1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Coupe review from North America
"Practicality instead of performance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Thermostat at 48,000 miles
Positive battery cable at 50,000
Water pump at 65,000
Alternator at 68,000.
General comments?
Most repairs up to this point have been minor, but it seems like everything happened at once.
The battery cable is not interchangeable with any aftermarket cable. I had to spend $70 at the dealership for a factory cable.
My next project will be to replace the steering rack and the head gasket, which are common problems with this vehicle. Luckily I work at a salvage yard, and the steering rack can be bought used for $35.
This vehicle does not have the power of a Japanese 2.2L engine, and the way the car handles is reminiscent of an SUV. Overall it makes a good first car for a new driver who is only interested in getting from point A to B.
Recommended Reviews:
  | A dependable, good-looking car |
| It's great to drive to softball practice, or even to visit college -- just not constantly reliable |
All 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.2 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 4/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 39000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 100000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Probe |
| Date of Entry | 7th August, 2004 |