2002 Chevrolet Cavalier

Introduction:

The 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is a compact car available with two engine options: a 2.2L 4-cylinder engine and a 2.2L Ecotec 4-cylinder engine. The 2.2L engine produces 140 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.2L Ecotec engine produces 150 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Cavalier is praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability, but it has received criticism for its lack of power, poor handling, and low-quality interior.

Engine

2.2L 4-cylinder Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, rough idling, and decreased engine performance
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Ecotec 4-cylinder Engine

• Ignition Coil Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, loss of power, and difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace the ignition coils
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant loss
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 02V104000

Transmission

5-speed Manual Transmission

• Clunking Noise When Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noise when shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace the shift forks or synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear or not engaging properly
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, handling issues, and noise
  • Solution: Replace the struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise when turning or going over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dimming lights, and electrical issues
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine or no response when turning the key
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Clear Coat Peeling:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clear coat on the paint peeling or fading
  • Solution: Repaint the vehicle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust on Body Panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the hood, fenders, or other body panels
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Faulty Seatbelt Buckle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelt buckle not engaging properly or releasing easily
  • Solution: Replace the seatbelt buckle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V343000
• Airbag Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated or airbag not deploying in an accident
  • Solution: Replace or repair the airbag system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V154000

Summary:

The 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier suffers from a range of issues, including engine and transmission problems, suspension wear, electrical failures, and interior defects. The cost to fix these issues can vary significantly, but repairs can be expensive, especially for major components like the transmission or head gasket. While the Cavalier offers affordability and fuel efficiency, its reliability issues may outweigh its benefits for some buyers.