2002 Chev. Cavalier

[wolfhound2c69]

I just bought a 2002 Chevy Cavalier and I wanted to know if anyone knows of any major problems these cars may have so that I may keep an eye out. Any help would be appreciated.

[equalizr]

well one forsure is the strut mounts tend to go very fast. just keep your fluid changes (all of them) up to date, filters and so forth and youll be ok.

[public]

When the warenty runs out, change the antifreeze to the green stuff. Go to google and investigate the red "Dexcool" type that comes stock. It has a tendancy to "gel" when exposed to air. This plugs up passages and causes all kinds of overheating and leakage due to overpressure. If caught early flushing and refilling with the green coolant will cure this. Most cars with the dexcool do okay but GM is having a lot of trouble with this stuff and you won't know of any problem until it is too late. If properly cared for these cars last forever. I have an 89 with 300,000 and a 1994 with 175,000. The 94 drives like new, it is just as mechanically tight as my new Buick Century. The '89 still does not burn any oil, but it drives a little loose though.

[02cavy]

I have 2002 cavy that I bought brand new. I've had it for 2 and a half years and I've got over 66,000 miles on it. It runs great and I've had no problems. I replaced brake pads after 45,000 but that's to be expected. I think you'll be happy with your ride. I know I love mine.

[bigdaveangell]

I have a 2002 cav with 50000 miles and havent had any problems. I wouldnt change your coolant to green antifreeze. All that you hear about dexcool gelling up is on older cars. That almost never happens anymore. The internals of the cooling system were made for the dexcool and anything other than that could cause problems in the future

[public]

yeah perhaps converting it at two years old is a bit drastic. But I would keep an eye on that coolant. Other than that these cars run forever.