1999 Chevrolet Cavalier

Introduction

The 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is a compact car available in sedan and coupe body styles. It offers several engine and transmission options, including:

• 2.2L Ecotec I4 (115 hp, 150 lb-ft torque)
• 2.4L Quad 4 I4 (150 hp, 160 lb-ft torque)
• 2.4L Twin Cam I4 (155 hp, 180 lb-ft torque)
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 4-speed automatic transmission

Owners appreciate the Cavalier’s affordable price, fuel efficiency, and comfortable interior. However, it has received criticism for its cramped rear seat, lack of power with the base engine, and dated interior design.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec I4

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls or misfires, poor idling, reduced power, Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, rough idle, decreased engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Quad 4 I4

• Throttle Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic engine behavior, Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Solution: Replace throttle position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Twin Cam I4

• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking oil, whining or squealing noise from engine, Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Solution: Replace timing belt tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual Transmission

• Synchronizer Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise when shifting
  • Solution: Replace synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of transmission fluid, slipping gears, transmission overheating
  • Solution: Repair or replace leaking component
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from suspension, decreased handling performance
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical components malfunctioning, Check Battery Light illuminated
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead prematurely
  • Solution: Inspect electrical system for parasitic drain, replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: 00V394000

Exterior

• Door Lock Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key gets stuck or fails to unlock/lock door
  • Solution: Replace door lock cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: 00V298000

Interior

• Climate Control Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heater or air conditioner not working properly
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty components (e.g., blower motor, control module, blend door)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: 00V432000

Summary

The 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier has some reliability issues, but most are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. The most common problems involve engine sensors, intake manifold gaskets, and suspension components. Overall, the Cavalier is a reliable and affordable compact car, but it may require some occasional repairs.