1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
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1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier ▼
- Price Range: $0 - $1,800
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Handling/roadholding (Z24)
- Antilock brakes
- Acceleration (V6)
- Fuel economy (4-cylinder)
- Price
Cons
- Acceleration (4-cylinder)
- Rear-seat comfort
- Engine noise (4-cylinder)
Vehicle Highlights
Introduced in 1982, the subcompact front-drive Cavalier was a top seller for Chevrolet through its early years. Pontiac's Sunbird was similar. New sheetmetal had been added in a 1988 restyle. Cavaliers came in three body styles for 1990: notchback coupe, sedan, and station wagon. No convertible was available this season, but it would be back soon. A sporty Z24 coupe with V6 power targeted the youth market. Engines grew in size for 1990. A 2.2-liter four became the base engine, while a 3.1-liter V6 replaced the prior 2.8-liter as an option in wagons. Cavaliers got new seats for 1990, as well as passive front seatbelts and a stainless-steel exhaust system.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Cavalier VL 2-door Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 44 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Chevrolet Cavalier:
Cavaliers earned a subtle facelift outside, plus reworking of the cabin. A convertible returned to the lineup in RS trim. Front and rear fascias were new; so were headlamps and taillamps. The Z24 added aero rocker panels and a decklid spoiler. Instrument panels gained temperature and oil-pressure gauges. Tires expanded from 13- to 14-inch, while the Z24 went from 14-inch to 15-inch rubber. Rotary knobs replaced buttons and levers for the headlamps and wiper/washer. Coupes added door map pockets and could get a removable sunroof.
1992 Chevrolet Cavalier:
Antilock braking became standard for '92, and the 4-cylinder engine gained 15 horsepower, courtesy of a new fuel-injection system. The Z24 convertible returned after a 2-year absence, joining the RS ragtop.
1993 Chevrolet Cavalier:
Convertibles switched from plastic to glass for their back windows, and could now have a rear defogger installed. Previously optional only in station wagons, the V6 engine could now go into any RS model.
1994 Chevrolet Cavalier:
A stronger (120-horsepower) base engine went into 1994 models--ten more than before. Wagons now came in just one (unnamed) trim level. Cavaliers then earned a total redesign, as a 1995 model.
Our road test for the 1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Early 4-cylinder engines give only adequate performance, but decent mileage. However, the automatic transmission eats sharply into acceleration figures. Later fours, with extra horsepower, perform a bit better. The 3-speed automatic also trails 4-speed units, used by some Cavalier competitors, in fuel economy and quiet running. The Z24 with V6 power ranks as a minimuscle car, exhibiting brisk performance as well as styling flair. The 3.1-liter V6 also is a sensible choice for a station wagon. Gas mileage is great with the 4-cylinder, but those engines sound harsh and crude during hard acceleration. A 5-speed VL averaged 23.1 mpg in rush-hour commuting, hitting 33.8 mpg on the highway. Cavaliers ride reasonably comfortably. Capable handling/roadholding grows more athletic with an optional sport suspension. For truly spirited cornering, search for a Z24 coupe or convertible. Updating of the dashboard for 1991 made controls easier to see and reach, though the turn-signal lever is still too short. Lack of an airbag is a drawback, especially since many rivals had one sometime in this period. Coupes and sedans offer adequate space up front, but rear compartments are cramped. Convertibles offer decent rear space for two, as well as a convenient power top.
Value for the Money
Neither as roomy nor as technically sophisticated as Japanese subcompacts of the same period, Cavaliers have always offered good value. Convertibles add some flair, but also cost far more than their solid-topped mates.
Neither as roomy nor as technically sophisticated as Japanese subcompacts of the same period, Cavaliers have always offered good value. Convertibles add some flair, but also cost far more than their solid-topped mates.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Cavalier VL 2-door Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 44 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet Cavalier includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Cavalier .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
TH-125 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1990-94)
Ignition switch:
The ignition switch may not return from the start to the run position and the accessories may not work because the screws that hold the switch in place were overtightened. (1991-94)
Transaxle leak:
The right front axle seal at the automatic transaxle is prone to leak. GM issued a revised seal to correct the problem. (1992-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $540 |
| Alternator | $190 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $865 |
| Brakes | $210 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $620 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $545 |
| Exhaust System | $350 |
| Radiator | $240 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $315 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $255 |
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Cavalier details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 1994 | |||
| Cavalier | $1,200-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| Cavalier Z24 | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| Convertible | $1,600-2,000 | $1,100-1,300 | $200-300 |
| Z24 Convertible | $2,000-2,500 | $1,400-1,800 | $300-400 |
| 1993 | |||
| Cavalier | $1,100-1,400 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| Cavalier Z24 | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| Convertible | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| Z24 Convertible | $1,800-2,300 | $1,200-1,600 | $300 |
| 1992 | |||
| Cavalier | $1,000-1,400 | $600-800 | $100 |
| Cavalier Z24 | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| Convertible | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| Z24 Convertible | $1,600-2,000 | $1,100-1,300 | $200-300 |
| 1991 | |||
| Cavalier | $1,000-1,300 | $600-800 | $100 |
| Cavalier Z24 | $1,200-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| Convertible | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Cavalier | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Cavalier Z24 | $1,000-1,400 | $600-800 | $100 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chevrolet Cavalier include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door coupe | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 101.3 | 101.3 | 101.3 | 101.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 182.3 | 182.3 | 182.3 | 181.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.3 | 66.3 | 66.3 | 66.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 52.0 | 52.0 | 53.6 | 52.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2678 | 2509 | 2520 | 2623 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 10.7 | 13.2 | 13.0 | 64.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.2 | 15.2 | 15.2 | 15.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.8 | 37.8 | 39.1 | 38.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 | 42.6 | 42.1 | 42.1 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.3 | 36.1 | 37.4 | 38.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 32.0 | 31.2 | 32.0 | 32.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Most Cavaliers in 1990 contained a 2.2-liter base engine with throttle-body fuel injection, which made 95 horsepower. Standard in the Z24 and optional in the station wagon was a 3.1-liter V6 that whipped up 135 horses and 180 pound-feet of torque. Both engines came with a standard 5-speed manual transmission. With the base engine, that gearbox was made by Isuzu; for the V6, it was a Muncie Getrag unit. A 3-speed automatic transmission was optional with either engine. Base engines gained 15 horsepower in 1992, with a new fuel-injection system; then 10 more horses in '94.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv I4 | 2.2 / 133 | 95-120 | 120-130 | 5-speed manual: 25/36 3-speed automatic: 23/33 |
5-speed manual: 23.1 3-speed automatic: 25.3 |
| ohv V6 | 3.1 / 191 | 135-140 | 180-185 | 5-speed manual: 19/28 3-speed automatic: 20/28 |
5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Cavalier include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1994 Cavalier |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1994 Chevrolet Cavalier directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1991:
Front door interlock striker may fail, causing door frame collapse and insufficient strength for shoulder-belt anchorage.
1991:
Front door shoulder-belt guide loops may be cracked; occupant faces increased risk of injury in sudden stop or accident.
1992:
Secondary hood-latch spring in some cars is improperly installed or missing.
1993:
Rear brake hoses on some cars are improperly manufactured and can cause reduced brake effectiveness.
1994:
On small number of cars, drive-axle spindle nuts may be overtorqued; can result in separation of steering knuckle tire-wheel assembly from axle.
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