1988 Chevrolet Citation problems

General information about Chevrolet-Citation
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

The Chevrolet Citation is a range of compact cars that was produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors. The first Chevrolet sold with front-wheel drive, a single generation of the Citation was sold from the 1980 to 1985 model years. The successor of the Chevrolet Nova, the Citation was initially slotted between the Chevrolet Monza and the Chevrolet Malibu in the Chevrolet product line, later replaced by the Chevrolet Cavalier and the Chevrolet Celebrity.

The Citation was built on the second-generation compact GM X-platform. For 1980, GM had significantly revised its design, adopting a front-wheel drive layout and significantly decreasing it in size; while directly replacing the Nova, the all-new Citation bore an exterior footprint sized between the subcompact Chevrolet Monza and Chevrolet Vega. Sold alongside the Pontiac Phoenix, Buick Skylark, and Oldsmobile Omega, the Citation was offered in three body styles, including three-door and five-door hatchbacks and a two-door notchback coupe. The 2-door coupe style was similar to but had a distinctive roofline from the Phoenix, Skylark, and Omega, while the 3-door hatchback was exclusive to the Citation. The 5-door hatchback style was shared with the Phoenix, while a 4-door sedan style was offered only on the Skylark and Omega. Alongside a standard trim level, Chevrolet offered the Citation X-11, offering performance-oriented upgrades.

The Chevrolet Citation was assembled in the United States and Mexico alongside the Buick Skylark, Oldsmobile Omega, and Pontiac Phoenix by North Tarrytown Assembly (North Tarrytown, New York), Oklahoma City Assembly (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma), and Ramos Arizpe Assembly (Ramos Arizpe, Mexico). Following the 1985 model year, the Citation was discontinued by Chevrolet and its compact model range was replaced by the Chevrolet Beretta two-door coupe and Chevrolet Corsica four-door sedan/five-door hatchback. In total, Chevrolet manufactured 1,642,587 examples of the model line during its production run.

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Common 1988 Chevrolet Citation problems

The Chevrolet Citation, introduced in 1979, was a compact front-wheel-drive car that was meant to replace the outdated Nova. Despite initial hopes for the Citation, it faced a series of recalls and lawsuits that significantly impacted sales. Here are some of the common problems faced by Chevrolet Citation owners:

Engine and Transmission Issues: The base engine for the Citation was the Iron Duke 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which was criticized for being harsh and clattery. Although the optional 2.8-liter V6 engine was an improvement, it was not without issues. Transmission problems were also common, with many owners reporting difficulties shifting gears, especially in the early models.

Suspension and Steering Problems: The Citation was known for having issues with its suspension and steering systems. Many owners reported problems with the car's handling and steering, which made it difficult to control at high speeds. The suspension system was also prone to failure, with many owners reporting broken springs and other suspension components.

Interior Quality and Design: The interior of the Citation was criticized for its poor quality and design. Many owners reported issues with the car's seats, which were uncomfortable and prone to wear. The dashboard and other interior components were also criticized for their cheap and flimsy construction. Additionally, the Citation's interior was known for its lack of features and poor ergonomics, which made it difficult to use and operate.

Body and Paint Issues: The Citation was known for having issues with its body and paint. Many owners reported problems with the car's body panels, which were prone to rust and corrosion. The paint on the Citation was also criticized for its poor quality, with many owners reporting peeling and fading paint.

Recalls and Lawsuits: The Citation was the subject of several high-profile recalls and lawsuits. These recalls and lawsuits were related to a wide range of issues, including engine failures, transmission problems, and suspension failures. Many owners reported being frustrated with the car's reliability and the lack of support from General Motors.

In summary, the Chevrolet Citation was a car that faced numerous issues and problems, including engine and transmission issues, suspension and steering problems, interior quality and design problems, body and paint issues, and recalls and lawsuits. These issues significantly impacted the car's sales and reputation, and it was eventually discontinued in 1985.

What was wrong with the Chevy citation?

The X-body cars (which included the Citation) were the target of an unsuccessful lawsuit by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which cited a tendency for the vehicles to lose control under heavy braking, and power steering problems.

How many Chevy Citations were made?

But Citation production at the Oklahoma City plant continued, joined by Chevrolet Celebrity and Buick Century vehicles. Production of the Citation ended in 1985 with sales over its lifespan totaling 1,642,587 vehicles.

How much horsepower does a Chevy citation have?

Equipped with a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine, generating 90 horsepower, or a 2.8-liter V6 engine, able to produce 115 horsepower, either engine was operated by a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission.

Is the Chevy Citation front-wheel drive?

Because to Citation's standard front-wheel drive, rack-and-pinion steering, stabilizer bars and 4-speed overdrive transmission, there's an added sport-type suspension on the X11.

What was wrong with the Chevy citation?

How much horsepower does a Chevy citation have?

What was the gas mileage on a 1980 Chevy citation?

engine and transmission, Citation has an EPA estimated 24mpg (city), 38 highway. California EPA estimated figures not available at time of printing. Check dealer for that information. REMEMBER: Compare this estimate to the estimated MPG of other cars.

What was the first Chevy front-wheel drive car?

1980 Chevrolet Citation

The 1980 Chevrolet Citation, the brand's first front-wheel-drive car, debuts in U.S. showrooms on April 19, 1979, several months after production begins in Willow Run, Mich., ushering in an era of lighter, more spacious and fuel-efficient General Motors cars.

1988 Chevrolet Citation car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Citation problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are: