2002 Chevrolet Cavalier

The 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier was a compact car popular for its affordability and fuel efficiency. Engine options included a 2.2L Ecotec Inline-4 producing 115 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque and a 2.4L LD9 Twin Cam Inline-4 producing 150 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were typically paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally liked the Cavalier’s simple design, reliability (for its price point), and decent gas mileage. Common complaints included a somewhat bland driving experience, lower-quality interior materials, and some recurring mechanical issues.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec Inline-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, poor fuel economy, and a possible check engine light. A vacuum leak is a common symptom.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a sweet smell. Specific problem areas include the water pump and radiator.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component (water pump, radiator, hoses, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Water Pump: $200 - $400, Radiator: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L LD9 Twin Cam Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level, and visible oil on the engine. Common areas include valve cover gasket and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Cover Gasket: $100 - $200, Rear Main Seal: $400 - $800
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Potential for engine damage if the chain breaks.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4T40-E)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts hard, or fails to shift at all. This can often be worse when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Could be caused by a faulty shift solenoid, valve body issues, or low transmission fluid. Start with a fluid flush and filter change. More extensive repairs may require replacing the valve body or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush & Filter: $100 - $250, Valve Body Replacement: $500 - $1000, Transmission Rebuild: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, shuddering, or vibrations, especially when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, this may require replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Torque Converter: $400 - $800, Transmission Replacement: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and nose diving when braking.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per axle (front or rear)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower on one side, clunking noises when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the broken coil spring(s). It is recommended to replace springs in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per spring (including labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, or other gauges.
  • Solution: Could be a faulty instrument cluster, wiring issues, or a bad ground. Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Power Window/Door Lock Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows or door locks that work intermittently or not at all.
  • Solution: Check wiring, fuses, and switches. The window regulator may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Window Regulator: $150 - $400 per window

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Rocker Panels and Quarter Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the lower body panels, bubbling paint, and potential structural damage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel (depending on severity)

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks on the dashboard, especially in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard Cover: $50 - $150, Dashboard Replacement: $500 - $1500+
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaching from the roof and sagging.
  • Solution: Headliner replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Summary: The 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier can be an affordable and practical car, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues, particularly relating to the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission rebuilds or engine repairs, can be costly. The severity of rust can also impact the vehicle’s value and safety. A thorough inspection before purchasing is highly recommended.