2000 Chevrolet Cavalier VLX review from North America

ECM needed re-programming at 10,000 KM. (Factory recall).

Brakes needed replacing (Fronts) at 40,000 KM.

The cheap tires burned through at 50,000 KM. (The front tires even faster).

Squeaks and rattles are normal in a Cavalier. So I drowned them out with the stereo.

Great fuel economy. Terrible power. The engine would scream. I manually shift the automatic because I like to use the transmission to brake the vehicle down hills (saves on brake wear and doesn't hurt the transmission much).

Great air conditioning. Seat comfort is not good. On a long trip (Calgary -> Winnipeg and back, my back was killing me). NO lumbar support. But hey- it's a cheap car. The interior styling is cheap. GM tries, but fails in convincing you that this car is something 'more'. It's a cheap car, but fairly reliable - I was surprised.

One point of advice: Do not buy these vehicles used. Buy a Honda, Toyota, Acura, Lexus, or Subaru used. Those cars are built for the long-haul.

I am going to be leasing a 2003 Cavalier, so I'll put in my review in a few months. I'm leasing because I do not have great credit, and I NEED a car for my job. (Hey, I DID try to get a loan on a used Accord - give me credit).

The Cavalier is a good cheap car. Don't pass it up if you're on a tight budget and don't care about performance. The 2003 has 140 HP, though...