1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Research & Reviews

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 61 through 70 of 96.00
  • 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.

  • Pleasantly surprised! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    This was my first car ever and it turned out to be good choice. I have heard from some people that they had problems with this car but mine has tunred out to be a quality car. No repairs at all other than some recalls. I only had to change the oil regularly and tires and breaks once in 90,000 miles.

  • Reliable, economy, sport coupe - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I bought this car new right out of college, it was what I could afford at the time. This car has been nothing but great to own and drive. I have had no problems or repairs other than one brake job and new tires! I am about to take it in for its first tune up now that it has over 100K miles. This car run and feels just like it did when it was brand new. My only complaint is that the paint has not held up well, it dings and scratches easily. Otherwise a great car that is very fun to drive and has plenty of power. The people who complain about the lack of power do not have the Z24.

  • 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.

  • The Greatest Little Car Ive Ever Owned! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I have nothing but praise for this car. It is fun to drive, has plenty of power, and has been no trouble. Who could ask for anything more?

  • not too bad - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    this car is a sturdy, well-built chevy. If taken care of it will hardly ever let you down. Maintainance is very minimal. Though the manual transmission makes it fun to drive, it does lack in power. Sometimes acceleration feels very sluggish. Nevertheless it is a quality car

  • DONT EVEN THINK ABOUT BUYING THIS!!!!!! - 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
    By -

    I purchased this car right out of High School.I dint know what I was doing. This was all I could afford. The only smart thing I did was buy the extended warranty. If I hadnt I would of spent $3000 on fixing it. Gas mileage sucks. I had the rear main seal go, head cover gasket, leak in the fuel injectors, o2 sensor, alternator, oil pump, oil pump sensor, only thing that is still working great is the a/c and coolant system. I cant wait to finish paying it off in Aug 2003. This was my second cavalier and it had nothing but the constantly over heating. Im talking, going to work and find your coolant broke inside your car, leaking everywhere.

  • 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!!!

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