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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.

Collapse Safety Ratings

NCAP 5-Star Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Driver FrontPassenger FrontDriver SidePassenger SideRollover
2004 Cavalier 2-DR.***********not tested
NCAP videos are in WMV format.
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2004 Cavalier 4-DR.************not tested
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IIHS Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Good Acceptable Marginal Poor

2004 Chevrolet Cavalier 4-door sedan

Moderate Overlap FrontSmall Overlap DriverSmall Overlap PassengerSideRear1Rollover
P Overall
P Structure
A Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
P Left Leg Injury
G Right Leg Injury
P Restraints
Full IIHS Moderate Overlap Crash Test report »
Not tested. Not tested. Not tested. P Overall
P Geometry
X Dynamic
Full IIHS Rear Impact Crash Test report »
Not tested.

1 — All seats. Seat/head restraints with a marginal or poor geometry rating aren't tested dynamically, because they cannot protect taller people in rear-end crashes.

Ratings only apply to the model and body or seat type tested. The date of manufacture and optional safety equipment can affect results. For full details see www.iihs.org.

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