Faults:

The only major repeat defect is the alternator, which I had to replace three different times. All times I used a new part, which was toast within about 30K miles. With labor it was $250/time = $750 total. I'm not sure if this is a common problem with this model year.

Other major problems (including labor) :

* Water pump 110000mi ($400)

* Heater Core 125000mi ($450)

* Torque Converter solenoid 120000mi ($250)

* Steering stem/gear 133000mi ($1000)

* Head gasket 137000mi ($TBD) - Not yet repaired.

As you can see the car has struggled since the $100000 mile mark, but was very reliable before that.

General Comments:

I bought the car expecting only to need it for perhaps four or five years. It's now almost ten years old and finally starting to show its age. The interior/exterior is still like new, however from a mechanical standpoint it's definitely a member of the walking wounded. This year alone the car has cost me $1000 in repairs, which does not include the head gasket I now need to replace. This will cost an estimated $1500 more.

Overall, however, I've been impressed with the car. I did not expect it to last 50K miles, due to the rumors about GM build quality, but it has gone above and beyond its call of duty. I was quite impressed when I finally got to watch the odometer cross 100000 miles (I actually pulled over and took a picture). I would definately recommend the Cavalier to a first-time buyer looking for a good value that can last if needed.

Faults:

A coil wore out and caused the car to accelerate poorly and act as if it was about to stall.

The alternator needed replacement around 80,000 after the battery ran out of power. This was the result of the switch for the dome light being bumped while exiting the car and staying on all day.

Power window motor started to fail at about 130,000 miles.

Air conditioning needed to be recharged at about 129,000 miles.

The interior panels were becoming loose and separated when I purchased the car, and the armrests split open.

Brake pads seemed to wear prematurely.

General Comments:

I bought this car with 72,000 miles and it remained reliable until it was wrecked. The car ALWAYS started and ran. I never got stranded.

I was hit by a larger truck and the car rolled over. I walked away uninjured and the engine was still running afterward.

The car was fun to drive, but still practical for daily driving. Gas mileage was good and it had front wheel drive for poor weather.

The only real problems I can recall having with the car were normal problems-brakes, rust, alternator, etc. Nothing that was unique to this particular vehicle.

My only disappointment is the interior. The plastic was cheap and the panels did not hold together very well. The seats were not comfortable and the back seat was a VERY tight fight.

It wasn't a muscle car, but it had good acceleration and was fun to drive.

Altogether, during the several years and many miles I've owned this car, it served me very well and I'm satisfied at how reliable it was.

Faults:

Rust is everywhere.

Front end shakes when the car goes over 100km.

Fuel line is leaking.

It was made by Chevrolet.

General Comments:

The interior of the car is in very good condition, but the back seat have no leg room at all. I am 6'4" I can barely fit in the front seats.

When I first got the car I thought the rust was only on the hood, and the doors. After owning the car for a little while I have realized the rust is everywhere. I am afraid the car will fall apart someday.

I have never really trusted American made cars, but this one is OK!