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 Cavaliers have suffered from build quality issues; subpar materials quality and outdated design were also problems, particularly with later models.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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  2004 Cavalier - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Littlelady - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I just bought this vehicle a couple weeks ago. My Cavalier replaced a 1997 Geo Prism. I went for all the luxury available. I love it! Very comfortable and affordable for a car in its class!

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  very expensive to replace or repair - 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By sherrykkkee - April 9 - 5:44 pm

  Drivers window has never worked right. About 400 to replace motor which helped for short time... Back window coming loose, that is a 595.00 cost. I have a fungus growing in back seat due to water leaks. Door rubber was replaced before.... Not a good car for tall people. Have been repeatedly ripped off by dealership and other mechanics.... I only put the top down about 4-5 times a year.... If I touch drivers window button, it could take 2 days to get it back up.....

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  White 1999 Cavalier-Z24, 2dr. coupe - 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Pippy - March 31 - 6:22 pm

  I bought my cavalier-Z24 new in fall of 1998 (1999 model yr.)and I still own it! It has 52,000 miles on it and runs/looks great! If I could purchase a 2010 Cav.-z24, Id buy on in a heartbeat! Luv this car, had/have no problems with it this far, everything works fine :) luv this car!

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  completely recommend this car - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By natemorris925 - March 25 - 12:15 am

  I bought this car to commute to school/work with. Averaging a little over 100 miles a day I bought it with the sole purpose of racking up a ton of miles, no extras. This is an extremely reliable car. The cartridge oil filter is Nice since im usually due for an oil change about every month. I changed the transmission filter and spark plugs at 60k. Fuel pump went out at 68k. I like that it has a timing chain instead of a belt. More maintenance free. Avg 34 mpg. With good tires this car is excellent in snow. Bottom line, this car is nearly as good as a civic, and for about half the price you cant go wrong as long as you take care of it. Mines at 90k it runs like new, no leaks or noises.

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  Fast Fun and Economic - 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Venkat - March 24 - 3:16 pm

  Cavalier Z24 2dr Coupe is fun to drive, fast and economic.. i love this car.. it wont empty your pockets and maintenance wise till now i didnt got a single problem with the car.. ( with regular service ).. Coming to resale value this car doesnt fetch more.. (recently i checked in kbb :-( ) Overall good car with good performance..

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  Great to drive!! - 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Ghost6987 - March 23 - 5:55 pm

  I got this car in "05" with about 100k on it and I drive it about 130 miles aday. Im a Young kid Im 21. I have the 2.2 its rusted and has a lil rodded but I have a perfect tac in it also I put a turbo on it only running 8psi a better cam and a 2 3/4 inch piping its still my daily driver never left me on the side of the road a beat on it all the time great car as long as u keep up with everything. Do an oil change with royal purple! All the time it helps the car out and protects it the best. The car has on the dash right now with the oem block rods and pistons it has 291k and still going strong. I love my teal civi killa

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  Love My Chevy! - 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Cat - March 11 - 9:29 pm

  I love my car! I have never had any major issues with this car. I get my oil changed as recommended, new tires, breaks things like that. Its sporty, and I think its fun to drive. Its got a great stock stereo system.

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  I love my car - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By mandy - February 26 - 6:31 pm

  I love this car! Purchased for $800 from a family member who needed $$, who can beat that?! Was wrecked before,dont know anything about the prior history, but its been my baby. 28-33 mpg still! Replaced alternator & fixed break fluid leak shortly after purchase. Replaced motor at a little over 170K, 2 yrs ago, $900, cheaper than a new car. At 217K now & still rolling. Oil send unit went out a few months ago,replaced. Having a bit of off-and-on trouble w/the low beam lights(a wiring prob.) Having trouble locating the problem bc of course it doesnt happen when my mechanic has it! LOL No big since I dont drive at night much & if I do I just drive my other vehicle.

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  Horrible, horrible vehicle - 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By me2000 - February 22 - 4:38 pm

  I have had nothing but problems with this car. The water pump went out, the head gasket is currently leaking so I have to keep putting coolant in ($10 per bottle adds up!), continuously having to replace the brakes every year, electrical problems. I have stalled three times because of this crappy car. Its rusting beneath the gas cap. Overheats all the time. I cant even put the AC on or itll overheat. Do not buy this car. Its a money pit. Im getting a new car in two weeks because I cannot take it anymore. I absolutely dread going into this car every time I drive it. You dont know whats going to happen next! You fix one thing and another thing breaks!

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  Stay away - 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By BC - February 14 - 9:32 pm

  Bought this new for my wife and was surprise to see the options I bought on my 98 model were now standard. By the end of 6 years though the A/C had been worked on twice and no longer worked (unless you wanted hot air). Fuel pump replaced. Door gaskets never sealed properly so there was always air and noise.