2022 Chevrolet Cavalier

The 2022 Chevrolet Cavalier is a compact sedan primarily sold in Mexico and other international markets. It is not officially sold in the United States. The Cavalier comes with a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine, producing around 107 horsepower and 104 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the Cavalier for its fuel efficiency and affordability, while criticisms often focus on its basic interior, limited features, and somewhat lackluster performance.

Engine

1.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-ups between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and visible exhaust smoke in severe cases.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. If consumption is excessive, a dealer inspection is recommended to check for leaks, piston ring issues, or valve seal problems. In some instances, replacing the piston rings or valve seals may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter may fail prematurely, leading to a check engine light and potentially reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting between gears. This may be more noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change might resolve the issue. If the problem persists, further diagnosis of the transmission valve body or solenoids may be necessary. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse. This may present as a noticeable pause before the car begins to move.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid level check and inspection for leaks. A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) might address the issue. In some cases, internal transmission damage may require a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid check) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of suspension bushings, leading to clunking noises, especially when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings. Inspect related suspension components for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per bushing location (depending on the bushing).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes or crashes, requiring a restart. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Check for software updates for the infotainment system. A hard reset may temporarily resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $500+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with various sensors such as O2 sensors and crankshaft position sensors.
  • Solution: Replace the sensors that are causing the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400 per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Poor Headlight Performance
  • Description/Symptoms: Inadequate brightness or short lifespan of headlights.
  • Solution: Replace headlights with higher-quality bulbs or LED upgrades. Ensure proper headlight alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on headlight type)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling or squeaking noises emanating from various interior trim panels, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locate the source of the noise and apply felt pads or foam tape to dampen the vibrations. In some cases, tightening loose trim pieces may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY) - $200+ (Professional Repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Chevrolet Cavalier, while appreciated for its fuel efficiency and affordability, faces some common issues. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and catalytic converter failure could lead to moderate repair costs. Transmission issues, such as harsh shifting and delayed engagement, could potentially become expensive to fix. Suspension bushing wear and electrical glitches further add to the list of potential concerns. Most repairs will be from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand. The absence of recalls at this time is noted. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing the vehicle.