Overview & Reviews

The Rally Sport (RS) trim is available for 1997 on the coupe and slotted between base and Z24 editions of the Cavalier. RS trim nets buyers the rear spoiler from the Z24, 15-inch tires, AM/FM stereo, tachometer, interior and exterior trim upgrades and a 3D rear-quarter panel decal. Base coupes have new wheel covers and safety belt guide loops. All 1997 Cavaliers meet federal side-impact standards for the first time. One new interior color and three new exterior colors freshen the lineup.

• Good looks, good value, standard anti-lock brakes, optional traction control

• Buzzy standard 2.2-liter engine, cheap interior materials

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 96 of 96.00

• 

  Not bad - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By matthoffman - June 23 - 2:00 am

  Ive had it for 5 years and havent run into any reliability problems yet, except for plastic trim falling off, which seems pretty standard. Its the least expensive sports-looking car available! I havent taken it into the shop for any real problems yet, and it has 50,000 now. Im hoping for another couple years.

• 

  throwaway car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By cavhater - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car as a replacement for a Jetta that was a money pit. Bad move! At least the J looked better! Ignition switch went out after 55k miles, leaks oil, ABS light has been on for weeks, and it has no personality whatsoever. On my way to get a Honda CR-V!

• 

  crap! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By lbs - May 13 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car to take back and forth to college. Every time i get in it i get a headache from the wind noise. The car is not well insulated and every little noise is heard. I have to keep the radio loud to even hear it over the noise. i have had to replace the alternator and the starter and a few batteries. I also had major problems with the AC like five times. All around it is more trouble than it is worth.

• 

  SOME PROBLEMS - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By AVERAGE - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE HAD THE CAR FOR ABOUT A YEAR. I HAVE HAD SOME PROBLEMS WITH IT SO FAR. FOR EXAMPLE THE ENGINE COOLANT LIGHT COMES ON FREQUENTLY. WHEN I CHECK IT IT IS ALWAYS FULL. NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE IGNITION YET. ALTERNATOR WENT OUT ABOUT A MONTH AFTER HAVING THE CAR. WENT THREW TWO NEW BATTERIES BECAUSE OF THAT. NO PROBLEMS OTHER THAN THAT YET.

• 

  OUCH! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By hate cavalier - March 19 - 2:00 am

  Ignition failed to start the car 4 times in warranty, recall did not fix. 36042 miles, water pump ($1000). 37K miles, oil pump ($1000) Cost $1000. 39K Motor mounts $300. 48K miles, main bearings went out. Oil changed every 3k miles. No one would rebuild the engine. All said the engine (2.4L) does not last more than 2K miles after being rebuilt. Had to get a USED replacement engine. Cost $2000. Total $4300 within 12K miles of 36K mile warranty expiring. Never buy another Chevrolet.

• 

  cavelier convertible tops in gas milage - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By fyarbrough - March 14 - 12:00 am

  My Chevrolet Cavelier is tops in gas milage and would be an excellent car for a young person or old. However, I think GM needs to improve on the sturdiness of the vehicle.