Overview & Reviews

The 2.3-liter Quad 4 is replaced after just one year by a 2.4-liter twin-cam engine. Four-speed automatic transmission includes traction control. Daytime running lights debut, remote keyless entry is optional on LS and Z24 and base models get new interior fabrics and an Appearance Package.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 73.00

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  Fun car - I was unlucky - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By quakk - May 1 - 5:18 pm

  This was my first car out of school. For a 4 cylinder, it was fast and fun, great in the Arizona mountains. The seats folded down to allow transport of a bike, hockey goals, etc. I enjoyed the car, but would have liked a bit more pep. I opted for the 5spd manual. After 2 years and 36k miles, the clutch went out. Could have been me, but Ive been driving a manual since 1989 and have never burned out another clutch. Sounds like my experience is the exception rather than the rule.

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  Not a Ferrari, but under credited cars. - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By chogan85 - July 29 - 4:27 pm

  If your looking for a good first car for you teenager, do not dismiss this car despite GMs reliability and quality record. I am now 23 and looking for a newer used car but I have to stand up for the Cavalier, shes been an overall great little sporty car. With the 3spd auto, (some performance mods) respectable torque, decent stock suspension, the 2.2l 2200 engine may not pump out a lot of mind blowing horsepower, but its been a very reliable engine. Acceleration could be a bit better for its class. Awesome gas mileage (*with* performance mods!) With a WAI, catback exhaust and performance header, I get 26 city and 31 highway. The interior isnt that bad, overall pretty basic and comfortable

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  Happens all at once - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Jeff - May 3 - 3:43 pm

  My car has been fine no big problems. I had to have brakes and the air went out. I keep smelling gas so if everything starts to happen then the car is falling apart. Before the gas smell the car was great.

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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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  Most fun inexpensive coupe you can get! - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Brian - November 19 - 11:38 am

  Bought my Z24 for $3000 in Dec. 2006, and I have loved every minute of driving it. It has more horsepower and torque than any available new car less then $20,000. I get 30 mpg driving in city highway traffic to work. Takes corners very well. Seats are pretty well designed except maybe a little too firm. The plastic upholstry cracks pretty. Had to replace quite a few standard wear and tear parts after I bought it but no water pump yet. I couldnt ask for more from a $3000 car.

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  Wicked car - Cavalier 1996 - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Kiprotich Arap-Ruto - November 14 - 9:43 am

  I looked at a number of cars before buying my Cavalier 1996. Its price was great and condition pretty good. It drives very well. I had to replace the gas tank (got a used one for a good price and free labor). Overall a very good car.

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  It works for me - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Spec - December 21 - 10:26 am

  I have been happy with this car. There have not been any major problem inherent with it, just some minor things. For a 10 year old vehicle, it still performs rather well, getting 24-28 mpg around town and not exhibiting any problems on road trips.

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  Good Transportation - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By DK - July 26 - 12:25 pm

  Perfect choice for someone looking for a small car, basic transportation. Decent sound, great on gas, decent room for a small car. Reliable as all outdoors, I loved it.

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  Nothin but Chevys - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By NA - September 15 - 2:51 am

  This is the 2nd out of 3 Chevys ive owned and once again, no problems. I bought it from a young HS girl and even after a beating it still drove beautifully. Gas mileage was awesome, around 30MPG and a very peppy fun car to drive. A few minor maintenance issues, brakes, new battery, ect...but thats to be expected with any car. The seats were not the most comfortable and the back seats were not accomodating to anyone. Had a few problems with sticky buttons, dials, and such but I think it was due to previous owner. Truck space was good. Would reccomend to anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, fuel effecient, and peppy car!

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  Great car for the Money - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Dan79 - October 26 - 2:00 am

  This car has been absolutely great for me, I bought it in ’98 with 20K and now it has over 160K. Thank God this car has practically never given me trouble, the only thing I remember changing was the AC compressor. The car doesn’t have great pick-up but what can you expect from a 4-cyln, but it flies I do 70-80 mph with no problem and no shaking. Its starting to show its age now, but I cant complain considering how it has performed till now. I dont know if I was bless, cause Ive seen some pretty sh*tty reviews here and on Consumer Reports, but Im extreamly happy with it.