I strongly agree. You can pick up one now dirt cheap. I have 60K on my 02 now, and haven't done anything except change the oil and filter. With the Ecotec engine and cartridge filter, it is the easiest thing I have ever had. That is about all the owners' manual says to do. With all the rice stuff you would be looking at a new timing belt now. Check around on the price to replace one before you buy anything with a timing belt. It is a large, reoccurring expense. Timing chains seldom need repair. I do plan to put a couple of new tires on before fall.quote:
Originally posted by cousincletus:
I would at least consider a GM Cobalt or Cavalier. The Ecotec engine has proven itself to be reliable so far since its introduction in 2002 and with the employee discount to the public offer you should be able to get a Cobalt for around $10,000. The Cobalt is rated for 34 mpg highway. I have a 2002 Cavalier and it gets a little better than EPA (around 32-33 mpg combined driving).
It is rare to have real engine problems as one post said, before you are sick of the car. That is even with Iffy Lube using fram filters. Compare what the owners' manuals call for for servicing. A Cavalier is cheaper to buy, cheaper to keep up, and less likely to have problems if neglected. A good car for a GF.
Running 75 on the interstate, I get 34-35 mpg.