1985 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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Common 1985 Chevrolet Cavalier problems
The Chevrolet Cavalier, produced from 1982 to 2005, has had its fair share of common problems, particularly in the 1985 model year. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on owner complaints:
- Power Window Motors Overheating: The power window motors in the 1985 Cavalier may overheat, leading to failure. This can be caused by prolonged use, especially in hot weather conditions, and may require replacement of the affected motor.
- Check Engine Light: The check engine light may illuminate due to various reasons, including engine misfires, faulty oxygen sensors, or loose gas caps. A diagnostic check is necessary to identify and address the underlying issue.
- Passlock System Issues: The Chevrolet Passlock system, which is designed to prevent vehicle theft, has been reported to cause problems with starting the car and illuminating a warning light. This can be a significant inconvenience and may require repair or replacement of the Passlock system.
- Transmission Troubles: Lots of Chevrolet owners, including Cavalier owners, have experienced transmission issues, which can range from minor repairs to major rebuilds or complete replacements. The average cost of repair is more than $3,000.
- Electrical Problems: The Chevrolet Impala, a model closely related to the Cavalier, suffers from various electrical issues, including the car failing to start, windows and door mirrors suddenly ceasing to operate, and batteries going inexplicably flat. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning components, and may require diagnostic testing and repair.
- Steering Problems: One of the most common problems owners suffer with their Chevy Malibu, a model also related to the Cavalier, is the power steering going out all of a sudden. This can be a safety concern and may require replacement of the steering system.
- Instrument Panel Failure: Numerous Chevrolet Silverado and Trailblazer owners, models closely related to the Cavalier, have reported instrument panel failures, particularly around the 64,000-mile mark. This can be a significant inconvenience and may require replacement of the instrument panel.
It is important to note that these issues are based on owner complaints and may not represent the overall reliability of the 1985 Chevrolet Cavalier. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or address many of these problems, extending the life and functionality of the 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.
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.
What kind of engine does a Chevy Cavalier have?
The chassis was revised for 2003. All Cavaliers are powered by GM's newly developed Ecotec 2.2-liter engine, which offers responsive performance, excellent fuel economy, and low emissions. Chevrolet Cavalier is designed to offer a compelling value.
How fast does a Chevy Cavalier go?
CHEVROLET Cavalier Coupe 2.2L 5MT FWD (141 HP)
| PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
|---|---|
| Top Speed: | 111.9 mph (180 km/h) |
| Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph): | 9 s |
How long can a Chevy 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.
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.
What is the most miles on a Chevy Cavalier?
It quickly drew a crowd, many observers recalling a friend, co-worker, or neighbor “who had one just like it.” More shocking than the 37-year-old Cavalier's stunning condition was the reading on its odometer: 342,000 miles. In 1980s and 1990s America, the Cavalier and its J-car siblings were omnipresent road furniture.
What kind of engine does a Chevy Cavalier have?
The chassis was revised for 2003. All Cavaliers are powered by GM's newly developed Ecotec 2.2-liter engine, which offers responsive performance, excellent fuel economy, and low emissions. Chevrolet Cavalier is designed to offer a compelling value.
1985 Chevrolet Cavalier car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Cavalier problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Chevrolet Cavalier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Chevrolet Cavalier complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Chevrolet Cavalier.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-28
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FIRE ERUPTED IN THE DASH WERE THE RADIO WAS LOCATED RUINING THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE WAS OFF AND PARKED AND THE ENGINE WAS NOT AFFECTED. NLM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-06-11
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHENEVER ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS DEPRESSED, THE THROTTLE CABLE WOULD STICK. WILL BE TAKING VEHICLE TO DEALER. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-22
- VIN: 1G1JE77P4F7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT (30) MPH ON DRY ROADS, THE BACK BRAKE ON THE RIGHT SIDE WENT OUT AND CAUSED THE FRONT BRAKE ON THE LEFT SIDE TO GO OUT. THIS ALMOST CAUSED AN INCIDENT. VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN SEEN BY DEALER. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-29
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL FIRE.(OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT)
1985 Chevrolet Cavalier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1985 Chevrolet Cavalier.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: THE ENGINE AIR CLEANER PLASTIC TRIM COVER COULD FALL OFF THE AIR CLEANER ASSEMBLY AND LAND ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD CREATING A FIRE HAZARD. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THE CAR IS BEING OPERATED AT THE TIME THAT THE PLASTIC TRIM COVER FALLS OFF, AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE COULD OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: REMOVE THE TRIM COVER AND DISCARD.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: THE ENGINE AIR CLEANER PLASTIC TRIM COVER COULD DETACH FROM THE AIR CLEANER ASSEMBLY AND FALL FORWARD ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THE CAR IS BEING OPERATED AT THE TIME OF DETACHMENT, AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE COULD OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: REMOVE THE TRIM COVER AND DISCARD.
Other years of Chevrolet Cavalier
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