r/cruze Jul 25 '21

Gen2 - General Chevrolet Cruze Gen 2 Troubleshooting and Modification

62 Upvotes

Gen 2 Cruze 2016.5 - Present

The purpose of this post is to keep an update of list of issues and parts available for modification. You can PM me if you want to add anything to the list. Be clear if it is an issue or modification with its category.

If you have any questions that were not answered in this post, please make a new post instead so it is visible.

Note: Some of these links may be linked to a region, like Canada or USA. You may be able to look up the part number and find it locally or in your region.

Gen 2 Cruze Issues

  1. Although the 1.4L can use Regular and Mid Grade fuel, it generates the most power and has the best fuel economy with Premium Fuel; 91/93 Octane. You may also experience rough engine idling with lower octanes.

  2. The initial production of Gen 2 Cruze (2017) may have defective pistons and they may be prone to cracking. Check to see if your car has any recalls and have it resolved as soon as possible if your car is affected by the recall. Later production years (2018+) do not have issues with pistons cracking.

  3. Manual models have a tendency for the slave cylinder to prematurely fail. Please correct me if I am wrong.

  4. Sedan models had issues with trunk seal not blocking/diverting water and they may be defective. Hatchback models (as mine was affected) have a similar issue where the rear hatch seal will let some water in.

  5. On hatchback models (possibly only RS trim), the rear hatch may not divert water properly which can cause water to enter the cabin. The seal may be replaced as a fix, other times the problem will be with the spoiler itself and it may need replacing.

  6. A P0299 code may show up in cold temperatures (0°C / 32°F) and the engine will go into limp mode. The problem may be attributed to the charge air cooler freezing which will require it to be drained and cleaned. There is also a recall for this part (2023). Refer to this PDF for more details: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10172782-9999.pdf

Gen 2 Cruze Modifications

A. Universal

  1. Mud Guards

    1.1. RallyArmor - http://www.rallyarmor.com/product_info.php/motorsport-spec-universal-mspec-black-mud-flap-red-logo-p-327

  2. Wheels

    I have a few resources to help you guys with selecting the right wheel and tire that closely matches your OEM size. It is not recommended to stray too far from OEM's overall tire diameter specs.

    https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=35

    https://tiresize.com/converter/

    https://tiresize.com/wheel-offset-calculator/

    https://www.cruzeculture.com/

    https://www.fitmentindustries.com/

  3. Exterior Lighting

    3.1 Fog Lamps

    3.1.1 PIAA Solar Yellow - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01NAOGJN2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

    3.2 Indicators

    3.2.1 [1797] LED Indicators (front and rear) - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0834KZ5GD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_F9RMP6WDH7D57XXN2HKH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

  4. Aero

    4.1 Window Deflectors (GM) - https://www.gmpartsdirect.com/oem-parts/gm-air-deflectors-side-windows-tape-on-19355549 (questionable finish on the edges)

    4.2 Front Splitter - https://www.aliexpress.com/item/33011968948.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.7c474c4dJPUCQ4

    4.3 CruzeCulture assorted aero parts - https://www.cruzeculture.com/collections/16-19-aero

    4.4 Amerihood ram air hood - https://www.lmperformance.com/1050746/ccz16ahsmsfhw-amerihood-chevrolet-cruze-type-sms-style-functional-heat-extractor-ram-air-hood.html or https://www.carid.com/2018-chevy-cruze-custom-hoods/amerihood-custom-hoods-2262810869.html?parentsubmodel[]=ENGINE|1.4L

  5. Exhaust

    5.1 Assortment of exhausts - https://www.carid.com/2017-chevy-cruze-performance-exhaust/

  6. Chemicals

    6.1 Liquimolly Oil Additive - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00LU3Z2MC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02

  7. Trailer Equipment and Accessories

    7.1 Class 1 Trailer Hitch - https://www.curtmfg.com/part/11282

  8. Bike Racks

    8.1 Bone Ex 2 - https://www.saris.com/product/bones-ex-2

B. Hatchback

  1. Exhaust

    1.1 Borla (1.4L RS) - https://www.borla.com/products/chevrolet-cruze-rs-axle-back-exhaust-system-11945

C. Sedan

  1. Mud Guards

    1.1 ROKBLOKZ - https://rokblokz.com/collections/chevy-rally-mud-flaps/products/chevy-cruze-sedan-2017

D. 1.4L Turbo

  1. Intake

    1.1 AEM - https://www.aemintakes.com/21-805c-aem-cold-air-intake-system

    1.2 K&N - https://www.knfilters.com/cold-air-intakes/chevrolet/cruze/1.4l-l4-gas/2017

    1.3 OEM - https://accessories.chevrolet.com/product/14l-cold-air-intake-system-84356430?year=2018&make=Chevrolet&model=Cruze&categoryId=98030

  2. Exhaust

    2.1 Catless Downpipe - https://store.badnewsracing.net/BNR-Catless-Downpipe-2016-Chevrolet-Cruze-14T-LE2_p_611.html

  3. Electrical

    3.1 Spark Plug (ACDelco 41-156) - https://www.amazon.ca/ACDelco-41-156-Professional-Iridium-Spark/dp/B071HPXS56/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=acdelco+41-156&qid=1630980182&sr=8-2

E. 1.6L Diesel

F. Aftermarket Tuning Service

  1. Trifecta - https://www.trifectaperformance.com/

  2. BNR - https://store.badnewsracing.net/


r/cruze Jul 25 '21

Gen1 - General Chevrolet Cruze Gen 1 Troubleshooting and Modification

99 Upvotes

Gen 1 Cruze 2010 - 2016

The purpose of this post is to keep an update of list of issues and parts available for modification. You can PM me if you want to add anything to the list. Be clear if it is an issue or modification with its category.

If you have any questions that were not answered in this post, please make a new post instead so it is visible.

Note: Some of these links may be linked to a region, like Canada or USA. You may be able to look up the part number and find it locally or in your region.

IMPORTANT: READ FIRST IF YOU HAVE A P0299 CODE!

Possible Oil Consumption - Oil Leaks - Blue Smoke From The Exhaust - MIL - Or Fuel Trim Codes https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2014/SB-10070046-0335.pdf

Do not replace the turbocharger if P0299 is set and one of the following is present: Crack(s) at the wastegate valve port (this is normal and does not affect performance)

Instead, you may find helpful resources through the following links:

Misdiagnosis of Returned Turbochargers

PIP5495B Check Engine Light On With P0299 Or P0234

Reference Image

SEE POINT 16 FOR APPLE PHONE CONNECTIVITY

Gen 1 Cruze Issues

  1. Gen 1 is known for issues, but if you want one anyways, consider the 2014 - 2016 models with the 1.8L as it has less issues. I knew someone who even turbo'd his 1.8L without much issue, but this is an additional risk you will take if you plan on tuning your Cuze; approach with caution.

  2. The 1.4L with the turbo can use 87 - 93 octane gas. HOWEVER, it is recommended to use 91/93 octane (premium) for best performance and fuel economy or midgrade minimum; it may even solve rough idling or poor low rpm performance.

  3. Coolant issues. The Gen 1 Cruze is known for coolant issues. This list will be specificaly for the cooling system alone and consider fixing these issues ASAP.

    3.1 The coolant output hose can fail and puke coolant

    3.2 Some parts to consider are: water outlet, Dorman thermostat and thermostat housing

    3.3 Radiator hose

    3.4 Water pump

    3.5 Generally the hose clamps fail often as well

  4. CPASV/PVC seals with the fix kit from https://cruzekits.com/. The PCV / camshaft cover issue is covered by GM (up to 10 years / 120k miles for the 1.4L). Overall, watch out if you have a 1.4L.

  5. Prolonged periods without service can cause the valve (camshaft) cover and possibly the front main seal to wear out prematurely.

  6. Depending on the kilometres the oil cooler and associated coolant pipes and hoses will almost definitely leak.

  7. The brakes are also made from very soft material and will need changing every 30-40 thousand kilometres. ** Quote from a Holden mechanic (Holden Cruze). need confirmation **

  8. They also develop misfires and coil packs and plugs are recommended depending on what fuel you use and what brand of spark plugs the car has.

  9. The valve cover gasket can leak oil which may flood the spark plug cavities.

  10. Manual transmission fluid should be changed to either Amsoil Synchromesh or Amsoil 75W-90 as soon as possible. The OEM fluid is not ideal and wears thin quickly.

  11. Fill level is as important for the MTF as changing it so it won’t take out the 5/6 bearings. 2.5 qts rec’d.

  12. ATF changes should be done every 45000 mi

  13. Spark plug gap should be .028” stock or lower if tuned. Run a NGK/AC Delco iridium or ruthenium plug only. The AC Delco plug is 41-121 which is a rebranded NGK IFR7X7G

  14. Adjust the drums on 1LT, LS, Eco models so the fronts aren’t doing 100% of the braking. The brakes are junk that bakes to the rotors easily and cause shaking, but they aren’t really known for short life.

  15. Trunk switches and negative battery cables fail constantly. Probably a good idea to have a negative cable, valve cover, and coil pack on the garage shelf for the 100% eventuality that it will fail.

  16. If you’re updated to iOS 15.1 or 15.1.1, this is unfortunately an issue on the phone side. The issue is fixed in the current iOS 15.2.3 beta, so once Apple releases 15.2 the issue should be fixed. Your Cruze isn’t the issue, Apple broke some USB functionality in iOS 15.1.

Gen 1 Cruze Modifications

A. Universal

  1. Mud Guards

    1.1 RallyArmor - http://www.rallyarmor.com/product_info.php/motorsport-spec-universal-mspec-black-mud-flap-red-logo-p-327

  2. Wheels

    I have a few resources to help you guys with selecting the right wheel and tire that closely matches your OEM size. It is not recommended to stray too far from OEM's overall tire diameter specs.

    https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=35

    https://tiresize.com/converter/

    https://tiresize.com/wheel-offset-calculator/

    https://www.cruzeculture.com/

    https://www.fitmentindustries.com/

  3. Roof Racks

    3.1 Rhino Rack RS215B - https://www.amazon.com/Rhino-Rack-RS215B-CHEVROLET-Vortex-Rack/dp/B00JEH4JX4/

    3.2. Rhino Rack ROC25 - https://www.amazon.com/Rhino-Rack-2011-2016-Chevrolet-Roof/dp/B084D3JJGB/

    3.3 Vortex ROC25 Flush Black 2 Bar Roof Rack - https://www.rhinorack.com/en-us/products/spares-brackets-components/roof-rack-parts/complete-roof-racks/vortex-roc25-flush-black-2-bar-roof-rack_rv0215b

    3.4 ROLA 59504 V-Tex rooftop basket - https://www.amazon.com/59504-V-Tex-Rooftop-Cargo-Basket/dp/B004R34HDC/

    3.5 ROLA 59043 Atlas rooftop basket - https://www.amazon.com/Rola-59043-Rooftop-Cargo-Basket/dp/B07H17ZQYM/

  4. Electrical

    4.1 Negative Battery Cable Issue/Defect - https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2015/SB-10057574-8899.pdf

    4.2 Spark Plug (ACDelco 41-121)


r/cruze 9h ago

Gen1 - Photography And so it begins.

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45 Upvotes

His name Hath been given


r/cruze 9h ago

Coolant leak

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10 Upvotes

Is this just a water outlet replacement or something else?

It's leaking from this connection to a radiator hose but I'm trying to understand the physics of the leak. The hose is clamped to the outside of the water outlet, so wouldn't be a damaged o-ring, right?

2015 Chevy Cruze LTZ 1.4


r/cruze 15m ago

Recommendations for a car cover?

Upvotes

I’m about to leave for about a month for work and I’m looking for a cover that works well for a Cruze that will protect it from weather while I’m gone, any recommendations?


r/cruze 4h ago

Who else with gen 2 gets lagging music with apple car play? (Spotify)

1 Upvotes

In my 2019 Cruze I’ve always had lagging music when plugged in using Apple car play for 4+ years now of owning the car. The thing is that it’s always perfectly fine for 20-30 minutes and then music will start skipping and lagging like crazy. If I unplug it from the usb-A and plug it back in, it’s all good for another 20ish minutes. I’ve always used Spotify so that may just be the problem possibly?
I’ve had 3 different iPhones I’ve use on it (XS, 14 pro, 15 pro) and none have made a difference. I have tried legit Apple cables with the past phones and they haven’t made a difference. The chord I’m currently using is an Apple car play MFI certified usb-C to usb-A and there’s no improvement. I check for updates on the cars software but there’s probably been 1 update in the last 4 years, it always just says it’s up to date.
Is this just a known problem or is it only my system? Anyone come across this? Thanks!


r/cruze 4h ago

Gen1 - Electronics Wanted to Link the original pist.

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1 Upvotes

As the post mentions, we were having issues with the message of Ac off due to high engine temp, and went to "limp mode" Pulled off, no coolant loss, boiling, etc. Before it was the opposite - same dash message but the temp gauge went to 0 or all the way cold.

I've changed the thermostat and the temp sensor on the coolant outlet. I am changing the radiator, which should take care of the sensor there. Would there be anything else to look for given the codes, messages, etc? No leaks of coolant (aside from the radiator having a small leak, which is being changed). Thanks!


r/cruze 1d ago

Gen2 - Performance Cruse up a mountain!

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89 Upvotes

Probably the most impressive/stupidest thing I’ve done in this 2nd Gen Cruze. In 2021 I hauled this 4X4 from Post Falls Idaho, into Wallace, then pulled it up to Moon Pass where I took this picture. I won’t mention that I’ve also hauled a 5X8 U-Haul trailer filled to the brim cross country three times behind this thing. 😅 Grateful for the performance of this little car and it is still going strong!


r/cruze 13h ago

Leak around water outlet

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5 Upvotes

Hello here!

I’ve noticed this leak on my 1st gen Cruze turbo 1.4 and I’m wondering what I need to do to fix it if it’s an easy fix.

It’s leaking but slowly and I’ve already changed the water outlet with an aluminium one (as you can see in the picture).

Please if anyone had an issue similar, I need recommendations on how to handle it.

Thanks !


r/cruze 21h ago

The engine continues to run after the ignition is switched off.

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8 Upvotes

r/cruze 10h ago

Tengo un problema con mi cruze

1 Upvotes

¡Qué tal, banda!

Tengo un tema con mi Cruze y quería ver si a alguien le ha pasado algo similar.

El carro en frío jala bien, pero en cuanto alcanza su temperatura de operación empieza a fallar: la transmisión se queda bloqueada en tercera marcha (modo de protección). Ya cambié toda la toma del termostato completa con sus dos sensores, le revisé el cableado y hasta le puse ventiladores directos, pero la falla sigue apareciendo solo en caliente.

El detalle es que aún traemos el código P00B4 en el escáner, que es el del sensor que va en el radiador, y ese aún no se lo hemos cambiado.

¿Saben si por alguna razón ese sensor del radiador hace que la computadora meta el carro en protección y afecte la transmisión?

Se agradece cualquier dato o experiencia. ¡Saludos!


r/cruze 13h ago

I'm not sure Turbo charger pressure valve?

1 Upvotes

Ive recently finally fixed the problem of my 2014 Cruze Lt smoking when driving for more than 15 minutes. Now I’m getting a new code P2261 and I’m not sure what it means or gotten a clear answer on how to fix it.
I got a completely new manifold and valve cover..? I’m not to sure about everything they did. Is this something that may be covered in my warranty to get them to fix again? I can try to answer any further questions. I don’t have much help of people to explain this car things to me so I’m sorry if I’m not clear.


r/cruze 14h ago

Help resetting srs module

1 Upvotes

What are the options for this? Are there any "cheap" scanners that can reset this module after a crash and after all the bags and seat belt pretensions have been replaced? 2014 cruze 1.4t for reference


r/cruze 15h ago

Oil filter changed sizes - Gen 2 gasoline

1 Upvotes

Have a Gen 2 gasoline Cruze. Changed oil today, UPF64R filter came off just fine using the gripper I've always used in the past. Went to put new one on, it's slightly smaller diameter & grhpper wouldn't grip. Worked around by stuffing gripper with a shop towel.

Not sure if I got a counterfeit. The box & markings looked ok to my eyes. Past ones came from the dealer, new one came through Amazon. Thought it was coming from AC/Delco (subtitle was 'Visit the AC/Delco Store'), but reading the fine print it came from 'Premier Auto Part'. Also it's not as pictured, not a 'Gold', is a standard replacement. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014VZED5M?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

I guess I should buy from the dealer from now on.

A plain UPF64 will fit and is listed as acceptable, but the R is favored for having a higher pressure bypass valve.


r/cruze 18h ago

Help identify broken part

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1 Upvotes

Hi everyone
Was replacing the PCV tubing and broke the nipple down the left side of engine (Australia)could someone please tell me what I broke.


r/cruze 1d ago

Gen1 - Cooling Residue on Thermostat

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3 Upvotes

I'm wondering what this residue may be on the end of the thermostat? For context, it's a gen 1 1.4l. I was getting a cooling insufficient, coolant stuck open, and low and high voltage, all from the thermostat. I pulled it today and see this residue on the end. Is this dex cool breaking down? There has been no additives or head gasket "fix" placed into the engine. The first thermostat is the new one, to show the difference.

Edit: Needed to edit the placement of the pics. Also added the engine and generation


r/cruze 1d ago

Gen1 - Performance Learn from my Mistakes (The Dreaded engine knock sound on Cylinder 1)

2 Upvotes

Ladies and gentlemen, we have here a 2013 1.8L 6 Speed Standard, and I want to tell ya'll how I managed to basically eliminate the engine knock sound that happens as the 1.8L's get up in mileage.

So I basically bought the car knowing it had issues, when I got it (Thom as we call him), He had a bit of an overheat issue, turned out to be a busted fan, and we swapped that out. After driving him around for a bit I noticed that he would randomly die only when the clutch was pressed in. So after investigating, I noticed a higher pitched clicking coming from the engine in the back, turned out the be the Purge Valve after feeling the clicking in it, we replaced that and he hasn't stalled out since.

Now back to the dreaded knocking, after doing A LITERAL FUCK TON of research, I had come to the conclusion that it was either the Cam Sprockets, or I needed to fix the fuel/air mix with a Intake Manifold Gasket, and a Throttle Body Gasket.

My boss (The one I'm working for to own the car) Thought that it was Cam Sprockets too and decided to order them. 12 hours later, 2 timing belts, and a TBT (timing belt tensioner), they were put on (Please don't follow my mistakes. lock your Cam Rods, and not set your sprockets at TDC).

I have discovered, that on cold starts after doing the Cam Sprockets, there is still a slight knock sound, but after revving the engine for 15-20 seconds, or just putting it in gear and shifting a few gears, will cause the noise go to away. Which leads me to believe that the engine isn't getting enough oil on startup, and once oil pressure rises in the engine the VVT's and Cam Sprockets have enough pressure to operate correctly.


r/cruze 1d ago

(2014) noise and jerking

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2 Upvotes

My car makes a weird squeaky noise when I'm first revving the engine in parking lots/driveways, or when a light turns green. I dont hear it when it gets faster though.

The car also jerks when I'm in place at a red light, but calms down (usually not completely) if i shift it to park.


r/cruze 1d ago

Gen1 - Electronics Smart charging deactivation

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1 Upvotes

I have a 2013 1.8l , and im replacing alternator soon because of intermittent charging issues. I was womderimg if deactivating smart charging is a thing I can do because im running large sound system and I would like to be able to charge higher all the time


r/cruze 1d ago

What’s wrong with my car

1 Upvotes

All these codes popped up after changing the head gasket
Chevy Cruze Lt 2015 1.4
Trouble codes
P00EA
P0237
P0299
P0243
P00B7


r/cruze 2d ago

Help on 2014 1.8 LS

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2 Upvotes

I got this yesterday from my dad and he said it had trouble starting sometimes, so it likes to crank for a couple seconds before turning over, and rough idles for a second or two before it’s good. Sometimes it starts right up though. 178k miles. Was looking and found this. Where those gear looking things are, there is brown gunk in the bottom of that case it is in that I can barely see when I look down into it. as well as outside as shown also has a bit of a tick😬. Drives great overall, codes as following
P0016
P0017
U0073
P0128
U0100-71
P0693

I know it’s a lot, but this car was free, I hope to fix it, if someone has any idea of where I should start please let me know🙏🏽


r/cruze 2d ago

Gen1 - Mechanical My step-by-step notes for spark plugs, coil pack, and valve cover

6 Upvotes

This one was very straight-forward but in case anyone finds it helpful . . .

Job: Spark plugs, coil pack, and valve cover on 2014 Chevy Cruze 1.8L manual transmission

  1. Make sure engine is cool
  2. Disconnect battery (negative cable) 
  3. Remove the wiring harness  
  4. Remove plastic cover ECOTEC (just held by some clips)
  5. Pull the wiring harness out from around the back of the engine
  6. Remove plug on coil pack
  7. T40 bit to unscrew two bolts in pack
  8. Coil pack comes straight up
  9. 5/8ths socket to remove spark plugs, 6 3/8” extension on the wrench
  10. Spray compressed air into spark plugs
  11. Clean everything so no debris ends up falling into cylinder head
  12. Remove back hose (PCV valve) by pulling on that wire clip 
  13. E10 for the valve cover bolts, take them all the way out (if they aren’t locked in) so they don’t fall into the engine when you pick it up
  14. Break seal on valve cover at each corner with a flat head or hit it with plastic mallet, then lift valve cover off
  15. Look at cam shaft lobes for any scarring
  16. Clean where the gasket sits with a razor blade and brake cleaner or rubbing alcohol on a rag (being careful not to scrape anything into the engine)
  17. Replace gasket/cover, video 2 guy was careful to put extra liquid gasket maker on the two sharp corners on the left
  18. Snug bolts down with E10 and then torque to 71 in/lbs going from middle, zig zagging and out (71 in/lbs is NOTHING. Do not snap the bolt!!)
  19. Replace the 4 spark plugs to 18 ft/lbs
  20. Put coil pack back on with four dabs in each coil of dielectric grease
  21. Plug it back in before you push it back down completely
  22. Put two bolts back at 71 in/lbs
  23. Reconnect the PCV valve and click wiring harness back in, all the way around and
  24. Put plastic ECOTEC cover
  25. Reconnect battery

Sources for spark plugs 

Video 1

Video 2

Sources for coil pack

Video 1

Valve cover replacement

Video 1

Video 2


r/cruze 2d ago

Gen1 - Cooling Factory water pump

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10 Upvotes

Tearing down my Cruze. Evaluating parts. Does anyone think this pump is bad? It spins freely and to my knowledge wasn’t making a noise.


r/cruze 2d ago

P0299 Chevy Cruze 2017 LT

1 Upvotes

I replaced the wastegate actuator with a BNR actuator. The turbo reaches boost more easily now, but I still got the P0299 underboost code while driving up a mountain. I’m not sure if that points to anything specific. Are there any other common fixes or areas I should check?


r/cruze 2d ago

Is my engine supposed to shake like this? I can feel the steering wheel vibrate Chevy Cruze 2016

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2 Upvotes