2003 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 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier problems
The 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier has several common problems reported by owners, which include electrical issues, fuel system problems, and transmission issues.
Electrical issues are a significant concern in the 2003 Cavalier. One of the most common electrical problems is related to the Passlock Security system, which is designed to prevent theft. However, it has been reported to cause issues for the actual owners, preventing them from starting their cars.
Fuel system problems are also prevalent in the 2003 Cavalier, with the leading cause of complaint being fuel pump failure. There are 343 complaints on file regarding fuel pump failure, which can lead to the car losing power or failing to start.
Transmission issues are another common problem in the 2003 Cavalier. Early signs of transmission failure usually include rough shifting and failure to go into gear.
Other common problems reported by owners include window motor failure, speedometer stopped working, and gauges gone haywire.
In summary, the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier has several common problems reported by owners, including electrical issues, fuel system problems, and transmission issues. These problems can lead to the car losing power, failing to start, and experiencing rough shifting or failure to go into gear. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
How many miles 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.
Does a 2003 Chevy Cavalier have a timing belt or chain?
The 2.2L Ecotec engine in a 2003 Cavalier uses a timing chain instead of a belt.
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 gas mileage on a 2003 Chevy Cavalier?
26 city, 33 highway
EPA mileage: 26 city, 33 highway.
How long does a 2003 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 wont my 2003 Chevy Cavalier start?
Start with testing for charge on the battery. Look for blown fuses after. If these are all good check voltage at the starter both connections ( battery and ignition). If both are good take the starter out and bring it to a parts store and have it tested.
What is the gas mileage on a 2003 Chevy Cavalier?
26 city, 33 highway
EPA mileage: 26 city, 33 highway.
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.
2003 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
The NHTSA has received 704 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vehicles.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-03
- 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.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-04
- 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-17
- VIN: 1G1JC12F237
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-10
- VIN: 1G1JF52F837
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CLUSTER OF DASHBOARD INDICATORS (SPEEDOMETER, GAS GUAGE , ENGINE TEMP, RPM) ALL ARE NOT WORKING NOW. THEY WERE GOING OFF AND ON AT TIMES WHEN DRIVING BUT NOW NOTHING WORKS...MY MECHANIC INFORMS ME THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MAKE AND MODEL. NO RECALL FOUND. VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE WHY WASN'T THIS COMMON PROBLEM LISTED AS A RECALL WHEN MANY HAVE COMPLAINED??
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-15
- VIN: 1G1JC12FX37
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS ONE BLOCK FROM HOME AND MY CAR STALLED IT WOULDN'T START BACK UP. I FOUND MY SELF AT THE INTERSECTION. THE MECHANIC SAID IT IS A BAD FUEL PUMP. THE CAR ONLY HAS 60,000 MILES. THIS HAPPENED ABOUT THIS TIME LAST YEAR . ALSO LAST YEAR MY GAUGE TO MY ENGINE TEMPERATURE WENT OUT OF CONTROL. I CAN'T TELL THE ENGINE TEMP. ANYMORE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-26
- VIN: 1G1JH12F637
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER RECENTLY BEGAN TO MAKE A CLUNKING NOISE, WHICH CAN ALSO BE FELT, IN THE FRONT END. WHEN I PUT IT UP ON A LIFT, I NOTICED THAT THE SUB-FRAME WAS RUSTING (DETERIORATING). I KNOW IT IS 13 YEARS OLD, BUT MY PARENTS OWNED A 1989 CAVALIER Z24 FOR 20 YEARS, AND THEY DIDN'T HAVE ANY PROBLEMS WITH ITS FRAME. I'VE READ THAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SAME ISSUE WITH THEIR 2003 CHEVY CAVALIERS. WHY IS THIS? WHY HAS THERE NOT BEEN A RECALL? MY FAMILY HAS OWNED SEVERAL NEW AND USED VEHICLES, ALL GM, AND WE HAVE NEVER SEEN A SUB-FRAME RUST TO THIS EXTENT. WE ARE A GM FAMILY AND ARE EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED IN GM'S LACK OF RESPONSE TO THIS SAFETY HAZARD.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-01
- VIN: 1G1JC12FX37
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT KEEPS COMING BACK ON FOR THE SAME ISSUE, SUPPOSEDLY THE "AIR INTAKE TEMP SENSOR, REPLACED THAT ONE AND SEVERAL SENSORS REPEATEDLY, HAD THE COMPLETE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTIONS CHECKED AND CLEANED, EVEN REPLACED MY ECM AND BCM [NEITHER OF WHICH WAS CHEAP], AND STILL HAS "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT, EVEN AFTER BEING "CLEARED" OVER AND OVER AGAIN -- THIS CAR WAS WELL MAINTAINED AND THE BODY AND SUB-FRAME ARE SEVERELY ROTTING OUT LEFT AND RIGHT -- HAD A WEIRD LEAK ON THE PASS. SIDE FRONT, UNDER THE DASH. IT COMES AND GOES. THE CAR SMELLS LIKE AN OLD SNEAKER INSIDE. WATER WOULD POUR OUT OF THE PASSENGER SIDE HEATER DUCT, BUT THERE WAS NO RHYME OR REASON TO IT. ONE I EVEN HAD SOAP FOAM FROM A DRIVE THRU CAR WASH LITERALLY COME BLOWING IN TO THE CABIN, THRU THE VERY SAME HEATER DUCT. THANKFULLY IT HAS SEEMINGLY CLEARED UP, BUT IT IS STILL A HEAD SCRATCHER. I'VE TAKEN MY CAR TO SEVERAL DEALERSHIPS, PRIVATELY OWNED SHOPS, AND EVEN HAD SOME "CAR SAVVY" FRIENDS LOOK HER OVER, AS WELL AS MY DAD [ANDS ASE CERTIFIED TECH], AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STILL COMES BACK EVERY TIME. IF I WOULD HAVE KNOWN I'D PUT THIS MUCH MONEY INTO A CAR THAT LITERALLY READY TO BREAK APART, I WOULD HAVE SAVED MY MONEY TO PUT TOWARDS ANOTHER CAR. LIVE AND LEARN, I GUESS. SHE WAS DOING SO WELL FOR 10 OR 11 YEARS AND IT'S LIKE SHE JUST STARTED "GIVING UP" ON ME. SHE'S GOT 165K ON HER AND THE PAIN HAS GONE TO CRAP, BUT THAT'S GM FOR YOU, KEPT HER GARAGED, WAXED REGULARLY, HAD HER LOOKING SHOWROOM NEW, UNTIL RECENTLY, THE PAINT'S CLEAR COAT STARTED TO "STIPPLE" [SHARP BUMPS] AND BUBBLE ALL OVER TOP PANELS, STARTING WITH THE ROOF, THEN HOOD, AND NOW TRUNK. IT'S EMBARRASSING TO DRIVE HER, AND I AM NOT PAYING TO REPAINT HER, I ALREADY HAVE WAY TOO MUCH INTO A CAR THAT LIKELY WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION COMING UP IN AUGUST. I'M NOW HANDICAP'D AND DISABLED, FIXED INCOME, CAN'T AFFORD A NEW CAR.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-16
- VIN: 1G1JF52F337
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMET CLUSTER PROBLEMS FOR A FEW YEARS. FUEL SENDING UNIT HAS BEEN REPLACED AT ABOUT 52,000 MILES AFTER QUITING TWICE WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEED OF 55 MPH. DEALER CLAIMED THE CAR QUIT BECAUSE OF A BAD BATTERY THE FIRST TIME AND DID NOT DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM CORRECTLY. IT WAS NOT THE BATTERY. THE FUEL SENDING UNIT INTERMITTENTLY READS WELL BEYOND FULL AND INTERFEARS WITH THE TEMPERATURE GAGE FUNCTION. NOW SPEEDOMETER IS STUCK AT 85 MPH WHILE TURNED OFF. I WAS DRIVING WITH THE CRUISE DOING 67 MPH, I SLOWED DOWN TO MAKE A TURN AT AN AT GRADE INSECTION TO A ROAD POSTED AT 55 MPH. I COMPLETED THE TURN AND SPED UP. THE SPEEDOMETER READ 58 MPH BUT IT FELT LLIKE I WAS GONG ABOUT 30 MPH. I STOPPED AT ANOTHER INTERSECTION AND THE SPEED DROPPED TO 40 MPH. I MADE THE TURN AND ACELERATED AND THE SPEED WENT TO 110 MPH BUT I WAS NOT GOING NEAR THAT FAST. THE CAR IS IN DRIVEWAY TURNED OFF BUT THE SPEEDOMETER READS 85 MPH. MOST RECENT ISSUE IS STEERING RACK AND K-FRAME RUSTED OUT AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. MECHANIC STATED HE NEVER SAW A STEERING RACK RUST OUT OR A K FRAME RUSTED AS BAD AS THE ONE ON THIS VEHICLE. WE ARE THE ORIGINAL OWNERS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-18
- VIN: 1G1JC12F637
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE CLUSTER BLINKS IN AND OUT
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-06
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE NOTICED A LOT AND I MEAN A LOT OF THESE CAVALIERS HAVE HAD HORRIBLE FRAME PROBLEMS I USE TO WORK ON CARS EVERYDAY UNTIL THE LAST YEAR WHEN I GOT OUT OF THE MECHANICS FIELD AN NOW I OWN A 03 CHEVY CAVALIER ITS A TWO DOOR 5 SPEED 2.2 I WAS ON MY WAY HOME FROM THE STORE AND I FELT SOMETHING RUBBING SO I STOPPED AN GOT OUT TO FIND OUT MY K FRAME WAS HORRIBLY ROTTED AN BROKE NOW THIS VEHICLE IS 13 YEARS OLD BUT AS ROTTED OUT AS IT WAS IT WASN'T SOMETHING THAT JUST HAPPENED ITS BEEN BAD I WAS JUST THE LUCKY OWNER THAT THE FRAME GAVE OUT ON AN I DEMAND TO KNOW WHY THIS ISN'T A RECALL ANOTHER THING IS I OWNED A 98 FORD F150 WHICH HAD RECALLS AN WHEN I WAS SENT THE LETTER ABOUT THE RECALLS I ASKED FORD WHY THE FRAMES ON THE F150 OR RANGER WASN'T A RECALL THEY HAD NO ANSWER. I PUT MY CHILD IN THESE AUTO MAKERS CARS AND TRUST THEIR WORK TO KEEP HIM SAFE BUT THEY HAVE NO ANSWER FOR WHY ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT PART ON THE WHOLE VEHICLE IS FALLING APART. I DON'T KNOW IF THEY NEED TO USE STAINLESS STEEL, ALUMINUM, OR WHAT BUT IT NEEDS FIXED OR THE VEHICLES NEED REIMBURSED AN CRUSHED. I COULD OF BEEN DOING 70 MPH DOWN THE HIGHWAY WITH MY WOMAN AN SON IN THE CAR AN THE FRAME COULD OF WENT AND KILLED US ALL. IS THAT WHAT ITS GONNA TAKE TO GET THIS [XXX] FIXED SOMEONE ELSE TO DIE/HURT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-28
- VIN: 1G1JC52F237
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I WAS LOOKING AT MY LOCAL NEWS STATION AND A MAN HAD CALLED THE INVESTIGATION TEAM ABOUT CRACKS IN HIS DASHBOARD SO THEY COULD GET IN TOUCH WITH GM ABOUT IT BECAUSE NOTHING WAS BEING DONE TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. I HAVE CRACKS IN MY DASHBOARD AND PART OF IT WAS CRACKED SO BAD IT CAME OUT AND IT IS BIG ENOUGH FOR ME TO SIT AN APPLE IN. THE MAN WHO BROUGHT THE STORY TO ATTENTION WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE CRACKS OVER THE AIRBAG THAT IF IT EVER CAME OUT THAT DEBRIS FROM THE DASHBOARD WOULD FLY EVERYWHERE AND THAT WOULD BE HAZARDOUS TO THE OCCUPANTS OF THE CAR. THIS IS A CONCERN TO ME NOW BECAUSE THE CRACKS STARTED OUT SMALL BUT GOT BIGGER OVER TIME. I'M ALMOST SURE THAT THERE WILL BE MORE CRACKS APPEARING ESPECIALLY WHEN THE WEATHER GETS HOT AND MY CAR IS NOT ALWAYS IN THE HEAT OR IN AREAS WHERE THE HOT SUN IS BEAMING DOWN ON IT. TO ME THAT WOULD BE CONSIDERED AS A DEFECT FOR THAT TO JUST HAPPEN. I ALSO HAVE A FORD ESCORT 2000 MODEL AND THE SAME THING IS HAPPENING TO THAT DASHBOARD. I CAN TAKE PHOTOS BUT I DON'T KNOW HOW TO UPLOAD THEM ON THE COMPUTER, TELL ME OTHER WAYS I CAN SEND PHOTOS IF POSSIBLE. MY VEHICLE IS MOSTLY STATIONARY AT MY HOME ADDRESS WHENEVER I AM NOT AT WORK AND I NEVER HARDLY USE THE FREEWAYS. THERE HAS DEFINITELY BEEN NO TAMPERING WITH MY VEHICLE. THE STORY I SAW ON THE NEWS WAS AIRED I BELIEVE LAST WEEK OR THE WEEK BEFORE.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-06
- VIN: 1G1JF12F837
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: METAL ON METAL NOISE FOUND OUT SHOES AND ROTORS ARE DAMAGEDDAMAGED. I HAVE NO MONEY. V CAN'T FIX THIS. SMELL INSIDE OF LEAK. TEMP RUNNING HIGH. 200.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-11
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1JC52F737
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH ENTERING THE HIGHWAY, THE TURN SIGNAL LAMPS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE WHEN ACTIVATED AND RESULTED IN A CRASH. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE AND SPUN ONTO THE ROADSIDE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. ALL THREE OCCUPANTS IN THE VEHICLE WERE SEVERELY INJURED AND REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V524000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. ...UPDATED 02/19/16 *BF UPDATED 09/20/16*LJ *TR
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-25
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILED. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE KEY TO THE ON FUNCTION AND HAD TO WIGGLE THE KEY TO BE ABLE TO RELEASE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-08
- VIN: 1G1JC52F937
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE LEFT AND RIGHT TURN SIGNALS BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V524000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-30
- VIN: 1G1JF12F337
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: JULY 2009 IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER WAS STUCK. I HAD IT REPLACED FOR $362.75 AT CHEVROLET DEALERSHIP. AUGUST 2014 IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER WAS STUCK. I HAD IT REPLACED FOR $488.83 AT CHEVROLET DEALERSHIP. SEPTEMBER 2015 IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER WAS STUCK, MY KEY CAME OUT OF LOCK AND THE CAR WAS STILL RUNNING. I HAD TO COME OFF OF THE CLUTCH TO PURPOSELY MAKE THE CAR CUT OFF AND HAD TO UNPLUG THE BATTERY. THE 2003 CHEVROLET IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL BUT IT NEEDS TO BE. MY IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER HAS FAILED ME 3 TIMES IN THE PAST 6 YEARS. THANKFULLY, I'M ALIVE AND ABLE TO TELL YOU ALL ABOUT THIS. CHEVROLET & GM KNEW ABOUT THE LOCK CYLINDER RECALL WHEN I HAD MINE REPLACED LAST YEAR.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-01
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD PIECES HAVE STARTED TO CRACK BAD. I REPLACED THE CONSOLE PIECE BUT THEY DONT MAKE A REPLACEMENT FOR THE STRIP ALONG THE BOTTOM OF WINDSHIELD. ITS GOT CHUNKS MISSING OUT OF IT.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-02
- VIN: 1G1JC52F437
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL AND SHROUD BECAME TOTALLY DISENGAGED AND FELL INTO MY LAP WHILE TRYING TO TURN ONTO LIVERNOIS ROAD MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR ME TO STEER VEHICLE.LUCKY I WAS LEAVING POST OFFICE AFTER MAILING LETTERS AND NOT WHILE ON FREEWAY. *TR
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-31
- VIN: 1G1JC52F537
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE SHIFTED OUT OF PARK. WHEN THE CONTACT INSERTED THE KEY INTO THE IGNITION SWITCH, IT BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN AND THE OVERHEAD LIGHT DID NOT TURN OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,161.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-03
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: POWER SUDDENLY SHUT OFF, CAUSING POWER STEERING TO FAIL, WHICH MADE ME WRECK INTO A DITCH. IT ALSO CAUSED THE AIRBAGS TO NOT DEPLOY AND PREVENTED SEATBELTS FROM LOCKING INTO PLACE WHEN THE BRAKES WERE HIT. *TR
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-02
- VIN: 1G1JC12F737
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAD BEEN READING ABOUT RECENT RECALLS WITH GM, ESPECIALLY IGNITION SWITCHES. I HAVE A 2003 CHEVY CAVALIER AND IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A BAD IGNITION SWITCH. I FIRST NOTICED WHEN I WENT TO START THE CAR IN THE MORNING, A DAY AFTER COMING HOME FROM WORK. GOOD THING IT HAPPENED THEN BECAUSE I WOULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED OFF SITE. I WENT TO START THE CAR, NOTHING HAPPENED EXCEPT WIPERS AND RADIO DID NOT WORK AS WELL WHICH I THOUGHT WAS STRANGE. FINALLY THE RADIO AT LEAST CAME ON AT SOME POINT, BUT CAR STILL WOULD NOT START. AFTER IT WAS FIXED THEY SAID THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS BAD AND THE MECHANIC ASKED IF I HAD LOOKED FOR THE RECALL ON IT. I SEARCHED ONLINE BUT DID NOT FIND IT. I KNOW MY CAR IS OLDER, HOWEVER OF ALL THE CARS I EVER OWNED AND I HAD MANY, I NEVER HAD ANY ISSUES WITH IGNITION SWITCHES! I THINK I HAD ONE OF THE DEFECTIVE SWITCHES AND WOULD LIKE TO LOOK INTO THIS MATTER. UNFORTUNATELY I PROBABLY CAN'T GO BACK TO GET THE PHYSICAL IGNITION SWITCH AT THIS POINT, TOO LATE. I HAVE THE PROPER PAPERWORK FOR IT HOWEVER. ALSO ON ANOTHER NOTE, MY REAR DRIVER SIDE SIGNAL KEEPS GOING OUT, NO MATTER HOW MANY TIMES I REPLACE IT. THAT MIGHT BE SOMETHING GM SHOULD LOOK INTO AS WELL. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-13
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER GAUGES MALFUNCTION PERIODICALLY AND LOCK INTO ONE POSITION OR DON'T WORK AT ALL. CANT TELL WHAT YOUR SPEED IS , TEMP IS, RPM ETC! THIS I THINK IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED. I SEE THIS IS HAPPENING TO MANY PEOPLE AS I HAVE INVESTIGATED IT ON LINE. THIS IS PRETTY MUCH WHAT'S HAPPENING... HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=RZILY3GXEXA. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-17
- VIN: 1G1JC52F037
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE COULD BE RESTARTED AND THE VEHICLE FUNCTION NORMALLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,914 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 27,914.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-07
- VIN: 1G1JF12F137
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT UNKNOWN SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT WHEN ATTEMPTING TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, IT MADE A LOUD POPPING NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-06
- VIN: 1G1JC12F937
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2006 CHEVROLET COBALT & 2003 CAVALIER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BOTH VEHICLES POWER STEERING AND CUTTING OFF PROBLEMS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE CAVALIER, CUT OFF, JUST LIKE THE COBALT. HOWEVER, THE COBALT WAS RECALLED. THE CAVALIER CUT OFF WEEKLY SINCE IT WAS PURCHASED. THE POWER STEERING WAS REPLACED DURING A RECALL. IT WAS REPLACED AT 35,000 MILES AND AGAIN AT 68,000. *JB UPDATED 08/07/14 *JB UPDATED 09/24/14. *JB
2003 Chevrolet Cavalier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
- 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: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE REAR LAMPS THAT PROVIDE STOP AND TURN SIGNALS AND TAIL LAMP FUNCTIONS STOP WORKING BECAUSE OF INADEQUATE CONTACT BETWEEN THE BULB AND SOCKET. IN ADDITION, IF ONE BULBS WERE TO BECOME INOPERATIVE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING IN CRUISE CONTROL, THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD DISENGAGE WHEN THE REMAINING BULB WAS ACTIVATED. IF BOTH LAMPS WERE TO BECOME INOPERATIVE, THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD NOT ENGAGE.
- Consequence: AN INOPERATIVE BRAKE LAMP WILL NOT CONVEY THE DRIVER'S INTENTION OF STOPPING TO DRIVERS IN FOLLOWING VEHICLES, AND AN INOPERATIVE REAR TURN SIGNAL LAMP WILL NOT CONVEY THE DRIVER'S INTENTION TO TURN TO DRIVERS IN FOLLOWING VEHICLES. BOTH OF THESE FAILURES CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR LAMP BULB SOCKET ASSEMBLIES AND APPLY GREASE OR REPLACE THEM IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 18, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
Negative 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier car reviews
Positive 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier car reviews
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Just got my new Cavalier and I can't believe what I got for this price! The power is excellent, stability is great, and performance is amazing! I was doing 80 and it felt like a breeze! Lots of attention on the road. It looks great and is very comfortable. I absolutely love it!
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I got this car in February 2006 and traded it in May 2009 with 68k miles. It was my first car and I have to say that the drivetrain was exceptional. The engine was strong and the transmission (auto) was good. The car's performance and handling were also exceptional. I was able to get excellent gas mileage, up to 35mpg on the highway. However, I did experience some problems with the car. The A/C had issues with debris that would rattle in the vents, the alternator and battery were going, and the suspension was horrible. There were also many rattles in the car, which I was able to fix by cutting rubber sheets and siliconing them in various places. The interior space was a bit cramped for me, as I am 6'3 and would hit my head on the ceiling with every bump. The interior materials were below average, but this is to be expected from an economy car. Additionally, the cupholders were in a bad location. All in all, it was a good first car.
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This car is perfect for a new driver! I got this car when I was 16 and I still love it. It's incredibly easy to drive, almost effortless!
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Your car has over 90,000 km and it's still going strong! The only issue you had was with the cooling system just a month after you first bought it, but it hasn't been a problem since. It may not be the fanciest car out there, but there's a lot more to it than people realize. It's surprisingly sporty, has excellent mileage for its age, and a surprisingly large amount of cargo space - you once loaded three large bookcases from Ikea with room to spare! You bought this car straight out of university when money was pretty tight. Your money situation has improved, so you probably wouldn't buy it again, but you would definitely recommend it if someone is needing to pinch some pennies.
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One of your friends recently bought a new Cavalier and found out that it had a big makeover. She got inside and said, 'This is the car for me!' It drives fast, but not too fast. It looks sporty, but its personality is for city streets. The car is fun to drive and could use a few more features and a new interior design.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier problems:
2003 Chevrolet Cavalier Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier? Our list of 15 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
2003 Chevrolet Cavalier Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jan 4, 2023 ... No performance problems other than wear and tear, just normal older car issues. I love the gas mileage 25 to 27 mpg city and 35 to 37 mpg ...
2003 Chevrolet Cavalier Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Q&A: 2003 Chevy Cavalier Instrument Cluster Rebuild - Common ...
Jun 27, 2011 ... I have replaced the entire gauge cluster in my 2003 Chevy Cavalier 3 times. I don't feel doing it once more will solve the problem, ...
2003 Chevrolet Cavalier Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
... common problem and same yr trucks are recall but not cavalier and my car was trying to start without me or key in car just cranking away it's hard to steer ...
Other years of Chevrolet Cavalier
Are you having problems with your 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier?
Julien Bergstrom 2024-05-26
I take great care of my cars. Even my previous car, a 30-year-old VW, was in mint condition. However, my current car has had some issues. Fortunately, some of them were covered under warranty, such as the bearings, alternator shelf, and catalytic converter. I did have a problem with the engine, which was a faulty block, but it was acknowledged and covered. If you experience engine trouble, I recommend investigating and pushing for a solution. Unfortunately, the brakes and rotors were not covered and constantly warp within the first 5,000 kms, costing $400 to fix. The fuel pump also had an issue at 125,000 kms, which seems to be a common problem across North America, despite GM's claim that it's a fuel supply issue rather than a fuel pump issue. Lastly, the interior is poorly designed, making it difficult to use the heat knobs when the cup holders are full.
Nils VonRueden 2024-04-16
Hey there! I recently sold my 03 Cavalier with 125,000 miles on it. I had it for 18 months and, while it had a few issues like leaking oil and a broken a/c unit, it was still a reliable car that always started and never left me stranded on the side of the road.
Floyd Zieme 2024-04-09
I've put 115k miles on my Chevy cavalier. Although the price was very attractive, I've had numerous mechanical difficulties with the car. However, it does have surprisingly good slow speed acceleration. Unfortunately, I've experienced fuel pump failure, multiple evap canister failures, serious wire harness failure, ventilation blower failure, speaker problems, hood latch failure, power steering issues, broken seat, and the car eats front end brake rotors at a high rate. The transmission failed with 12k miles, but was replaced on warranty. Additionally, the rear suspension is noisy and rides really rough, and road noise levels are high. Lastly, I find the interior design, especially the placement of the cup holders, to be terrible.
Edmund Harvey 2024-03-03
I bought my Cavalier brand new in 2003 and have taken great care of it, getting regular oil changes and maintenance. Unfortunately, in October of 2008, I had to replace the engine due to a manufacturer defect that caused the oil pump to stop working. Although Chevy did not offer any assistance, my mechanic was able to fix the issue. Additionally, I have noticed a couple of minor issues with my car, such as the heat only coming out of the passenger side vent and the rear defroster not working, but overall, I still think it's a great car.
Frankie McCullough 2024-01-13
I just bought this car with 50,000 miles on it. The car drives excellently. It's really fun to drive. The only thing wrong with it is that it's quite cramped inside, and the car is really torquey.