2002 Chevrolet Prizm problems
The Geo Prizm and Chevrolet Prizm were compact cars that were rebadged versions of the Toyota Sprinter, a vehicle that the Japanese automaker Toyota never directly sold in the North American market. The Sprinter itself was derived from the Toyota Corolla. The Prizm was marketed under the Geo nameplate until it was discontinued after the 1997 model year. After that, the vehicle was marketed under the Chevrolet nameplate. General Motors (GM) referred to this and other Toyota Corolla derived vehicles as the GM S platform. The cars were produced from 1988 to 2001 (the last ones being sold for model year 2002) alongside the Corolla at NUMMI, an assembly plant operated as a joint venture of GM and Toyota. The Prizm was sold exclusively in the United States and succeeded the 1985–1988 Chevrolet Nova, which was also derived from the Sprinter and produced at NUMMI.
Production
All Prizms were built at NUMMI (New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc.), a joint venture company between Toyota and General Motors in Fremont, California. The NUMMI plant at Fremont had manufactured the Prizm's predecessor, the Chevrolet Nova, and would later manufacture the Pontiac Vibe, one of its replacements.
Production of the newly-rebadged Chevrolet Prizm began in late 1997 as the Geo brand was phased out, alongside the newest North American generation of the Toyota Corolla. The last Prizm was built on December 13, 2001, resulting in a brief 2002 model year.
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Common 2002 Chevrolet Prizm problems
The Chevrolet Prizm, particularly the 2002 model, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. The most frequently reported issue is excessive oil consumption.
Another common problem with the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is the Check Engine Light due to a failed Mass Air Flow Sensor. This issue can be found in the top Chevrolet Prizm problems, indicating its significance among owners' complaints.
The 2001 Prizm also has issues with the check engine light staying on, with 9 complaints reported.
The engine is another problematic area for the Chevrolet Prizm, with 174 complaints across all model years from 1998 to 2002.
Despite these common problems, some owners of the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm have reported positive experiences with the car, citing its reliability, good gas mileage, and affordable repairs. However, it is essential to be aware of these common issues and consider them when purchasing or maintaining a Chevrolet Prizm.
Is Chevy Prizm a good car?
In short, the Prizm is one of the best compact cars money can buy. It does everything well, and looks good too. Better yet, it is essentially a reskinned Toyota Corolla, which bodes well for reliability, but not necessarily resale value.
How many miles does a Chevy Prizm last?
Properly maintained a Prism should be good for 200+K miles.
Does Chevy Prizm have Toyota engine?
All Prizms are powered by engines from their contemporary Toyota Corolla models: 1990–1992 Geo Prizms are powered by a 4A-FE or optional 4A-GE engine. 1993–1997 Geo Prizms are powered by a 4A-FE or optional 7A-FE engine.
What motor is in a 2002 Chevy Prizm?
1.8 L 4-cylinder2002 Chevrolet Prizm / Engine
Is Chevy Prizm a good car?
In short, the Prizm is one of the best compact cars money can buy. It does everything well, and looks good too. Better yet, it is essentially a reskinned Toyota Corolla, which bodes well for reliability, but not necessarily resale value.
Did the Chevy Prizm have a Toyota engine?
All Prizms are powered by engines from their contemporary Toyota Corolla models: 1990–1992 Geo Prizms are powered by a 4A-FE or optional 4A-GE engine. 1993–1997 Geo Prizms are powered by a 4A-FE or optional 7A-FE engine.
How many miles does a Chevy Prizm last?
Properly maintained a Prism should be good for 200+K miles.
Is the Chevy Prizm the same as the Toyota Corolla?
Others are built for Geo, and they're called Prizms. There are some cosmetic differences: different headlights, taillights, upholstery, etc. But mechanically, they're the same car, because all Geo Prizms and four out of five Corollas come off that very same assembly line.
2002 Chevrolet Prizm car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Prizm problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Chevrolet Prizm vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Chevrolet Prizm
The NHTSA has received 32 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Chevrolet Prizm vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-08
- VIN: 1Y1SK52892Z
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE ABSORBS OIL. AFTER PURCHASING; ENGINE SEIZED. PURCHASED 2ND ENGINE AT BEECHMONT CHEVROLET...SAME FLAW. ENGINE SEIZED AT FIVE MILE ROAD EXIT OFF OF I-275. TO THIS DAY IF I DO NOT CHECK OIL ON REGULAR BASIS. I POSE A RISK OF ENGINE SEIZING AGAIN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: 1Y1SK52882Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY 2002 CHEVROLET PRIZM (SAME AS A TOYOTA COROLLA) HAS ITS CRUSE CONTROL, HORN, AND THE DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG ALL MOUNTED ON THE STEERING WHEEL, ELECTRICALLY CONNECTED TO THE REST OF THE CAR THROUGH AN INFLATABLE RESTRAINT STEERING WHEEL MODULE COIL (AKA CLOCK SPRING) MECHANISM. BOTH THE CRUSE CONTROL AND THE HORN DO NOT NOW OPERATE AND HAVEN'T FOR YEARS, DOES THIS MEAN THAT THE AIRBAG IS ALSO INOPERATABLE (TWO OUT OF THREE FAILURES SOUNDS LIKE A BAD OMEN; CONVENTIONAL WISDOM TELLS ME THAT THIS AIRBAG SYSTEM IS ALSO FAULTY)? IS THIS CAR SAFE TO CONTINUE TO OPERATE WITH THIS ALLEGED DEFECT?
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-27
- VIN: 1Y1SK52822Z
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET PRIZM. WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT STRUTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10E002000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-04
- VIN: 2G1WH55K629
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A 02'CHEVY IMPALA WHEN I TURN IT ON ALL ELECTRIC COMES ON AND THE ENGINE RUNS FOR A SPLIT SECOND AND DIES THEN THE BATTERY LIGHT AND SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM COMES ON I GOT THE FUEL PUMP AND SENSOR REPLACED STILL THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURS. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE IT FOR A FEW MILES AFTER READING THE MANUAL AND PUSHING THE GAS TO THE FLOOR WHILE HOLDING THE KEYS ON FOR THREE SECONDS BUT EVENTUALLY IT DIED AGAIN. PLEASE HELP!!!!! *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- VIN: 1Y1SK52842Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 2002 CHEVROLET PRIZM. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH STEERING WHEEL LOCKING UP *TGW
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-19
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS IS A GENERAL POINT OF INFORMATION MESSAGE: FOR THE LAST DECADE OR MORE, GM VEHICLES HAVE A PROPENSITY TO BURN OUT THEIR LAMPS DUE TO AN OVERCHARGE CONDITION (CAUSE UNKNOWN TO ME); THIS CONDITION CAN AFFECT ANY OF THE LAMPS OR BULBS, MOST NOTICABLY HEADLAMPS, TAIL LIGHTS, AND RUNNING (PARKING) LAMPS. COULD YOU PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS ELECTRICAL DEFECT IN ALL GM VEHICLES.*TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-31
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PURCHASED CAR JULY '09 WITH 64,000 ON ENGINE. VEHICLE PURCHASED WITH 90 DAY WARRANTY. 2700 MILES AFTER PURCHASE, ENGINE EMITTED BLUE SMOKE AFTER HIGHWAY DRIVING. VEHICLE TAKEN TO REPAIR SHOP, PISTONS HOLD NO COMPRESSION, ONE VALVE SHOT, REPAIR SHOP AND WARRANTY COMPANY STATE VEHICLE NOT DRIVABLE, NEEDS REPLACEMENT ENGINE, POTENTIAL VALVE DAMAGE., ENGINE COULD CEASE IF DRIVEN. WARRANTY DID NOT COVER SLUDGE DAMAGE DUE TO NEGLIGENCE OF PREVIOUS OWNER. CAR BURNS OIL VARIABLY RANGING FROM 1QT PER 500 MILES TO 3QT PER 200 MILES. OWNERS MANUAL STATES CAR BURNS 1 LITER PER 800 MILES FROM NEW. NOT WORTH PAYING 3K TO 6K FOR NEW ENGINE WHEN VEHICLE VALUED AT 5K. OIL BURNING WORSE AFTER CHANGING OIL, SLUDGE CLOGGED OIL PUMP AFTER 5K OF DRIVING. TW*
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-02
- VIN: 1Y1SK52852Z
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DEAR MADAM/SIR, IN TODAY'S (12/08/09) WALL STREET JOURNAL, IN THE ARTICLE ABOUT TOYOTA RECALLS, IT WAS MENTIONED THAT 2003 AND 2004 COROLLAS AND MATRIXES WERE RECALLED TO FIX A FLAW THAT COULD CAUSE THE POWER WINDOWS TO STOP WORKING. I OWN A 2002 PRIZM, WHICH I BELIEVE IS A COROLLA WITH A PRIZM BADGE. I HAD TO HAVE ONE POWER WINDOW FIXED AT 43,495 MILES, ANOTHER AT 56,236 MILES AND NOW THE OTHER TWO ARE GIVING ME PROBLEMS AT 77,000 MILES. TOYOTA AND CHEVROLET NEED TO STUDY THIS PROBLEM AND EXTEND THE RECALL TO THE 2002 MODELS. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-18
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PURCHASED CAR JULY '09 WITH 64,000 ON ENGINE. VEHICLE PURCHASED WITH 90 DAY WARRANTY. 2700 MILES AFTER PURCHASE, ENGINE EMITTED BLUE SMOKE AFTER HIGHWAY DRIVING. VEHICLE TAKEN TO REPAIR SHOP, PISTONS HOLD NO COMPRESSION, ONE VALVE SHOT, REPAIR SHOP AND WARRANTY COMPANY STATE VEHICLE NOT DRIVABLE, NEEDS REPLACEMENT ENGINE, POTENTIAL VALVE DAMAGE., ENGINE COULD CEASE IF DRIVEN. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: HOOD LATCH COMPLETELY BROKE SO THAT EITHER IT COULD NOT BE CLOSED COMPLETELY, OR, WHEN FINALLY CLOSED, IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO OPEN. THIS, COUPLED WITH OTHER HOOD LATCH PROBLEMS REPORTED BY OTHERS SEEMS TO INDICATE A DEFINITE HOOD LATCH PROBLEM. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS COME ON PERMANENTLY. THIS CAN BE TEMPORARILY TURNED OFF BY MECHANICS BUT ALWAYS COMES BACK ON AGAIN. SINCE THERE IS NO PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE, THIS WARNING LIGHT IS USELESS IF I HAVE A REAL PROBLEM. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-06
- VIN: 1Y1SK52822Z
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: HOOD LATCH/SAFETY LATCH FAILED AND HOOD OPENED UP AND CRASHED AGAINST WINDSHIELD AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH. DAMAGED HOOD, HINGES, COWLING, AND CRACKED WINDSHIELD. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-10
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I INSTALLED FOUR KUMHO 795 TIRES (P185/65R14) ON 10/03/2006 ON MY 2002 CHEVROLET PRISM LSI. IN NOVEMBER 2008, WITHOUT ANY WARNING, ONE TIRE (FRONT PASSENGER SIDE) RUPTURED ON THE INSIDE SIDE WALL. I WAS LUCKY NOT DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. THE CAR ALMOST LOST CONTROL. I WENT TO THE DEALER (EXECUTIVE WHOLESALE TIRE, ROCKVILLE, MD) AND THE DEALER INSISTED I MUST HAVE HIT A POTHOLE. THIS TIRE WAS REPLACED WITH A KUMHO KR-21 FREE, SINCE KUMHO OFFERED THE ROAD HAZARD WARRANTY ON THE 795 TIRES. AFTER THIS TIRE WAS INSTALLED, THE TIRES WERE ROTATED. ANOTHER KUMHO 795 WAS ROTATED TO THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE. LESS THAN A MONTH LATER, I NOTICED THAT TIRE IS LEAKING AIR SLOWLY. SO I TOOK THE CAR TO EXECUTIVE WHOLESALE TIRE. THEY FOUND A BULGE ON THE INSIDE SIDE WALL, EXACTLY THE SAME LOCATION ON THE OTHER TIRE. THE DEALER STILL INSISTED THAT I MUST HAVE HIT SOMETHING AND THIS TIME I KNOW FOR SURE I DID NOT. BOTH TIRES HAVE LOW MILEAGE AND THE TREAD LOOKS BRAND NEW. FOR SAFETY CONCERNS, I REFUSED AN OFFER TO HAVE IT REPLACED WITH ANOTHER FREE KUMHO TIRE. INSTEAD, I HAVE ALL FOUR KUMHO TIRES REPLACED WITH MICHELIN TIRES. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-25
- VIN: 1Y1SK54841Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HOOD LATCH AND SAFETY CATCH FAILED; HOOD FLEW OPEN ON EXPRESSWAY @ 50-55 MPH CAUSING DAMAGE TO HOOD, HINGES, COWLING, FENDERS AND WINDSHIELD. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-19
- VIN: 1Y1SK52882Z
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET PRIZM. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE HOOD AUTOMATICALLY DETACHED FROM THE LATCH. THE HOOD SLAMMED AGAINST THE WINDSHIELD, WHICH SHATTERED THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE GLASS. THERE WAS NO WARNING PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT OBSERVED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WERE MALFUNCTIONING AFTER THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL INDEPENDENT AUTO SHOP FOR THE WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT. RECENTLY, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE HOOD LATCH WAS NOT MALFUNCTIONING. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,144 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 118,244. UPDATED 1/9/09 *CN UPDATED 01/14/09. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-20
- VIN: 2G1WH55K429
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY 2002 CHEVROLET IMPALA LS IN DECEMBER, 2004. GREAT LOOKING VEHICLE WITH NUMEROUS PROBLEMS. THE MOST RECENT AND SEVERE HAS COME OVER THE LAST FEW DAYS. WHILE ACCELERATING ON AN ENTRANCE RAMP, THE CAR WILL NOT SHIFT PROPERLY; VERY ROUGH AND THE RPM'S GO TO 4000 OR ABOVE BEFORE SHIFTING OR IF I LET OFF THE ACCELERATOR. I AM TERRIFIED THAT THE TRANSMISSION IS GOING TO COME OUT COMPLETELY WHILE DRIVING WITH MY FAMILY IN THE VEHICLE; I AM TAKING THE CAR TO A MECHANIC TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT. I HAVE ALSO BEEN RESEARCHING OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE CAR, AND TO MY HORROR, I AM EXPERIENCING MUCH OF THE SAME AS OTHER CONSUMERS. HOW CAN SO MANY COMPLAINTS BE ISSUED ABOUT THE SAME VEHICLE AND GENERAL MOTORS NOT FIXING THE PROBLEMS?? *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-01
- VIN: 1Y1SK52812Z
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET PRIZM. TWO YEARS AGO, THE EMISSIONS CONTROL BOX FAILED AT 41,000 MILES AND CAUSED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE. AT 72,000 MILES, THE ENGINE HAS A PISTON KNOCK. TWO DIFFERENT MECHANICS STATED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE ENGINE KNOCKING HAS WORSENED. THE REPAIR HAS NOT BEEN MADE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS A LICENSED MECHANIC AND HAD REGULAR MAINTENANCE PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE EVERY 3,000 MILES. THE PURCHASE DATE AND SPEED WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 72,000.
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- VIN: 1GNEC13V92R
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: THE 2002 CHEVROLET TAHOE HAS FAILED INSPECTION BECAUSE OF THE EMERGENCY BRAKE.. IT WAS COMPLETELY USELESS. IT DIDN'T WORK. WHY I DON'T KNOW, BUT THE INSPECTION PLACE STATED THAT THEY HAD FAILED NUMEROUS TAHOES WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. I FELT THAT IT WAS UNSAFE AND CHEVROLET SHOULD RECALL THE FEW THAT HAVE THIS PROBLEM. WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE AN INNOCENT PARTY CONCERNING SEVERAL DEATHS OR THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE REPORTING IT BEFORE IT IS RECALLED. I DIDN''T EVEN USE THE BRAKE HOW COULD IT NOT WORK ANYMORE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-14
- VIN: 1Y1SK52812Z
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE TIE DOWN STRAP ON THE MUFFLER RUSTED OUT AT 45,000 MILES. THE MUFFLER IS STAINLESS STEEL AND SHOULD LAST 100,000 MILES. *NM
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-01
- VIN: 1G1ND52J32M
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: 2002 MALIBU. TURN SIGNAL/HAZARD FLASHER FAILURE. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-23
- VIN: 1G1ND52J72M
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LOW COOLANT LIGHT ON MY 2002 CHEVY MALIBU HAS BEEN COMING ON. THE CHEVY DEALER CHECKED THE LOW COOLANT LIGHT COMING ON, CHECKED FOR LOW COOLANT. FOUND INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET LEAKING INTERNALLY. COOLANT MIXING WITH OIL. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-19
- VIN: 1GNEC13T52J
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: RE 2002 CHEVY TAHOE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS: UP UNTIL THE 34,000 MILE RANGE THE VEHICLE DID JUST THAT, RUN FLAWLESSLY. HOWEVER, AT 34,000 MILES (NOVEMBER OF 2004) THE TRANSMISSION WENT OUT. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING TO WORK AND NEEDED TO ACCELERATE TO MERGE ONTO THE FREEWAY AND INSTANTLY THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO WHINE AND STOPPED OPERATING WHICH PLACED HER INTO THE PATH OF A LARGE TRUCK BEARING DOWN ON HER RATHER QUICKLY. THANKFULLY SHE WAS ABLE TO GLIDE OUT OF THE PATH OF THE TRUCK TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. WE HAD THE TAHOE TOWED BACK TO OUR DEALERSHIP AND WE DETERMINED THAT THE TRANSMISSION "SUN SHELL" HAD FAILED AND WOULD BE REPLACED. OUR DEALER ASSURED US THAT THIS WOULD SOLVE THE PROBLEM, BECAUSE THE NEW PARTS WERE DESIGNED TO PREVENT THIS FROM OCCURRING IN THE FUTURE. OUR DEALER FURTHER STATED THAT THEY HAVE BEEN REPAIRING A LARGE NUMBER OF VEHICLES WITH THESE FAILURES. OUR TAHOE WENT OFF OF IT'S NEW CAR WARRANTY ON MILEAGE NOT NUMBER OF MONTHS SOMETIME IN APRIL OF 2005 (36 MONTHS WOULD HAVE ENDED THIS AUGUST). JUST THIS PAST MONDAY (SEPTEMBER 19, 2005) MY WIFE WAS AGAIN ON HER WAY TO WORK WHEN AGAIN THE TRANSMISSION FAILED IN OUR 2002 TAHOE. THE MILEAGE WAS APPROX: 41,000 ( TOTAL PERIOD OF MILES AND THE LENGTH OF TIME FROM THE PREVIOUS FAILURE WAS APPROX: 7 MONTHS). THE CIRCUMSTANCES WERE THE SAME, SHE WAS ACCELERATING TO MERGE ONTO THE FREEWAY AND AGAIN THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO WHINE AND SLIP. THIS TIME SHE WAS ABLE TO CONTINUE DRIVING TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND RELATIVE SAFETY. WE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED BACK TO OUR DEALERSHIP AND AGAIN THE DEALER ADVISED THAT THE "SUN SHELL" HAD FAILED. I WENT TO PICK UP THE CAR ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 23, 2005 AND WHILE I WAS AT THE DEALERSHIP THE MECHANIC SHOWED ME THE DAMAGED PART AND A BENCH THAT CONTAINED SEVERAL DAMAGED "SUN SHELL". IT OBVIOUSLY DOES NOT TAKE MUCH EFFORT TO REALIZE THAT THERE IS A DESIGN FLAW WITH THIS PARTICULAR TRANSMISSION AND SPECIFICALLY THIS PART. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-01
- VIN: 2G1WH55K829
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DT: 2002 CHEVROLET IMPALA LS. THE CONSUMER STATED CAR DEVELOPED A SPORADIC FAILURE OF TURN SIGNALS. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR ABOUT 3 WEEKS. INVOLVED LEFT AND RIGHT TURN SIGNALS. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED CHEVROLET, THEY TOLD THE CONSUMER TO CONTACT THE DEALER, IMPERIAL CHEVROLET. HOWEVER, THE DEALER TOLD THE CONSUMER SHE WOULD HAVE TO PAY $46.00 JUST TO LOOK AT CAR. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT AN ARTICLE IN LOCAL NEWSPAPER STATED THERE HAS BEEN A TREND OF FAULTY IGNITION SWITCHES IN THIS MODEL VEHICLE. WHEN THE CONSUMER CALLED IMPERIAL CHEVROLET THEY STATED THEY WERE WELL AWARE OF THE PROBLEM WITH THE FAULTY IGNITION SWITCHES. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: A VERY UNNERVING CONDITION IS PRESENT IN OUR 2002 TAHOE. THERE IS A LOOSE/ UNSTABLE FEELING IN THE STEERING WHEN TURNING. MY MECHANIC SAID WE HAVE A WARPED CENTER STEERING SHAFT AND HE CAN NOT REPAIR AS THE PART IS BACK ORDERED BY TENS OF THOUSANDS NATIONWIDE (INDICATING A UNIVERSAL PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE) I HAVE BEEN EXPECTING A RECALL BUT HAVE NOT SEEN ONE. GM HAS NOT REPLIED TO MY INQUIRY.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-01
- VIN: 1GNEK13Z52R
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DC: HIS BRAKES DO NOT WORK CORRECTLY. WHEN YOU STOP THE ABS SYSTEM KICKS IN, THE PEDAL JERKS BACK AND FORTH. THE VEHICLE DOES NOT WANT TO STOP CORRECTLY. *AK
2002 Chevrolet Prizm recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm.
- Manufacturer: RIDE CONTROL, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
- Consequence: THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
Negative 2002 Chevrolet Prizm car reviews
Positive 2002 Chevrolet Prizm car reviews
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I bought this car used last month and I'm very happy with it. It's a small, zippy car with a 1.8L VVTi engine that runs economically. The 4AT shifts smoothly and the design is clean and simple, very Toyota-like. Although the interior room is tight and the back seat has no leg room, I consider it a great car for two people or a college student like myself. The trunk size is okay for its class and since this car is the same as a Corolla, parts are available everywhere.
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the car I bought last month. It's in great shape considering its age and mileage, and it's very economical to run and maintain. One of the things I love about it is that there are plenty of Toyota parts available, which makes repairs and maintenance a breeze. I get about 32 mpg, which is fantastic. The AC is strong and the stereo is pretty decent. It covers all the basic necessities like power windows, locks, mirrors, and cruise control. Plus, it has alloy wheels, which give it a really sharp look. Overall, I'm really happy with my purchase and would definitely recommend this car to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable option.
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A solid, basic car that is both comfortable and fun to drive. It's bigger inside than it first appears and has great fuel economy - never less than 32 mpg in town (with a 5-speed) and 36-38 mpg on the road. You'll love driving it!
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This may be a problem with just my '02 Prizm, but when traveling at speeds above 65 mph the steering wheel begins to have an annoying vibration. However, other than that, it's great. It gets around 31 mpg on the highway and is perfect for beginning drivers. I would recommend it to anyone, but make sure you test it thoroughly before you buy it.
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After searching for 2 years for a car that wouldn't aggravate my bad back, we finally found the perfect one! My husband, who is 6'2
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Chevrolet Prizm problems:
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Chevrolet Prizm? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Chevrolet Prizm.
2002 Chevy Prizm Q&A: Common Problems, Engine Details & More
Apr 18, 2016 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
2001 Chevy Prizm LSi - Burns Tons of Oil - Maintenance/Repairs ...
Mar 30, 2014 ... Some 2000-2002 Corolla/Prizm cars are known to have an oil consuption problem. ... 2001 Chevrolet Prizm engine problems with 112 complaints from ...
Common 2002 Chevy Prizm Problems - Q&A for Engine Issues ...
Mar 24, 2013 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Other years of Chevrolet Prizm
Are you having problems with your 2002 Chevrolet Prizm?
Reynold Kozey 2024-08-18
If you're looking for a reliable car to get you from point A to point B, a station to station car is a great choice. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of a fancier car, it's a dependable option that will get the job done.
Ryley Beer 2024-08-18
A good buy if you're trying to get on your feet. It's not a 'Vette, but it gets you from A to B with reliability, comfort, and excellent fuel economy. Just make sure to take it back to the dealer for those odd squeaks and creaks while it's still under warranty; they can get annoying quickly.
Curtis Carroll 2024-08-13
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I needed a car and couldn't pass up the $5k rebates for the last model year, so I ordered a silver one. However, they surprised me with a red one that changes colors in different light! :) Overall, it's been a dependable and fuel-efficient car. It's great for the highway and very efficient. While it may not invoke much passion, it certainly does its job well. Oil changes and maintenance are a snap, but during the first winter, the engine hammered at startup. I found out that the local chain was putting in 10w-30, so now I change it and use 5w-30, which makes a big difference! The powertrain still feels bulletproof, but the trim (interior door panels, carpet, paint) seems decontented compared to past 2 Prizms. Hopefully, Toyota has reversed this. It feels like a first-year release because of it, but I have no real problems to report at 40k.
Wilhelm Durgan 2024-06-09
This car is great on gas mileage and heats up quickly! It is a small car, but keep in mind that there are some potential issues to be aware of. Door handles, especially on the driver's side, may break. The doors and locks may freeze during the winter, and the hood may stay locked down. Passing emission tests may also be a challenge. Additionally, the CD player may get hot and have trouble ejecting CDs. There is no rear defroster, and seatbelts in the back seat may get stuck. The glove compartment may also get stuck, and it does not come with a key lock. Despite these potential issues, this car is still a great choice for those looking for good gas mileage and quick heating.
Paul Goldner 2024-05-02
I recently inherited my dad's Prizm since he can no longer drive. It's been a blast to drive with its great maneuverability and only 60000 miles on it. I hope I won't have to worry about burning through oil for a while. I love how it hugs the road, although it takes some getting used to having no power features. My dad was always frugal, so remembering to lock the doors and rolling down the windows can be a small hassle. Getting in and out can also be a bit challenging due to its low profile. However, I plan to use my Subaru for long commutes and snowy weather, while the Prizm is perfect for getting around town.