1996 Chevrolet Cavalier Review

Not a Ferrari, but under credited cars.

Written by: chogan85 on 07/29/2009

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2 Dr STD Coupe

Review

If your looking for a good first car for you teenager, do not dismiss this car despite GM's reliability and quality record. I am now 23 and looking for a newer used car but I have to stand up for the Cavalier, she's been an overall great little sporty car. With the 3spd auto, (some performance mods) respectable torque, decent stock suspension, the 2.2l 2200 engine may not pump out a lot of mind blowing horsepower, but it's been a very reliable engine. Acceleration could be a bit better for its class. Awesome gas mileage (*with* performance mods!) With a WAI, catback exhaust and performance header, I get 26 city and 31 highway. The interior isn't that bad, overall pretty basic and comfortable

Favorite Features

The trunk space is ridiculous haha. The back seat folds down completely and you can really take advantage of the car's body length! When I moved to my newer apartment, it took that car only 6 trips to fit all of my belongings (obviously not including furniture).

Suggested Improvements

Bottom line, the only thing wrong with this car is it's made by a company that only seems to get Trucks and Muscle Cars built right. Had to replace the tranny $$$ but I'm pretty sure a previous owner tried to stick it in park when it was still moving, but it lasted. Cooling system is awful though.

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Can't wait to get rid of it!

Written by: Jon on 05/05/2009

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2 Dr STD Coupe

Review

I bought this car with 68,000 miles on it, and it was in OK condition. 4 years later I'm at 92,000 miles and I can't wait to get rid of it. I have massive oil leaks from several spots on the engine, my radiator hoses blew a few months ago and I too have headlight issues due to faulty wiring. Road/wind noise is unbearable, more so then the constant chatter of the plastic interior and rattling of the suspension. On cold and rainy days the engine tends to flood itself. ALL the seals leak in this car leading the interior and trunk to get wet. The entire electrical system in this car is horrible. Apart from the headlight problems, the electrical system tends to give out at high speeds.

Favorite Features

It gets me from point A to point B in a loud, bouncy and uncomfortable manner. Chicago potholes are bad enough, especially in a car that gets thrown around by running over a quarter.

Suggested Improvements

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Happens all at once

Written by: Jeff on 05/03/2009

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2 Dr STD Coupe

Review

My car has been fine no big problems. I had to have brakes and the air went out. I keep smelling gas so if everything starts to happen then the car is falling apart. Before the gas smell the car was great.

Favorite Features

Gas and easy to drive

Suggested Improvements

Cruise and rear defrost

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I love my car

Written by: mandy on 02/26/2009

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2 Dr Z24 Coupe

Review

I love this car! Purchased for $800 from a family member who needed $$, who can beat that?! Was wrecked before,don't know anything about the prior history, but it's been my baby. 28-33 mpg still! Replaced alternator & fixed break fluid leak shortly after purchase. Replaced motor at a little over 170K, 2 yrs ago, $900, cheaper than a new car. At 217K now & still rolling. Oil send unit went out a few months ago,replaced. Having a bit of off-and-on trouble w/the low beam lights(a wiring prob.) Having trouble locating the problem bc of course it doesn't happen when my mechanic has it! LOL No big since I don't drive at night much & if I do I just drive my other vehicle.

Favorite Features

excellent MPG, small car, sporty look

Suggested Improvements

dipstick for tranny

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One of Chevy's best

Written by: khoist on 04/27/2008

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2 Dr STD Coupe

Review

I have the five speed model, and it's a blast to drive. Repairs are somewhat inexpensive, and It's dependable. Switching from my 1997 Taurus this car is more upgradeable

Favorite Features

The manual transmission, the availability for a non-stock head unit, and seating comfort

Suggested Improvements

Lower it further to the ground for better handling

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