The Good
The 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier's primary advantage was its value. It was an affordable and economical choice, appealing to practical buyers. While not luxurious, it offered adequate comfort for daily commutes. Its fuel efficiency was decent, making it budget-friendly. For some, its simple design offered a sense of nostalgia, an emotional appeal.
The Bad
The 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier was known for some weaknesses. The interior materials were often criticized for being low-quality. The car also suffered from potential reliability issues, particularly with its electrical system and some engine components. Rust could also be a concern, especially in colder climates with road salt usage.
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier: Quick Overview
Key Specs for the 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier:
- Engine Options:
- 2.2L OHV 4-cylinder
- Horsepower:
- 2.2L: 115 horsepower
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.2L: 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (manual transmission)
- 2.2L: 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (automatic transmission)
- 0-60 Times:
- Around 9-10 seconds (approximate, varies based on transmission and condition)
- Towing Capacity:
- Not recommended for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included cloth upholstery, basic stereo system, manual windows and locks, and a driver-side airbag.
- LS: Offered upgrades such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, upgraded stereo system, and sometimes alloy wheels. Some LS models included anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option.
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2001 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Coupe |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | STE. THERESE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2617 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 54.70 inches |
| Overall Length | 180.90 inches |
| Overall Width | 67.90 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 104.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.2-L L-4 OHV 8V |
| Engine Size | 2.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $13,360 |
| Invoice Price | $12,492 |
| Delivery Charges | $540 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Have?
Recalls for this model year were issued for issues like faulty ignition switches and potential fuel leaks. These recalls are crucial to address for safety reasons. Long-term reliability was generally considered average to below average compared to some competitors. Owners often reported issues with the car's interior components wearing out quickly. Addressing preventive maintenance, such as regular oil changes and fluid checks, could help prolong the vehicle's lifespan. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect any used 2001 Cavalier for rust, electrical problems, and engine issues before purchasing.
How long will the 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional, particularly on the LS trim. Side airbags were not available. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally showed average performance for frontal impacts, but side-impact protection was lacking compared to more modern vehicles. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings also reflected similar results, showing marginal to acceptable performance in frontal offset crash tests. Given its age, the Cavalier's safety technology is significantly outdated compared to newer cars. It's important to remember that safety standards have evolved considerably since 2001. Optional features were limited to things like air conditioning, upgraded audio systems, and power accessories on higher trims. There were no advanced tech or driver-assistance systems available.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Prices and Market Value
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Cost of Ownership
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Fuel Efficiency
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Compare to Other Coupe?
However, the Cavalier was often more affordable than many of its rivals, especially when new. In terms of features, it offered fewer options compared to some competitors. The Civic and Corolla were known for their superior long-term reliability and higher resale value. The Focus provided better handling and a more modern design.
Alternatives to the 2001 Cavalier would include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla (for reliability and resale value), or the Ford Focus (for a more fun-to-drive experience). The Nissan Sentra offers a balanced approach. If budget is the primary concern, a well-maintained Cavalier might be acceptable, but for long-term reliability and overall value, the other options are generally better choices. These competitors often offered more advanced safety features, even in base trims.
Ranks #239 Coupe
| 1 | 2023 Toyota GR Supra | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Lexus RC F | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2011 Honda CR-Z | (5.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Subaru BRZ | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW 4 Series | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2014 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Nissan GT-R | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2015 Hyundai Veloster | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0★) |
| 239 | 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier | (3.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier a Good Coupe?
shervy on May 15, 2021
Great Starter CarI got this car when I was 16 and it has been great! There are a few details I dislike, mostly cosmetic. The cup holders are very small so only short small drinks fit in them and cups block air controls which gets very annoying. Not extremely comfortable, but good for getting around! As a noob when it comes to mechanics, I really appreciate how easy and cheap it is to replace parts (ex. I replaced the headlights and the sun visors which just pop out). It held all my friends and gets good gas mileage. I also have a natural gas tank as well which was awesome. Unfortunately I got rear ended so it looks like that will be the last of my little Chevy :,( loved it while it lasted though!
Diane on January 11, 2021
21 years old, 240,000 miles. And still ticking.Survive A hit and run and save my life. With stood a deer hitting the hood of the car. Traveled all over new England . Excellent in the snow. Excellent on gas . Still running and not ready for retirement yet. A car i never had to worry about when it came making it from point A to B.
Norbter1 on February 23, 2020
Very dependable great gas mileageGreat car for the money gets you where you need to go. I've owned it for 4 1/2 years and it has never left me stranded..
Bradalier on January 8, 2020
Extremely reliable commuter carMy wife and I have owned this car for 5 years and it’s always been a great reliable commuter/backup car. Always had regular maintenance and cleaned regularly. We are moving out of state and unfortunately need to sell it. Please message me any questions you have!
ICEBLONDE on January 8, 2020
I absolutely love my CavalierMy Godfather bought me this car used and it is absolutely amazing..drove it from S. Carolina down to Florida with no problems at all and maybe 3 fillups. Gas mileage is awesome...not so much in town but long trips yes. Inside is a bit small but compared to walking and public transportation you can't complain too much. Only problem I have is the plastic dash...cracked to the point it will have to be replaced but again can't really complain considering how mechanically sound this car is. Again I absolutely LOVE my Cavalier â¤â¤â¤
Embassy on February 1, 2019
Most reliable car!Not enough room for 5 full size adult's. It has 135,00 km. Part's are cheap. So it a bread & butter model on the car rental fleet. Too small to take o a long road trip. Good traction in the winter time on snow & ice. However I washed this top of the line model frequently & it was rusting quite badly at the bottom of the front & the rear door's & the wheel well's especially. Even replacing all 4 coil's did not improve the handle 7 the road stability at all. This car should have 16 inch tire not the BF Good wrench cheap dealership tire's that they come with. But after paying over $23,00 for my 2001 Chrevolet Cavailer I'm quite more liking my 2003 Toyota Camry XLE that has 249,000 km on it after these past mazing 4 yrs of owing this car used as a replacement to my 2001 Chrevolet Cavalier. I bought the Ingigo Blue Dark sedan & it's way way to her to keep clean show the dirt. The black interior get's so very dirty quickly. The cloth seat's are not comfortable to drive at the. The 2005 Chrevolet Cobalt just look's so dreadful as a replacement to this bread & butter GM staple sedan. The rear spoiler look's simply awful. The headlight's stay very well lit up especially in the fog or at night time. If u weigh over 200 pound's buy a Cadillac Deville or a Cadillac DHS instead or a Buick Lesabre or a Buick Park Avenue Ultra luxury sedan of this entry level sedan.
MordyBroke7 on November 18, 2018
Very ReliableIt did what I needed it to do. Great first car, got me to work and school no problems at all. It was comfy and good on gas.
Emily on June 30, 2018
Very reliableI?ve had this car for a few years, it?s great for long drives and everyday use. Gas mileage is also really good. I highly recommend this car for anyone.
Anyhonestsellersoutthere? on March 24, 2018
Alot of problemsI bought this 2 door car off a local dealer. It lasted 2 years- before being useless. I wasn't used to anti-lock brakes and almost died (figuratively) when I went to stop once as a tractor trailer whizzed by and it made this ferocious sound and jerked. I didn't know what it was. When I took it back to the mechanic we went for a drive and he told me "oh that's just the anti-lock brakes!" He said he got his undone so I did the same- no more jerking! He said that some lights would stay on because of it (the engine light was on for 2 years- I didn't know enough to ask him to fix that- I thought it was because of the brakes). After that- when getting an oil change the mechanic looked at me- eyes as big as saucers and told me (I basically could have been dead)! Apparently there was a crack in something to do with the tire connection to the car (forget name of piece- tie rod? perhaps)-and that the wheel could disconnect at any time! I had this fixed. Then the mechanic had to connect the long exhaust type piece- he welded it cause it was loose. Later as the car made noise- my mechanic friend had to wire the muffler piece up so it wouldn't keep banging. Even though I sprayed it for winter with oil- and got regular oil changes- the winter salt I guess corroded the door panels, around gas tank and apparently underneath so bad- ,my mechanic says I have approx a month to find a new car (and can only drive locally). He said it's a pile of rust underneath. Also the heater went so it only works on high and makes a very loud noise. So pretty much nothing but a headache. It always started up fine - and was good on gas - that's about it. Without winter tires it's dangerous- I hit a patch of black ice and the car went 100 yards on its own- that was scary- luckily I took my foot off gas and was able to stay on the road. Winter tires helped immensely, otherwise car would slide about alot on the roads. Don't think I'd ever get another. Oh ya - one more thing. After I bought it- all of a sudden white spots started showing through the dark blue paint. Naive me- went and bought the car paint at automotive store thinking I could just spray over it?! Uh, no! Made it worse. How they fixed it 'til I bought it is beyond me. But the dark blue paint- now looks like a leopard with white spots, all over the car. Trying to spray over them did no good and just made it look worse. There were a few other things but I can't recall off the top of my head- but this should be enough. lol.. Needless to say, I'm not going back to that dealer.
The Cavalier on January 30, 2018
Needs a little work but will workThis car has the look I was after and it gets the gas mileage I was after and it has the 2.2 to get the miles I was after
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.