4 Star Reviews for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.93/5 Average
96 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • Good looks, good value, standard anti-lock brakes, optional traction control
Cons:
  • Buzzy standard 2.2-liter engine, cheap interior materials

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 96.00
  • #1 Ragtop Beater - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    1997 Convertible LS.Bought it new in 05/1998. Rarely in shop. Have spent maybe $1000 in non-warranteed work. A blast to drive. Every day driver. Holds five passengers. (name another american convertible that does that) Huge trunk for a car its size. Have vacationed in it with the wife and 3 kids comfortably.

  • The Heavy Chevy! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    The Cavalier has been a really good car for me and my family. It has a sporty look, but is pretty easy on the wallet. Gets great mileage (thanks to the automatic transmission) and has ample power for long time travel. Only problems Ive had, except for routine maintenance, is head gasket replaced around 80,000 miles, water pump replaced at 81,000 miles, car main computer down around 90,000 miles (replaced with used one), and alternator replaced around 95,000 miles. Sounds like a lot, but was very reasonably priced to fix (especially if you know some good "private" mechanics). All in all, not much to ask for a really hard ridden car.

  • Great little Car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I bought my cavalier used and with high mileage. I still love it, and cant think of selling it.

  • Money pit - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    Ive owned this car for almost 3 years. Ive replaced the struts, front and back, the strut mounts front and back (twice within 14 months for the back), the front wheel bearings, and Ive had times that the car wont start because the spark plugs got a little dirty. (I wind up having to replace the plugs every six months or so). Along with the other little stupid things Ive had happen, if I didnt do all the work myself, I cant imagine how much it would have cost me. Im so ready to get rid of this piece of junk.

  • Economical and reliable - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    Very reliable transportation. Except for a few minor warranty items, have only had to do the normal maintenance, which is cheap to DIY, and not so expensive if you take it somewhere. Its been a real workhorse for commuting to work and running around town. Its not going to win any performance/fun awards. Thats not what this car is about. Noise is fact of life in this car.

  • Not bad! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    This was my first "new" car and I was thrilled when I bought it. After 3 years I had to have the transmission replaced! Thankfully I opted for the extended warranty because it came in handy. Ever since then Ive had to do minor repairs here and there but the car keeps on going. Since my Chevy is stick I get EXCELLENT gas mileage! Its small enough to park on city streets but big enough to carry anything I need to stuff in there!! I would recomend it to anyone who needs a nice size car with a sportier look.

  • Beautiful car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    Even though I havent owned this vehicle very long, I think its a great little sporty compact! Its got plenty of juice for a 4 banger and its great mileage. And theres tons of aftermarket parts for it! I just put a cold air intake in, engine sounds soo deep and nice!!!

  • Good overall car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I bought the cavalier with a little under 60,000 miles from the dealer. I didnt have any major problems aside from the normal wear and tear of any car. I replaced the alternator once, which required a lot of force to re- attached the fan belt. The notoriously ineffective coolant system gave way about 85,000 miles and I had to spend over $1,000 to replace the head gasket due to a warped piston head from all the times the car overheated. It is very noisy at high speeds. Overall, it is a reliable car that you can depend on for everyday driving. It handles great and has sufficient leg room. This is a great first car for anyone who is young and learning

  • What a fun car! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I have had this car since 1997. The only complaint that I can say is the roof leaked in the begenning. After getting it to the dealership numerous times, the problem was finally solved.

  • Great Car - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I have owned this car for two and a half years and the only problem I have had is the waterpump. I am told that these cars are known for this. Other than that my cavy has 91000 miles and runs just as good as the day I bought it.

Chevrolet Cavalier Reviews By Year:
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