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: 1997
I've owned this car for almost a decade now, and it still runs and looks great! People are always asking me about it, saying things like 'What kind of car is that?' or 'Who makes it?' It's always nice to hear such positive feedback. Passengers are always amazed at how quickly it accelerates from 0 to 40, 50, or 60mph, and it's great on gas too! Driving it is so much fun, especially with the top down - it always turns heads! I've actually been in a very bad accident with this car (not my fault, another driver), and I truly believe that its safety features saved my life. The airbags deployed immediately upon impact, and the seatbelt kept me securely in place. It wasn't just a fender bender, but thanks to this car, I walked away unscathed. All in all, it was the best purchase I ever made!
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Vehicle year: 2005
I bought my manual 2005 LS Cavalier in 2006 with only 10k miles on it. It's been almost 10 years since then and my car is still running great with almost 96k miles on it! I absolutely love this car. In the 4 years that I have owned it, I have only had one major problem, which was the clutch cable going out twice. Other than that, this car has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. The engine is still in great condition after all the long trips and miles it has gone through. I have no complaints whatsoever. The Cavalier is mechanically wonderful, easy on gas with an average of 32mpg for me, reasonably comfortable, has keyless entry, a sunroof, and a great factory sound system! I highly recommend this car to anyone.
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Vehicle year: 2005
It's great to hear that you found a car that suits your needs! The car is small and economical, yet spacious enough for your husband to drive comfortably, even at 6'3
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Vehicle year: 2003
Your little Cavalier has been my trusty companion since 2003, getting me from A to B every day without fail. Although I had a few hiccups in the beginning with some bad wiring harnesses and rusty rotors, it has been smooth sailing ever since. In fact, the only major issue I had was a fuel pump after owning it for 7 years and 110k. It's surprisingly peppy for a 4 cylinder 2.2 automatic. I absolutely adore this car and it's going to be tough to part with it, but I need to make room for my little ones.
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Vehicle year: 2000
I purchased my beloved car back in April 2009 when it had 118k miles on it. It was a four-door with a three-speed automatic and I only paid $1100 for it! To my surprise, it even came with a brand new set of Michelins! Although the dash near the windshield has some cracks and missing chunks, the car has never used any oil between changes. Over the years, I replaced the radiator and alternator, and changed the oil every 3000 miles. As of June 2014, the car had 186k miles on it and still ran like a dream. I usually got around 28 mpg in mixed driving, but sometimes even got 30 mpg! I figured that if it lasted a year, I could give it away and not be out anything. Five plus years later, it was still going strong. I kept this car until January 2016 when I sold it because I had bought a 1998 Cavalier with only 100k miles on it and wasn't driving the 2000 model as much. It had 218k miles when I sold it, and the new owners have reported no problems with it at all. It was so hard to let it go, and I still miss it to this day. Even though I have the 1998 model now, I still wish I had kept my 2000 model. It was truly the best car I have ever owned!
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Cavalier?
Colten Abbott 2025-11-24
Vehicle year: 2002
Hi there! I bought this car used back in 2004 and have been driving it for about 100,000km per year. It now has around 480,000km on it, and while the odometer and dash lights have burnt out, I've had to replace countless rear strut mounts, and the A/C has failed a few times, it's still going strong! It's never burned a drop of oil and has been incredibly reliable (fingers crossed).
Barrett Smith 2025-11-20
Vehicle year: 2004
The EcoTec 2.2 is an impressive engine - powerful, quiet, and reliable. However, the rest of the car is typical General Motors. The steel used in the car is quite thin, so even a minor collision can cause significant damage to the quarter panels and the plastic bumper may not fit properly again. The interior is also typical GM, with some unusual toilet seat flusher door handles and cheap plastic components. The plastic covers by the mirrors tend to come off and the manual mirror adjusters can break. Additionally, the shift lever can become loose and may require replacement. The interior noise level is higher than expected.
Richie Toy 2025-11-20
Vehicle year: 2002
My 2002 Cavalier Coupe (auto) was my first car, but unfortunately it was not reliable or safe. Within the first two months of owning it, I had to replace the fuel pump for around $500. Shortly after, the serpentine belt broke and burned in the engine, causing a horrible smell. Although the belt was only $20, it was still an inconvenience. A few months later, the muffler bracket rusted and broke, causing the muffler to almost fall off and making the car extremely loud. Additionally, there was something wrong with the catalytic converter. Unfortunately, my car was totaled when someone pulled out in front of me, even though I was only going 30 mph. It's important to prioritize reliability and safety when choosing a car.
Consuelo Wolf 2025-11-19
Vehicle year: 1991
I got my car in 1995 with 52,000 miles on it and have since put an additional 40,000 miles on it. The AC worked great in Texas and it starts even on the coldest days in Michigan. However, the control dome for the wipers and alternator needed changing within the first 60K miles. The interior panels are cheap and tend to rattle a lot, but the engine is reliable and has a lot of low-end torque. The steering is fairly responsive, but there is a lot of body roll. Unfortunately, there is excessive road and wind noise, especially on the highway. On the bright side, the body of the car is still free of rust after 90K miles. To date, I have spent $3000 on repairs, including changing the alternator once, replacing all brakes twice, shocks and struts once, replacing the battery twice, and other small repairs. The radio is quite powerful and has a lot of bass.
Hyman Sawayn 2025-11-19
Vehicle year: 1990
Hey there! Just a heads up, the side skirts of this car may look a bit worn, but with some care, it can still be a great ride. Just keep in mind that down the road, you may need to do some refurbishing on the wheel wells, door jams, and door panels. But don't worry, it's nothing that can't be fixed!