1994 Chevrolet Cavalier RS review from North America

The only major repeat defect is the alternator, which I had to replace three different times. All times I used a new part, which was toast within about 30K miles. With labor it was $250/time = $750 total. I'm not sure if this is a common problem with this model year.

Other major problems (including labor) :

* Water pump 110000mi ($400)

* Heater Core 125000mi ($450)

* Torque Converter solenoid 120000mi ($250)

* Steering stem/gear 133000mi ($1000)

* Head gasket 137000mi ($TBD) - Not yet repaired.

As you can see the car has struggled since the $100000 mile mark, but was very reliable before that.

I bought the car expecting only to need it for perhaps four or five years. It's now almost ten years old and finally starting to show its age. The interior/exterior is still like new, however from a mechanical standpoint it's definitely a member of the walking wounded. This year alone the car has cost me $1000 in repairs, which does not include the head gasket I now need to replace. This will cost an estimated $1500 more.

Overall, however, I've been impressed with the car. I did not expect it to last 50K miles, due to the rumors about GM build quality, but it has gone above and beyond its call of duty. I was quite impressed when I finally got to watch the odometer cross 100000 miles (I actually pulled over and took a picture). I would definately recommend the Cavalier to a first-time buyer looking for a good value that can last if needed.