2004 Chevrolet Cavalier

Introduction

The 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is a compact car that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.2L Ecotec I4, which produced 140 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 2.2L Ecotec I4 with 155 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L V6 with 220 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 5-speed automatic.

Reviewers appreciated the Cavalier’s affordability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable interior. However, they also noted that the car’s handling and performance were lackluster.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec I4 (140 hp)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Ecotec I4 (155 hp)

• No Issues Found

3.2L V6

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• No Issues Found

4-speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise when turning or going over bumps
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, flickering lights, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace ignition switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to lock or unlock doors
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty or inability to open or close windows
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier has a number of potential issues, some of which are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be more serious and costly. Overall, the Cavalier is a reliable and affordable car, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues that it can have.