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Used 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier Consumer Reviews

3.9 out of 5 stars
72 reviews

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Same problems as others.

James Nemanich, 03/15/2002
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier LS 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just wanted to say that I am having the same problems others are having. Transmission out, electronic fuel sending system (Controlls fuel guage) replaced 2 times, waterpump, heater core, wheel berings, window motors. GM sold these with the new Dex Cool engine coolant. Around 1999 they discovered this was breaking down and causing internal engine rust. I'd trade in before 70k.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

A good car for the money

KMadhouse, 01/06/2004
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my cavalier with 110k miles on it in 2001, I have 140k on it now and have been pretty happy with it. The water pump seems to go on these between 105k and 115k, so watch out for that. Backseat's kinda small, hard to get things in and out of. I replaced the transmission at about 130k, which was a pain. Still has some pickup despite the mileage, but the 4-speed automatics are a bit punchier. The paint job on it has held up really well, it still looks fairly new. Overall, it's a nice little flashy, pretty dependable car. I'd get another newer one.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

I love my car

mandy, 02/27/2009
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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.

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2.88 out of 5 stars

Good for a first car

Krista , 06/03/2002
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am 16 and my parents bought me my cavalier. It had 115,000 miles on it when I bought it! It is a '96! Despite the high miles, it has been nothing but reliable. Being a teenage girl and not knowing a lot about cars I need a car I can depend on. I can depend on this car.

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2.5 out of 5 stars

fooled

miffed, 08/31/2002
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Had a chevy z-24 prior to buying the standard 2 door coupe and loved it!! So much has gone wrong with this car I dont even know where to start. The transmision is new, the engine gasket, numerous brake problems, water pump, new trunk latch, alternator, and much more that I am forgeting about at the moment. I am so fed up with chevy that I now refuse to buy another GM product!!! I would advise any one looking into buying a car to stay away from the cavalier. The only good thing about the car is the sticker price but you will end up paying alot more.

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