2003 Chevrolet Cavalier

Introduction

The 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is a compact car offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior, but it was also criticized for its lackluster performance and handling.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec I4 (140 HP, 150 lb-ft)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: N/A
• EGR Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine hesitation, reduced fuel efficiency, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4T40E)

• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, or refusing to shift
  • Solution: Replace TCC solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Pack Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifting erratically or refusing to shift
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intermediate Shaft Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise from transmission, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intermediate shaft bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (Getrag F23)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from front or rear, decreased ride comfort
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Wandering or pulling during driving, squealing or popping noise from wheels
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, electrical system malfunctions, check battery light
  • Solution: Replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Window refusing to move or moving erratically
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Bumper Cover Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or sagging rear bumper cover
  • Solution: Adjust or replace bumper cover mounting points
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Lid Hinge Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Center console lid loose or broken
  • Solution: Replace center console lid hinges
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is a budget-friendly car with some common issues that can be costly to repair. Engine problems, including intake manifold gasket failure and timing chain tensioner failure, are particularly concerning. Transmission issues can also be severe, withTCC solenoid failure and shift solenoid pack failure being the most prevalent. Suspension and electrical issues are generally less severe and less expensive to fix. Overall, the Cavalier’s可靠性 issues are significant and should be considered before purchasing.