1997 Chevrolet Cavalier LS review from North America
"The Cavalier is a good value, and it is reliable and comfortable."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The brake pads and rotors need to be replaced every 30,000 miles or so, but I do a lot of in-town driving. Average repair cost was $250.
The water pump started leaking coolant at 100,000 miles. I replaced it for $350.
The alternator died at 130,000 miles. The price for repair is yet to be determined, but I've been quoted around $200-250.
General comments?
The passenger seat is also comfortable on long trips, but the back seat is a bit cramped. It's fine for children, but adults cannot sit comfortably for very long.
The trunk is large and will hold a few suitcases and two backpacks.
The car handles beautifully. It handles turns smoothly, and it has quite a bit of pick-up when accelerating.
I love this car, and I recommend Cavaliers to my friends who are about to purchase a car.
Recommended reviews
| A dependable, good-looking car |
| It's great to drive to softball practice, or even to visit college -- just not constantly reliable |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 130000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 14th April, 2002 |