1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

13 recalls, 751 complaints - 103 TSBs

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Defect Description

DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more

Consequence

DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

42,540 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Defect Description

SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more

Consequence

DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

16,270 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SABERSPORT

STEERING

Defect Description

DORMAN PRODUCTS IS RECALLING 3,900 INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFTS DORMAN PART NOS. 425-151, 425-152, AND 425-153, (SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS" BRAND NAME), BALKAMP #'S 7-3057, 7-3058, 7-3059 (SOLD UNDER THE "NAPA" BRAND NAME), AND PLATINUM PARTS #'S 2425151, 2425152, AND 2425153 MANUFACTURED DU... Read more

Consequence

IF THE WELD FAILS, LOSS OF STEERING COULD RESULT, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE STEERING SHAFTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 16, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN TOLL FREE AT 1-800-523-2492.

3,855 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Defect Description

CERTAIN DELPHI AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMP MODULES / MODULE RESERVOIR ASSEMBLIES (MRA) THAT WERE SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE MRAS VENT AND FUEL RETURN TUBES WERE REVERSED. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN THE VEHICLE NOT RUNNING CORRECTLY (IDLE ROUGH AND/OR STALL) DUE TO... Read more

Consequence

A STALLED VEHICLE CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. A FUEL LEAK CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE MRAS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 1-877-335-7443.

3,124 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: DELPHI

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Defect Description

CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. ... Read more

Consequence

WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy

CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.

27,176 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Defect Description

CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE D... Read more

Consequence

WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy

PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

61,944 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.

STEERING:RACK AND PINION

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS HAVE LOWER PINION BEARINGS IN THE POWER RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE RETAINER TABS WERE NOT CRIMPED PROPERLY. THESE AND SOME OTHER RETAINERS USED IN VEHICLES ASSEMBLED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 1996 AND OCTOBER 31, 1997, COULD FAIL AND PERMIT THE BALL BEA... Read more

Consequence

IF THIS OCCURS, THE PINION SHAFT CAN BE FORCED UPWARD DURING LEFT TURNS AND BACK DOWN AS THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED BACK AND TO THE RIGHT. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL NEED TO EXERT MORE EFFORT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL, SIMILAR TO A VEHICLE WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED STEERING. ... Read more

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW LOWER PINION BEARING UNLESS INSPECT OF THE EXISTING BEARING INDICATES THAT REPLACEMENT OF THE GEAR ASSEMBLY IS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JANUARY 24, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE T... Read more

1,159,156 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE ENGINE FAILS TO START AND THE DRIVER HOLDS THE KEY IN THE "START" POSITION FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD, HIGH CURRENT FLOWS THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND SOMETIMES PRODUCES ENOUGH HEAT TO MELT INTERNAL SWITCH PARTS.

Consequence

IF THE SWITCH IS DAMAGED, A FIRE COULD OCCUR IN THE STEERING COLUMN, EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF AND THE KEY REMOVED.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RELAY KIT IN THESE VEHICLES TO PREVENT HIGH CURRENT FROM FLOWING THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 27, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONA... Read more

1,589,948 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

SUSPENSION:REAR

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. ONE OF THE REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM BOLTS CAN FATIGUE AND BREAK.

Consequence

IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL CAN OCCUR, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM FASTENERS.

27,083 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

AIR BAGS

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. BECAUSE OF CERTAIN CALIBRATIONS IN THE AIR BAG'S SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE, AN INADVERTENT AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD OCCUR IN A LOW SPEED CRASH OR WHEN AN OBJECT STRIKES THE FLOOR PAN.

Consequence

AIR BAGS DEPLOY WITH GREAT FORCE AND CAN SERIOUSLY INJURE UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANTS WHO ARE TOO CLOSE TO THEM.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL RECALIBRATE THE AIR BAG SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE.

675,302 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

STRUCTURE:BODY

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH MIS-LOCATED WELDS AT THE JOINT BETWEEN THE LEFT ROCKER PANEL INNER REINFORCEMENT AND THE BODY SIDE RING. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 214, "SIDE DOOR STRENGTH."

Consequence

IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE SHEET METAL STRUCTURE WOULD NOT PERFORM AS DESIRED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WELDS AND, IF NECESSARY, PLACE FIVE WELDS BETWEEN THE INVOLVED PANELS AND APPLY PRIMER AND TOPCOAT FINISH MATERIALS.

8 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

WHEELS:SPACE SAVER WHEEL

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE COMPACT SPARE TIRE ASSEMBLIES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH INCORRECT RIMS. IF THE SPARE TIRE IS UNDERINFLATED, THE BEAD CAN SEPARATE FROM THE RIM CAUSING A RAPID LOSS OF AIR. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIM... Read more

Consequence

A RAPID LOSS OF AIR CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE RIM ON THE COMPACT SPARE TIRE ASSEMBLY. OWNERS ARE REQUESTED NOT TO USE THE SPARE TIRE UNTIL THE RIM HAS BEEN REPLACED.

652 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

Defect Description

THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH AN INCORRECT WIPER BLADE ASSEMBLY (17" LONG INSTEAD OF 22" LONG) ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 104, "WINDSHIELD WIPING AND WASHING SYSTEMS."

Consequence

THE AREA AND PATTERN WIPED ON THE WINDSHIELD WILL BE REDUCED AND COULD AFFECT THE DRIVER'S VIEW IN WET WEATHER INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR THE CORRECT WIPER BLADE ASSEMBLY AND INSTALL A CORRECT LENGTH WIPER BLADE ASSEMBLY.

50 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Complaint Statistics

751 total complaints 86 crashes 33 fires 98 injuries 5 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE	47
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL	44
STEERING:RACK AND PINION	36
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH	32
AIR BAGS	32
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP	31
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	29
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	26
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION	23
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM	17

Incident date: Jan 1, 2002

CAR RADIATOR FAN WON'T KICK ON CAUSE CAR TO GET VERY DANGEROUSLY HOT CAUSING CAR TO BECOME A BOMB

Incident date: Jan 1, 2002

CAR RADIATOR FAN WON'T KICK ON CAUSE CAR TO GET VERY DANGEROUSLY HOT CAUSING CAR TO BECOME A BOMB

Incident date: Jan 1, 2002

CAR RADIATOR FAN WON'T KICK ON CAUSE CAR TO GET VERY DANGEROUSLY HOT CAUSING CAR TO BECOME A BOMB

Incident date: Sep 9, 2012

AIR BAGS DEFLATED SEPTEMBER 9, 2012 WHILE IN MOTION TURNING A 90 DEGREE BEND THEN BRAKING INTO ROAD BANK ON A THE SIDE OF A COUNTRY DIRT ROAD. AN EARLY INSPECTION WAS HANDED DOWN FROM THE COMMONWEALTH STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA ON JULY, 01, 2016. SHORTLY AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AUTO ACCIDENT WH... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Feb 22, 2016

WHILE DRIVING MY HORN STOPPED WORKING WITHOUT ANY KIND OF INDICATOR!! 3 TIME THIS HAS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING !! MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE! WAS UNABLE WARN CAR BACKING OUT AND HAD TO SWERVE TO AVOID ACCIDENT! REPLACED FUSE 3 TIMES!! SOMEONE MAY DIE AS A RESULT OF THIS MALFUNCTION!! NEVER RECEIVED ANY KIND ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 22, 2016

Incident date: Dec 24, 2014

THE SAFETY DEVICE LIGHT CAME ON. IT WON'T GO OFF, CAN'T START MY CAR. *JS

Incident date: Dec 24, 2014

THE SAFETY DEVICE LIGHT CAME ON. IT WON'T GO OFF, CAN'T START MY CAR. *JS

Incident date: Nov 28, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START ON THE FIRST ATTEMPT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 5, 2013

MY 1987 CHEVY CAVALIAR SHUT OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING MULTIPLE TIMES. THE FIRST TIME I HEARD CLICKING IN THE CLUSTER AND THE THEFT SYSTEM LIGHT TURNS ON AND MY FUEL PUMP SHUTS DOWN. I HAVE BEEN IN VERY CRITICAL PLACES WHILE THIS SITUATION TAKES PLACE. THE THEFT SYSTEM HAS SHUT MY VEHICHLE OFF ON ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 5, 2013

Incident date: Oct 1, 2014

MY REAR DEFROST QUIT WORKING AND I WENT AND CHECKED SOME OF THE CONNECTIONS. THE CONNECTION UNDER THE DASH HAD BEEN MELTED, WITH THE PLASTIC SHOWING EVIDENCE OF BEING MELTED. I HAVE DONE SOME CHECKING ON THE INTERNET AND IT APPEARS IT IS A PROBLEM. IF YOU CHECK GM CARS PONTIAC, AND GM SOME OF THE... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2014

Incident date: May 16, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN ENGAGING THE BRAKES, ALL THE BRAKE FLUID LEAKED FROM THE BRAKE LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPA... Read more

Incident date: May 16, 2014

Incident date: Sep 12, 2009

I WAS DRIVING AROUND 30 MPH TO A STOP SIGN AND MY CAR DIED WHILE IN DRIVE, APPROACHING A STOP SIGN. THE INCIDENT HAPPENED AGAIN IN MAY 2010 WHEN I WAS DRIVING HOME AND HAD TO COAST DOWN A BRIDGE, WHICH PROMPTED ME TO SELL THE CAR BECAUSE I FELT IT WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE ANYMORE. *TR

Incident date: Mar 4, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THE ENGINE FAILED TO START AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE ENGINE WIRING HARNESS WAS FAULTY AND EXPOSED MELTED WIRES. THE... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Sep 20, 2009

THE FIRST INCIDENT THAT OCCUR WAS IN 2009. IT WAS THAT THE SWITCH OF THE KEY ENGINE DID NOT WANT TO START. SOMEONE CAME TO FIX IT BUT COULD NOT FIND A WAY TO REPAIR IT. HE HAD TO ADD A BUTTON UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL AND I WOULD BE TUNING THE KEY TO THE ENGINE TO START I WOULD HAVE TO PUSH THAT BUTT... Read more

Incident date: Sep 20, 2009

Incident date: Sep 14, 2009

AS I WAS GOING TO TURN THE SWITCH ON TO TURN ON MY CAR IT DIDN'T WANT TO START. I HAD SOME ONE FIX IT BUT COULD NOT FIND A WAY TO FIX IT. THEY HAD TO ADD A BUTTON UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL TO START THE CAR AS I TURN THE SWITCH ON. THERE WAS COUPLE A OF TIMES WHERE THE CAR WOULD GO ON PASSLOCK BY ITSE... Read more

Incident date: Sep 14, 2009

Incident date: Jun 25, 2013

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HAVING THE VEHICLE INSPECTED, THE MECHANIC STATED THE PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE OF THE FRAME WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12... Read more

Incident date: Jul 16, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD ACTIVATED THE ANTI THEFT MOD... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT WAS SITTING AT A TRAFFIC STOP WHEN HER FOOT SLIPPED OFF THE BRAKE AND CAUSED HER TO LIGHTLY CRASH INTO THE REAR OF A PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO EITHER VEHICLE BUT THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED ERRONEOUSLY, CAUSING... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Feb 1, 2011

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, HE ATTEMPTED TO SOUND THE HORN AND IT WAS NOT FUNCTIONING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE HORN SENSOR WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 4, 2011

SOLD MY 1997 CHEV. CAVALIER TO A 17 YEAR OLD GIRL. HER DAD TOOK CAR FOR TEST DRIVE BEFORE CASH PURCHASE. HE WENT 200 FEET DOWN THE STREET THEN BACKED UP INTO MY DRIVEWAY. HE SAID BRAKE WARNING LITE CAME ON AND BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR. WE SAW BRAKE FLUID POURING FROM UNDER CAR. THE BRAKE LINE WAS R... Read more

Incident date: Mar 10, 2011

1997 CHEVY CAVALIER STEERING COLUMN AND DASHBOARD CAUGHT ON FIRE ON MARCH 10, 2011. CAR HAD NO MECHANICAL OR ELECTRICAL ISSUES PRIOR TO THE FIRE. CAR WAS IN EXCELLENT WORKING CONDITION. CAR HAD BEEN PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE HOUR AFTER BEING USED FOR A SHORT DRIVE. THE CAVALIER WAS PARKED OUT... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Mar 10, 2011

Fire

Incident date: Dec 28, 2010

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 10 MPH WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME RESISTANT AND LOCKED. WITHOUT STEERING CAPABILITY, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILE... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Jan 18, 2009

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. ALL OF THE WINDOWS IN THE VEHICLE WERE CLOUDY UPON SHIFTING INTO DRIVE GEAR WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AFTER IT WAS STARTED. IN ORDER TO CLEAR THE WINDOWS THE CONTACT HAD TO BANG ON THE DASHBOARD. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY DURING COLD WEATHER CONDIT... Read more

Incident date: Oct 23, 2009

WHILE DRIVING AT 55MPH THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. WHEN THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED IT RIPPED APART THE DASH AND BUSTED THE WINDSHIELD. LUCKILY MY SON WAS NOT INJURED AND MANAGED TO KEEP THE CAR UNDER CONTROL TO GET IT OFF THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT HAVING AN ACCIDENT. WHEN GM WAS CONTACTED THEY SAID SORRY... Read more

Incident date: Oct 2, 2008

I BOUGHT THIS CAR USED LAST YEAR FOR MY DAUGHTER. WE HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE KEY TO START, THE KEY WAS LEFT IN THE START POSITION A FEW TIMES TRYING TO GET STARTED. WE NOTICED A SPARK COME FROM THE COLUMN AND NOTHING. I NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE IGNITION SWITCH DOING THE S... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Apr 4, 2009

HAVE HAD FUEL LINE, AND FUEL PUMP REPLACED. STILL GET A STRONG SMELL OF GAS.... CAN NOT GET RID OF THE ODOR. THERE IS NOT A GAS LEAK THAT IS VISIBLE TO THE HUMAN EYE BUT THE SCENT STILL LINGERS INSIDE AND OUT. *TR

Incident date: Feb 16, 2009

CALLED TO HAVE RECALL NUMBER 07E015000 AT DELPHI. PAUL (CUSTOMER SERVICE REP) CLEARLY WOULD NOT LET ME HAVE THE RECALL., AFTER ANSWERING ALL THE QUESTION. *TR

Incident date: Sep 22, 2008

MY CAVALIER FRAME ROTTED AND BROKE. THIS IS VERY SERIOUS DO TO THE FACT THAT I LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE AND ALMOST CRASHED. *TR

Incident date: Dec 15, 2008

MY SUB-FRAME HAS BROKEN TWICE ON MY CAVALIER. I DON'T WANT TO REPAIR IT ANYMORE!!! *TR

Incident date: Aug 15, 2008

I HAVEN'T HAD AN INCIDENT YET. ALL 4 OF MY TIRES ARE CRACKED IN THE SAME AREA AROUND THE TIRE. LEADING ME TO BELIEVE IT IS A MANUFACTURES DEFECT. *TR

Incident date: Jan 1, 1901

1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED FOR NO REASON. *NJ AN INSPECTION REVEALED NO MECHANICAL REASON FOR THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG. ALSO, THE SUNROOF WAS INOPERATIVE. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED HER VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL FOR THE AIR BAG. *JB

Incident date: Jan 1, 1901

Incident date: Jun 19, 2008

I JUST GOT A USED CHEVY CAVALIER A 97 MODEL AND IT OVER HEATS CONSTANTLY AND THERE IS A POP AN SPARKS WHEN STARTING THE CAR AND THE LIGHTS WON'T TURN OFF AND NOW THERE IS WOBBLING IN THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL AND WHITE SMOKE COMING OUT THE BACK . I ONLY HAD IT FOR MAYBE TWO DAYS NOW AND THE FAN T... Read more

Incident date: Mar 5, 2007

I HAVE BEEN HAVING TROUBLE STARTING MY CHEVY CAVALIER. THE PROBLEM IS THE THEFT SYSTEM. I AM A SINGLE MOTHER AND THE CHEVY PLACE SAID IT WOULD BE 400 DOLLARS TO FIX. I HAVE READ THAT ALOT OF CHEVY OWNERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. PLEASE HAVE THIS RECALL. I BEG YOU THANKS *TR

Incident date: Feb 22, 2008

THE IGNITION SYSTEM. *TR

Incident date: Dec 28, 2003

1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER WITH A STEERING COLUMN RECALL. CONSUMER STATES THAT THEY NEVER RECEIVED THE FIRST RECALL AND BY THE TIME THEY RECEIVED THE SECOND ONE THEIR DAUGHTER HAD DIED IN THAT VEHICLE DUE TO AN ACCIDENT. *KB

Crash 1 injured 2 deaths

Incident date: Jan 3, 2008

MY CAVALIER 1997 (95,000 MILES) OUT OF NO REASON DURING COLD DAY TODAY 1/2/08, CAN NOT MOVE FOR NO APPARENT REASON. INITIALLY I CAN BACK UP MY CAR OUT OF THE DRIVE WAY, AND DRIVE A FEW BLOCKS AWAY. WHEN I STOP AT THE STOP SIGN, I FOUND THE CAR CAN NOT MOVE FOR A FEW FEETS TO STUCK AT THE MIDDLE OF T... Read more

Incident date: Oct 5, 2007

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN FROM A STOP, THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE POWER STEERING WORKS WHEN DRIVING FORWARD AND MAKING A RIGHT TURN, BUT FAILS ONLY WHEN TURNING LEFT. GMC STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NU... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2007

1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT IN LOW IMPACT ACCIDENT. CUSTOMER STATES THAT THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED IN A LOW IMPACT ACCIDENT. HE BELIEVES THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD PAY TO HAVE THEM REPLACED. *KB THE CONSUMER SOLD THIS VEHICLE TO HIS GRANDSON WHO WAS INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT. THE CONSUMER WR... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Mar 16, 2007

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THERE WAS SNOW ON THE ROAD. DESPITE THE LOW IMPACT OF THE CRASH, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THERE IS RECALL # 98V146000 (AIR BAGS) FOR THIS FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THA... Read more

Crash

Showing 50 of 751 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
2.2L 4-cyl, Automatic 3-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	21.0	29.0	24.0	Regular	$2,600
2.2L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	22.0	31.0	25.0	Regular	$2,500
2.2L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	22.0	33.0	26.0	Regular	$2,400
2.2L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	31.0	24.0	Regular	$2,600
2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	19.0	29.0	23.0	Regular	$2,700
2.4L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	30.0	23.0	Regular	$2,700

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Compact Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

103 manufacturer communications from 89 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
010000 STEERING	10
350000 EQUIPMENT	6
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	5
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.	5
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY	4
162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS	4
135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR	4
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM	3

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Procedures to Unlock Delco Radio with Theftlock.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Procedures to Unlock Delco Radio with Theftlock.

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

350000 EQUIPMENT

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information with the field action courtesy transportation policy.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

THIS TECHNICAL BULLETIN PROVIDES A PROCEDURE TO REPROGRAM THE MEDIA DISC PLAYER WITH THE LATEST CALIBRATIONS TO CORRECT A CONDITION OF THE REAR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM NOT OPERATING AS INTENDED IN COLDER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE AREAS DUE TO CALIBR

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Vehicle Recalls

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

This informational bulletin provides the technician with information on what E85 fuel may due to a non E85 vehicle.

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules

010000 STEERING

CONCERNS WITH CLUNK NOISE FROM FRONT OF VEHICLE TURNING MANEUVER / STEERING WHEEL ROTATION.*JB (LUBRICATE OR REPLACE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT AS APPROPRIATE). UPDATED 10/05/07. *NJ UPDATED 4/1/08. *NJ UPDATED 7/1/2008 *PE

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

INFORMATION ON 4T40-E (MN4) AND 4T45-E (MN5) FRONT WHEEL DRIVE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION VALVE BODY RECONDITIONING, DTC P0741, P0742, P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P1811, HARSH SHIFTS, SLIPS, NO DRIVE, NO REVERSE. *NJ

012000 STEERING:COLUMN

CLUNK FELT/NOISE HEARD FROM STEERING COLUMN, STEERING GEAR AND/OR FRONT OF VEHICLE DURING TURNING MANEUVER AND/OR STEERING WHEEL ROTATION (LUBRICATE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT [I-SHAFT]). *NJ

010000 STEERING

CLUNK FELT/NOISE HEARD FROM STEERING COLUMN, STEERING GEAR AND/OR FRONT OF VEHICLE DURING TURNING MANEUVER AND/OR STEERING WHEEL ROTATION. *TT

010000 STEERING

CLUNK NOISE FROM FRONT OF VEHICLE DURING TURNING MANEUVER/STEERING WHEEL ROTATION. *TT *NM

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY WANT TO TOW THEIR VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE WITH ALL FOUR TIRES ONT HE GROUND. THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION REGARDING RECREATIONAL (DINGHY) TOWING FOR CERTAIN VEHICLES INCLUDING 1988-2004 CHEVROLET AND GMC LI

135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

LEFT OUTSIDE BREAKAWAY MIRROR INOPERATIVE. *TT UPDATE. *TT

021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT

INFORMATION REGARDING CLUNK NOISE FROM FRONT OF VEHICLE DURING TURNING. *YH *TT

021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT

FRONT SUSPENSION STEER NOISE SMOOTH ROAD TURNS. *MR

046300 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR

ABS FRONT WHEEL SPEED CODES - JUMPER HARNESS. *TT

046300 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS) FRONT WHEEL SPEED CODES - JUMPER HARNESS. *TT

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

NEUTRAL FLARE AND/OR RPM FLARE WHILE IN DRIVE, NO 1-2 UPSHIFT, SERVICE ENGINE SOON (SES) LIGHT ILLUMINATED, DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P1810, DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1815 SET. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

010000 STEERING

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ON A CLUNK TYPE NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE DURING A TURNING MANEUVER. *TT

135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

MIRROR VIBRATES AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. *TT

125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

PROPER INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP THAT IS INTEGRATED IN THE REAR SPOILER. SOME DEALERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE LAMP NOT FITTING PROPERLY OR THAT PARTS ARE BEING DAMAGED DURING INSTALLATION. *TT

100000 POWER TRAIN

NEUTRAL FLARE AND/OR RPM FLARE WHILE IN DRIVE, NO 1-2 UPSHIFT, SERVICE ENGINE SOON (SES) LIGHT ILLUMINATED, DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P1810, DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1815 SET. *TT

135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

INOPERATIVE MANUAL OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR(S). *TT *JB

100000 POWER TRAIN

ENGINEERING CHANGES TO THE VALVE BODY, PRESSURE REGULATOR VALVE, 2-3 ACCUMULATOR VALVE AND BORE FOR 2002-2003 MODEL YEAR 4T45E TRANSAXLES AND SUBSEQUENT OVERHAUL PROCEDURES WHICH AFFECT 1995-2001 MODEL YEAR TRANSAXLES. *TT

010000 STEERING

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ON A CLUNK TYPE NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE DURING A TURNING MANEUVER. *TT

021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT

THIS BULLETIN IS BEING ISSUED TO REVISE THE FRONT SUSPENSION FASTNER TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS.*TT

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

SOME OWNERS MAY COMMENT ON LEAKAGE OF A FEW DROPS OF COOLANT AFTER PARKING THEIR VEHICLE. *TT

010000 STEERING

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CLUNK TYPE NOISE WHILE TURNING, ESPECIALLY FELT IN THE STEERING WHEEL. *TT

010000 STEERING

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CLUNK TYPE NOISE ESPECIALLY FELT IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE TURNING. *TT

122000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS

CUSTOMER CONCERN OF PREMATURE FOG LAMP FAILURE. *TT

114200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH

SUBJECT REGARDING REVISED INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER (IPC) REPLACEMENT. NLM

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

OWNERS OF SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HYDRA-MATIC 3T40, 4T60, 4T60-E OR 4T65-E TRANSAXLES MAY COMMENT ON A GRINDING AND / OR GROWLING NOISE THAT IS NOTICEABLE WHEN STANDING IN PARK ON A HILL OR SLOPE WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING AND THE PARKING

010000 STEERING

CUSTOMERS MAY COMPLAIN OF A CLUNK NOISE FROM FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE DURING TURNING MANEUVERS OR STEERING WHEEL ROTATION. *JB

010000 STEERING

INFORMATION ON DIAGNOSING CLUNK OR BUMP NOISE USUALLY HEARD WHEN TURNING EMITTING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THIS CONDITION MAY ALSO BE FELT THROUGH THE STEERING WHEEL OF VEHICLE WITH THE CAR IN PARK OR MOVING SLOWLY AND THE STEERING

010000 STEERING

THIS MESSAGE CONCERNS VEHICLES EXHIBITING A CLUNK NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. CUSTOMERS MAY STATE THAT A CLUNK NOISE IS HEARD WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

EXPERIENCING A RATTLE / SQUEAK IN RIGHT SIDE OF INSTRUMENT PANEL OR RIGHT FRONT DOOR TRIM PANEL SCRATCHED OR RIGHT SIDE END OF INSTRUMENT PANEL CONTACTING DOOR TRIM PANEL. *TT

034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS

INFORMATION REGARDING SNOW INTRUSION INTO REAR DRUM BRAKE ASSEMBLIES. **MR

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HYDRA-MATIC 3T40, 4T60 OR 4T60-E TRANSXALES MAY COMMENT ON A GRINDING AND / OR GROWLING NOISE THAT IS NOTICEABLE WHEN IN PARK ON INCLINE. *TT

034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS

SUBJECT REGARDING REQUEST FOR CUSTOMER COMPLAINT VEHICLES WHICH HAVE A FRONT BRAKE SQUEAK / SQUEAL NOISE COMPLAINT. *TT

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

ON SOME CONVERTIBLE MODELS, THE DOOR RATTLES WHEN CLOSING. *TT

135000 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES

CONCERNS WITH THE LEFT HAND MANUAL MIRROR NOT ADJUSTING WHEN THE ADJUSTMENT LEVER IS MOVED. *TT

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.2L ENGINES MAY EXHIBIT A ENGINE / TRANSMISSION WHINE AT 2800 - 32000 RPM. *TT

020000 SUSPENSION

SUBJECT PERTAINING TO FRONT AND / OR REAR STABILIZER SHAFT SQUAWK / SQUEAK NOISE. *TT

162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

CONDITIONS WITH WATER LEAK AT FRONT HEADER. *TT

150000 SEAT BELTS

CUSTOMERS MAY COMPLAIN THAT THE FRONT SEAT SHOULDER BELT PLASTIC COVER WILL NOT STAY SNAPPED IN PLACE ON COUPE MODELS ONLY. *TT

220000 SEATS

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT THAT THERE IS A BULGE IN THE MATERIAL ON THE TOP BACKSIDE OF EITHER FRONT BUCKET SEAT. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

REAR COMPARTMENT (TRUNK) LID LATCH DIFFICULT TO UNLOCK / OPEN. *YC

022000 SUSPENSION:REAR

PRODUCT RECALL CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM FASTENERS ON VEHICLES HAVING A CONDITION WHICH COULD RESULT IN ONE OF THE REAR SUSPENSION TRAILING ARM BOLTS BREAKING. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

A RATTLE COMING FROM THE DOOR(S) WHEN THE DOOR WINDOW GLASS IS LOWERED. *YC

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

COMMENTS THAT A METALLIC NOISE OR COLD RAP HEARD ON COLD EXHAUST SYSTEM. *TT

162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER SHOWS WEAR OR PERMANENT DAMAGE IN VARIOUS AREAS. YD

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

COMMENTS THAT A METALLIC NOISE ON COLD EXHAUST SYSTEMS. *TT

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

CONDITIONS REGARDING WEAK OR DISCHARGED BATTERY, SLOW STARTING, GEN OR MIL LAMP ON, VARIOUS DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOMS. *YC

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

SOME OWNERS MAY COMMENT THAT A METALLIC NOISE OR

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CLATTERING NOISE AT IDLE SPEED ORIGINATING FROM THE TIMING CHAIN AND FRONT COVER AREA. *YC

220000 SEATS

SEAT BELT LATCH SLIDES TO SEAT BELT ANCHOR SLEEVE. *YC

162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

COMMENTS ON THE CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER SHOWING WEAR OR PERMANENT DAMAGE. *YC

034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS

COMMENTS THAT THE REAR BRAKES MAY DRAG/HEAT UP OR REAR OF CAR IS SQUATTING DUE TO AGGRESSIVE REAR BRAKE. *YC

220000 SEATS

COMMENTS THAT THE SEAT BELT LATCH SLIDES TO THE SEAT BELT ANCHOR SLEEVE. *YC

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

VARIOUS AREAS OF THE VEHICLE CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER SHOWS WEAR OR PERMANENT DAMAGE. *YC

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

COMMENTS THAT THE DECK LID WILL NOT OPEN WHEN THE INTERIOR REMOTE RELEASE HANDLE IS PULLED. *YC

036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

COMPLAINTS THAT THE ABS INDICATOR LAMP IS "ON". *YC

036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

COMMENT THAT THE ABS LIGHT IS ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC'S) 46 AND 86 SET AS CURRENT OR HISTORY. *YC

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

INFORMATION CONCERNING ENGINE KNOCK/RATTLE OR TAP NOISE BEFORE ENGINE HAS REACHED OPERATING TEMPERATURE OR UNDER LIGHT LOAD CONDITIONS AT OPERATING TEMPERATURE (REPLACE PISTON AND/OR ROD ASSEMBLIES). AK

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

EXHIBITING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, AND P0304 INDICATING ENGINE MISFIRE CONDITIONS. *YC

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

CONCERNS THAT LOW ENGINE COOLANT LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE DURING SUSTAINED DRIVING. *YC

022400 SUSPENSION:REAR:SHOCK ABSORBER

REAR SHOCK NOISE IN TRUNK AREA - SOUNDS LIKE LOOSE LUMBER. *TW

162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

SCUFFED INTERIOR QUARTER TRIM PANELS ON CONVERTIBLE TOPS (ADD LOOP FASTENER TAPE/RE-STAKE REINFORCEMENT/ADD LOOP FASTENER). *TW

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ENGINE STALL AT COLD START, ROUGH IDLE, OIL FILTER EXPANSION, HIGH OIL PRESSURE AND ENGINE MISFIRE DTC'S (REPLACE OIL PUMP WITH IMPROVED PRESS RELIEF VALVE BORE). *TW

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

KNOCK, RATTLE OR TAP NOISE FROM THE ENGINE BEFORE THE ENGINE HAS REACHED OPERATING TEMPERATURE OR UNDER LIGHT LOAD CONDITIONS AT OPERATING TEMPERATURE KNOCK, RATTLE OR TAP NOISE FROM THE ENGINE BEFORE THE ENGINE HAS REACHED OPERATING

135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

LEFT HAND MIRROR DOES NOT ADJUST WHEN ADJUSTMENT LEVER IS MOVED (ADJUST LEVER TO ALIGN WITH LEVER SLIDE). *TW

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

CLN INDICATOR APPEARS ON RADIO DISPLAY AND DOES NOT TURN OFF (RESET CLN INDICATOR WITH THE EJECT BUTTON ON TAPE). *TW

221200 SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

RATTLE/SQUEAK FROM PASSENGER (RIGHT) SIDE OF REAR FOLDING SEATBACK AREA (REPOSITION RIGHT HAND FRAME ARM). *TW

101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

DELAY ENGAGEMENT INTO DRIVE AFTER COLD SOAK (REPLACE WITH REVISED FORWARD CLUTCH HOUSING ASSEMBLY COMPLETE). *TW

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

VARIOUS INFORMATION REGARDING OVERNIGHT COLD SOAK CONDITIONS. *YC

330000 INTERIOR LIGHTING

INTERIOR DOME LIGHT STAYS ON ALL THE TIME (REROUTE WIRE HARNESS). *TW

105300 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

LEAK IN THE AXLE SEAL AREA (SHORTEN VENT HOSE). *TW

062100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY

COOLANT LOSS, VISIBLE COOLANT LEAKAGE, LOW COOLANT LAMP ON OR COOLANT ODOR CAUSED BY COOLANT LEAKAGE. *TW

Showing 100 of 103 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2003

ENGINE STALLING - FUEL PUMP FAILURE

ODI'S ANALYSIS OF THE STALLING INCIDENTS THAT HAVE RESULTED FROM SUBJECT COMPONENT FAILURES FOUND THAT THEY CAN OCCUR AT ANY SPEED AND GENERALLY RESULT IN A NO RESTART CONDITION.THESE ARE GENERALLY CONSIDERED TO BE FACTORS THAT INCREASE THE POTENTIAL SEVERITY OF STALLING INCIDENTS.HOWEVER, THESE INC... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

FUEL PUMP FAILURE

AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS HAS BEEN OPENED TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE SCOPE, FREQUENCY AND POTENTIAL SAFETY-RELATED CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT.GENERAL MOTORS (GM) HAS IDENTIFIED AN ISSUE WITH ACCELERATED MOTOR BRUSH WEAR IN THE FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY OF MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 THROUGH 2003 CHEVROLET V... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2003

TURN SIGNAL MALFUNCTION

ON MAY 14, 2004 THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE04-043) BASED ON CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING THAT THE BRAKE/TAIL TURN SIGNAL LAMPS WOULD NOT OPERATE PROPERLY WHEN EITHER THE TAIL LIGHTS WERE TURNED ON, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, OR WHEN THE TURN SIGN... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

TURN SIGNAL MALFUNCTION

COMPLAINANTS ALLEGE THAT THE REAR TURN SIGNALS FAIL TO ILLUMINATE AND DO NOT PROVIDE A SIGNAL TO DRIVERS IN FOLLOWING VEHICLES.ODI HAS RECEIVED ONE REPORT OF A CRASH WHERE THE COMPLAINANT BRAKED AND ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A LEFT TURN AND THE FOLLOWING VEHICLE IMPACTED THE COMPLAINANT'S VEHICLE IN THE DRI... Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 1996

UNINTENDED VEHICLE ACCELERATION

ON SEPTEMBER 23, 2003, THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) RECEIVED A LETTER DATED SEPTEMBER 8, 2003 FROM MR. DONALD FRIEDMAN, PETITIONING THE AGENCY TO OPEN A DEFECT INVESTIGATION INTO UNINTENDED ACCELERATION INVOLVING [MODEL YEAR] 1996 AND 1997 GENERAL MOTORS J-CARS.IN SUPPO... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2000

ERRATIC FUEL GAUGE

ODI OPENED EA 02-028 TO REVIEW COMPLAINTS OF CONSUMERS REPORTING THAT THEIR FUEL GAUGE WAS INCORRECTLY DISPLAYING THE AMOUNT OF FUEL IN THE GAS TANK.THE FUEL GAUGE RECEIVES AN ELECTRICAL SIGNAL FROM A FUEL TANK SENDING SENSOR CIRCUIT CARD.A FLOAT ARM IN THE TANK MOVES ELECTRICAL CONTACTS THAT RUB AG... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2000

ENGINE STALL DUE TO FUEL STARVATION

ODI OPENED PE02-066 TO EVALUATE THE SCOPE AND CONSEQUENCE OF ENGINE POWER-LOSS DUE TO FUEL STARVATION INDUCED BY IN-TANK MODULAR FUEL PUMP STRAINER RESTRICTION.THE SUBJECT PUMPS USE AN EXTERNAL ?SOCK? STRAINER TO FILTER FUEL FLOWING TO THE PUMP INLET.THIS FILTER CAN SOMETIMES BECOME CLOGGED, RESULTI... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1995

FIRE IN STEERING COLUMN AREA

SQ, Closed , Model Year: 2000

ERRATIC FUEL GAUGE

There is no summary currently available

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1996

OVERSENSITIVE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENTS

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1996

INADVERTENT AIR BAG DEPLOYMENTS

There is no summary currently available

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1993

HORN PAD FALLS OFF

THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.GM WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN TO ADDRESS THE CONCERNS RAISED BY THE DETACHMENT OF THE HORN PAD FROM THE STEERING WHEEL IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.FOR A TECHNICAL ANALYSIS OF THE PROBLEM SEE EA94-033 ENGINEERING TECHNICAL REPORT.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1994

HORN BUTTON FALLING OFF

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1988

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1982

ELECT. FAILURES/FIRES

SUMMARY OF INFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURER:MANUFACTURER REPORTS INCLUDE 1OWNER COMPLAINT, 45 FIELD REPORTS, AND 2 LAWSUITS.NO SERVICE OR TECHNICALBULLETINS HAVE BEEN ISSUED TO DEALERS.GM REPORTED THAT ELECTRICAL SYSTEMMODIFICATIONS HAD BEEN INITIATED FOR BOTH THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WIRING HAR-NESS AND T... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1984

SEAT TRACK LOCK

ANALYSIS:EIGHT (8) OF THE 13 COMPLAINTS ALLEGE THAT THE FAILURE OCCURREDPRIOR TO ANY IMPACT/ACCIDENT INVOLVEMENT.ONE (1) OF THE FAILURES MAY HAVECAUSED OR AT LEAST INFLUENCED THE DRIVERS INVOLVEMENT IN AN ACCIDENT.THEDRIVER'S SUDDEN TEMPORARY LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL MAY HAVE RESULTED FROMHIS INABILI... Read more

CHEVROLET CAVALIER - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the CHEVROLET CAVALIER across all model years (1982, 2005).

110 Total Recalls

6,469 Total Complaints

16 Investigations

552 Reported Crashes

167 Reported Fires

28 Reported Deaths

CHEVROLET CAVALIER - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2005	1	362	View
2004	2	428	View
2003	2	867	View
2002	5	254	View
2001	6	356	View
2000	7	447	View
1999	8	337	View
1998	11	473	View
1997 (current)	13	751
1996	13	748	View
1995	9	392	View
1994	2	310	View
1993	2	237	View
1992	1	178	View
1991	3	77	View
1990	1	70	View
1989	2	71	View
1988	3	14	View
1987	3	27	View
1986	3	21	View
1985	3	4	View
1984	3	10	View
1983	6	17	View
1982	1	1	View

Other CHEVROLET Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
SUBURBAN	246	10,458	View
TAHOE	240	12,622	View
MALIBU	216	29,080	View
SILVERADO 1500	200	22,534	View
CORVETTE	187	6,308	View
CAMARO	179	4,298	View
SILVERADO	159	10,964	View
SILVERADO 3500	152	1,409	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

EPA Fuel Economy, 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Technical Service Bulletins, 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, CHEVROLET CAVALIER

CHEVROLET CAVALIER - All Years Overview

CHEVROLET CAVALIER - Year by Year

Other CHEVROLET Models