Very popular in the United States and Canada reliability, low fuel consumption and affordabilitythe Chevrolet Cavalier marked its era. A compact-class family car, it was produced by the famous American manufacturer from 1981 to 2005, before being replaced by the Cobalt.
Impeccable service
Gearbox broken? We help you identify and order your model
From its launch in the early 1980s, the Chevrolet Cavalier already boasted a robust powertrain. The gearbox, used to transmit engine power to the wheels in the right way, is no exception. Even though it is normally designed to accompany the vehicle throughout its life, problems can occur. EDEN BOITES explains how to maintain it to avoid breakdowns, as well as the steps to follow for a trouble-free repair.
Chevrolet Cavalier engine and transmission
Over the four generations of the Cavalier, numerous engines and transmission systems have been proposed.
Produced from 1981 to 1987, the first model was available with a three-speed automatic gearbox, the Turbo-Hydramatic 125 from General Motors. A four- or five-speed manual version was also available, depending on the engine chosen, with the most powerful reaching 89 hp.
In the latest generation, exclusive to the Chinese and Mexican markets, Cavalier features a unique single gasoline engine the Daewoo S-TEC, jointly developed with Suzuki. With four in-line cylinders and a displacement of 1.5 L, it boasts 148 hp and is coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox, or to an automatic version with six gears.
The transmission mode is consistent across the entire range the power supplied by the engine is distributed to the vehicle's front wheels, a design consistent with the Chevrolet Cavalier's automotive segment. This is referred to as traction drive.
Our maintenance tips for stress-free driving
Good driving habits
Depending on whether your Cavalier is fitted with a manual or automatic gearbox, there are a number of reflexes you can adopt when driving to protect it and thus extend its life.
In the case of an automatic gearbox, never engage reverse (R) when the vehicle is not at a complete standstill, as this could cause serious damage to the transmission system. Likewise, do not engage the Parking (P) position, which is not used for braking, but to immobilize the Cavalier once it has come to a standstill.
A manual gearbox requires more attention on a daily basis: subjected to direct handling by the driver, it is thus subject to gestures that can weaken it. One simple gesture to adopt is to avoid keeping your hand on the gearshift lever while driving, so as not to exert unnecessary pressure on the entire transmission system.
Likewise, prefer to shift into neutral for frequent stops, rather than remaining in the disengagement position with first gear engaged. As far as possible, you should also avoid jumping out of gear when downshifting, and always handle the gearshift lever firmly but carefully.
Gearbox oil change: little-known yet essential
Whether manual or automatic, your Chevrolet gearbox is a complex element requiring punctual maintenance of the utmost importance. These include changing the transmission oil.
This gearbox oil is responsible for dissipating thermal heat and ensuring proper lubrication of the entire transmission system, but over time it can become contaminated and lose its properties. Similarly, leaks can compromise the proper operation of the entire system and, in time, lead to could lead to malfunctions on your Chevrolet Cavalier.
This relatively minor operation can be carried out by yourself, with a minimum of equipment, or entrusted to an experienced mechanic. Note that the transmission oil should be changed every 250,000 kilometers or every five years for models equipped with a manual gearbox. Automatic models require more frequent servicing at the first service interval between two years and 60,000 kilometers.
Call in the professionals for headache-free repairs
The garage diagnosis
In the event of a gearbox malfunction or at the first signs of fatigue, don't hesitate to take your Cavalier to the garage, describing the symptoms observed.
His diagnosis will guide you through the repairs to be carried out, which may not be serious: a transmission oil change is sometimes all you need to give your vehicle a new lease of life.
In some cases of more advanced wear, the mechanic will inform you of the need to replace the entire gearbox. Unfortunately, this is a costly operation when you opt for a new gearbox from the factory.
