The 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, part of a generation spanning from 1995-2005, was a popular compact car offered in coupe, sedan, and convertible body styles. Key trims included the Base, RS, and the sportier Z24. Known for its affordability, it typically ranged from around $12,000 to $18,000 when new. Its enduring popularity stemmed from its accessible price point, widespread availability, and no-nonsense approach to transportation, making it a common choice for first-time car buyers and budget-conscious consumers.
The Good
The 1997 Cavalier offered a practical and economical choice, boasting good fuel efficiency and a low purchase price that appealed to practicality. Emotionally, its approachable design and maneuverability made it a reliable companion for daily commutes and the freedom it offered.
The Bad
When considering a 1997 Cavalier, be aware of potential issues such as interior material wear, a less refined ride compared to some rivals, and the possibility of premature rust, especially in colder climates. Engine performance can be sluggish in base models.
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier typically offered two main engine choices.
- Base Engine: A 2.2-liter inline-4 cylinder engine was standard on lower trims.
- Horsepower: This base engine produced approximately 115 horsepower.
- Optional Engine: The more performance-oriented Z24 trim often featured a 2.4-liter DOHC inline-4 engine.
- Horsepower (Z24): The 2.4-liter engine offered around 150 horsepower.
- Transmission Options: Both manual and automatic transmission options were available.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 2.2L engine achieving an estimated 25-28 MPG in the city and 33-37 MPG on the highway, depending on transmission. The 2.4L would be slightly lower.
- 0-60 Times: 0-60 mph times varied significantly by engine and transmission. The 2.2L could take around 10-11 seconds, while the 2.4L in the Z24 could achieve it in approximately 8-9 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: The Chevrolet Cavalier was not designed for towing, and towing capacity was generally not a advertised or applicable specification.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Typically included essentials like power steering, intermittent wipers, and a basic AM/FM stereo. Air conditioning and power windows/locks were often optional.
- RS: Added a few more comfort and convenience features over the base model, potentially including upgraded interior trim, a tachometer, and a more robust audio system.
- Z24: This was the sportier trim, featuring the more powerful 2.4L engine, sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, distinctive exterior styling cues (like a rear spoiler), and often a more premium interior with bolstered seats and additional gauges.
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1997 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 3-Speed |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | LORDSTOWN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2630 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 54.70 inches |
| Overall Length | 180.70 inches |
| Overall Width | 67.90 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 104.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.2L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 3-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $10,980 |
| Invoice Price | $10,565 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Have?
The 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, while generally seen as an economical vehicle, is known to have some common issues that owners should be aware of. One of the most frequently reported problems relates to the intake manifold gasket, which can develop leaks over time, leading to coolant loss and potential engine overheating. Another concern often cited is with the power steering system, which can experience leaks or pump failure, making steering difficult. Transmission issues, particularly with automatic transmissions, have also been noted, with some owners reporting slipping or delayed shifting. The exhaust system is also a common area for wear and tear, with potential for leaks or rust, especially in areas with harsh winters.
Regarding recalls, specific recalls for the 1997 model year can vary, but general safety recalls for this era of Cavalier often involved issues like the airbag system, seatbelt pretensioners, or potential fuel system leaks. It is always advisable for owners to check with the NHTSA or Chevrolet directly for any outstanding recalls on their specific vehicle.
Long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. While many Cavaliers have proven to be durable workhorses with proper maintenance, certain components are more prone to failure as the vehicle ages. The suspension components, such as struts and ball joints, can wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential handling issues. Electrical gremlins, while not rampant, can also occur, affecting things like power windows, door locks, or the instrument cluster. The interior materials, especially on higher mileage vehicles, can show significant wear, with dashboard cracks and worn upholstery being common. Rust is also a significant concern for Cavaliers, particularly around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes, which can compromise structural integrity over time, especially in humid or salt-belt regions.
Regarding recalls, specific recalls for the 1997 model year can vary, but general safety recalls for this era of Cavalier often involved issues like the airbag system, seatbelt pretensioners, or potential fuel system leaks. It is always advisable for owners to check with the NHTSA or Chevrolet directly for any outstanding recalls on their specific vehicle.
Long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. While many Cavaliers have proven to be durable workhorses with proper maintenance, certain components are more prone to failure as the vehicle ages. The suspension components, such as struts and ball joints, can wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential handling issues. Electrical gremlins, while not rampant, can also occur, affecting things like power windows, door locks, or the instrument cluster. The interior materials, especially on higher mileage vehicles, can show significant wear, with dashboard cracks and worn upholstery being common. Rust is also a significant concern for Cavaliers, particularly around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes, which can compromise structural integrity over time, especially in humid or salt-belt regions.
How long will the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier can reasonably be expected to last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or serve owners for approximately 10-15 years. However, this is highly dependent on the owner's commitment to regular oil changes, fluid checks, and addressing minor issues promptly. Long-term durability is often hampered by the aforementioned rust concerns, especially in regions with snow and salt. The drivetrain, particularly the engines and transmissions, can be quite robust if not abused, but wear and tear on suspension and braking components are common over time. Early attention to intake manifold leaks and power steering issues can significantly extend the life of the engine and the overall drivability of the vehicle.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier was a product of its time, meaning its technology and safety features were relatively basic compared to modern vehicles. Standard tech and entertainment primarily consisted of an AM/FM radio, with an optional cassette player or a single-disc CD player available on higher trims or as an upgrade. Power windows and door locks were often optional extras, particularly on the base models. Air conditioning was also an option that many buyers chose. Cruise control was typically available on RS and Z24 trims.
Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent in the conventional sense. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional feature, especially on models equipped with more powerful engines or in higher trim levels, offering a degree of safety during hard braking. Traction control was not a common feature on this model.
Safety features included standard front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seat belts were also standard, with three-point belts in the front and rear seating positions. Side-impact door beams were incorporated into the design for improved occupant protection in side collisions.
Crash-test ratings for the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier can be found through organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In frontal impact tests, the Cavalier generally received three out of five stars for both the driver and front passenger. Side-impact test results might vary, but they typically indicated a moderate level of protection. It's important to note that crash-test standards and methodologies have evolved significantly since 1997, so these ratings should be viewed in the context of their era.
Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent in the conventional sense. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional feature, especially on models equipped with more powerful engines or in higher trim levels, offering a degree of safety during hard braking. Traction control was not a common feature on this model.
Safety features included standard front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seat belts were also standard, with three-point belts in the front and rear seating positions. Side-impact door beams were incorporated into the design for improved occupant protection in side collisions.
Crash-test ratings for the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier can be found through organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In frontal impact tests, the Cavalier generally received three out of five stars for both the driver and front passenger. Side-impact test results might vary, but they typically indicated a moderate level of protection. It's important to note that crash-test standards and methodologies have evolved significantly since 1997, so these ratings should be viewed in the context of their era.
What Colors Options are Available?
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1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Prices and Market Value
When new in 1997, the Chevrolet Cavalier had an attractive entry-level price, typically starting around $12,000 for the base model and climbing to approximately $18,000 for a well-equipped Z24. These were budget-friendly figures that contributed significantly to its sales volume.
Today, the used market prices for a 1997 Cavalier are considerably lower. Depending on condition, mileage, and trim, prices can range from as low as $1,000 to $3,500. Depreciation has been substantial, as is typical for most vehicles of this age and class. Factors significantly affecting resale value include overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), evidence of regular maintenance, and the presence of rust. A well-maintained, rust-free example, especially a Z24, will command a higher price than a neglected or heavily corroded model.
Today, the used market prices for a 1997 Cavalier are considerably lower. Depending on condition, mileage, and trim, prices can range from as low as $1,000 to $3,500. Depreciation has been substantial, as is typical for most vehicles of this age and class. Factors significantly affecting resale value include overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), evidence of regular maintenance, and the presence of rust. A well-maintained, rust-free example, especially a Z24, will command a higher price than a neglected or heavily corroded model.
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Cost of Ownership
The 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is generally considered very economical to own. Insurance premiums are typically low due to its affordable replacement cost and commonality. Fuel costs are also modest, thanks to its efficient 4-cylinder engines. Routine maintenance is straightforward and inexpensive, with parts widely available. Repair costs tend to be reasonable, as common issues are well-understood, and aftermarket parts are plentiful and affordable. While some repairs might be needed over time due to age, the overall cost of ownership remains low, making it a highly budget-friendly vehicle.
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
15.20 gallons
City Mileage
23 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
31 miles/gallon
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Recalls & Defects
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer
Recall date
1996-08-29
Recall no.
96v160000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Notes
Owner Notification:owner Notification Began August 1996. Note:owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Wheels:space Saver Wheel
Recall date
1997-06-28
Recall no.
97v106000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 Rims."
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.
Notes
Owner Notification:owner Notification Will Begin During July 1997. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
AIR Bags
Recall date
1998-06-29
Recall no.
98v146000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Notes
Owner Notification Began During August 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1022 or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4326).
Suspension:rear
Recall date
1998-12-15
Recall no.
98v319000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Notes
Owner Notification Began December 28, 1998. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Structure:body
Recall date
1998-02-25
Recall no.
98v032000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During March 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date
2002-03-06
Recall no.
02v070000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737, Buick AT 1-800-521-7300, or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537.
Notes
Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering:rack and Pinion
Recall date
2002-11-04
Recall no.
02v286000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 Bearings TO Escape.
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. IF THE Pinion Shaft Moves Even Further, THE Driver Will Require Much Higher Effort TO Turn Left and MAY NOT BE Able TO Turn THE Wheel AS Much AS Intended. With THE Maximum Pinion Shaft Movement, Which Requires Internal Gear Component Damage, THE Driver CAN Encounter High Resistance TO Turning Left, Followed BY Unintended Power Assist TO THE Right. IN ANY OF These Conditions, A Crash Could Occur.
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 THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737, or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 02049.also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-05-24
Recall no.
06e049000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY THE Vehicle Manufacturers.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-03-23
Recall no.
06e026000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 Devices, and Associated Equipment.
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2007-02-26
Recall no.
07e015000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 AN Overly Rich Fuel Blend or THE Vehicle's Evaporative Emission Carbon Canister MAY Leak Fuel.
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pump Modules and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Steering
Recall date
2008-10-17
Recall no.
08e063000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 During THE Month OF September 2007. These Replacement Steering Shafts CAN BE Used ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Weld Connecting THE Inner Tube TO THE Outer Tube MAY BE Defective.
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Dorman's OE Solutions Brand Name, Balkamp's Napa Brand, and THE Platinum Brand Steering Shafts and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Insurance
Insurance for a 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier competed in the highly contested compact car segment against rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, and Nissan Sentra. In terms of price, the Cavalier was often one of the most affordable options, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
Performance was a mixed bag. While the base 2.2L engine offered adequate but uninspiring acceleration, the Z24's 2.4L engine provided more spirited performance, though it still lagged behind some sportier competitors. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla generally offered a more refined and responsive driving experience, with smoother powertrains.
Features on the Cavalier were typically utilitarian, focusing on necessity rather than luxury or cutting-edge tech. Rivals like the Civic and Corolla often offered more sophisticated interior designs and a wider array of available options, even in their base trims.
Reliability is where the Cavalier faced its toughest competition. While generally considered reliable enough for its price point, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla consistently ranked higher in long-term reliability surveys. They were known for fewer mechanical issues and better build quality, often requiring less frequent and less costly repairs over their lifespan. The Ford Escort and Nissan Sentra offered comparable reliability to the Cavalier, though often with slightly different strengths and weaknesses.
Alternatives:
Performance was a mixed bag. While the base 2.2L engine offered adequate but uninspiring acceleration, the Z24's 2.4L engine provided more spirited performance, though it still lagged behind some sportier competitors. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla generally offered a more refined and responsive driving experience, with smoother powertrains.
Features on the Cavalier were typically utilitarian, focusing on necessity rather than luxury or cutting-edge tech. Rivals like the Civic and Corolla often offered more sophisticated interior designs and a wider array of available options, even in their base trims.
Reliability is where the Cavalier faced its toughest competition. While generally considered reliable enough for its price point, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla consistently ranked higher in long-term reliability surveys. They were known for fewer mechanical issues and better build quality, often requiring less frequent and less costly repairs over their lifespan. The Ford Escort and Nissan Sentra offered comparable reliability to the Cavalier, though often with slightly different strengths and weaknesses.
Alternatives:
- Honda Civic (1996-2000): Generally considered superior in reliability, fuel economy, and driving dynamics. Often commands a higher used price.
- Toyota Corolla (1998-2002): Renowned for bulletproof reliability and a comfortable ride, though performance can be similar to the Cavalier's base models.
- Nissan Sentra (1995-1999): A solid alternative with good fuel economy and decent reliability, often offering a bit more interior space than the Cavalier.
- Ford Escort (1997-2003): A direct competitor in price and market segment, with comparable reliability and feature sets, though often considered less refined than Japanese rivals.
Final Verdict: Is the 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier a Good Sedan?
The 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is ideal for the budget-conscious buyer seeking basic, affordable transportation. It's best suited for first-time drivers, students, or anyone needing a secondary vehicle for short commutes.
Buying one today is primarily a used car proposition. It is worth buying if you find a well-maintained example with low mileage and minimal rust, especially if it's a Z24 trim for a bit more power and sportier feel. However, be prepared for potential age-related repairs. It is less advisable if long-term reliability and a refined driving experience are top priorities. Given its age, thorough inspection for rust and mechanical soundness is crucial before purchase.
Buying one today is primarily a used car proposition. It is worth buying if you find a well-maintained example with low mileage and minimal rust, especially if it's a Z24 trim for a bit more power and sportier feel. However, be prepared for potential age-related repairs. It is less advisable if long-term reliability and a refined driving experience are top priorities. Given its age, thorough inspection for rust and mechanical soundness is crucial before purchase.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.