2002 Chevrolet Cavalier
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Cavalier › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
5 recalls name the 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. Newest first.
Sabersport IS recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Sabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on may 11, 2009. owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.
Dorman products IS recalling 3,900 intermediate steering shafts dorman part nos. 425-151, 425-152, and 425-153, (sold under dorman's "oe solutions" brand name), balkamp #'s 7-3057, 7-3058, 7-3059 (sold under the "napa" brand name), and platinum parts #'s 2425151, 2425152, and 2425153 manufactured during the month of september 2007. these replacement…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the weld fails, loss of steering could result, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dorman will notify owners and replace the steering shafts free of charge. the recall began on october 16, 2008. owners may contact dorman toll free at 1-800-523-2492.
K2 motor IS recalling 1,921 aftermarket headlamps of various models sold for use on the above listed vehicles. these headlamps are missing the amber side reflex reflector which fails to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk and remedy
Risk
Without the amber side reflex reflectors, the lighting visibility may be affected, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
K2 motor will notify owners and offer a full refund. the recall began on decemeber 17, 2008. owners may contact K2 motor at 1-909-839-2992.
Certain delphi fuel pressure regulators, p/nos. Fp10020-11b1, fp10026-11b1, and fp10027-11b1, sold after january 9, 2007, as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles listed above. the universal pressure regulators (upr) were produced without an o'ring and retainer.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel may leak, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy
Delphi will notify owners and replace the upr free of charge. the recall began on april 23, 2007. owners can contact delphi at 877-411-8770.
Certain pro-a motors corner lamps, turn signals, and headlights sold as replacement lamps for use on certain passenger vehicles listed above. some combination lamps that are not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy
Pro-a motors will notify owners and offer to repurchase the lamps. the recall began on april 3, 2006. owners may contact pro-a motors at 323-838-2988.
Owner complaints
196 complaints24 involved a crash4 involved a fire33 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags · Unknown or other
Horn doesn't work..replaced fuse still not working..so I wonder if my air bag will work...how do I fix it no body know not even the dealer
- Air bags · Seat belts
Was in a horrible car wreck yesterday and none of my airbag is avoid but yet my no check engine light none of my lights were on so I don't understand the problem you could have nearly killed me is what I got spent around three times and put back at the gas station that I left
- Exterior lighting · Fuel/propulsion system · Steering
Just purchased a 2002 chevy cavalier for our daughter and have been trying to find out if any of the 5 recalls were performed on this vehicle or not. The nhtsa recall page isn't working at this time and the chevy local dealership isn't willing to help. Can someone please provide some assistance??
- Exterior lighting
Problem with electrical system that operates rear blinkers and brake lights. I have changed bulb which are not the problem. I have changed the electrical connectors. Works fine for short period of time when either of these are changed but still not fixed. Started with passenger side but now having…
Problem with electrical system that operates rear blinkers and brake lights. I have changed bulb which are not the problem. I have changed the electrical connectors. Works fine for short period of time when either of these are changed but still not fixed. Started with passenger side but now having issues with driver's side. Online forums suggest many others are having this issue as well. Cant find a permanent fix. Please help. IS not blowing the bulbs, just stops working for no apparent reason.
- Electrical system
Key get stuck in ignition in the on position. Cannot shut the car off or remove the key. Must pull ignition fuse to shut off engine and then disconnect the battery. Gm acknowledge this as a problem in 2014 but never issued a recall.
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet cavalier. The contact stated that the dashboard of the vehicle was fractured and deteriorating. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the dashboard needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts being unavailable. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000. updated 01/25/17*lj updated 7/3/18*jb *tr
- Service brakes
Brake lines are corroded way too early. Began leaking. I'm trying to replace them myself, because I don't have 1500-2000 dollars for parts and labor. Luckily the brakes pedals went to the floor in the driveway when I found the leaks. *tr
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system
Car would just not turn over. can not hear fuel pump running. *tr
- Power train · Service brakes · Steering
Driver was heading south on I684, on the exit ramp to 287 west, in heavy traffic. Vehicle suddenly appeared to shut off, making it impossible to steer and brake. Driver ran off the road and went nose first into a ditch, damaging the frame, radiator, airco and nose of vehicle. The vehicle was totaled as a result. *tr
- Unknown or other
The ignition switch locked and would not operate. first there was a problem with the ignition turning on and shutting off. then after the vehicle was parked, the ignition would not switch on. just like the information disseminated about the chevy cobalt, but a year before the announced recall.…
The ignition switch locked and would not operate. first there was a problem with the ignition turning on and shutting off. then after the vehicle was parked, the ignition would not switch on. just like the information disseminated about the chevy cobalt, but a year before the announced recall. I contacted gm but they indicated that my make, model and year was not part of the recall. however, I had to install a ignition cylinder and key kit according to my repair invoice. I believe that should a total review of gm vehicles of the ignition part as a defective product. *tr
- Electrical system · Steering
While accelerating on an on-ramp onto an interstate, I was using my multi-function device (signaling my merge into traffic, then once at 65mph setting cruise control) when the car lost power. I was able to turn the steering wheel slightly to the right before the wheel locked. I turned my…
While accelerating on an on-ramp onto an interstate, I was using my multi-function device (signaling my merge into traffic, then once at 65mph setting cruise control) when the car lost power. I was able to turn the steering wheel slightly to the right before the wheel locked. I turned my emergency flashers on and coasted/braked my way to the shoulder of the road. the car was towed to a mechanic who tried to find the source of the problem. the incident was on a saturday. on monday when the shop was open for business, they tried the car and it started/ran just fine. they couldn't duplicate the problem so they charged me for the tow only. previously, the car would fail to start. similarly dead. I have been told it was the ignition - replaced that twice. I was told it was the fuel pump - replaced that. I was told it was the multi-function switch-replaced that three times. winter 2013 the car started fine and then a block from home all power went out and engine failed to start up again. towed car to electrical specialist. they ran diagnostics and found that there was a rusted out wire. Replaced the wire. it happened again six months later. they replaced another wire. I've notice the car will think a blinker IS out before the whole electrical system just fails. *tr
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
Purchased vehicle from dealer 7/12/13 with the following issues: non-working odometer, blinkers, brake lights that frequently "short" out & a non-working windshield fluid function. I was informed by the dealer to take vehicle home & return it the following day for the repairs of all the above…
Purchased vehicle from dealer 7/12/13 with the following issues: non-working odometer, blinkers, brake lights that frequently "short" out & a non-working windshield fluid function. I was informed by the dealer to take vehicle home & return it the following day for the repairs of all the above notations that were discovered during a test drive. upon the time of return, I was sadly & rudely approached by the dealer. he stated that he did not claim to fix these issues? on 7/17/13, I filed a "complaint" with the better business bureau regarding this poor business transaction. all of which, I have proof. despite my endless efforts to correct this issue, nothing significant has been done on my behalf. I have been pulled over a number of times, because of my failing brake lights - which have been replaced on multiple occasions. I have had close encounters of potential dangerous situations, where my blinkers have failed & being stuck "not" knowing how much mileage I have on my car. this IS a major safety issue I cannot get resolved & am hopeful that you may assist. *tr
- Air bags · Service brakes · Steering
I was driving on the highway and a driver traveling well under the posted speed limit cut in front of me. I stepped on the brakes and the car started sliding and when I attempted turn the wheel to avoid collision, the wheel was locked and would not turn causing me to hit the car square in the rear.…
I was driving on the highway and a driver traveling well under the posted speed limit cut in front of me. I stepped on the brakes and the car started sliding and when I attempted turn the wheel to avoid collision, the wheel was locked and would not turn causing me to hit the car square in the rear. Upon impact, both airbags deployed. Airbags never touched me, but the driver's side cover shattered the windshield and the passenger side cover shattered the passenger window. *js
- Structure › Body
My 2002 chevy cavalier was in for front brakes....mechanic phoned and told me that my car's subframe was cracked. mechanic told me that it was common with this model car. called gm and they told me that because of the age of the car (2002) and mileage (64,500) that there was nothing that they…
My 2002 chevy cavalier was in for front brakes....mechanic phoned and told me that my car's subframe was cracked. mechanic told me that it was common with this model car. called gm and they told me that because of the age of the car (2002) and mileage (64,500) that there was nothing that they could do. I told gm that my mechanic said that this IS a common problem with this particular car. still they told me nothing could be done. I called consumer affairs and they told me to contact the attorney general's office which I did. I was told that the only way I could make other folks aware of this problem was to contact nhtsa. I believe this to be a safety hazard for other folks that have this type of car. I would not have known if not for the replacement of my brakes. *tr
- Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields · Suspension
Engine cradle subframe has rusted through on right side. low mileage, car IS parked in a garage, so it does not sit outside all day and night. my mechanic tells me he has seen this a lot with chevys. he says it IS especially true with gm cars driven in the north because of the weather...so much…
Engine cradle subframe has rusted through on right side. low mileage, car IS parked in a garage, so it does not sit outside all day and night. my mechanic tells me he has seen this a lot with chevys. he says it IS especially true with gm cars driven in the north because of the weather...so much for being imported from detroit; isn't that in the north? he says he can order a used replacement from the southern us. I know a cavalier IS not a top-of-the-line car, but isn't the frame supposed to be the strogest part? come on gm, fix this issue before somebody dies! I was going to let my 16 year old kid drive the car, now I have to tell him that he can't because an affordable car made by the biggest us automaker IS cheaply made and unsafe!? *tr
- Seats
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet cavalier. The contact was sitting idle at a traffic stop when a vehicle crashed into the rear of his vechile. The front driver and passenger seats abnormally collapsed backward and both the contact and a passenger sustained injuries to the back. Both were…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet cavalier. The contact was sitting idle at a traffic stop when a vehicle crashed into the rear of his vechile. The front driver and passenger seats abnormally collapsed backward and both the contact and a passenger sustained injuries to the back. Both were transported to the hospital via ambulance. The police were contacted and a report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was deemed as destroyed. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure and the current mileages were approximately 57,000.
- Visibility
Multiple times, the windshield wiper fluid would not flow onto the windshield. I would fill the windshield wiper fluid tank several times a month. finally, I noticed that the design of the windshield wiper fluids tubing into the windshield wipers was flawed. the tubing IS routed so that it…
Multiple times, the windshield wiper fluid would not flow onto the windshield. I would fill the windshield wiper fluid tank several times a month. finally, I noticed that the design of the windshield wiper fluids tubing into the windshield wipers was flawed. the tubing IS routed so that it passes the windshield wiper tank and seats up against the hot car battery. at this juncture, the tubing apparently had rotted and melted, and it created a huge hole in the tubing. I do not know why general motors decided to pass the windshield wiper tank, and seat this tubing up against the battery, and then go down again, and finally fit into the bottom valve of the windshield wiper tank, but it seems pointless and stupid and a definite design flaw!!! Now, I have to pay to have this tubing repaired and probably rerouted the simpler route, which would allow it to bypass the battery, completely, instead of practically wrapping it around the battery!!! *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet cavalier. While driving approximately 65 mph, the contact applied the brakes and suddenly the pedal traveled to the floor. The contact downshift and engaged the parking brake. The vehicle came to a stop and was driven to his residence with caution. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet cavalier. While driving approximately 65 mph, the contact applied the brakes and suddenly the pedal traveled to the floor. The contact downshift and engaged the parking brake. The vehicle came to a stop and was driven to his residence with caution. The contact detected that the rear brake line had completely rusted. The brake line was replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 104,000. The vin was unavailable.
- Electrical system · Equipment › Electrical › Radio/tape deck/cd etc.
When the cd player have been on for a few minutes it will stop playing because it have got over heated. an I cannot used it for a long time. *tr
- Electrical system
My 2002 cavalier had the fuel pump go. When the garage fixed it they said the cluster doesn't work. They kept trying to imply that it was already broke but it wasn't. I had 2 light bulbs gone but that's it. They replaced it and within a week the same 2 light bulbs are burnt out and the odometer…
My 2002 cavalier had the fuel pump go. When the garage fixed it they said the cluster doesn't work. They kept trying to imply that it was already broke but it wasn't. I had 2 light bulbs gone but that's it. They replaced it and within a week the same 2 light bulbs are burnt out and the odometer numbers now flicker constantly. There must be a wiring problem. Seeing fires starting in a couple cavaliars makes me really concerned. For a few years now, the radio changes everytime I turn the car on and the light by the heater control doesn't work unless you tap on it. Somethings not right and I'm trying to find a solution. I can't afford to pay a garage to tear my car apart. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
Timing chain broke on 2002 chevrolet cavalier LS causing catastrophic engine failure. automobile only has 70,000 miles on a well maintained motor. gm installed faulty oil nozzle as well as timing chain tensioner in motor originally but refuses responsibility even though checked at gm certified…
Timing chain broke on 2002 chevrolet cavalier LS causing catastrophic engine failure. automobile only has 70,000 miles on a well maintained motor. gm installed faulty oil nozzle as well as timing chain tensioner in motor originally but refuses responsibility even though checked at gm certified service center 4 months prior complaining of timing symptoms. no repair has been done at this time. after much research it seems that this IS a common problem in all vehicles from 2002 and 2003 that have 2.2L ecotec motors. *tr
- Vehicle speed control
I drove my 02 chevy cavalier on thursday back from tahoe,ca and my gas pedal got stuck down and kept increasing in speed, so I prayed and then started to mess with my cruise control and finally came back up, this morning same thing happened, so I called chevrolet customer service and the rep-eric…
I drove my 02 chevy cavalier on thursday back from tahoe,ca and my gas pedal got stuck down and kept increasing in speed, so I prayed and then started to mess with my cruise control and finally came back up, this morning same thing happened, so I called chevrolet customer service and the rep-eric told me that I need to pay for a diagnoses before I can get any answers, he called up the closest dealer and they could not give him a quote, I would rather buy a new car if I have to pay money for a diagnoses. This incident IS a mechanical problem which occurs on its own. I cant afford another car as of right now and am still using my car for work. What would you say I should do?? *tr
- Electrical system · Fuel system, other › Storage › Tank assembly › Pressure relief devices
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet cavalier. The contact stated the vehicle had been parked for approximately 4 hours when a fire started under the dashboard. The contact stated the vehicle was removed by his insurance company and he could not confirm if the vehicle was destroyed or what started the fire. The vin was not available. the failure and current mileages were 80,000. Updated evoq 06/08/10.*jb
- Fuel system, gasoline
The engine quits running while driving at highway speeds without any warning. After pulling off to the side of the road,the engine may restart immediately or after a few minutes. A technician diagnosed this as a faulty fuel pump. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system · Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Exterior lighting · Suspension · Vehicle speed control
I bought this car a 2002 chevy cavalier in 2005, and at the time there was 25K original miles so I was told. Since then I have found out there has been 5 recalls on this car for various safety hazards, none of which I was ever told about prior or during my purchase of this vehicle. The signals have…
I bought this car a 2002 chevy cavalier in 2005, and at the time there was 25K original miles so I was told. Since then I have found out there has been 5 recalls on this car for various safety hazards, none of which I was ever told about prior or during my purchase of this vehicle. The signals have failed, I had to pay for them to be replaced, the bearings on the tires caused dry rot and I had to pay to replace those, both were on the recall list. The engine would over heat in the idle position, and they replaced an air filter sitting that as the problem and it wasn't. The pedal sticks when I accelerate and sometimes gets stuck, the rockerarms have started to go bad and it has caused the valve stems to bend,thus causing the oilpump to seize up and now my cars engine has a blown gasket,this IS under the engine component system recall, which was reported in 2007. I was never notified. And now im paying 350 per month for a car that IS not running. *Tr
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10236164This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232811This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10230697This Preliminary information communicates to the technician the need to inspect the induction system for potential icing issues in very cold ambient temperatures. To allow the ice to melt so that it can be drained from the related components. That any of the listed DTC's may set with or without poor engine performance.
Every Chevrolet Cavalier model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.