2002 Chevrolet Astra

Introduction

The 2002 Chevrolet Astra was a popular compact car known for its sporty handling and affordable price. It was available with two engine and transmission options: a 2.2L inline-4 paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 2.0L inline-4 paired with a CVT transmission. While generally reliable, the Astra has experienced some common issues over the years.

Engine

2.2L inline-4 with 5-speed manual transmission

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, rough idling, and overheating. Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Throttle body failure: Symptoms include engine stalling, poor acceleration, and Check Engine light. Solution: Replace throttle body. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

2.2L inline-4 with 4-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission fluid leaks: Symptoms include slipping gears, delayed engagement, and burning smell. Solution: Repair or replace transmission seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
• Torque converter failure: Symptoms include shuddering, slipping, and overheating transmission. Solution: Replace torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

2.0L inline-4 with CVT transmission

• CVT transmission failure: Symptoms include slipping, whining noises, and overheating. Solution: Replace CVT transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Drive belt failure: Symptoms include loss of power, squealing noises, and stalling. Solution: Replace drive belt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut mounts failure: Symptoms include clunking noises, vibration, and poor handling. Solution: Replace strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Sway bar end links failure: Symptoms include rattling noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace sway bar end links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, electrical problems, and difficulty starting. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, clicking noises, and grinding noises. Solution: Replace starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Door handle failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening doors, broken handles, and loose handles. Solution: Replace door handles. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Tailgate lock failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening or closing tailgate, loose lock, and broken lock. Solution: Replace tailgate lock. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Power window failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening or closing windows, jammed windows, and broken switches. Solution: Repair or replace power window motors, switches, or wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

Overall, the 2002 Chevrolet Astra is a reliable vehicle with some common issues. The most serious issues are related to the CVT transmission, which can be expensive to repair or replace. However, most other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix.