🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Cavalier

Year:

1995

Vin Prefix:

1G

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier was positioned as an affordable, economical compact car, appealing to first-time car buyers, students, and budget-conscious consumers. It competed in a segment dominated by vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort.

Competitive Analysis:

The Cavalier offered a more mainstream American option against its more fuel-efficient Japanese rivals. Its strengths were typically its lower purchase price and familiar styling for the domestic market. The 1995 model year represented a refresh, aiming to keep it competitive.

Key Features:

Available in multiple body styles (coupe, sedan, wagon), multiple engine options for varying performance and economy, front-wheel drive, standard safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) on many models.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All US-spec 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier models (coupe, sedan, wagon, convertible). Covers standard and optional equipment for all engine and transmission variants.

Page Count:

Approx. 150-200 pages (typical for an OEM owner's manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Instrument panel and controls, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts, child seats), climate control, audio system, lighting, windows and locks, fuel and exhaust, engine operation and care, transmission operation, braking system, steering, tires and wheels, exterior features, interior features, starting and operating, maintenance and care, towing, emergency procedures, customer assistance.

Procedures Included:

Starting the engine, shifting gears, parking, using lights, operating climate control, adjusting mirrors and seats, checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), inflating tires, changing a flat tire, jump starting the battery, refueling, using the jack, basic troubleshooting for warning lights, proper child seat installation.

Technical Depth:

Designed for the vehicle owner. Covers basic operation, user-accessible maintenance checks, and troubleshooting common driver-related issues. Does not cover in-depth mechanical or electrical repair procedures, which would be found in a Service Manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Physical Product)

Print Quality:

Standard OEM print quality for the era, typically black and white text with some color diagrams.

Binding Type:

Staple-bound or glued spine booklet.

Paper Type:

Standard paper stock, suitable for regular use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.2L (2198cc) L4 SOHC (OHV) 'Quad Four' (LD2/L40 designation likely for base models)

Horsepower:

Approximately 115 hp @ 4800 RPM

Torque:

Approximately 130 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM

Fuel System:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Optional Engine:

2.3L (2317cc) DOHC L4 'Quad Four' (LD2) - higher performance variants

Optional Horsepower:

Approx. 150 hp (standard Quad Four), up to 175 hp (GT variants)

Engine Oil Specification:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific temp ranges)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4T40-E)

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive configuration for both manual and automatic transmissions.

Automatic Fluid Specification:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 101.3 inches (2573 mm)

Length:

Approx. 171.4 - 176.4 inches (4353 - 4480 mm) depending on body style.

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.7 - 54.3 inches (1364 - 1380 mm) depending on body style.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2700 - 2900 lbs (1225 - 1315 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and configuration, typically around 3700-3900 lbs.

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 12.3 cu ft (sedan/coupe), varies for wagon.

Standard Tire Size:

P185/70R14 (common on base models)

Optional Tire Size:

P195/60R15 (common on higher trims/sport models)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 100 mm (5 x 3.94 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

Likely 3-star or 4-star rating (typical for the era, specific rating varies by year/test).

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

Likely 3-star or 4-star rating (typical for the era).

Active Features:

Front Disc / Rear Drum brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often standard or optional on higher trims.

Passive Features:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (standard), Three-point Inertial Reel Seatbelts, Child Seat Anchorage System (LATCH not yet standard, but provisions likely present).

Security Features:

Anti-theft steering wheel lock, often an optional engine immobilizer.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium sound systems available on higher trims.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4 speakers (two front, two rear) on base models, with optional 6-speaker systems on upgraded trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was the primary driver assistance feature available, primarily on higher trim levels. Cruise control was often optional.

Connectivity Features:

No advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Communication was via the audio system's cassette or radio.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or high-mileage oil. Conventional oil might be 3,000-5,000 miles).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic, or as per severe service schedule. Manual transmission fluid change is less frequent, often 60,000-100,000 miles.

Coolant Specification:

GM P/N 1050435, a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and deionized water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM P/N 1050330, or Dexron-III ATF.

Known Issues:

Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pans are common. Intake manifold gaskets can fail on Quad Four engines leading to coolant leaks. Automatic transmission shift issues or premature wear. Door lock actuators and window regulators can fail. Radiator and cooling fan issues.

Oil Filter Part Number:

AC Delco PF1218 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH7317, Wix 51049).

Air Filter Part Number:

AC Delco A2100C or equivalent (e.g., Fram CA8001).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing affordable and mainstream vehicles for the American market, dating back to the early 20th century. The Cavalier line represented a significant part of their compact car offerings.

Model Evolution:

The 1995 Cavalier is part of the third generation (1995-2005). This generation saw a significant redesign with smoother styling and improved safety features compared to previous generations. It was built on GM's J-body platform.

Production Years:

1982-2005 (for the Cavalier nameplate)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily assembled in North America (e.g., Lordstown, Ohio; Janesville, Wisconsin).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not a recipient of major prestigious awards, the Cavalier was a consistent bestseller in the compact segment, indicating consumer acceptance and value proposition. It was a staple in the affordable car market for many years.

Fuel Economy Rating Highway:

Approx. 30-36 MPG (depending on engine and transmission, 2.2L OHV with manual transmission typically offered the best mileage).

Fuel Economy Rating City:

Approx. 22-27 MPG (depending on engine and transmission).