The 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, a compact sedan, was part of a lineage that spanned from 1989 to 2002. It shared its platform with the Toyota Corolla, a testament to its reliable underpinnings. Available in popular trims like the Base and the better-equipped LSi, its affordability and fuel efficiency made it a favored choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking dependable transportation.
The Good
The 1999 Prizm shines with its exceptional fuel economy and renowned Toyota-derived reliability. Its straightforward, no-frills design appeals to practical buyers, while its comfortable ride and accessible price point offer emotional satisfaction for those seeking peace of mind and value.
The Bad
Buyers should be aware of potential issues with the automatic transmission, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. Some owners report premature wear on suspension components and occasional electrical glitches. Checking for rust, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels, is also advisable.
1999 Chevrolet Prizm: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1999 Chevrolet Prizm primarily offered two engine options:
- 1.6L inline-4 cylinder engine (1ZZ-FE): This was the more common engine, known for its fuel efficiency and reliability, derived from Toyota's excellent engineering.
- 1.8L inline-4 cylinder engine (1ZZ-FE): Found in some higher trims or models, offering a slight increase in power.
- Horsepower:
- 1.6L engine: Approximately 105 horsepower.
- 1.8L engine: Approximately 125 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: The Prizm was a leader in its class for fuel efficiency. EPA estimates typically ranged around:
- City: 27-30 MPG
- Highway: 35-40 MPG
- 0-60 Times: Due to its focus on economy rather than performance, 0-60 mph times were generally modest, often in the range of 9.5 to 11 seconds, depending on the engine and transmission.
- Towing Capacity: As a compact sedan, the 1999 Chevrolet Prizm was not designed for towing and did not have an official towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base Trim: Typically included essentials like power steering, intermittent wipers, a tilt steering wheel, and a basic AM/FM/cassette stereo. Air conditioning was often optional.
- LSi Trim: This more equipped trim usually added features such as air conditioning as standard, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, a tachometer, a digital clock, and an upgraded AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Alloy wheels might also be an option.
1999 Chevrolet Prizm Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Prizm |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 3-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FREMONT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2410 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 53.30 inches |
| Overall Length | 173.00 inches |
| Overall Width | 66.30 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 97.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.8L L4 DOHC 16V |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 3-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $14,964 |
| Invoice Price | $13,797 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1999 Chevrolet Prizm Have?
The 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, benefiting from its Toyota Corolla underpinnings, generally exhibits strong long-term reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has its reported issues. One of the more commonly cited concerns, particularly with automatic transmission models, is a tendency for the transmission to develop issues over time, sometimes manifesting as hesitant shifting or complete failure in high-mileage examples. While not as prevalent as some other makes, transmission problems can be a significant repair cost. Another area to watch is the suspension system; components like ball joints, tie rods, and struts can wear out, leading to clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and less precise handling. Early signs of wear can often be felt in a less composed ride. Additionally, some owners have reported intermittent electrical gremlins, such as issues with power windows, door locks, or the instrument cluster, although these are usually not widespread. Radiator leaks are also a possibility, especially in vehicles that have not had their coolant maintained properly. Regarding recalls, the 1999 model year Prizm did not have an extensive list of major recalls that are frequently highlighted. However, it's always prudent for potential buyers to check the NHTSA website for any applicable recalls that might have been issued and addressed. Model year specific issues are not strongly differentiated for the 1999 Prizm; the concerns tend to be more mileage and maintenance dependent across the latter years of its production run. The engine itself, being a Toyota design, is usually very robust if oil changes have been performed regularly. The primary long-term reliability concern often revolves around the transmission and routine wear-and-tear items on the chassis.
How long will the 1999 Chevrolet Prizm last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance, a well-maintained 1999 Chevrolet Prizm can reliably see service for 200,000 to 250,000 miles, and sometimes even more. Its long-term durability is a significant strength, largely due to its Toyota-engineered drivetrain. The engine and basic chassis components are known for their longevity. The primary weaknesses that can shorten its service life over time are often related to the automatic transmission, which may require attention or replacement around the 150,000-200,000 mile mark if not meticulously maintained. Suspension components will also eventually require replacement due to normal wear and tear. With consistent oil changes, coolant flushes, and timely replacement of wear items, the Prizm can remain a dependable vehicle for many years.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, being a budget-friendly compact sedan of its era, offers a fairly basic suite of technology and safety features. Built-in tech was not its strong suit; expect a standard AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player. A CD player was an available option, particularly on the LSi trim, providing a more modern entertainment experience for the time. Power windows and power door locks were often part of optional packages or standard on the higher LSi trim, enhancing convenience. Cruise control was also an option that added to the driving comfort on longer journeys. Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent by today's standards; anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an available option on some models, providing a crucial safety enhancement for braking in slippery conditions. Airbags were standard, typically dual front airbags, designed to protect occupants in a frontal collision. Side airbags were not commonly offered on this model. In terms of safety ratings, the 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, based on its shared platform with the Toyota Corolla, generally performed adequately for its time. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for similar models indicated good performance in frontal and side impact tests. For a 1999 vehicle, it met the safety standards of the day, prioritizing occupant protection through its airbag systems and structural integrity. Modern driver-assistance technologies like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, or adaptive cruise control were not available. The Prizm’s safety and tech focus was on providing essential protection and basic conveniences.
What Colors Options are Available?
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1999 Chevrolet Prizm Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1999 Chevrolet Prizm typically ranged from around $13,000 for the base model to approximately $16,000 for a well-optioned LSi trim. This positioned it as a highly competitive and affordable compact car. In the current used market, the Prizm has experienced significant depreciation, as is common for vehicles of this age and segment. You can find examples ranging from as low as $1,000 to $3,000 for models in average condition with moderate to high mileage. Pristine, low-mileage examples may fetch slightly more. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of rust. Its reputation for reliability, inherited from Toyota, helps it maintain some value compared to less dependable contemporaries, making it a sought-after budget car for reliable transportation.
1999 Chevrolet Prizm Cost of Ownership
The 1999 Chevrolet Prizm is exceptionally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its affordability and safety profile. Fuel expenses are minimal, thanks to its excellent MPG. Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is inexpensive. Repair costs are generally manageable, as parts are widely available and affordable, especially given its Toyota Corolla roots. While major repairs like a transmission can be costly, they are less frequent with proper care. Overall, the Prizm is a very cost-effective vehicle for long-term ownership, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious individuals or families.
1999 Chevrolet Prizm Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
13.20 gallons
City Mileage
28 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
33 miles/gallon
1999 Chevrolet Prizm Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1999 Chevrolet Prizm Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
1999 Chevrolet Prizm Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Chevrolet Prizm is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Chevrolet Prizm Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1999 Chevrolet Prizm competed in the crowded compact sedan segment against strong rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla (its platform sibling), Ford Focus, and Nissan Sentra. In terms of performance, the Prizm was not a performance leader; its engines prioritized fuel efficiency over acceleration, often lagging slightly behind the sportier Civic. However, its ride comfort was generally good for the class. Features were basic but functional. While the LSi trim offered competitive amenities like power accessories and a CD player, it was generally less feature-rich than some higher trims of rivals like the Focus or Sentra, which might have offered more advanced options or a more modern interior design. Reliability is where the Prizm truly excelled, thanks to its Toyota-derived components. It was often considered more reliable than domestic rivals like the Ford Focus and comparable to or slightly behind the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. However, its automatic transmission could be a weak point compared to the bulletproof reputation of the Corolla and Civic. Price was a significant advantage for the Prizm; it was often priced more affordably than its Japanese counterparts, offering excellent value for money.
Similar or Better Alternatives:
Similar or Better Alternatives:
- 1999 Toyota Corolla: The most direct comparison. It offers virtually identical mechanicals and reliability, often with a slightly better interior finish and more robust transmission.
- 1999 Honda Civic: Generally considered a benchmark for reliability and fun-to-drive dynamics in the compact class. It might be slightly more expensive to purchase used but often holds its value well and offers superior long-term dependability.
- 1999 Nissan Sentra: A solid contender offering decent reliability and good fuel economy. Its interior might feel a bit more dated than others, but it's a dependable choice.
- 1999 Ford Focus: A newer design entering the market, the Focus offered a more engaging driving experience and a more modern interior than the Prizm, but its long-term reliability wasn't as proven as the Japanese rivals at that time.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Chevrolet Prizm a Good Sedan?
The 1999 Chevrolet Prizm is ideal for budget-conscious individuals or first-time car buyers seeking a dependable and extremely economical mode of transportation. It's a solid choice for students, commuters, or anyone prioritizing low running costs and reliable day-to-day operation over performance or luxury.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially in the used market, provided it has been well-maintained. Focus your search on the LSi trim for added comfort and convenience features. While buying new was an option, its value is now purely in its used form. Be diligent in inspecting for rust and checking the transmission's history. If you find a Prizm with good maintenance records and no major issues, it offers excellent value and can serve reliably for many more years and miles.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially in the used market, provided it has been well-maintained. Focus your search on the LSi trim for added comfort and convenience features. While buying new was an option, its value is now purely in its used form. Be diligent in inspecting for rust and checking the transmission's history. If you find a Prizm with good maintenance records and no major issues, it offers excellent value and can serve reliably for many more years and miles.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.