Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, young drivers
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Mazda3
Value Proposition:
Affordable price, fuel efficiency, simple mechanics
Manual Advantage:
Provides dealership-level technical information for DIY repairs and maintenance, crucial for owners of aging vehicles.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic)
Chassis:
Brake System (ABS, Parking Brake), Steering System, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Wheels and Tires
Body And Electrical:
Body Construction, Exterior and Interior Trim, Climate Control, Lighting System, Instrumentation and Warning Systems, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Electrical Distribution System (Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing
Repair And Overhaul:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for all major systems
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, circuit descriptions, diagnostic routines for electrical systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
References for specialized tools and diagnostic equipment (e.g., scan tools)
Engine Code 2.2L Ecotec:
L61
Engine Code 2.0L DOHc:
L36 (Supercharged - for SS model)
Engine Displacement 2.2L:
2.2 Liters (2198cc)
Engine Displacement 2.0L Supercharged:
2.0 Liters (1998cc)
Engine Configuration 2.2L:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
Engine Configuration 2.0L Supercharged:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, Supercharged
Horsepower 2.2L:
140 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 2.2L:
145 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L Supercharged:
170 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 2.0L Supercharged:
170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★ (4 Stars)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★ (4 Stars)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Acceptable
ABS:
Available (standard on some trims/options)
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, Pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 2.2L Ecotec:
Every 100,000 miles (use ACDelco Iridium)
Engine Oil Type 2.2L:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.2L:
4.9 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:
Approximately 6.2 US quarts (5.9 liters) for a fluid change (check dipstick for accurate level)
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346140 or equivalent (Dex-Cool Compatible)
Common Issues Engine 2.2L Ecotec:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, coolant leaks from water pump and thermostat housing, intake manifold gasket leaks, potential coil pack failures, timing chain guide wear.
Common Issues Transmission Automatic:
Slipping or delayed engagement, potential solenoid issues, internal seal wear.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty window regulators, power lock actuators, intermittent issues with body control modules (BCM), dash illumination problems.
Brand History:
Chevrolet, established in 1911, is one of America's oldest and most recognizable automotive brands, known for offering a wide range of vehicles from economical to performance-oriented.
J Body Platform:
The Cavalier, introduced in 1982, was a cornerstone of Chevrolet's compact car offerings for over two decades. The 2003-2005 models represent the final iteration of the third generation (1995-2005), featuring updated styling and powertrains.
Production Period:
1982-2005
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Lansing, Michigan, USA
Jdp Power Initial Quality Study:
While the Cavalier often performed adequately in IQS for its class, it was generally not a class leader compared to Japanese competitors. This manual's value lies in its ability to help owners maintain their vehicles effectively, extending their lifespan and value.
Kbb Value:
Known for its strong resale value in the used compact car market, particularly for well-maintained examples.
