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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  Trusty Rusty - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By luckyday - January 30 - 2:05 pm

  I had this car from 2004-2011 and only needed to have routine maintenance done on it....until the end. The clutch blew, had it fixed cheap by a friend, a few months later the exhaust fell off. At that point, I figured it would just nickle and dime me to death so I took it to a salvage yard. In the time that I had the vehicle though, it was a great little car.

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  Trouble - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By colorsendinink - September 8 - 10:10 am

  i just bought this car with 71,000 miles and its already giving me problems. i took it back to the dealer 3 times to get it repaired because it overheats all the time. the car has no power whatsoever. one good thing about it is the gas mileage, thats awesome because i have a long commute to school every day.

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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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  Cant wait to get rid of it! - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By Jon - May 6 - 1:03 am

  I bought this car with 68,000 miles on it, and it was in OK condition. 4 years later Im at 92,000 miles and I cant wait to get rid of it. I have massive oil leaks from several spots on the engine, my radiator hoses blew a few months ago and I too have headlight issues due to faulty wiring. Road/wind noise is unbearable, more so then the constant chatter of the plastic interior and rattling of the suspension. On cold and rainy days the engine tends to flood itself. ALL the seals leak in this car leading the interior and trunk to get wet. The entire electrical system in this car is horrible. Apart from the headlight problems, the electrical system tends to give out at high speeds.

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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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  One of Chevys best - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By khoist - April 27 - 11:44 am

  I have the five speed model, and its a blast to drive. Repairs are somewhat inexpensive, and Its dependable. Switching from my 1997 Taurus this car is more upgradeable

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  Good Car - 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
  By 1996 Chevy Cavalier - February 5 - 11:27 am

  I really love my Chevy Cavalier. I have had it since 2000 and I am the third owner. I bought it at 56000 miles and it now has 219000 on it. I have only had regular maintance on it except for around 70000 I had to replace the head gasket which is normal for these cars.

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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.