Chevrolet Nova years to avoid
Across 1965–1990, no single Nova year stands out as one to avoid by our thresholds. The 1987 drew the most complaints; 1979 the fewest.
40
Total complaints
17
Recall campaigns
1965–1990
Years covered
0
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
Every Nova year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 4 | 0 | |
| 1988 | 13 | 0 | |
| 1987 | 18 | 0 | |
| 1986 | 4 | 0 | |
| 1984 | 1 | 0 | |
| 1979 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1978 | 0 | 2 | |
| 1977 | 0 | 4 | |
| 1975 | 0 | 4 | |
| 1974 | 0 | 4 | |
| 1973 | 0 | 4 | |
| 1972 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1971 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1969 | 0 | 2 | |
| 1968 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1967 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1966 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1965 | 0 | 1 |
Common questions
What is the best year for the Chevrolet Nova?
By complaint volume, 1979 has the cleanest NHTSA record among Nova years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the Chevrolet Nova have?
Across all model years, the Nova has 17 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 40 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.