1997 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 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, here are some common problems with this car:
- Power Window Motor Failure: Complaints include power window motors failing due to overheating.
- Engine Stall: Some owners have experienced engine stalling issues, especially when driving in town after running fine on the highway. This could be related to problems with the crank sensor, plugs, wires, or fuel pump.
- Acceleration Issues: Reports of the engine running too fast, between 1000-1100 rpm, instead of the normal range of 700-750 rpm. Despite scanning and checking vacuum ducts, the acceleration problem persists.
- Starting and Stalling: Complaints about the car starting but stalling immediately, possibly due to issues with the fuel pump, ignition coil, or timing chain.
- Transmission Problems: Owners have faced transmission issues like slipping gears, failure to shift, and acceleration problems, possibly linked to gearbox or injector issues.
- Electrical Problems: Complaints about electrical issues such as radio malfunctions, starting problems due to theft system engagement, and ignition fuse problems.
These problems highlight various issues that Chevrolet Cavalier 1997 owners have encountered, ranging from electrical and transmission issues to engine performance and stalling concerns. Owners have reported a range of issues that can impact the functionality 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.
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 happened to Chevy Cavalier?
The station wagon was sold until 1994. The 1995-2005 Cavalier received a Poor rating in the IIHS' frontal off-set crash test. Meaning, head, neck and leg injury risk were extremely high. In 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier was replaced by the Cobalt in the United States and the Chevrolet Optra in Canada & Mexico.
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 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.
What happened to Chevy Cavalier?
The station wagon was sold until 1994. The 1995-2005 Cavalier received a Poor rating in the IIHS' frontal off-set crash test. Meaning, head, neck and leg injury risk were extremely high. In 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier was replaced by the Cobalt in the United States and the Chevrolet Optra in Canada & Mexico.
1997 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
The NHTSA has received 599 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-01
- VIN: 1G1JC5245V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: CAR RADIATOR FAN WON'T KICK ON CAUSE CAR TO GET VERY DANGEROUSLY HOT CAUSING CAR TO BECOME A BOMB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC1248VM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAGS DEFLATED SEPTEMBER 9, 2012 WHILE IN MOTION TURNING A 90 DEGREE BEND THEN BRAKING INTO ROAD BANK ON A THE SIDE OF A COUNTRY DIRT ROAD. AN EARLY INSPECTION WAS HANDED DOWN FROM THE COMMONWEALTH STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA ON JULY, 01, 2016. SHORTLY AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AUTO ACCIDENT WHILE PARKED STATIONARY IN A PARKING LOT. THE CHEVROLET CAVALIER FAILED THE ENHANCED STATE INSPECTION THENCE AFTER DUE TO AIR BAG SAFETY FEATURE. THE CAR IS IN FAIR CONDITION APPRAISED ABOVE BLUE BOOK VALUE AND MECHANICALLY RUNS BETTER THAN IT DID 4 OR 5 YEARS AGO. THERE IS A SALVAGE TITLE CURRENTLY ON THE MOTOR VEHICLE. ALL THE VEHICLE NEEDS IS NEW AIR BAGS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-22
- VIN: 3G1JC5242VS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY HORN STOPPED WORKING WITHOUT ANY KIND OF INDICATOR!! 3 TIME THIS HAS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING !! MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE! WAS UNABLE WARN CAR BACKING OUT AND HAD TO SWERVE TO AVOID ACCIDENT! REPLACED FUSE 3 TIMES!! SOMEONE MAY DIE AS A RESULT OF THIS MALFUNCTION!! NEVER RECEIVED ANY KIND OF NOTICE FROM DEALERSHIP/ MANUFACTURE REGARDING THIS ISSUE! UPON GOOGLING FOUND MANY ARE EXPERIENCING SAME PROBLEM!! A SERIOUS ACCIDENT OR DEATH MAY RESULT BECAUSE OF THIS DEFECT!!!PLEASE,PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS PROBLEM !!!!!! ALSO THE GAGE LIGHTS TEND TO STAY ON!! FIRST IT WAS THE OIL SENSOR LITE, NOW THE RADIATOR LITE!! BOTH CHAMBERS ARE FULL EVEN AFTER PROFESSIONAL SERVICING!!!!!! THE OIL LITE STILL COMES ON JUST HAD PROFESSIONAL OIL SERVICE?!????
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-24
- VIN: 1G1JC5244V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: THE SAFETY DEVICE LIGHT CAME ON. IT WON'T GO OFF, CAN'T START MY CAR. *JS
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-28
- VIN: 3G1JC5249VS
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START ON THE FIRST ATTEMPT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT AWARE OF ALL THE DETAILS INVOLVING THE REPAIR AND THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DISCLOSED TO THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT WAS NOTIFIED OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V286000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-05
- VIN: 1G1JC5245V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 1987 CHEVY CAVALIAR SHUT OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING MULTIPLE TIMES. THE FIRST TIME I HEARD CLICKING IN THE CLUSTER AND THE THEFT SYSTEM LIGHT TURNS ON AND MY FUEL PUMP SHUTS DOWN. I HAVE BEEN IN VERY CRITICAL PLACES WHILE THIS SITUATION TAKES PLACE. THE THEFT SYSTEM HAS SHUT MY VEHICHLE OFF ON THE HIGHWAY, IN THE INTERSECTION ECT.. I HAVE TRYED TO RESET THIS SYSTEM NUMEROUS TIMES. I HAVE COME TO THE KNOWLEDGE THAT THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH MANY CHEVY CAVALIARS AND OTHER GM MODELS. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL AND SHOULD BE FIXED. I, A LOYAL GM CUSTOMER, SHOULD NOT HAVE TO DRIVE A UNPREDICTABLE VEHICHLE THAT HAS SECURITY PROBLEMS THAT ARE DUE TO THE ORIGINAL MAKING OF THE SYSTEM. I HAVE NO MONEY TO PAY FOR THIS AND AM STUCK WITH THIS PROBLEM. IT IS VERY UNSAFE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: MY REAR DEFROST QUIT WORKING AND I WENT AND CHECKED SOME OF THE CONNECTIONS. THE CONNECTION UNDER THE DASH HAD BEEN MELTED, WITH THE PLASTIC SHOWING EVIDENCE OF BEING MELTED. I HAVE DONE SOME CHECKING ON THE INTERNET AND IT APPEARS IT IS A PROBLEM. IF YOU CHECK GM CARS PONTIAC, AND GM SOME OF THE VEHICLES HAVE HAD THIS ISSUE. IT APPEARS TO BE VERY COMMON BASED OFF THE FORUMS AND YOU TUBE VIDEO'S. IT APPEARS IN IMPALA, CAVALIER, SUNFIRE, AND THIS ISN'T AN ALL INCLUSIVE LIST. THIS IS CONCERNING BECAUSE IT APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN A PROBLEM FOR A FEW YEARS AND GM ALLOWED THIS TO HAPPEN. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-16
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN ENGAGING THE BRAKES, ALL THE BRAKE FLUID LEAKED FROM THE BRAKE LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 118,500. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-12
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AROUND 30 MPH TO A STOP SIGN AND MY CAR DIED WHILE IN DRIVE, APPROACHING A STOP SIGN. THE INCIDENT HAPPENED AGAIN IN MAY 2010 WHEN I WAS DRIVING HOME AND HAD TO COAST DOWN A BRIDGE, WHICH PROMPTED ME TO SELL THE CAR BECAUSE I FELT IT WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE ANYMORE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC1240V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THE ENGINE FAILED TO START AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE ENGINE WIRING HARNESS WAS FAULTY AND EXPOSED MELTED WIRES. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-20
- VIN: 1G1JF52T7V7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE FIRST INCIDENT THAT OCCUR WAS IN 2009. IT WAS THAT THE SWITCH OF THE KEY ENGINE DID NOT WANT TO START. SOMEONE CAME TO FIX IT BUT COULD NOT FIND A WAY TO REPAIR IT. HE HAD TO ADD A BUTTON UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL AND I WOULD BE TUNING THE KEY TO THE ENGINE TO START I WOULD HAVE TO PUSH THAT BUTTON TO START THE CAR. I WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACING LIGHT BULBS CONSTANCY FROM THE REAR BACK OF THE SINGLE LIGHT. THE THEFT LOCK SYSTEM WOULD BE TURNING IT SELF ON WHILE I WOULD BE DRIVING. THANKFULLY THERE WAS ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF THAT. BUT I WOULD BE STRUGGLING TO START MY CAR .I HAD TO WAIT SOME COUPLE OF MINUTES TO START THE CAR. THE RECENT INCIDENT THAT OCCUR WAS WHEN MY NEIGHBOR HEARD LIKE SOME FIREWORKS IN OUR SIDE OF OUR HOUSE. HE TOOK A LOOK AND HE SEEN THAT OUR CAR WAS SOME SPARKLING LIGHTS OUT OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THAT WAS AROUND MIDNIGHT WHAT HE SEEN AND HE TOLD US THAT MORNING. AS I WALK TOWARDS THE CAR I COULD SMELL SMOKE AS IF SOMETHING BURN. I WANTED TO START MY CAR BUT WOULDN'T START. SOME ONE CAME TO FIXED IT AND HAD TO REPLACE SOME CABLE FROM THE STEERING WHEEL BECAUSE THAT WAS THAT CAUSE THE SPARKING OF THE FIRE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-14
- VIN: 1G1JF52T7V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: AS I WAS GOING TO TURN THE SWITCH ON TO TURN ON MY CAR IT DIDN'T WANT TO START. I HAD SOME ONE FIX IT BUT COULD NOT FIND A WAY TO FIX IT. THEY HAD TO ADD A BUTTON UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL TO START THE CAR AS I TURN THE SWITCH ON. THERE WAS COUPLE A OF TIMES WHERE THE CAR WOULD GO ON PASSLOCK BY ITSELF AND WOULDN'T START UNTIL A LONG PERIOD OF WAITING. THE EXTERNAL HEADLIGHTS BURN CONSTANTLY AND I WOULD BUY NEW BULBS FOR THE BACK LIGHTS. ONE TIME OUR NEIGHBOR SAID HE HEARD NOISE LIKE FIREWORKS ON OUR PROPERTY AND HE SAID THAT HE SEEN OUR CAR WAS SPARKING LIGHT OUT OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THAT MORNING OF THAT DAY HE TOLD US AND AS WE WERE CHECKING THE CAR I COULD SMELL SOMETHING BURNED. AS A RESULT OF THAT THE CAR DIDN'T WANT TO START . THE AUTO REPAIR PEOPLE HAD TO COME TO OUR HOUSE TO FIGURE OUT WHAT WAS WRONG WITH IT. THEY HAD TOLD ME THAT SOME WIRES INSIDE THE STEERING WHEEL HAD BURNED BUT MOSTLY I HAVE BEEN FIXING MORE OF ELECTRICAL SWITCHES AND BURNED WIRES. I APPRECIATE FOR TAKING YOUR TIME TO READ THIS AND I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO HEAR FROM YOU. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-25
- VIN: 1G1JC5242V7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HAVING THE VEHICLE INSPECTED, THE MECHANIC STATED THE PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE OF THE FRAME WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-16
- VIN: 1G1JC5245V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD ACTIVATED THE ANTI THEFT MODE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT WAS SITTING AT A TRAFFIC STOP WHEN HER FOOT SLIPPED OFF THE BRAKE AND CAUSED HER TO LIGHTLY CRASH INTO THE REAR OF A PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO EITHER VEHICLE BUT THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED ERRONEOUSLY, CAUSING BURNS TO THE CONTACT'S HANDS AND FACE. THE CONTACT INQUIRED WITH THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 98V146000 (AIR BAGS) THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO CORRECT THE CALIBRATION THAT WOULD HAVE PREVENTED THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PREVIOUSLY UNDER THE RECALL, BUT THE REPAIR FAILED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 98,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-01
- VIN: 1G1JF12T8V7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, HE ATTEMPTED TO SOUND THE HORN AND IT WAS NOT FUNCTIONING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE HORN SENSOR WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-04
- VIN: 1G1JC524XV7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: SOLD MY 1997 CHEV. CAVALIER TO A 17 YEAR OLD GIRL. HER DAD TOOK CAR FOR TEST DRIVE BEFORE CASH PURCHASE. HE WENT 200 FEET DOWN THE STREET THEN BACKED UP INTO MY DRIVEWAY. HE SAID BRAKE WARNING LITE CAME ON AND BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR. WE SAW BRAKE FLUID POURING FROM UNDER CAR. THE BRAKE LINE WAS RUSTED AND BLEW OUT. I TOOK THE CAR TO TUFFY AUTO CENTER AND THEY SPLICED NEW BRAKE LINES TO FIX. I WAS SHOCKED TO SEE THAT PLAIN STEEL LINES WERE ROUTED UNDERNEATH THE CAR AND EXPOSED TO ALL KINDS OF CORROSIVE ELEMENTS. WE WERE ALL THANKFUL THAT THE GIRL DID NOT BUY THE CAR THEN GET INTO A TERRIBLE ACCIDENT THAT DAY. HOW MANY OTHER CAVALIERS ARE OUT THERE IN DANGEROUS CONDITION? I CAN NOT SEE HOW GM GOT AWAY WITH BRAKE AND GAS LINES INSTALLED IN SUCH A CHEAP AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS LOCATION. ALL THE PREVIOUS DESCRIPTION IS ACCOUNTED FOR BY THE PURCHASER AND TUFFY AUTO CENTER. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC5243V7
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1997 CHEVY CAVALIER STEERING COLUMN AND DASHBOARD CAUGHT ON FIRE ON MARCH 10, 2011. CAR HAD NO MECHANICAL OR ELECTRICAL ISSUES PRIOR TO THE FIRE. CAR WAS IN EXCELLENT WORKING CONDITION. CAR HAD BEEN PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE HOUR AFTER BEING USED FOR A SHORT DRIVE. THE CAVALIER WAS PARKED OUTSIDE IN FRONT OF THE HOUSE NO ONE WAS IN THE VEHICLE. FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO BE CALLED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE FROM THE CAR. NO PRIOR KNOWLEDGE OF THE RECALL FOR THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IGNITION SWITCH DEFECT. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC1248VM
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 10 MPH WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME RESISTANT AND LOCKED. WITHOUT STEERING CAPABILITY, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER SENT AN INVESTIGATOR TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE FOR THE FAILURE AND CONCLUDED THAT THE CRASH WAS NOT DUE TO ANY TYPE OF DEFECT. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000. UPDATED 05/04/11 *BF UPDATED 1/5/12 *CN
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-18
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. ALL OF THE WINDOWS IN THE VEHICLE WERE CLOUDY UPON SHIFTING INTO DRIVE GEAR WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AFTER IT WAS STARTED. IN ORDER TO CLEAR THE WINDOWS THE CONTACT HAD TO BANG ON THE DASHBOARD. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY DURING COLD WEATHER CONDITIONS. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE BLOWER MOTOR AND NOTICED THAT SOME OF THE MECHANISMS WERE COVERED WITH RUST. THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 195,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-23
- VIN: 4G1JF32T0VB
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 55MPH THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. WHEN THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED IT RIPPED APART THE DASH AND BUSTED THE WINDSHIELD. LUCKILY MY SON WAS NOT INJURED AND MANAGED TO KEEP THE CAR UNDER CONTROL TO GET IT OFF THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT HAVING AN ACCIDENT. WHEN GM WAS CONTACTED THEY SAID SORRY THIS CAR WAS NOT AFFECTED BY THE RECALL FOR THE AIRBAGS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC1241VM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS CAR USED LAST YEAR FOR MY DAUGHTER. WE HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE KEY TO START, THE KEY WAS LEFT IN THE START POSITION A FEW TIMES TRYING TO GET STARTED. WE NOTICED A SPARK COME FROM THE COLUMN AND NOTHING. I NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE IGNITION SWITCH DOING THE SAME THING AS I STATED ABOVE. DEALERSHIP WILL NOT HONOR RECALL BECAUSE NOW THEY ARE STATING THE LOCK CYLINDER MECHANISM IS BROKE AND THEY CANT GET INTO THE COLUMN WITHOUT BREAKING IT. THIS IS RIDICULOUS THAT NOW THAT IT IS FAILED THEY WON'T FIX THE CAR. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-04
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: HAVE HAD FUEL LINE, AND FUEL PUMP REPLACED. STILL GET A STRONG SMELL OF GAS.... CAN NOT GET RID OF THE ODOR. THERE IS NOT A GAS LEAK THAT IS VISIBLE TO THE HUMAN EYE BUT THE SCENT STILL LINGERS INSIDE AND OUT. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-16
- VIN: 1G1JC1248V7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: CALLED TO HAVE RECALL NUMBER 07E015000 AT DELPHI. PAUL (CUSTOMER SERVICE REP) CLEARLY WOULD NOT LET ME HAVE THE RECALL., AFTER ANSWERING ALL THE QUESTION. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-15
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY SUB-FRAME HAS BROKEN TWICE ON MY CAVALIER. I DON'T WANT TO REPAIR IT ANYMORE!!! *TR
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 13 recalls for different components of the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 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: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DORMAN PRODUCTS IS RECALLING 3,900 INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFTS DORMAN PART NOS. 425-151, 425-152, AND 425-153, (SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS" BRAND NAME), BALKAMP #'S 7-3057, 7-3058, 7-3059 (SOLD UNDER THE "NAPA" BRAND NAME), AND PLATINUM PARTS #'S 2425151, 2425152, AND 2425153 MANUFACTURED DURING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2007. THESE REPLACEMENT STEERING SHAFTS CAN BE USED ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE WELD CONNECTING THE INNER TUBE TO THE OUTER TUBE MAY BE DEFECTIVE.
- Consequence: IF THE WELD FAILS, LOSS OF STEERING COULD RESULT, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE STEERING SHAFTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 16, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN TOLL FREE AT 1-800-523-2492.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMP MODULES / MODULE RESERVOIR ASSEMBLIES (MRA) THAT WERE SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE MRAS VENT AND FUEL RETURN TUBES WERE REVERSED. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN THE VEHICLE NOT RUNNING CORRECTLY (IDLE ROUGH AND/OR STALL) DUE TO AN OVERLY RICH FUEL BLEND OR THE VEHICLE'S EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CARBON CANISTER MAY LEAK FUEL.
- Consequence: A STALLED VEHICLE CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. A FUEL LEAK CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE MRAS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 1-877-335-7443.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS HAVE LOWER PINION BEARINGS IN THE POWER RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE RETAINER TABS WERE NOT CRIMPED PROPERLY. THESE AND SOME OTHER RETAINERS USED IN VEHICLES ASSEMBLED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 1996 AND OCTOBER 31, 1997, COULD FAIL AND PERMIT THE BALL BEARINGS TO ESCAPE.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE PINION SHAFT CAN BE FORCED UPWARD DURING LEFT TURNS AND BACK DOWN AS THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED BACK AND TO THE RIGHT. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL NEED TO EXERT MORE EFFORT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL, SIMILAR TO A VEHICLE WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED STEERING. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES EVEN FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL REQUIRE MUCH HIGHER EFFORT TO TURN LEFT AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TURN THE WHEEL AS MUCH AS INTENDED. WITH THE MAXIMUM PINION SHAFT MOVEMENT, WHICH REQUIRES INTERNAL GEAR COMPONENT DAMAGE, THE DRIVER CAN ENCOUNTER HIGH RESISTANCE TO TURNING LEFT, FOLLOWED BY UNINTENDED POWER ASSIST TO THE RIGHT. IN ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW LOWER PINION BEARING UNLESS INSPECT OF THE EXISTING BEARING INDICATES THAT REPLACEMENT OF THE GEAR ASSEMBLY IS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JANUARY 24, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE ENGINE FAILS TO START AND THE DRIVER HOLDS THE KEY IN THE "START" POSITION FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD, HIGH CURRENT FLOWS THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND SOMETIMES PRODUCES ENOUGH HEAT TO MELT INTERNAL SWITCH PARTS.
- Consequence: IF THE SWITCH IS DAMAGED, A FIRE COULD OCCUR IN THE STEERING COLUMN, EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF AND THE KEY REMOVED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RELAY KIT IN THESE VEHICLES TO PREVENT HIGH CURRENT FROM FLOWING THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 27, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. ONE OF THE REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM BOLTS CAN FATIGUE AND BREAK.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL CAN OCCUR, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM FASTENERS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. BECAUSE OF CERTAIN CALIBRATIONS IN THE AIR BAG'S SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE, AN INADVERTENT AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD OCCUR IN A LOW SPEED CRASH OR WHEN AN OBJECT STRIKES THE FLOOR PAN.
- Consequence: AIR BAGS DEPLOY WITH GREAT FORCE AND CAN SERIOUSLY INJURE UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANTS WHO ARE TOO CLOSE TO THEM.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL RECALIBRATE THE AIR BAG SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH MIS-LOCATED WELDS AT THE JOINT BETWEEN THE LEFT ROCKER PANEL INNER REINFORCEMENT AND THE BODY SIDE RING. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 214, "SIDE DOOR STRENGTH."
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE SHEET METAL STRUCTURE WOULD NOT PERFORM AS DESIRED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WELDS AND, IF NECESSARY, PLACE FIVE WELDS BETWEEN THE INVOLVED PANELS AND APPLY PRIMER AND TOPCOAT FINISH MATERIALS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: WHEELS:SPACE SAVER WHEEL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE COMPACT SPARE TIRE ASSEMBLIES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH INCORRECT RIMS. IF THE SPARE TIRE IS UNDERINFLATED, THE BEAD CAN SEPARATE FROM THE RIM CAUSING A RAPID LOSS OF AIR. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."
- Consequence: A RAPID LOSS OF AIR CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE RIM ON THE COMPACT SPARE TIRE ASSEMBLY. OWNERS ARE REQUESTED NOT TO USE THE SPARE TIRE UNTIL THE RIM HAS BEEN REPLACED.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
- Summary: THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH AN INCORRECT WIPER BLADE ASSEMBLY (17" LONG INSTEAD OF 22" LONG) ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 104, "WINDSHIELD WIPING AND WASHING SYSTEMS."
- Consequence: THE AREA AND PATTERN WIPED ON THE WINDSHIELD WILL BE REDUCED AND COULD AFFECT THE DRIVER'S VIEW IN WET WEATHER INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR THE CORRECT WIPER BLADE ASSEMBLY AND INSTALL A CORRECT LENGTH WIPER BLADE ASSEMBLY.
Negative 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier car reviews
Positive 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier car reviews
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My 1997 Chevy Cavalier was my very first car, and I absolutely love it! It's sporty, small, and gets amazing gas mileage. A friend and I even drove to San Francisco from Los Angeles on one tank of gas, and it only costs $40.00 to fill the tank! I bought it at 72,000 miles and I'm up to 103,000+ with little to no problems. Although the interior has fallen apart a bit (mostly the previous owner's fault), my car has been so good to me. I'm so happy with my baby and couldn't be more satisfied!
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This is definitely the best vehicle I have ever owned! I have previously owned a 93 Honda Civic and a 95 Jeep Wrangler before the Z24. With a mix of highway and city driving, this car gets an impressive 30 mpg, goes 0-60 in just 8 seconds, and corners like a dream. Even at 100mph in 5th gear, the car feels completely stable and in control. Insurance costs are the same as for my 93 Civic, even though I am a 19-year-old male. If I had owned this car first, I would never have bought the YJ or the Civic. The build quality of the Z24 is flawless, except for the paint which scratches easily. I just want to drive around as much as possible because it's such a great car! If you're looking for your first car, I highly recommend getting a Z24. You won't regret it!
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You've had this car for about 3 months now and it's been great! The only thing that needed fixing was the water pump, but other than that, this Z-24 has been fantastic. You've added a cold air intake which gives it a really nice deep tone, and the euro style lights look great too. At 84K, it runs very well and the five speed has a lot of power for a 4 banger. All in all, it's a great car!
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Wow, what a great deal! I was originally considering a VW Jetta for $12,000, but I stumbled upon this amazing car with 99,000 miles on it. To my surprise, it drove even better than the Jetta with only 50,000 miles that I was going to buy. The car is so much fun to drive, with its sporty feel, sunroof, and impressive sound system. The dash is also very durable and well-made. The only downside is that the plastic on the seats and seat belt covers is a bit weak and tends to fall apart easily. However, I only paid $4,400 for it, and it was previously owned by a personal friend. It runs as if it were brand new! Overall, I would rate this car between 87-92 out of 100. Thanks for the amazing deal!
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Your car sounds like a reliable companion! With 135,000 miles on it, it's impressive that it has never needed any engine or transmission work beyond regular maintenance. Although the 2.4L engine may not have the best gas mileage, it certainly makes up for it with its power. It's amazing that your car can reach up to 50 mph in 2nd gear! The only major issue you've had with your car was a leaky gas tank, which was taken care of at 130,000 miles. It's understandable that the power windows motors are starting to fade, but overall, it still sounds like a great car!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier problems:
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier? Our list of 13 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
1997 Cavalier will not start - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy Enthusiasts ...
Oct 11, 2010 ... I am also having similar problems. Is there a common issue that causes this? ... 1997 Chevy Cavalier Z24 No Start. I just replaced the engine in ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1997 Chevy Cavalier - ETS Enhanced
Jan 19, 2006 ... That code is for the O2 sensor behind the convertor.The ehater circuit of the sensor specifically.It will not change the way the car runs.The ...
Chevrolet Cavalier Questions - Problems with my low mileage 89 ...
Feb 25, 2018 ... I have a 1997 chevy cavalier z24. and i am trying to buy a torgue converter but theres two types of converters for my car. in order to pick the ...
Common Chevy Cavalier Problems: Q&A on 2002, 2001 & 1997 ...
Mar 24, 2011 ... You either have a stuck valve in the valve body behind the TCC solenoid, a bad internal seal in the fluid passage to the torque converter for ...
Other years of Chevrolet Cavalier
Are you having problems with your 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier?
Forest Medhurst 2024-11-04
Although it didn't cost much to buy as a used car, it has proven to be quite expensive since I purchased it. Despite its initial appeal, the car has required several costly repairs, including a head gasket replacement for $1000, rear shocks for $300, and an alternator for $300, not to mention the regular expenses for tires and brakes. In hindsight, I regret not investing more in a Civic or Corolla, which would have been a better choice for my daughter. The car has also presented some frustrating issues, such as a leaky trunk seal, poor paint on the bumpers, and slipping door seals. As someone who had not purchased an American car in several years, this experience has reaffirmed my preference for other brands.
Wyatt Borer 2024-10-11
I bought the car for only $100 two years ago, but it had been sitting in grass for a while, so the under-carriage and lower rocker panels were in bad shape. However, I invested $700 in new brakes, tires, gas tank, wheel bearing, fuel filter, and a tune-up, and it has been running great ever since. Although the 2.2 engine had a head-gasket leak (weeping coolant outside the block), I added a bottle of hapco head-gasket sealant into the coolant a year and a half ago, and that fixed it. The gas mileage averages at 28mpg's, which is great. Overall, I'm very pleased with my purchase, and I've heard that these engines can easily go well into the 200k range.
Deon Wolff 2024-09-19
This car is a sturdy, well-built Chevy. If taken care of, it will hardly ever let you down. Maintenance is very minimal. Although the manual transmission makes it fun to drive, it does lack in power. However, it is still a quality car.
Clyde Gutkowski 2024-04-21
I purchased this car with an extended warranty and unfortunately, the water pump failed shortly after. At that point, I was worried about the reliability of the car. However, since then, I have had very few problems. The only issues were the O2 sensor, which was a cheap and easy fix, and the A/C and oil leaks, which were also inexpensive to repair. Considering that the car is 8 years old, it has been quite reliable. The ride and interior could be better, as there are some squeaks and the ride is quite soft. The interior looks a bit cheap and there are some fragile plastic pieces. However, the power with the manual transmission was good and the engine was quiet, if a bit soulless. Additionally, the gas mileage was excellent at 33 miles per gallon.
Arlo Hirthe 2024-03-11
My first car was a '97 Chevy Cavalier. Although I adored this car, it was a piece of junk. The interior was close to awful. The insulation, those plastic black things that line the doors and windows, were falling apart before I pulled out of the car lot. I only had the car for a year and I had to have the coolant tank replaced, the brakes completely overhauled and after over a thousand dollars in repairs, the car died on the highway. No one would tell me what was wrong with it, so I had to ditch the car. My Mom bought a Chevy Malibu 1 yr older and has had the EXACT same problems. Don't forget about the fuel pump that never got fixed. I would suggest steering clear of this car!