2002 Chevrolet Camaro

The 2002 Chevrolet Camaro represents the final year of the fourth generation, a popular choice for those seeking affordable performance and a classic muscle car feel. Engine options include the standard 3.8L V6 producing 200 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, and the more desirable 5.7L LS1 V8, which delivers 310 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices are a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Camaro’s aggressive styling, potent V8 performance (when equipped), and relative affordability. Common criticisms include the dated interior, limited rear passenger space, and sometimes challenging handling characteristics.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, poor fuel economy. Often results in a sweet smell of coolant.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Engine Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, dirty engine bay, low oil levels
  • Solution: Replace the applicable leaking gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L LS1 V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, fouled spark plugs. Can be worsened by aggressive driving.
  • Solution: Piston ring replacement or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knock Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the knock sensors and wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hard or Delayed Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting between gears, noticeable delay before engaging gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild, valve body replacement, or solenoid replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Complete Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission no longer functions properly and can no longer provide power to the wheels
  • Solution: Replace the transmission with a new, used, or remanufactured unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Weak Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to operate or operates slowly, clicking sound from the door.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Motor Gear Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights fail to open or close properly. One headlight might open and one might not.
  • Solution: Replace headlight motor gear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle won’t start, stalls while driving, electrical accessories malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• T-Top Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain.
  • Solution: Replace the weather stripping or realign the T-tops.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Plastic door handles are brittle and prone to breaking, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboards
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard develops cracks due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Dash Cover, Dashboard Replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaches from the roof.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Chevrolet Camaro, while a popular sports car, is prone to certain issues common with vehicles of its age. Engine problems, especially with the LS1 V8 (oil consumption), and transmission issues with the 4L60E are the most concerning due to their potential high repair costs. Electrical and suspension issues are also fairly common and should be inspected before purchase. Overall, prospective buyers should budget for potential repairs and prioritize well-maintained examples.