1987 Chevrolet Corsica problems
The Chevrolet Corsica (named after Corsica, France) is a front-wheel drive compact car that was produced by Chevrolet from 1987 until 1996. The Corsica was built upon the L-body platform. It shared the L-body with the 2-door Beretta, and the rebadged revival of the Pontiac Tempest which was essentially the same car, but was only sold in Canada. The Corsica came in two styles and four trims. Sold initially only as a 4-door sedan, it was also available as a 5-door hatchback from model years 1989 until 1991. Corsicas were built alongside the Beretta by both the Wilmington Assembly in Delaware and Linden Assembly in New Jersey.
Year-to-year changes
1987–1989
The Corsica was first sold as a fleet car to rental agencies and large companies in 1987, prior to mainstream release. The Corsica and Beretta were the second best-selling passenger cars in America in calendar year 1988, right behind the Ford Escort. Much of the suspension components were borrowed from the J-body Chevrolet Cavalier, and the chassis was an extension of that of the J-body, but modeled with similar proportions to the N-body. The L-body platform however, was engineered by Chevrolet rather than Oldsmobile. The car was equipped with either the 2.0 L TBI OHV I4 from the Cavalier, or the 2.8 L MPFI OHV V6 from the Chevrolet Celebrity. The base Corsica's door handles were colored silver, while the Corsica LT/LTZ had black-colored handles. Some earlier models had a column shifter with a handbrake between the front seats, an uncommon configuration for most compact cars of the time. A 5-door hatchback model was introduced for 1989, as was an LTZ performance package that included many suspension parts from the Beretta. A rare XT trim included all the performance parts from the LTZ trim as well as a leather interior, special body kit and spoiler package designed for GM by a third party supplier.
1990
The base model Corsica was dropped, leaving the LT and LTZ. Both engines offered were increased in displacement. The Corsica now either used the same 2.2 L 4-cylinder engine and 3-speed automatic transmission as the Cavalier, or the 3.1 L V6 and 3-speed automatic from the Lumina. Minor changes were made to the interior, mostly around the driver controls.
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Common 1987 Chevrolet Corsica problems
The Chevrolet Corsica, produced from 1987 to 1996, was a compact sedan that served as a fleet vehicle before being released to the general public. The car was known for its affordability and practicality, but it also received criticism for its poor quality and dull design. Some common problems with the 1987 Chevrolet Corsica, based on complaints from owners, include:
- Engine Issues: The 1987 Corsica came with a base 2.0-liter four-banger engine rated at 90 horsepower, with a 125-horse, 2.8-liter V6 available as an option. Some owners have reported issues with the engine, such as stalling at stop signs and eventually not starting at all. Mechanics have attempted to fix the problem, but the repairs only last about 100 miles before the car starts to stall again.
- Fuel and Spark Problems: When the car decides not to run, there is no spark coming off any plug, and the fuel pressure seems to be at a good pressure. However, when the mechanics "fix" the car, it runs well for a short period before the issue reoccurs. The car uses almost twice as much gas after unplugging the TCS, which was done to improve mileage but had the opposite effect.
- Computer-Controlled Vehicle Challenges: As a computer-controlled vehicle, the 1987 Corsica can be challenging to diagnose and repair for those not familiar with modern automotive systems. The car's computer system may be contributing to the engine and fuel problems, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the issues.
- Interior Design: The interior design of the Corsica has been criticized for being unappealing and cramped, with a tiny trunk and limited legroom in the back seat. The car's interior design has been described as a "war crime" by some users.
- Reliability: Despite the engine and fuel issues, many owners praise the Corsica for its reliability, with some cars reportedly reaching over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance and replacement of parts like the alternator, fuel pump, starter, and injectors.
In summary, the 1987 Chevrolet Corsica has faced criticism for its dull design and poor quality, with common problems including engine issues, fuel and spark problems, computer-controlled vehicle challenges, interior design limitations, and reliability concerns. Despite these issues, the Corsica remains a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and practical compact sedan.
Why was the Chevy Corsica discontinued?
GM discontinued the Corsica and the Chevrolet Beretta after the 1996 model year, due to safety standards in 1997 that would have required a total redesign of these cars, and competition from the similarly sized redesigned Chevrolet Cavalier for compact car sales.
How much does a 1996 Chevrolet Corsica weigh?
Dimensions, Weights & Capacities
| Curb Weight | 2745 lbs. |
|---|---|
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Overall Length | 183.5 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 54.3 inches |
| Towing Capacity, Maximum | 1000 lbs. |
What replaced the Corsica?
Chevrolet Malibu
Beretta sales steadily declined every year of production as the market turned away from 2-door models. In 1996, Chevrolet ended production of both the Beretta and Corsica after 10 model years. The Corsica was replaced by the Chevrolet Malibu in 1997. The last Beretta was assembled on July 30, 1996.
What is the rarest Chevy ever made?
Rare as hen's teeth – the 1969 Nova Yenko SC 427 tops of our list of the rarest Chevrolet muscle cars. Yenko wanted to order the 427 engine in the compact Nova's – but Chevrolet wouldn't allow it for safety reasons.
Why was the Chevy Corsica discontinued?
GM discontinued the Corsica and the Chevrolet Beretta after the 1996 model year, due to safety standards in 1997 that would have required a total redesign of these cars, and competition from the similarly sized redesigned Chevrolet Cavalier for compact car sales.
How much does a 1996 Chevrolet Corsica weigh?
Dimensions, Weights & Capacities
| Curb Weight | 2745 lbs. |
|---|---|
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Overall Length | 183.5 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 54.3 inches |
| Towing Capacity, Maximum | 1000 lbs. |
What replaced the Corsica?
Chevrolet Malibu
Beretta sales steadily declined every year of production as the market turned away from 2-door models. In 1996, Chevrolet ended production of both the Beretta and Corsica after 10 model years. The Corsica was replaced by the Chevrolet Malibu in 1997. The last Beretta was assembled on July 30, 1996.
What is the rarest Chevy ever made?
Rare as hen's teeth – the 1969 Nova Yenko SC 427 tops of our list of the rarest Chevrolet muscle cars. Yenko wanted to order the 427 engine in the compact Nova's – but Chevrolet wouldn't allow it for safety reasons.
1987 Chevrolet Corsica car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Corsica problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Chevrolet Corsica vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Chevrolet Corsica complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Chevrolet Corsica.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-01
- VIN: 1G1LT54W6KY
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1987 CHEVROLET CORSICA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PAINT IS PEELING ON THE ENTIRE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN KEPT IN A GARAGE AND HAS NO RUST OR MAJOR DENTS. THE PURCHASE DATE AND ENGINE SIZE WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 90,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G1LT54WXKE
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PAINT IS PEELING OFF BODY OF VEHICLE.
1987 Chevrolet Corsica recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1987 Chevrolet Corsica.
- 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: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
- Summary: SECONDARY HOOD LATCH ASSEMBLY ON THESE VEHICLES MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ADJUSTED AND COULD BECOME BENT. THIS WILL LEAD TO A CONDITION WHERE FULL PRIMARY LATCH ENGAGEMENT IS NOT ATTAINED.
- Consequence: A BENT SECONDARY HOOD LATCH COULD LEAD TO THE PRIMARYLATCH NOT BEING FULLY ENGAGED, ALLOWING THE HOOD TO UNEXPECTEDLY OPEN. IF THISWERE TO OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, THE HOOD MAY CONTACT THEWINDSHIELD, REDUCING THE FORWARD VISION AREA OF THE DRIVER AND A VEHICLE CRASHCOULD OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE PRIMARY HOOD LATCH ASSEMBLY, THE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH ASSEMBLY, AND THE SUPPORT BRACKET.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: A DOOR HINGE (UPPER OR LOWER) MAY BREAK WHILE OPENING OR CLOSING THE DOOR MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO REPOSITION AND CLOSE PROPERLY.
- Consequence: HINGE SEPARATION MAY REDUCE THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OFTHE SIDE OF THE CAR AND INCREASE RISK OF INJURY IN CERTAIN TYPES OF ACCIDENTS.
- Remedy: REPLACE DOOR HINGES ON BOTH DOORS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: SECONDARY HOOD LATCH ASSEMBLY MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY ADJUSTED RESULTING IN LATCH BECOMING BENT.
- Consequence: A BENT SECONDARY HOOD LATCH COULD CAUSE THE PRIMARYLATCH TO MALFUNCTION. IF THIS OCCURED THE HOOD COULD UNEXPECTEDLY OPEN. IFTHIS HAPPENED WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION REDUCTION OF FORWARD VISIBILITY COULDCAUSE A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: INSPECT AND REPLACE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH ASSEMBLIES AS REQUIRED.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: LOSS OF SKID PLATE COULD LEAD TO DISENGAGEMENT OF BOTH SECONDARY AND PRIMARY HOOD LATCHES.
- Consequence: HOOD COULD OPEN UNEXPECTANTLY; IF VEHICLE WERE INMOTION, THE HOOD COULD CONTACT THE WINDSHIELD, REDUCE THE DRIVERS VISION AREA,AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: INSTALL A SECONDARY LATCH SKID PLATE AND/OR SECONDARY LATCH SKID PLATE RETAINING SCREWS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: SECONDARY HOOD LATCH MAY NOT PROPERLY ENGAGE DUE TO CONTACT WITH SUPPORT BRACKET AND/OR THE PRIMARY LATCH RETURN SPRING. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THIS OCCURS WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, HOOD COULD OPEN AND CONTACT THE WINDSHIELD, AFFECTING THE DRIVERS VISION AREA; THIS COULD RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: INSTALL SECONDARY LATCH SKID PLATE ON CORSICA AND BERETTA MODELS. ALSO, INSTALL A REVISED SECONDARY LATCH ASSEMBLY ON BERETTA MODELS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: PART OF PUSHBUTTON ATTACHMENT OF HEADLIGHT SWITCH MAY FRACTURE. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: PUSH BUTTON WOULD NOT LATCH IN ON POSITION RESULTING IN INABILITY TO TURN ON HEADLIGHTS, REDUCED DRIVER VISIBILITY, AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A CRASH.
- Remedy: INSTALL NEW HEADLIGHT SWITCH.
Other years of Chevrolet Corsica
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