1988 Chevrolet Nova recalls & complaints
Source: NHTSA, updated daily. Last checked 2026-10-20. Recalls apply to specific VINs — run your VIN to confirm.
Recalls: check by VIN
Useful for owners
- OBD2 code reader — see what the car's computer is reporting
- Compact car fire extinguisher
- 1988 Chevrolet Nova owner's manual
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA
Most complained-about parts: Transmission / drivetrain (5), Seat belts (3), Electrical system (2), Latches / locks (1), Wheels / tires (1).
Complaints are unverified reports from owners. A pattern (many complaints about the same part) matters more than any single one.
Read recent complaints (8)
03/05/2002 · Transmission / drivetrain
FRONT WHEELS LOCKED UP AND THE CAR STOPPED SUDDENLY. RESULTING IN A REAREND COLLISION. AFTER THE ACCIDENT THE MOTOR WOULD CRANK AND RUN BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE IN ANY GEAR. REPLACE THE TRANSAXLE.
05/20/2001 · Latches / locks
VEHICLE HOOD LATCH FAILED DUE TO TIRE VIBRATION AT 65 MPH, CAUSING HOOD TO CRUMPLE INTO WINDSHIELD. *AK
10/14/1997 · Seat belts
SEAT BELT BUCKLE BROKE.
01/22/1997 · Seats · crash
UPON FRONTAL IMPACT ITEMS IN TRUNK MOVED FORWARD, STRIKING REAR SEAT BACK, CAUSING SEAT BACK TO COLLAPSE, ITEMS STUCK CHILD, RESULTING IN DEATH.
01/06/1997 · Electrical system
REAR LIGHTS BURNE DOUT DUE TO A SHORT IN FUSIBLE LINK
01/06/1997 · Electrical system · fire
TAIL LIGHTS' WIRING HARNESS BURNED OUT/MELTED, RESULTING IN A FIRE. *AK
10/29/1996 · Transmission / drivetrain
TRANSMISSION FAILED.
01/30/1996 · Transmission / drivetrain · crash
VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARDS WHILE IN PARK, KILLING OWNER. *DSH