The Good
The 2002 Chevrolet Prizm offers exceptional reliability and fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers. Its comfortable ride and simple design provide a sense of familiarity. While not exhilarating, its adequate performance makes it a sensible and trustworthy option, delivering peace of mind and value for money.
The Bad
The 2002 Chevrolet Prizm can suffer from clear coat failure, especially in warmer climates. Potential buyers should inspect for rust, particularly around the wheel wells and undercarriage. The interior is basic and may show wear and tear. While mechanically sound, be mindful of higher mileage examples potentially needing suspension work or minor repairs.
2002 Chevrolet Prizm: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.8L Inline-4
- Horsepower: 125 hp @ 5,200 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 24-27 mpg
- Highway: 31-34 mpg
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 9.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Included standard features such as air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and basic cloth upholstery. Manual transmission was standard, with automatic available as an option.
- LSi: Added features such as upgraded interior trim, power windows and locks, and a premium sound system. Often included features such as cruise control and sometimes alloy wheels.
- Transmission:
- 5-speed manual
- 4-speed automatic
- Safety: Standard dual front airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional or included in the LSi trim.
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2002 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Prizm |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan 4-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FREMONT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2442 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 53.70 inches |
| Overall Length | 174.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 66.70 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 | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-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) | $14,330 |
| Invoice Price | $13,642 |
| Delivery Charges | $510 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm Have?
Recalls for the Prizm were relatively rare, but it's advisable to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability is generally good, thanks to the Toyota Corolla underpinnings. However, like any older vehicle, regular maintenance is crucial to prevent major issues. Concerns typically revolve around wear-and-tear items like suspension components (struts, shocks), brakes, and the timing belt (if not already replaced as part of routine maintenance). Overall, the 2002 Prizm is a solid choice, but a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing, paying close attention to the paint condition, engine for leaks, and overall maintenance history.
How long will the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features were also fairly basic. Standard equipment included dual front airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often an optional feature, particularly in the LSi trim. Side airbags were not available. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) can be found online. It typically received reasonably good ratings for frontal crash protection for its class, though side-impact protection was less impressive, as was typical for vehicles of that era. Overall, the Prizm prioritized affordability and reliability over cutting-edge technology and advanced safety systems. Its appeal lay in its simplicity and dependability rather than its features list. Its age also means that any modern infotainment or driver assistance features would need to be aftermarket add-ons. Power windows, power locks, and cruise control were often only found on the LSi trim.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Prices and Market Value
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Cost of Ownership
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Fuel Efficiency
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2002 Chevrolet Prizm Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm Compare to Other Sedan?
Price-wise, the Prizm was competitive, often slightly cheaper than the Civic or Corolla. If reliability is the top priority, a Toyota Corolla from the same year is a virtually identical alternative, and parts are readily available for both. The Honda Civic offers a more engaging driving experience but might be slightly more expensive to maintain. The Nissan Sentra provides a similar level of practicality and affordability. The Ford Focus, while potentially cheaper upfront, may require more maintenance over time. Overall, the Prizm and Corolla are tough to beat for dependable, no-frills transportation at a low cost. If driving enjoyment matters more, the Civic is a worthwhile alternative.
Ranks #1289 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1289 | 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm a Good Sedan?
i work for a major corporation as a material handler. on April 8, 2022
i knew when i bought the prism, it was a gm builti bought a 2002 prism, from my mechanic, with 17,000 miles and drove it 187,000 miles, only got rid of it because mass. sales tax was going up and i turned it in for a brand new 2009 honda fit, which i drove 251,000 miles.
Tina N.C Steelers Fan on September 23, 2020
The most reliable car I've owned and wants to own.This car is great , everything from top to bottom , front and back inside and out on top and underneath the hood is just great love it buy you one real fast then you will see what I'm talking about ok ,
Tina N.C Steelers Fan on September 23, 2020
I still own my 02 Prizm love it.My 02 prizm is a great reliable car, its good on gas , i brought it at 62, 000 miles and did a oil change it's at 64,000 now and oil is still good in it , great tires , everything under the hood is great and in great working conditions . The only thing is no electric windows or locks you have to do it yourself , other then that perfect car yes old but you can't tell it run better than some of these 2017's and 18's and 20's cars , I just love it get one real soon if you can find one.
Squeakers on March 18, 2019
Moves smoothly on the road.Very good on Gas. $20 a week!. I drive 36 miles to work per day. That totals 180 miles a week !. Very reasonable too!.
nikki on March 18, 2017
2002 Chevy PrizmI bought it used with over 130,000 miles with only minor problems and the repairs are really affordable.
Happy Prism Owner on March 5, 2010
01 Chevy PrismI bought my Prism used with 17,000 on it for roughly $8,500. It now has 228,000 miles on it, is paid for, and I hope to baby it over 300,000 miles. It has been the best car I have ever owned. The only problems I have had with the car relate to normal wear and tear, mostly brakes. That and I do have to replace the driver's side door handle. But, if these are the biggest problems I've had, I'd say the car has done pretty well. I think with any car, routine maintenance is really important. I change the oil regularly, use 5W30 and have not had to change to synthetic. I don't plan to. With gas prices going up as they are, my husband and I are actually looking for another Prism right now. Great car, would recommend it to anyone.
Raider Nation on November 7, 2008
A Toyota Corolla in Bowtie clothingI bought a 1999 Prizm because Consumer Reports magazine said that this IS a Toyota Corolla. GM (and remember GEO?) bought thousands of these cars from Toyota and re-badged them. Better yet, you can buy this car cheaper than a same year Toyota Corolla. Even the Haines Repair Manual for my Prizm says Toyota Corolla.
beagle boy on January 9, 2008
Carry extra quarts!This car is using about a quart of oil a week. No signs of leaks. No noticeable blue smoke. This seems to be problematic to '01 and 02 Prizms
Car Driver on November 19, 2007
Extremely reliable carThis car is definitely comparable to the Toyota Corolla. I cannot tell the difference by looking at them. I also owned a Toyota and this Prizm handles just the same as the Toyota. It is a very peppy little car. I like it a lot!
Collegeguy1979 on April 10, 2007
Great Gas MPG, Toyota Reliability!!how could you not go wrong buying this car, the only draw back to buying the Prism vs. the Corolla, is the little bit of resale value you lose when buying a chevrolet. I have a '02 Lsi with 142,000 miles on it, still going strong, hope to put over 300,000 on it, just to prove the friends wrong. I use Mobil One 5w30 fully synthetic motor oil, great stuff! As a college student, this car is great to pass them gas stations up. I would highly recommend a prism/corrolla to anyone I know. Back seat is a little cramped when piling tall friends in the car.
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.