1988 Chevrolet Cavalier 1.8 liter
Summary:
An engineering marvel
Faults:
The computer died at 120,000.
The alternator goes out every 2 years. A lifetime alternator did fix the problem.
The interior heat has caused the speakers to melt and the dash and seats to crack.
General Comments:
This car is a fine accomplishment of engineering. I must commend the people of Chevrolet because this car has one of the strongest engines I have ever seen.
It can drive at 80 miles per hour with the air-conditioning on. Keep in mind that this is a 4 cylinder 1.8 litre engine.
I have been very neglectful of the car on oil changes, once pushing 10,000 miles. Most times the car would range between 4,000-5,500 miles between oil changes.
The car still gets 30 miles to the gallon in the city at 183,000 miles. I am painting it and planning on keeping it for as long as it runs which appears to be well into the 200,000 mile range.
I have spent $2,500 in maintenance over the years with $1500 due to owner carelessness.
This car is one of the most reliable cars I have ever owned. I now drive it one to two times a week and it starts every time.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 12th May, 2001
20th May 2001, 17:45
You're lucky, your engine still runs after letting your oil change go to 10k miles.
My brother-in-law had an older Cavalier and let his oil changes go, and his engine blew up at 50mph. Engine was sludged up so the oil could not flow.
Oil changes are very inexpensive.