2005 Chevrolet Cobalt Base review from North America

Wheels will not hold the balance weights. I replace them about every month because the dealer tells me they get "thrown" off during deflection (Cornering). Their advice to try a different tire has not remedied the problem.

I have to replace the brake rotors every 2 to 3 months because of warping.

Rattle, shaking and vibration in the steering column. Several issues here, dealer admitted there was a company bulletin concerning this.

Fabric peeling away from arm rests on the front doors.

HVAC line leaks condensation on passenger floor board.

Passenger side, rear door seal leaks a tremendous amount of air above 40 mph, and at 60 or above is very loud. Replacing the rubber seal has not stopped the problem. Appears to be just a flaw in original design.

Windshield wipers have now begun to short. "Mist" feature usually doesn't work. When I change speed from low to high, they stop for several seconds before coming back on, extremely unsettling when driving in bad storms.

A/C blows weakly, even on highest fan speed and set for recirc. According to dealer, it's the same a/c for all Cobalts.

Dealer replaced the Stereo/CD player @ 30,000 miles because of an electrical problem which caused the unit to "fry", as they put. Cause is still undetermined, and my CD was unable to be retrieved from the unit.

Loud rattles from the trunk struts while driving, which the dealer is unable to trace or repair, though admittedly hears it as well, and agrees it is annoying.

The Cobalt has extremely poor handling. When cornering, especially on mountain roads, it is difficult, even for seasoned drivers, to keep the car in your lane, and it feels as if you're going to slide right off the road.

The interior cabin is fairly comfortable for a small inexpensive car, and the ride is actually quite good. As long as you're on a straight road.

Disappointing that Chevy's entry level car is still not up to Toyota, Honda or even Hyundai's fit, finish and reliability.

Bottom line is, you may be getting into a set of wheels for a modest price, but what you save at the time of purchase, you'll more than make up for after your warranty expires.

If you're a person with and eye for details, and you're on a budget, do yourself a favor and consider a Honda, Toyota or even a Kia or Hyundai. Your wallet and your patience will thank you in the long run.