Overview & Reviews

Born in the early '80s, the Chevrolet Cavalier was General Motor's attempt to regain market share that had been lost to Japanese manufacturers who had been the first to recognize the public's need for compact, more fuel-efficient transportation. Though inferior to its competition in most respects, the Cavalier proved to be a hit with consumers, emerging as a consistent sales leader for Chevrolet.

The Cavalier's success was built in large part on the value it offered, though updates were few and far between. The Cavalier was on the market from 1982-2005, and in those 24 years, there were only two generations. Still, despite the fact that many models were built on aged platforms relative to the competition, the Chevrolet Cavalier enjoyed popularity, largely because of its irresistibly low price.

One significant factor to consider when deciding whether a Cavalier is right for you is safety. Throughout its life cycle, the Cavalier has received poor to lukewarm crash test scores. Another is overall quality. Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.

Resale value has been low for Cavaliers, making them an extremely affordable option. Still, in light of its shortcomings, we'd recommend that those shopping in this category consider other alternatives, such as later-model Korean imports.

Most Recent Chevrolet Cavalier

The Chevrolet Cavalier's second and most recent generation was built from model-year 1995-2005. Cavaliers built in 1995-2000 were available as sedans, coupes and convertibles, but as of 2001, drop-top versions of this Chevy were dropped from the lineup.

Trim levels varied over this generation's 10-year run. Chevrolet offered base, LS and Z24 trims for the majority of the time but later changed the lineup to just base, LS and LS Sport. The standard features list on base-model Cavaliers included little more than air-conditioning and an AM/FM stereo.

When the second-generation Chevy Cavalier was first unveiled, buyers had a choice of two engines. Base models were motivated by a 2.2-liter, 120-horsepower four-cylinder. Those seeking more power could choose a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine ("Quad4") good for 150 hp. After just one year, the 2.3-liter was replaced with an updated 2.4-liter version that also made 150 hp.

A new 2.2-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, "Ecotec" four-cylinder engine appeared in the Cavalier for the first time during the 2002 model year. While base Cavaliers continued with the ancient OHV 2.2-liter four and the Z24 still had the 2.4-liter unit, the 140-hp Ecotec was a clear improvement over any previous Cavalier power plant in terms of overall drivability and refinement. The 2.4-liter engine was dropped in 2003.

Although there weren't any redesigns in the final 10 years of the Cavalier's life, the model did see some upgrades. In 1999, the 2.4-liter engine was refined to improve reliability, emissions and fuel economy. And in 2000, the car was given a smoother-shifting manual transmission; its antilock brake system was also improved, and it saw exterior revisions like new body-colored front and rear fascias and new headlights and taillights. The car's exterior was updated once again in 2003, and XM Satellite Radio became available as an option. Audiophiles should know that in 2004, the base-model Cavalier was given an improved stereo, with CD and MP3 playback capability.

One unfortunate Cavalier hallmark is its dated interior. Build quality is subpar and materials quality leaves a lot to be desired. Seats also miss the mark when it comes to comfort. On the plus side, though, later models are available with both OnStar and XM Satellite Radio.

In editorial reviews, the Chevrolet Cavalier was praised for offering acceptable handling and power, and a reasonably compliant ride. Cons included a dated platform and poor crash test scores. In consumer reviews, the car was praised for its fuel economy but panned for its dull interior styling.

Past Chevrolet Cavaliers

The first-generation Chevy Cavalier existed from 1982-'94. Standard features amounted to little more than an AM/FM audio system. A Cavalier wagon was available, in addition to the coupe, sedan and convertible. (The wagon was dropped with the second generation.) There was also the sporty Z24 variant, which debuted in 1986 and offered a spunky V6, a firmer suspension, alloy wheels and obligatory tape graphics.

With such a long spell between redesigns, Cavaliers built in the '90s offered a positively ancient platform compared to the competition. The model did see some tweaks over the years, though. In 1991, the Cavalier received sheet metal revisions. The following year, ABS joined the standard features list, and base engines saw hp increase by 15 to 110. In 1994, base engines saw another horsepower boost, up 10 hp to 120. Air-conditioning, a sunroof and a CD player were all available as options.

Again, resale values on these Chevys are low. Other than bargain-basement prices, though, these older Cavaliers have little to offer.

User Reviews:

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  200 Chevy Cavalier - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Darlene Searfoss - June 30 - 5:32 pm

  My fiancé bought me my cavalier over 3 years ago or more and this car runs strong. I never owned 1 before , but I can tell you this car is awesome.Had a little rust spot which fiancé got fixed promptly and under carriage no rust what so ever. Now my Cavalier came from Texas and I am only the 3rd owner of this car and I love it.If anyone gets the chance to pick up a Good Cavalier like I did trust me , you won’t be sorry

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  Best out of 100 vehicles - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Star - February 24 - 9:09 pm

  Magnolia has been with me for a decade, possibly 200,000 glorious miles. She gets me into mountain passes other small cars wouldn't dare to travel as well as through mid city interstates. We've learned a lot together, and when she needs some care, I give it to her. it's easy to tell what's wrong with her and fairly cheap and easy to fix. Just be mindful to shut the hood carefully because the radiators are flimsy. Everything decorative is flimsy. But it can all be easily rebuilt. We hit 313K last week and the only thing falling apart is the dashboard and the seats; they fell fast this summer (a 10K mile summer :D). The distance she can get per gallon is delightful! We sleep often in the car. Four or 5 of "us" is not uncommon. She loves the deserts and high deserts. We don't bother her when the snow is very high and she would rather pull over in torrential rain. I drive her a lot at night because any car is taxed in too much summer heat the distances we drive. Shes been my Solid all these years and now that we have to give her up, its very scary to imagine buying a car that's truly a hassle. The only reason we are giving her up instead of putting that steady $150/yr into her is that my youngest child really doesn't even fit in her without their legs up on the dashboard. The car is small; but my daughter and I are fairly small framed peoples and never noticed much. I will say that it's just 1/2 inch to short for me to sit up all the way yoga tall in there, tho, but most people don't sit straight up as they drive and try to do yoga, anyway. Best vehicle I've ever had, and I've owned many including a sailboat. I will be sad to move away from her, even my child who doesn't fit is sad to see her go so that we can welcome in something that fits a taller human comfortably.

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  Awesome little Car - 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Manuel - December 15 - 10:43 pm

  For being a 95 coupe its all expected of a small vehicle. Sure their might be others that perform better but for what you pay for is what you get. I paid $800.00 for mine. 136000 miles. YES it is used. In the short time that I owned it. Never game me any problems except for miner wear n tare. Like tires,brakes,antiflush,oil change, smog. Expect gas mileage to be a plus with this car. You need to keep up with all maintenance on any type of vehicle. Thats how they last. If youre just going to gas n go. Well looks like youll be come a member of the foot patrol. Dont mock this vehicle its very reliable. (I was involved in an accident while I was driving to work in this vehicle. Young girl (17yrs) turned left on a RED light. SMASHED/CRUNCHED/Head on Collision. air bags deployed,I walked away. Like I said RELIABLE. Gonna miss HER

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  2000 Cavalier Z24 - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Bob - December 12 - 7:51 pm

  This is my 4th Cavalier and 2nd Z24 the 2.4 Quad 4 is quite lively and great on gas I have been averaging 31.4 combined driving city and hi way. This car goes 75 to 80 mph on the freeway with no effort and maintains 33.8 mpg,I have been reading the complaints about the interior quality.The car isnt an Impala or a Tahoe as far as the interior noise level I find it better than average for a car in its class. I bought this car with 149000 miles it is now at 166000 I have done nothing to it but normal wear idems and repairs from former owner neglect.Parts are easy to find new or used and dont break the bank I have also owned its counterpart Sunbird/Sunfire .I highly recommend as a great 1st car or second car/ commuter .

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  Surprisingly Roomy for a 61", 400 pounder - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Tall Girl - August 18 - 3:40 pm

  I bought mine brand new in 2000. It is bright red with tan cloth interior. It is the base car with no power anything except brakes & steering. Exactly what I wanted! 3 speed automatic transmission and a 2.2L 4 cyl engine. Plenty of pep when it was new, a cold a/c, a hot heater, and no blind spots to speak of. I was in love with my car. For the first 10 years the only thing I did to it besides oil changes was a few recalls under warranty, and new brake pads/shoes. At 11 years I bought new tires, a battery, and had a tune up done. At 12 years the a/c compressor had to be replaced and it cost $600 at a mechanics shop, then little things here and there. The rear defrost went out at 127,000 miles - but I live in Alabama, so I never replaced it. At 140,000 miles I had my original serpentine belt and hoses replaced and an inline fuel filter put on. It has never run hot, and I have never let it get below 1/4 of a tank. It doesnt use or leak oil, it shifts like it has a shift kit in it and has since brand new. 15 years later, it still runs like a top.

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  Id buy another one right now. - 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Chuck Hays - August 12 - 9:00 pm

  I needed a cheap car to get to work in, found this one for sale nearby. Paid 1800 for it with 228k on it. It was fairly clean and drove well. I have had to do a few things to it to keep everything operational, but I am a mechanic, so no biggie. I drive like I stole it, change the oil regularly and it just turned 309 k. Good value for the money.

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  love the ole cav - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Nick LaQuerre - April 4 - 5:47 am

  the 97 cav drives well and it treats me well :)

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  Solid work car, with plenty of quirks. - 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By hpcrowley - December 25 - 12:23 pm

  Bought this car from a buy here-pay here lot with $160k miles for a ridiculous price. Been reliable so far, but has SOOO many little problems. When I first bought it, the instrument cluster would go haywire at at random times, which was later attributed to moisture in the electronics. The climate control has an annoying click on any setting but recirculate, and the knobs broke to boot. the shifter has a disconcerting grind in it going into fourth gear. The interior is virtually destroyed, and the body isnt much better. okay, so now for the positives: its been unwaveringly reliable for the past 6 months! The only expense Ive had has been tires. All in all, a solid driver.

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  318,000 with 2 repairs - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By roadwarrior13 - June 23 - 9:15 am

  Finally totalled on NJTPK in multi-vehicle pile-up with 318,000+ miles, only 2 real repairs ever = water pump, alternator. Other = 1 wheel bearing & exhaust. Change oil regularly & do very little else... looking for another one :)

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  Great car! - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By stevewl1164 - June 17 - 9:54 pm

  I bought this car in April 2009 and it had 118k, four door and three speed automatic. I paid $1100 for it. It had a new set of Michelins too! The dash near the windshield cracked and now has chunks missing. The original stereo/CD died. It uses no oil between changes. I replaced the radiator, the alternator, and changed the oil every 3000 miles. As of June 2014 it has 186k. I usually get 28 mpg in mixed driving, but sometimes get 30. I figured for $1100 if it lasted a year I could give it away and not be out anything. Five plus years later it is still going strong. Mine has the old OHV 2.2...never had an engine or transmission issue, nor check engine light. I may never get this lucky again.