Chevrolet Sonic reluctant to start and stalls after refueling, purge solenoid valve and catalytic converter replaced on Chevrolet Sonic

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Chevrolet Sonic owners report experiencing difficulties with starting and stalling after refueling, which may be attributed to issues with the purge solenoid valve and catalytic converter. A faulty EVAP purge solenoid can cause the engine to stall if it sticks open, allowing fuel vapors to flood the engine. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can lead to poor engine performance, further contributing to stalling and starting issues. To resolve these problems, some owners have opted to replace the purge solenoid valve and catalytic converter, though the average repair cost can be around $1,350, typically arising around 70,000 miles. Ensuring these components are properly installed and functioning is crucial for maintaining the Chevrolet Sonic's performance and reliability.

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