owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE Fuel Costs
The 1598cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,957 (£163/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £265 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
CHEVROLET CRUZE Reliability Trend
The CHEVROLET CRUZE has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE
At 17 years old, the CHEVROLET CRUZE is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 96k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2009 CHEVROLET CRUZE stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEVROLET CRUZE(2009) | 72% | £1137 | £265 | Grp 12-25 | £1957 |
| FORD FOCUS(2011) | 75% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£130 |
| VAUXHALL CORSA(2011) | 75% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£235 |
| FORD FIESTA(2008) | 72% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£235 |
| VOLKSWAGEN POLO(2011) | 75% | £955 | £30 | Grp 5-15 | £1540-£417 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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