Chevrolet Cavalier problems
The Chevrolet Cavalier is a line of compact cars produced by Chevrolet. Serving as the replacement of the Chevrolet Monza, the Cavalier was the second Chevrolet model line to adopt front-wheel drive. Three versions of the Cavalier have been sold, including three generations sold in North America from model years 1982 to 2005, a version produced by SAIC-GM for China from 2016 to 2021, and a SAIC-GM version produced for Mexico since the 2019 model year.
The Cavalier was among the inaugural vehicles of the GM J platform. One of the first "world cars" of General Motors, the J platform was developed for use by each North American GM division (with the exception of GMC), alongside international models for Opel, Vauxhall, and Holden. Though sharing chassis underpinnings, J-body cars from Europe and Australia used slightly different body designs and different powertrains; in Europe, the Vauxhall Cavalier and Opel Ascona were marketed as mid-size cars. Initially a divisional counterpart of the Buick Skyhawk, Cadillac Cimarron, Oldsmobile Firenza, and Pontiac J2000, the Cavalier was primarily marketed alongside the Pontiac Sunbird (renamed the Pontiac Sunfire for 1995).
The 1982-2005 Cavalier was produced by multiple GM facilities across North America. For 2005, the Chevrolet Cobalt replaced the model line in North America.
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Chevrolet Cavalier model years
Common Chevrolet Cavalier problems
The Chevrolet Cavalier, produced from 1981 to 2005, has been a popular choice among car buyers due to its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, the Cavalier has its share of common problems.
Electrical issues are the most prevalent problems in the 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the total complaints on file with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Another common problem in the 2004 Cavalier is steering fluid leaks, which can lead to difficulty in turning the steering wheel if not consistently refilled.
The 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier also has its share of problems, with fuel pump failure being the leading cause for complaint, affecting 343 vehicles.
Powertrain complaints are less common in the 2003 Cavalier, with only 17 reports filed, but they can indicate early signs of transmission failure, such as rough shifting and failure to go into gear.
In terms of reliability, the Cavalier has been praised for its dependability and fuel efficiency, with some drivers reporting over 300,000 miles on the original transmission.
In conclusion, while the Chevrolet Cavalier has been a popular and reliable choice for many car buyers, it is not without its common problems, particularly in the electrical and fuel systems. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can help ensure the longevity and reliability of this vehicle.
How many miles will a Cavalier last?
There are reports of 2003 Cavaliers topping 300,000 miles with the original powertrain and engine. One mechanic at Car Gurus even claims to have worked on an engine with 440,000 miles on it. But, as you can't vouch for the previous owner's maintenance habits, expect a lifespan of around 250,000 miles.
Are Cavaliers a good car?
Chevrolet Cavalier Ratings Overview
68 car owners like you reviewed their Chevrolet Cavalier. The average rating is a 3.8 out of 5 stars.
Why did Chevy stop making Cavaliers?
Contrary to the American markets, however, the cavalier remained on sale in other regions like Mexico for example. Stopping the Cavalier's production was a logical decision based on the declining sedan sales in the United States, a decision that left only the Malibu to represent the sedan segment in Chevrolet's lineup.
How much is a Chevy Cavalier worth?
Prices for a used Chevrolet Cavalier currently range from $2,490 to $6,980, with vehicle mileage ranging from 60,579 to 175,946.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Cavalier years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Cavalier cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Cavalier model years:
- Chevrolet Cavalier 2003
- Chevrolet Cavalier 1996
- Chevrolet Cavalier 1997
- Chevrolet Cavalier 1998
- Chevrolet Cavalier 1995
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Cavalier model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Cavalier years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet Cavalier car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Cavalier , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Cavalier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cavalier model years
A total of 455 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cavalier model years
There were a total of 139 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cavalier model years
There were a total of 423 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Cavalier model years
There were a total of 28 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 5296 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Cavalier . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Cavalier vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet Cavalier 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-17
- VIN: 1G1JC12F547
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The whole steering column is loose The pins are all backed out I’m afraid to drive it I think this is a manufactured design flaw
Chevrolet Cavalier 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-29
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-29
- VIN: 1G1JC524XW7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission failed out of nowhere for no reason no check engine light yes available for inspection
Chevrolet Cavalier 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-07
- VIN: 1G1JF524127
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Horn doesn't work..replaced fuse still not working..so I wonder if my air bag will work...how do I fix it no body know not even the dealer
Chevrolet Cavalier 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-07
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC124227
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Was in a horrible car wreck yesterday and none of my airbag is avoid but yet my no check engine light none of my lights were on so I don't understand the problem you could have nearly killed me is what I got spent around three times and put back at the gas station that I left
Chevrolet Cavalier 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-15
- VIN: 1G1JC5247Y7
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the interior passenger side directional signal began blinking rapidly while activated. Additionally, the contact stated that an onlooker observed that the exterior driver side indicator light was not illuminated when indicator was activated. The vehicle was driven to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the interior lighter fuse needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The contact stated that when the weather was cooler, the exterior indicator light was experiencing the failure; however, during warmer weather, the indicator lights operated properly. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,800.
Chevrolet Cavalier 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-07
- VIN: 1g1jf12f347
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The vehicle failed to pass pa. state inspection due to a severely rusted frame over the rear axles. The estimate to repair the frame was @$3000.
Chevrolet Cavalier 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-01
- VIN: 1g1jf52f047
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the front driver’s side tire had detached. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. An independent mechanic went to the contact's residence and diagnosed that the lower control arm rusted and detached from the subframe. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Chevrolet Cavalier 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-06
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-06
- VIN: 1G1JC124X27
- Components: STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: JUST PURCHASED A 2002 CHEVY CAVALIER FOR OUR DAUGHTER AND HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND OUT IF ANY OF THE 5 RECALLS WERE PERFORMED ON THIS VEHICLE OR NOT. THE NHTSA RECALL PAGE ISN'T WORKING AT THIS TIME AND THE CHEVY LOCAL DEALERSHIP ISN'T WILLING TO HELP. CAN SOMEONE PLEASE PROVIDE SOME ASSISTANCE??
Chevrolet Cavalier 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-04
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-02
- VIN: 1G1JC52F537
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING WHEEL IS LOOSE. PINS ON TILT MECHANISM ARE GONE. DON'T KNOW WHEN IT FELL OUT. NOTICED WHEN CLEANING CAR WHEN I TILTED THE STEERING WHEEL UP.
Chevrolet Cavalier 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-02
- VIN: 1G1JC52F537
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY CAR HAS THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER THAT WAS RECALLED FOR OTHER GM VEHICLES. THE FUEL LEVEL GAUGE, TEMPERATURE GAUGE, RPM, SPEEDOMETER.... NONE OF MY GAUGES WORK. THEY GAVE THE WRONG READINGS, THE HAND WOULDN'T RETURN TO THEIR STARTING POSITIONS, THEN THE HANDS WENT LOWER THAN THEIR STARTING POSITIONS TO THE POINT THEY ALL DIDN'T WORK ANYMORE. THIS CAR NEEDS TO BE ADDED TO THE GM RECALL LIST FOR THE SAME PROBLEM.
Chevrolet Cavalier 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-03
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-13
- VIN: 1G1JC52F247
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IN THE PARKING LOT WHERE I WORK MY CAR WOULD NOT START. WHEN MOVING THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION LEVER IT DID NOT CATCH ON TO ANYTHING. THE CAR JUST ROLLED BACKWARDS AND I HAD TO IMMEDIATELY PRESS ON THE BRAKES PREVENTING AN ACCIDENT. MY CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE AUTO SHOP. DIAGNOSIS: SHIFTER CABLE WAS DETACHED FROM TRANSMISSION. PREVIOUSLY ON 09/13/2011 THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO MY CAR. THE SHIFTER CABLE BROKE AND I HAD TO BE TOWED TO LOU BACHRODT CHEVROLET BOTH TIMES. THE 2ND TIME INVOICE NO. CWCS692729 $502.24 AND $477.55 INVOICE NO.CWCS149491 THE FIRST TIME. THIS CAR SHOULD BE RECALLED. TWO TIMES IS TOO MANY.
Chevrolet Cavalier 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-21
- Date Complaint: 2020-07-19
- VIN: 1G1JC524027
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: PROBLEM WITH ELECTRICAL SYSTEM THAT OPERATES REAR BLINKERS AND BRAKE LIGHTS. I HAVE CHANGED BULB WHICH ARE NOT THE PROBLEM. I HAVE CHANGED THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS. WORKS FINE FOR SHORT PERIOD OF TIME WHEN EITHER OF THESE ARE CHANGED BUT STILL NOT FIXED. STARTED WITH PASSENGER SIDE BUT NOW HAVING ISSUES WITH DRIVER'S SIDE. ONLINE FORUMS SUGGEST MANY OTHERS ARE HAVING THIS ISSUE AS WELL. CANT FIND A PERMANENT FIX. PLEASE HELP. IS NOT BLOWING THE BULBS, JUST STOPS WORKING FOR NO APPARENT REASON.
Chevrolet Cavalier 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2020-06-06
- VIN: 3G1JC1248WS
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,ENGINE
- Summary: THE STARTER WENT OUT THE FIRST WEEK I GOT IT DID TIRES START RUBBING THE SUCKS WENT OUT MAKING IT HARD TO DRIVE AND A SECOND TIME START RUBBING I END UP BUYING THREE TIMES CUZ THEY GOT BALL REAL FAST THE WIRING UNDER THE ENGINE RIPPED APART AND NOW IT'S THREW A ROD. *TR
Chevrolet Cavalier 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-06
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-18
- VIN: 1G1JF52F747
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CAN'T SAFELY INSTALL A CAR SEAT BECAUSE THE SAFETY BELTS DO NOT PROPERLY RETRACT. THEREFORE THE CAR SEAT IS NOT STABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY.
Chevrolet Cavalier 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-13
- Date Complaint: 2019-11-23
- VIN: 1G1JH52F347
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN I'M DRIVEN ABOUT 25 MILES THE ACCELERATOR STAYS STUCK AND THE SPEED KEEP GOIN UP IF YOU DON'T PUT THE BRAKES
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Cavalier
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 110 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Cavalier.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet Cavalier 1999
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Chevrolet Cavalier 1997
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Chevrolet Cavalier 1996
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Chevrolet Cavalier 1995
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Model: Chevrolet Cavalier 1998
- Report Received Date: 2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Latest negative Chevrolet Cavalier car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet Cavalier car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1996
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my Cavalier 1996. I looked at a number of cars before buying it, but its price was great and the condition was pretty good. I'm happy to say that it drives very well! I did have to replace the gas tank, but I was able to find a used one for a good price and got free labor. Overall, I think it's a very good car.
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Vehicle year: 2001
Your 2001 Chev Z24 has been a reliable and enjoyable car for you. Even after almost 10 years, it still performs well with plenty of power when you need it. You have taken good care of it, replacing the plugs, tires, and battery after 120,000 km of Canadian weather and road conditions. Although there is a rattle coming from the front tire area, you suspect it's just a bad strut. Overall, it has been one of your better large purchases in life and you would definitely recommend it.
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Vehicle year: 2002
What a great story about your first car! It's amazing how reliable it was, starting every day without fail. Even after the accident, it was fixed up like new with parts from the junkyard. It's impressive how well it held up, especially after being hit by a larger car. Not only was it great on gas, but it was also cheap to fix. It's clear that you loved that car and it served you well. With such a positive experience, it's no wonder you would buy it again without question.
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Vehicle year: 1991
This car is so much fun to drive! It has a lively engine that can keep up with newer cars if taken care of. Just hook up the sound system, put in a CD player, and give it a nice paint job, and you're ready to ride. Maybe fix up the engine a little to give it even more kick, and you'll be all set!
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Vehicle year: 1991
I bought this car with low miles and have driven it for a long time, and it still starts and gets me where I need to go every day. It has been a reliable school car for a great price, and it has never let me down. I have only had to replace the alternator and battery, and I have never had to replace the clutch or exhaust. Overall, I am very happy with this car!
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Cavalier?
Osbaldo Hill 2025-07-28
Vehicle year: 1995
I would suggest considering other options besides a cavalier. While newer models may have improved, my personal experience with a '95 model has not been positive. With 128000 miles on it, it is currently valued at $1500 - $1900 and requires frequent oil changes and has had issues with antifreeze leaking into the engine. The cost to fix these issues ranges from $800 to $1200, which has been a financial burden. In my opinion, a Honda may be a better choice.
Jules Murphy 2025-07-21
Vehicle year: 1997
When you think of the so-called 'horrible' American car, this one may come to mind. Unfortunately, it seems to have had problem after problem.
Rafael Miller 2025-07-18
Vehicle year: 1990
I bought my car from a kind-hearted elderly gentleman who convinced me that the Chevrolet Cavalier was the perfect car for me. Unfortunately, my experience with the car has not been great as it has been breaking down frequently and costing me a lot of money. While I do not recommend buying a car solely based on the seller's friendliness, I would advise doing thorough research before making a purchase. It's important to find a car that suits your needs and budget.
Pablo Crona 2025-07-17
Vehicle year: 2003
I purchased this car brand new with only 3 miles on it, hoping for a reliable vehicle. Unfortunately, I experienced a lot of issues with it. The rear turn signals needed to be replaced multiple times, but even after the dealership attempted to fix them, they still malfunctioned. Both windows also broke and required several repairs by my father. Additionally, the interior lights had a constant flickering issue, which the dealership attempted to fix but unfortunately it persisted. There were also some engine issues, but thankfully my father, who is a mechanic, was able to fix them without costing too much.
Cortez Fay 2025-07-16
Vehicle year: 2004
The vehicle has been serviced multiple times for minor issues, which has been unsatisfactory. The fuel efficiency has not met our expectations. Additionally, the front console and controls are positioned too closely together, which has caused some near accidents while trying to adjust the heat/air/defrost with drinks in the way. We feel that we paid an excessive amount for the features provided.