Market Segment:
Compact car, entry-level segment
Competitors:
Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mazda Protege
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordability, fuel economy, practical for daily commuting
Engine Systems:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel, emissions, ignition, starting, charging
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission operation, fluid level checks
Chassis Systems:
Brakes, steering, suspension, wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Lighting, instrument panel, interior controls, power outlets, battery, fuses
Body Systems:
Doors, windows, locks, mirrors, seats, interior trim, exterior panels
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems, child safety locks
Climate Control:
HVAC operation, air conditioning, heating, ventilation
Instrumentation:
Gauges, warning lights, driver information center
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, light bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement
Operator Procedures:
Starting and driving, parking, using controls and features, fuel filling, cargo loading
Troubleshooting:
Identifying common warning lights and their meaning, basic troubleshooting for starting and running issues
Depth:
Designed for the vehicle owner, covering operation, features, and basic maintenance. Does not cover advanced diagnostics or repair procedures.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2003 model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2003 model)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags, if applicable)
ABS:
Available/Standard depending on trim level
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts
Child Restraints:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system and child safety rear door locks
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (if equipped)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API Service SG, SH, SJ, or ILSAC GF-2 (GM specification)
Engine Coolant:
GM P/N 1052850 (Green), or equivalent Dex-Cool (Orange) coolant. Consult specific manual for exact type and capacity.
Power Steering Fluid:
GM P/N 89021183, or equivalent Dexron III / Mercon
Common Problems:
Intake manifold gaskets (coolant leaks), oil pan gaskets (leaks), exhaust manifold leaks, ignition coil failures, ABS sensor failures, power window regulator failures, rust (especially around wheel wells and rocker panels)
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect for coolant and oil leaks. Pay attention to any noises from the suspension or brakes. Keep electrical connectors clean and free of corrosion.
Manufacturer:
General Motors (GM)
Generation:
Third Generation (J-Body platform)
Design Era:
End of the J-body platform's life cycle, representing a more modern design compared to earlier generations
Production Years:
1981-2005 (for Cavalier globally)
Assembly Locations:
Lordstown, Ohio, USA; Lansing, Michigan, USA; Ramos Arizpe, Mexico
