2000 Chevrolet Cavalier Base review from North America

The first problem I had with the car was in January 2003. Not too bad since I got the car in February 2001. One day I went outside as I usually do, and my car would not start. I had to have it towed to the dealer. The tow did not cost me anything, as it was under warranty, and I used the 800 number on the window. First the dealer told me there was nothing wrong, since the no start problem was off and on. So when I had her test the brakes because of the noise I hear from the brakes, it died on her. After 3 weeks, they told me it was the fuel pump and sending unit. While it was there, the fender, bumper, and headlight were damaged and fixed at no cost to me, however because of the law in Massachusetts, I was under 21 at the time, and could not have a rental. I had them look at other problems, and they said that there were none.

Problems:

The A/C line rubs against the radiator fan housing, cause the line to wear away. Have to use a wire tie to hold away from fan.

The trunk would not close as the trunk mechanism was bent. Had to fix this myself.

The trunk leaked from a small hole where the rear quarter panel, and the left tail light met. Had to fix this myself. Also noticed poor fix from the factory with just some cheap caulk dabbed on by finger. I used black silicone, and did both sides. Had to take out carpet and let dry.

Oil is very difficult to change. When you take the filter off, it drains all over the front exhaust pipe.

Air conditioner develops an odor during the summer. The odor is a musty moldy smell, from condensation on the A/C evaporator. The dealer told me the only way to fix it is to shut the A/C off about 5 minutes before I get where I am going.

Door edge guards did not match and half were missing from drivers side door.

Brakes are very noisy, and have a grinding noise. Was told there were no problems by dealer, and this is normal.

In July 2003, car again would not start for me. Had to have it towed again, for no charge due to warranty. I chose to go to a different dealer, as the previous one I had lost confidence in. This dealer had it for 6 days, and found the problem to just be a loose connection at the fuel pump. I have had no problems with the no start problem since then, thankfully.

All in all, this car is what you pay for. It is not a fancy automobile, but I expected a little better quality out of Chevrolet. I also expected a little better service from the dealer.

This is a decent car for the money, as it comes with standard A/C, ABS, power steering, airbags, Stereo.

Many upgrades to different features are available. I got a 4-speed automatic, rather than the 3-speed. I got a AM/FM/CD, with 6 speaker premium sound, and I am very impressed with the sound quality.

The engine runs very quiet, and the transmission shifts smoothly.

Car is comfortable and roomy. I am 6'1" and fit pretty good in the drivers seat. Of course it is back all the way and reclined just a tad, but that is OK for the price.

Also keep in mind that most parts are easily available, when compared with foreign cars.