Chevrolet Spectrum problems

General information about Chevrolet Spectrum
Chevrolet Spectrum years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Isuzu Gemini is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Isuzu from 1974 until 2000. The same basic product was built and/or sold under several other names, sometimes by other General Motors brands, in various markets around the world. While the first generation was of a rear-wheel drive design, later versions were all front-wheel-drive, and the last two generations were no more than badge-engineered Honda Domani until the name was retired in 2000.

First generation (1974)

The first Gemini was the Bellett Gemini, first seen in November 1974. It was based on the third-generation Opel Kadett C on the General Motors T-car platform and came in four-door sedan and two-door coupe body styles. The chassis code was PF50, although the later 1.8-liter versions were called PF60 and the diesels PFD60.

In June 1977 the Gemini received its first, light, facelift. The bigger 1817 cc G180 series engine became available, fitted with rectangular headlights rather than the round units used on the 1600. This model offered 110 PS (81 kW), although this output dropped to 105 PS (77 kW) if an automatic transmission was fitted. In November of the same year the 1600 was updated, now with square headlights and an engine with the I·CAS oxidation catalyst ("Isuzu Clean Air System") which could manage the 1978 emissions standards. One year later the Gemini 1800's engine was also upgraded to meet the 1978 emissions standards. Power remained unchanged, and the automatic now offered the same power as cars with manual transmission. The ignition system was now of a transistor less type, and the trunk lid was now opened remotely (not added to the Gemini 1600 until the end of December). The Gemini Black and 1800 Minx were also added, the Minx with a two-tone paintjob and the Black with black paintwork and more sporty yet comfortable equipment including alloy wheels.

In June 1979, the Gemini received a new slant nose with rectangular headlights and a redesigned rear end. The changes were actually more comprehensive than that, also including a redesigned (longer) engine bay and a wider radiator opening for two new engines added in November (the twin cam G180W and the new 4FB1 diesel) which both required wider radiators for more air for cooling.

In Japan, sports models were available originally with the "ZZ" name. Later, ZZ/L (1980), ZZ/R (1981), ZZ/T, and ZZ/E models were added. These were equipped with an Isuzu G180W 8-valve DOHC 1.8-liter engine, most commonly fuel-injected, producing 130 PS (96 kW) at 6400 rpm. These models also came with a shortened remote throw manual shift lever and optional factory LSD differential. There was also a mildly sporting model of the OHC 1800, called the LS/G.

In October 1982 a version of the diesel with Bosch VE electronic fuel injection was also added; this provided 8% more power than the regular version (66 versus 61 PS) and was fitted to the LT-E and LJ-E models. For those who wanted more, a 73 PS (54 kW) turbo diesel appeared a month later. Also featuring electronic fuel injection, this model also received a standard rear anti-roll bar. Counterintuitively, the two more powerful diesels were never available with the coupé bodywork.

The Gemini was complemented in 1981 by the Giugiaro-designed coupé Isuzu Piazza, based on the Gemini's platform, which was introduced in the United States in 1983 as the Isuzu Impulse and in Australia in 1986 as the Holden Piazza. After the front-wheel-drive second generation Gemini appeared in early 1985, the old rear-wheel drive version nonetheless continued to be built. The coupé model was discontinued, and a slimmed down sedan range (including the ZZ and diesel models) continued to be available. This diminished range was produced until February 1987, when the rear-wheel drive Gemini was laid to rest after 768,537 had been built.

photo of Chevrolet Spectrum car production

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Common Chevrolet Spectrum problems

Based on the complaints from owners of Chevrolet Spectrum cars, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

Surges And Jerks in 2017 Silverado 1500:
- Description: Owners reported experiencing surges and jerks while driving the 2017 Silverado 1500.
- Average Cost to Fix: $4,100.
- Average Mileage: 22,000 miles.
Excessive Oil Consumption in 2013 Equinox:
- Description: Owners noted excessive oil consumption in the 2013 Equinox.
- Average Cost to Fix: $3,100.
- Average Mileage: 76,000 miles.
Timing Belt Failure in 2004 Aveo:
- Description: The 2004 Aveo faced issues with timing belt failure.
- Average Cost to Fix: $2,200.
- Average Mileage: 73,000 miles.
Premature Timing Chain Wear in 2010 Camaro:
- Description: Owners reported premature timing chain wear in the 2010 Camaro.
Blanking Radio Screen in 2013 Camaro:
- Description: The 2013 Camaro had issues with a blanking radio screen.
Defective Airbag Lights in 2010 Camaro:
- Description: Owners faced problems with defective airbag lights in the 2010 Camaro.
Key Getting Stuck in the Ignition Switch in 2014 Camaro:
- Description: The 2014 Camaro had complaints about the key getting stuck in the ignition switch.
Defective Airbag Light Sensor in 2011 Camaro:
- Description: Issues were reported with a defective airbag light sensor in the 2011 Camaro.

These problems, as reported by Chevrolet owners, encompass a range of issues from mechanical to electrical components. It's essential for Chevrolet to address these concerns to ensure customer satisfaction and maintain the quality of their vehicles.

What years did they make the Chevy Spectrum?

Chevrolet Spectrum Overview

The Chevrolet Spectrum was sold in the United States from 1985 to 1988. After 1988, the Spectrum's successor, the Geo Spectrum (still based on the Isuzu I-Mark), was available for a short period in 1989 before being replaced by the Geo Storm.

What is the rarest Chevy ever made?

1969 Nova Yenko SC 427 - 38 Units

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.

What years did Chevy have cat eyes?

Cateye is the name given to the Silverados produced between 2003-2006 and the traditional model made in 2007. It has a 6l gas V8 engine and a diesel variant with an LBZ engine, which is reliable and robust. The car not only looks sturdy but also has features that complement the rugged look very well.

What old car is Chevy bringing back?

Gave it a new modern Breath of Life. And brought it back to life on a modern Innovative. Power packing platform. But unlike Jesus who resurrected Lazarus just four days after his death.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Spectrum years

We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Spectrum cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Spectrum model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Spectrum model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Spectrum years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Chevrolet Spectrum car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Spectrum , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Engine and engine cooling problems
Seat belts problems
Power train problems
Vehicle speed control problems
Fuel system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Spectrum vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Spectrum model years

A total of 2 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Spectrum . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Spectrum vehicles.

List of Chevrolet Spectrum complaints

Chevrolet Spectrum 1988

Date Of Incident: 2001-10-17
Date Complaint: 2002-09-10
VIN: J81RF2177J7
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: HOSES INSIDE OF VEHICLE WERE CROSSED WRONGLY FROM DEALERSHIP, AND VEHICLE HAD BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH VEHICLE.*AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1989

Date Of Incident: 2000-10-24
Date Complaint: 2000-10-24
VIN: JB1RG5171K7
Components: WHEELS
Summary: THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL CAME OFF THE VEHICLE CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL RESULTING IN COLLSION WITH THE GUARD RAIL. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT).

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1986

Date Of Incident: 1999-09-09
Date Complaint: 1999-11-09
VIN: J81RF7771G8
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: I PURCHASED THIS 1986 CHEVROLET SPECTRUM FROM AN INLAW WHO COULDN'T GET IT TO RUN. HE PURCHASED THE CAR FROM SOMEONE ELSE WHO COULDN'T GET IT TO RUN. I PERSONALLY HAVE SPENT COUNTLESS HOURS, AND MONEY TRING TO GET THE CAR TO STAY RUNNING. WITH NO POSITIVE RESULT. I HAVE REPLACED THE FUEL FILTER, FUEL PUMP, SPAK PLUGS, WIRES, ROTOR, CAP, 2 DIFFERENT CARBERATORS, THEN A CARBORATOR KIT, DID A COMPRESSION CHECK,( FINE) NO WATER IN THE OIL , TIMING BELT FINE, TIMING EXCELLENT, HOSES IN PLACE AND GOOD. HAVE TAKEN TO MECHANICS AND NO POSITIVE END RESULT. THE CAR STALLS EVERYWHERE ANYWHERE, I HAVE BEEN STRANDED COUNTLESS TIMES. EMBARRASING AND A TOTAL HAZARD TO THE ROAD. THE CAR HAS CAUSED COUNTLESS TRAFFIC JAMS AND I PERSONALLY HAVE HAD TO RUN STOP SIGNS TO KEEP THE CAR GOING. ITS SCARY AND FRUSTRANIG. I SURE WOULDN'T TAKE MY NEICE WITH ME FOR A DRIVE. AND I SURE MISS MY NEICE. I REALLY FEEL THAT ITS A CRIME FOR THE MANUFACTURES NOT TO FIX THE DEFECTIVE PART. IF THEY KNOW IT IS DEFECTIVE THEN FIX THE PROBLEM SO THEY HAVE A GOOD NAME BEHIND THIER PRODUCTS. WHICH MEANS QUALITY INSTEAD OF CRAP. SAM RAMP

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1988

Date Of Incident: 1988-06-12
Date Complaint: 1998-12-01
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT BECAUSE OF FRONT END MISALIGNMENT. ALSO, THE TIRES WORE OUT DUE TO THE TIRES RUBBING ON METAL PART OF THE VEHICLE. *AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1987

Date Of Incident: 1997-07-31
Date Complaint: 1997-07-31
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: REAR PASSENGER'S RESTRAINT BELT STICKS. BELT WILL NOT EXTEND. *AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1985

Date Of Incident: 1996-05-22
Date Complaint: 1996-05-22
VIN: J81RF77K8F8
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: HEATER CORE LEAKED ANTIFREEZE INTO CABIN. *SD

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1988

Date Of Incident: 1995-10-01
Date Complaint: 1996-04-09
VIN: J81R65177J7
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: FIREWALL BROKE, CAUSING CLUTCH TO FAIL. *DSH

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1987

Date Of Incident: 1996-02-18
Date Complaint: 1996-03-08
VIN: J81RF2176H8
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: SUDDEN ACCELEARTION WHEN FORCE IS NOT APPLIED TO THE GAS PEDAL. *AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1987

Date Of Incident: 1996-02-18
Date Complaint: 1996-03-08
VIN: J81RF2176H8
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: SUDDEN ACCELEARTION WHEN FORCE IS NOT APPLIED TO THE GAS PEDAL. *AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1987

Date Of Incident: 1996-02-22
Date Complaint: 1996-02-23
VIN: J81RG5178H8
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: THE CLUCTH WOULD NOT LOCK OUT OF GEAR CAUSED THE CONSUMER TO HAVE A NEAR ACCIDENT. *AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1987

Date Of Incident: 1996-02-22
Date Complaint: 1996-02-23
VIN: J81RG5178H8
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: THE CLUCTH WOULD NOT LOCK OUT OF GEAR CAUSED THE CONSUMER TO HAVE A NEAR ACCIDENT. *AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1988

Date Of Incident: 1995-08-21
Date Complaint: 1995-10-11
Crash: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: BRAKES FAILED, CAUSING ACCIDENT. (OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT)*SD

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1989

Date Of Incident: 1995-07-27
Date Complaint: 1995-07-27
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: MANUAL TRANSMISSION CLUTCH FAILURE, DRIVER UNABLE TO SHIFT GEARS AND STOP THE VEHICLE. TT

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1987

Date Of Incident: 1994-06-01
Date Complaint: 1995-07-14
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: THE REAR SEATBELTS AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SEATBELTS DO NOT LATCH PROPERLY. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK

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Chevrolet Spectrum 1987

Date Of Incident: 1988-01-01
Date Complaint: 1995-07-12
VIN: J81RG5174H8
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: INTERMITTENT STALLING. *AK

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Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Spectrum

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Spectrum.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Chevrolet Spectrum 1987
Report Received Date: 1988-03-29
Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary: THE POSITIVE CRANKCASE VENTILATION VALVE MAY PROVIDE INADEQUATE AIR FLOW UNDER LOW ENGINE LOAD CONDITIONS.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN ALLOW WATER/OIL MIXTURE TO BUILD UPIN THE HOSE FROM THE OIL SEPARATOR TO THE AIR INLET DUCT. AFTER THE ENGINE ISSTOPPED, THIS WATER/OIL MIXTURE CAN, UNDER COLD WEATHER CONDITIONS, FREEZE ANDCOMPLETELY BLOCK THE OIL SEPARATOR AIR DUCT HOSE. THIS BLOCKAGE WILL RESULT ININCREASED PRESSURE WITHIN THE CRANKCASE. THIS CAN CAUSE OIL LEAKS, IF ASUFFICIENT QUANTITY OF OIL CAME IN CONTACT WITH THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM AN ENGINECOMPARTMENT FIRE COULD RESULT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy: THE PCV VALVE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW VALVE.

Model: Chevrolet Spectrum 1988
Report Received Date: 1988-03-29
Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary: THE POSITIVE CRANKCASE VENTILATION VALVE MAY PROVIDE INADEQUATE AIR FLOW UNDER LOW ENGINE LOAD CONDITIONS.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN ALLOW WATER/OIL MIXTURE TO BUILD UPIN THE HOSE FROM THE OIL SEPARATOR TO THE AIR INLET DUCT. AFTER THE ENGINE ISSTOPPED, THIS WATER/OIL MIXTURE CAN, UNDER COLD WEATHER CONDITIONS, FREEZE ANDCOMPLETELY BLOCK THE OIL SEPARATOR AIR DUCT HOSE. THIS BLOCKAGE WILL RESULT ININCREASED PRESSURE WITHIN THE CRANKCASE. THIS CAN CAUSE OIL LEAKS, IF ASUFFICIENT QUANTITY OF OIL CAME IN CONTACT WITH THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM AN ENGINECOMPARTMENT FIRE COULD RESULT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy: THE PCV VALVE WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW VALVE.

Model: Chevrolet Spectrum 1987
Report Received Date: 1988-03-23
Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Summary: PERFORATION OF THE FUEL TANK OR THE ATTACHED FUEL FEED PIPE DUE TO CORROSION OF THE TANK OR FUEL FEED PIPE MATERIALS.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW FUEL TO LEAK FROM THE FUELTANK AND ULTIMATELY RESULT IN A FIRE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. SUCH A FIRE COULDSPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: THE FUEL TANK WILL BE REPLACED ON ALL INVOLVED VEHICLES.

Model: Chevrolet Spectrum 1988
Report Received Date: 1988-03-23
Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Summary: PERFORATION OF THE FUEL TANK OR THE ATTACHED FUEL FEED PIPE DUE TO CORROSION OF THE TANK OR FUEL FEED PIPE MATERIALS.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW FUEL TO LEAK FROM THE FUELTANK AND ULTIMATELY RESULT IN A FIRE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. SUCH A FIRE COULDSPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: THE FUEL TANK WILL BE REPLACED ON ALL INVOLVED VEHICLES.

Model: Chevrolet Spectrum 1985
Report Received Date: 1987-05-26
Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE PERFORATION OF THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM. EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONTENT IN THE FUEL PROMOTES DEGRADATION OF THE DIAPHRAGM COATING RESULTING IN RADIAL CRACKING OF THE DIAPHRAGM.
Consequence: A PERFORATED DIAPHRAGM CAN ALLOW FUEL TO LEAK FROM THEFUEL PUMP INTO THE UNDERHOOD AREA. THIS COULD ULTIMATELY RESULT IN ANUNDERHOOD FIRE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. SUCH A FIRE COULD SPREAD TO THEPASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: A FUEL VENTILATION HOSE KIT WILL BE INSTALLED TO PREVENT FUEL FROM ESCAPING INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT IF THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM LEAKS AND THEREBY REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.