I had no problems with this car (8 years) other than needing new brake pads up until the last year. The timing belt went which caused a heap of other problems. Then shortly after fixing that for $1200 the starter went and only 4 months after that something else is preventing it from starting.
I noticed on a lot of these cars a ticking noise that cannot be explained and aslo a whistling that is caused by a belt (but not the timing belt). But I loved this little car for 8 years and would have liked to keep it around, but unfortunally it's on its last wheels and must be put to sleep. I don't know how long exactly cars are suppose to last, but if 10 years is close to good this was a good car.
These cars do fairly well for the most part as long as they are maintained. I do, however, question why you don't classify the listed problems as "problems" in your sentence summary for the car. $1500 is considerable.
I have a 1996 cavalier and have a problem with losing antifreeze from a cracked head. I am told by more than one mechanic that there is not a lot I can do except keep an eye on the thermostat and the radiator. I am not a mechanical person mind you. does anyone else have the same problem with a cavalier???if so, what are the options???
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