4.5

definitely annoying
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
24,000 miles

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problem #3

Dec 012003

Cavalier 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 21,000 miles
There are numerous things, and the delaership has convinced GM, because I wrote GM about the problems with this, that I am making this stuff up to get an SUV. First the radio wasn't working, they put the cable back on said it was loose, its still not sounding like a radio should. Next was the popping in the front end, dealership turned rotors, under warranty back brakes squealed real loud they said it was dust I had to pay for that. Back brakes still squeal, front end still pops like a bad cv joint. Trunk wouldn't shut had to keep slamming it. Took it back they greased it worked for awhile starting to get hard to shut sometimes. Brake lights and back lights and cruise control quit working. Took it to dealership at least 5 or 6 times till they finally replaced it how long it will last I don't know. Front sun visor popped when it hung up in rear view mirror real floppy can't use it no more dealer said they ordered it in December. Still waiting not fixed. Real bad odor of gas in car when tank is half full, no explanation as to why. Seat belt makes a funny noise when you are wearing it, pins you back against seat real hard. No explanation for that. Have to stop and jerk on it to loosen it like a seat belt should work. Dealer says I am imagining this stuff because I do not want car, bought it new still paying for it. Been trying to get rid of it they have everyone convinced I am a psycho woman wanting an SUV and thats why I am complaining that is all false. Just plain hate a car I am paying for.

- Sevierville, TN, USA

problem #2

Aug 252004

Cavalier 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 45,000 miles
When in use smoke came out from the rear driver's side turn signal socket. Dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. Left rear brake light will not light tried new bulb but still will not light. The consumer was told she needed a new socket.

- Baltimore, MD, USA

problem #1

Mar 302004

Cavalier 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 6,000 miles
The left and right turn signals/brake lights in car stopped working. I took the car to the dealership where it was repaired. They told me there was a short in the wiring in the rear of the car. The right turn signal/brake light stopped working again about 1 week after the repairs.

- San Diego, CA, USA