CarComplaints.com Notes: Widespread instrument panel failure is a common and frustrating reality for many 2004-2005 Chevy Cavalier owners. They're often left in the dark when it comes to knowing how fast they're going, what their engine temperature is, or even how much fuel they have left in the tank.
The likely culprit is a series of bad "stepper motors" which control the gauges and are no longer covered under warranty. Think not being able to see your speed is a safety issue and should be recalled for all owners? We'd agree. Trouble is, apparently the NHTSA does not.
Gas gauge and temperature gauge have both stopped working. The gas gauge does not work at all and the temperature gauge shows it the vehicle is overheating even with the car is not running.
Instrument cluster is unreliable (since 87,209 miles, now has over 150,000 miles), speedometer finally stopped working completely as has fuel gauge about that time. Chevy dealership wanted $800.00 to fix, but couldn't promise same thing wouldn't happen again.
CURRENT CONCERN 11-28-2015: Now the service light is staying lit.
ACTIONS: I checked everything I could think of, changed oil, filter etc. took to have it checked on computer etc.
NOTE 1: New catalytic converter approx 3 years ago, at about 100,000 miles, so I am assuming that isn't the problem.
NOTE 2: Computer tests shows no problems whatsoever.
NOTE 3: Mechanically this has been a very reliable car.
- Floyd A.,
Marshall, MO, US
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Gas gauge and temperature gauge have both stopped working. The gas gauge does not work at all and the temperature gauge shows it the vehicle is overheating even with the car is not running.
- Jeremy H., Delaware, OH, US