17th Oct 2005, 13:42

I have a 2002 Cavalier and I have had problems with the brakes. I took it back 3 times in the last year while it was under warranty to the dealership where I bought it. The ABS comes on when stopping on anything. I was told that this is normal and that I just wasn't used to having a car with ABS. Four months later I took it back for a problem with the steering shaft. When turning the wheel the front end of the car would shake, rattle, and moan. I was informed that a recall had been sent out for these cars (never received recall) and that the manufacturer used the wrong lube on the steering shaft. Got it all fixed up. Three months later the EXACT SAME problem started again. I took it back (out of warranty) and was told that the front rotors are shot, the front brake pads need replacing and the back brakes need servicing. I pointed out that this is the third time I've brought this car back and the dealership won't help me. I'm dealing with customer relations now with GM as this is horrible service. My brakes should have been checked the first TWO times I brought my car back. As of right now I have been relying on transit as I was informed that my car is now unsafe to drive.

31st Jul 2006, 21:18

Try getting aftermarket brake rotors and pads. GM rotors and pads are known for being total crap.

16th Feb 2007, 13:42

The 2002 LS sedans and some Z24 models did use the Ecotec 2.2L OHC engine. Only the VL and VLX models used the 2.2L OHV engine. One also has to consider that accidents can cause damage to electrical systems and other mechanical systems so these wrecks could have contributed to these problems your having.

3rd May 2007, 20:39

I have 2002 cavalier & my engine light has been on ever since I had my oxygen sensor replaced and now just today my trac off light came on and my car won't go over 20mph...anyone know what this could be? other than that I've replace all my window motors, but... i really just need this car to go I'm a single mother of two and don't have much money for taking it in all the time... please if you can lend any info please email me mtepelapooh1210@aol.com.

1st Jun 2007, 07:54

Accidents (and especially wrecks) can cause a bunch of problems. I myself drive a 2002 Cavalier VL sedan and have not had any mechanical problems with it. Accidents can cause serious frame damage, electrical problems, steering/suspension problems. I really hate to tell you this, but you should have just scrapped the car.

8th Jun 2007, 14:51

It sounds like a transmission problem.

26th Sep 2007, 21:52

I bought an 02 2 door cavalier last year and it has been great. I have had no problems with the car yet. I guess it can be hit or miss with any car. I would by another one.

Great gas mileage.

31st Jan 2008, 02:46

I just bought a 02 Chevy Cavalier Coupe and it is excellent. I do not have a bad thing to say about it. Runs great, awesome gas mileage and well its just GREAT.

31st Mar 2009, 10:17

I bought my 2002 Cavalier LS Sport in April of last year with about 120,000 on the odometer. This car has the 2.2 DOHC Ecotec engine and now has 151,000.

Up to now I've loved the car. Great power, great looks and very good mileage. Unfortunately I broke the timing chain last week and was told by numerous mechanics that this is an "interference" engine. What this means is that if your timing chain breaks, the valves and pistons will collide and ruin the engine (or at least the head). Does anyone know if this is an inherent problem with these engines, or was I just a little too hard on it?