The CAR WIZARD shares what CHEVY Cars TO Buy & NOT to Buy!

[@_BAD_MERC_]

I work in repo. I see these vehicles at 30K miles with engine and transmission failures. The Chevy Cruze and Buick Verano are smoldering pieces of shit before the paint is dry.

[@mt1885]

REPO rate is like 30%+ and they are already abused and destroyed.

[@wobblysauce]

I guess it is why people give up on them and play the Repo game.

[@lesserlogic9977]

No Mentone of the cruze

[@maximusareilius2262]

I was gonna mention the Chevy Cruze. I heard they are terrible. 😬🙄

[@OffGridInvestor]

Here in Australia the early korean made cruzes were crap. Then for a few years they made them in Australia and the quality was fantastic.

[@philspaghet]

Chevy is the only brand whose sports cars are more reliable than their family crossovers

[@AnthroGearhead]

Yes , buy more Camaros , Corvettes , Impala SS , Chevy SS and Cobalt SS

[@seed_drill7135]

@@Crustychevrolet Yeah, but Dodge and Ford trucks are also more reliable than their family crossovers.

[@johnfrese4851]

So true because the older Malibu and impalas from the 70 and 80 era were a lot better made than what's t out now

[@Scottsdaleofficesteve]

Mazda too

[@Scottsdaleofficesteve]

And Ford

[@79thump8]

You should do one of these for every automaker. And the car industry should listen.

[@ClintE55]

They won't they haven't for years

[@ForeignReview]

Facts

[@missingremote4388]

It's all in the suspension. Can be modified to be more firm/Heavy Duty. Even a 4 door Fwd, (front wheel drive)

[@samuelsamsonian5832]

@Beardio If enough people share the videos, one voice becomes thousands.

[@79thump8]

Especially when you combine the roughly 1 million subscribers associated with the Wizards channel, Hoovie, and WatchJRGO.

[@trentopinto5]

I totally agree. My 2002 Impala LS 3.8 has 206k on it, it still runs really well, and the A/C even works. I just took it on a 2400 mile road trip and it didn't skip a beat.

[@ryannnftw]

Just bought a 2004 3.4L from an elderly retired couple recently with only 56k miles. I wanted the LS, but considering the mileage, I figured I would be better off with it. So far so good.

[@bufordblu3338]

My Camry has twice that..

[@Bobby-cm7vu]

@@bufordblu3338 GM 3.8 can easily do as many miles as any toyota

[@jordansheppard6643]

Toyota’s are triple the price also

[@v8dude609]

3.8's beat the crap out of the camry any day of the week

[@InvestBetter.]

4:52 That knocks out about half of the current GM fleet So the answer is buy older GM cars, not newer GM cars

[@YungAcorn]

Dog I'm so with this. I just dont trust these new car's build quality. Have an 07 trailblazer with 184k on the clock and it still runs smooth as hell. They just dont make em like the used to.

[@johnrickard8512]

I have my 2006 Buick Lacrosse CX(dodged the bullet with the 3.6 V6 in the CXS - I instead got the 3.8 V6...you know what that means) and everyone I talk to says that car will probably last forever. I'm inclined to agree.

[@IronGoldDiamond]

05 equinox babyyyyy

[@boi0213]

The Future Is Here I have a 3.6 2015 Cadillac with 250k and a 3.6 2012 traverse with almost 350k.. I think there’s just more bad apples than good, if you treat it right it’ll last. I haven’t had to replace a single part except headlights

[@davidbeaulieu4815]

Unless its a bolt which is quite nice. I love mine.

[@tdchdatsunz]

My favorite chevy, by far and away, was my 05 Impala SS with the Series II 3800 Supercharged V6, plenty of power, plenty of torque, well built interior, leather heated seats, great stereo, OnStar, comfortable ride, good brakes, great handling for a fwd sedan, and in black, actually really great to look at

[@seangilbert7365]

Had an 04 SS for my first car. Loved that thing to death. Great car with lots of power as you said. I do miss it from time to time. It kept going no matter how my foolish teenage self treated it

[@coreybailey4173]

Great car I have a 05 Impala SS and love it

[@jaytaylor629]

That generation Impala was fantastic. One of the best cars I ever drove and the car I got my licence in. I still remember Top Gear making fun of it compared to the legendary Impalas of the 50s and 60s, but I think the 2000-05 Impala is a legend in its own right.

[@michaelmohrle1773]

I had the 2004 Indy 500 edition only 4,088 made. Damm rust underneath on the frame. Looked perfect on the outside. miss it.

[@victoria.beilstein996]

@@jaytaylor629 Was this gen Impala featured in a Top Gear episode??

[@lukebakeis6687]

"And for the love of god dont buy a Chevy Aveo they're ugly as hell." - Car Wizard

[@gavinhanson9213]

Luke Bakeis I actually laughed out loud at that part.

[@sporkybutterz]

Rebadged korean car

[@TheOzthewiz]

Does "ugly as hell" apply to the early Chevy Sonics, since they look the same?

[@MichaelAStanhope]

Aveos are just junk. The Sonic is a much better car although not the prettiest one.

[@jamestyler114]

Including the Chevy spark?

[@soulslaveone]

Wizards heart is made of gold. It shows in his youtube videos. Wizard ftw!!

[@Adamz678]

"Try, try, try to understand He's a magic man Yeah, oh" Sang by Heart and said by hoovie.

[@williamfairchild8119]

In 2004 I sold my friend a 2002 cavalier for $3200 and he's still driving it and refuses to get rid of it. Unfortunately he's going to die before the car does because he's very old

[@jamesmay4495]

Uhhhhh

[@pianofry1138]

Don't worry their will be some crack is whack version in 2050 still on the road. Cavaliers are just one of those cars that god doesn't let die no matter how bad they get.

[@MadMac5]

If one can keep the rust from consuming them anywhere there's salt on the road or in the air, the old J-bodies with the 2.2 L 4-cylinder are pretty much unkillable as long as the fuel pump is kept alive by not running it too far below 1/4 of a tank of fuel. Unfortunately, I saw more than a few that died an early death in the early 2000s as the owners had not a lot of cash and regularly ran the car on fumes since they didn't have the money to fuel up before payday. They were then left with the prospect of an $800 (Canadian pesos) fuel pump PLUS the labour to drop the fuel tank and install it, which often exceeded what the car was worth. :\

[@EagleScoutmano]

I think the bigger takeaway from this is that, in 2004, you could get a used, probably fairly low mileage, 3 year old car for $3200... These days you're probably still stuck buying that 2002 car, but now with high mileage, for $3200.

[@ValisFan3]

@@EagleScoutmano I'm looking at used Chevy cars near me, and it is pretty consistent, that 2003 - 2010 used cars are around $3000 - $5000.

[@yadielmendez7292]

I’m a service advisor at a Buick/GMC dealership and believe me when I say every week an enclave comes in and it needs a new trans, Acadia comes in with check engine light on and it needs timing chains,actuators. The Terrains have oil consumption issues and the intake cam actuator failures and rarely do they ever have over 100k miles on them. Mostly under 80k miles they come in with these problems. And I drive to work everyday with my 2003 Toyota Camry with over 230,000 miles on it without a problem lol

[@realbeetlejuice]

what about Verano's? specifically the 2.0T verano, any issues you seen?

[@TheOzthewiz]

The Chevy Equinox was involved in a class action lawsuit because of excessive oil consumption.

[@MonsterFuryGames]

Is there any good gm product (affordable) right now? I really like their cars but their reliability piss me off

[@kevs2good133]

Dr.Yadiel Mendez Jr. 230k barely broken in

[@yiyangcheng]

Luckily I have a 2012 terrain with the 3.0V6 and knock on wood

[@Unknownintothe82]

3.6 V6 *Timing chain tensioners have left the chat.

[@markh.6687]

See also ecotech 2.2L.

[@atx-cvpi_99]

Any first gen High Feature V6 has the same timing chain failures. Doesn’t matter if it’s a 2.8, 3.0, 3.2, or 3.6 V6. It doesn’t matter if it has turbos on it. The second gen didn’t come out until 2016.

[@atx-cvpi_99]

@@markh.6687 2.4 too.

[@markh.6687]

@@atx-cvpi_99 Thanks; never tripped over a warning like on the 2.2's .

[@prixinc1]

So are the 2nd gen 3.6 V6 from 2016 better & more reliable?

[@StoneCoolds]

i had found Cavaliers in mexico with 600k - 750k miles and still going xD

[@curlyfriesolaire8053]

@Gabriel Ochoa sounds like beater car material.

[@issabendeck1135]

Same chevy s10 2.2 liter i sold it with 500000 kilometers

[@rustler08]

Corvettes are sport cars, Camaros are muscle cars. Two entirely different categories. And, the last two cylinders suck to work on, but the Catfish does make a great drag car.

[@lsswappedcessna]

That's a great name for the 2000-04 Camaro. Catfish!

[@lsswappedcessna]

@frank white Yeah.

[@smokejumper5379]

Tbh camaros from 1995 and onward are more pony cars

[@alexbenjaminlubbers]

@@smokejumper5379 I love the 1993 Camaro, it's my birth year and I had one, albeit with a blown engine and couldn't drive it because of my Cerebral Palsy, but she was built 5 months exactly before I was born.

[@blackericdenice]

rustler08 The Insurance companies call Camaro sports cars

[@angelo1475]

2006 Chevy Tahoe running strong around 230,000 miles on it runs like an absolute beast

[@colemang6951]

We just put a brand new engine in my mom's 2007 Suburban at a hundred thousand miles. Just hit a hundred and fifty thousand last week. Engine has been the only mechanical issue since it was bought new in 2007.

[@anabolicdopeboy7413]

Does it have the Vortec engine?

[@Nothingtoya]

Although it's not the same engine, I have a Chevy Silverado with the 8.1 big block with an allison 5 speed, it's about to roll over to 300,000 miles. Changed a fuel pump, alternator, and the radiator, that's it. All the power options still work, including the seats and the ac will freeze you out. Gets shit for gas mileage though

[@angelo1475]

anabolic dopeboy yes

[@angelo1475]

Josh B lmao that’s dope

[@CaptHollister]

We bought both of our daughters 2002 basest of the base Cavaliers VXs with manual transmissions and hand-cranked windows. Early on one of them had some issues with the rear brakes due to some poor maintenance in its previous life. Once that was sorted, they were dead reliable and served them through college and university and well into their first jobs. Absolutely recommended.

[@randym119]

You’re spot on with the 3.6. I had an ‘05 CTS with it - the car was gorgeous. It was a dream to drive, got good mileage, but at 60,000 miles it went through a quart of oil probably every 300 miles. It was heartbreaking because I enjoyed the car so much but I sold it before it could die on me.

[@T.-14]

I have a 2002 impala 3.8 great car. I put a engine and transmission a whole cradle swap. It only had 115,000 on it and my original motor had 197,000 replaced all the sensors and transmission solenoids, feels like a new car. Great job GM.

[@danielhaupt8585]

I had a 07 HHR. With the ecotec 2.4L traded it in @ 130k, never did anything but oil changes, trans. service,front brake pads/ new rotors.that's it.I thought it served me well.

[@fpsevanj]

1999-2006 GM Trucks/SUV's (GMT-800 platform) were one of the most solid vehicles GM ever made.

[@xreediculousx]

Can confirm. I've got an 04 Yukon with 214k miles. She's been a dream.

[@FloorItDuh]

Big facts.

[@3Wheels1Block]

very true have one with 420,000 miles and still going.

[@BigBing1987]

To bad the bodys rot away at an alarming rate in some climates, but taken care of the drivetrain will do 300k+ miles no sweat. Also if possible find one with a 4L80 transmission or a manual, 4L60 can be trouble, but they can be rebuilt reasonably at least.

[@jaden.sanderson]

I agree, mine has 213,000 miles and it's great

[@carldarlington7395]

I had a 2001 Cavalier that was reliable but it continuously shed parts. It just kept falling apart. I bought my Cobalt new and nine years later it has been really good. In nine years I have spent less than $ 1000 in repairs.

[@MultiMilTown]

Had a 99. In my opinion, the engine and trans were great. As far as everything else..... the dash completely fell apart. Radio fell out. Speakers all blew, truck release wouldn't work at times, blinkers AND hazards just stopped working, door latches would get stuck and you couldn't close the door, paint was terrible... so much more. But it had over 350k miles before giving it away. Still ran somehow

[@ItsMe-ic7on]

I believe I had an 89 cavalier it was a good car five speed but it was a great car I love that thing and I had a hydraulic clutch no cable system that was nice. Lost my job missed my payments got it repoed broke my heart

[@ryschy1059]

Totally gonna knock ya on the Camaro bud. I’ve had 3 4th gens, 2 with the 5.7 ls1 and one with the 3.8v6. Great freakin cars all around and never had any issues with them. Plus they are cheaper than the vett of those years, all depending on the mileage of them.

[@longislandlolita5]

I also have a 2002 Camaro bought new and it stills runs like a champ

[@ryschy1059]

@@longislandlolita5 where have you been all my life lol

[@Soundsofthewood]

I think has more to do with the people who own them. A corvette owner is more known to be older and not thrash on them. A camaro owner is more known to be a person that thrashes on them and mod the hell out of them, especially the Z/28 or SS owners. More people would rather have the corvette over the camaro and it would probably be better taken care of.

[@honkhonkler7732]

It wasn't about reliability but very poor engine access.

[@takingLsss]

the car wizard forgot to mention the 1998-2002 chevrolet prizm, which is literally a toyota corolla with chevy logos instead of toyota’s

[@clutchthepearls3062]

Those are great if you can find one that isn't beat to hell and back. A decent one will be quite a bit less than the Corolla because most people are none the wiser.

[@s8bre101]

Linden Swann that’s probably a solid car then lol

[@atodaso1668]

so was the potiac vibe, toyota engine joint venture

[@takingLsss]

Colin Wilson toyota matrix engine and transmission, literally in the pontiac vibe, just a different body. think that toyota sourced their engine on the matrix from yamaha and it was a high revving beast!

[@frazzleface753]

yeahh, but those aren't real Chevys. That's why they're so good!

[@joe6096]

I knew back around 2008 when GM ended production of the 3800 it was going to be impossible for them to replace it with anything NEAR as perfect a combination of reliability, efficiency, and performance. The 3.6 is a tin can full of loose bolts in comparison. I’m sure the Wizard knows this but the blueprints and block for the 3800 go back to about 1964. When GM was replacing the “Blue Flame” straight six that was used in everything from pickup trucks to the 1953-55 Corvette. By the 1980s the 231 cu.in. V6 was the standard base engine in almost every car GM made. I had a 1985 Buick Regal with one. While it was bogged down with smog pumps and a single barrel Rochester carb it was still super reliable. The Regal was a rusted out mess when we got rid of it in 1997 but at 140,000 the engine was still strong. Once GM switched to fuel injection in the late 80s, met emissions without a smog pump, then made it available with the Eaton supercharger in the 90s, that engine really woke up and became one of the best overall engines on the planet by ANY manufacturer. Over the years it’s power output went from around 120 hp in the 1960s-80s to pumping out 260 hp at the end with the supercharger and never losing its rock solid reliability, while returning over 30 mpg on the highway! I totally agree with and will attest to the Wizard - if you get the opportunity to buy a car with the 3800 do not hesitate!

[@ww45818]

I bought a traverse for a family car, everyone has told me about the issues ever since I’ve bought it. I’ve shown it some extra TLC and learning more about basic vehicle maintenance (thank you by the way!) and so far at 60k miles, I’ve only had a gas purge valve go out, but that was a pretty easy fix. Overall been a reliable ride. Got to go now I see smoke from the garage. 😂

[@ChrisB10]

I mean no car should have problems at 60k. I would be disappointed if my tundra had problems at 160k nvm 60....

[@davewilson7602]

It also depends what year. The 2018+ model actually isn’t bad First gen (especially first couple years) are awful most of the time

[@salvadordeleon9393]

Just take care of it and maintain it and it will be reliable

[@postshawn]

Agreed with the Traverse. I had one that got Lemoned. GM had to buy it back because they could not fix the electrical issues. Oh, and Happy Birthday Wizard!

[@memphistiger4647]

My wife has a friend who bought a new Acadia last year. It's been in the shop a total of 6 weeks since last August with more repairs coming.

[@nickcaesar7650]

MemphisTiger I don’t understand why people spend their hard earned money on garbage cars... ignorance?

[@memphistiger4647]

@@nickcaesar7650 I'd say GM has a stronghold on the large family vehicle sector regarding SUVs. I will say that I've owned a 2008 escalade for over 5 years. It's been trouble free and it also DOES NOT have displacement on demand or hybrid battery nonsense so I don't have to worry about cam bearing /lifter trouble as bad or replacing large batteries. The newer 6.2 GM motors have had that trouble a lot as car wizard has mentioned.

[@donrossi1603]

Happy Birthday Wizard..!! Great Vid..!!

[@Rogerjr96]

I had a Cobalt, 07 with over 140k miles on it, did all small repairs myself, it was a great car. No major issues at all.

[@liquidblake]

07 Pontiac G5 owner here, I have 101k miles and have owned it since new. All I've done is basic maintenance, replace drum brake springs, replace fuel pump, replace an exhaust pipe and replace a shift solenoid. All stuff I could do on my own, although the solenoid was a pain.

[@aidenwilson6805]

I knew that didn't sound right that seemed like a pretty good car

[@HowardJrFord]

The camaro is not a sports car wannabe. From its inception it was meant to be a pony car - muscle car.

[@ironmonkey1512]

Good god man, did you want him to say 'sporty'? Yeesh!!!

[@MrJMS814]

Pony car, not muscle car.

[@MrCarbonProductions]

I am a IROCZ owner , 4th gen camaro truly is a wannabe muscle car. Nobody likes a catfish

[@antonio_ws6]

@@MrCarbonProductions and people love the trailer park mullet machine more?

[@kingshabazz1310]

Corvette is a true “sports car”

[@Raider19582]

My wife bought a 2012 Equinox back in 2015 and it's been awesome. Had to replace a 50 dollar sensor and just replaced the factory battery.

[@josephrutz4248]

Your spot on "Car Wizard" with respect to dumping more than 5k shortly after purchasing a 2011 traverse. P0017 still persists after dumping this kind of money during the replacement of timing chains, phasers, oil control solenoids, and sensors. Two 40 year+ mechanics tore this engine apart twice trying to resolve the issue. The code changed from p0018 to p0017 after the second teardown. Car runs fine, but engine trouble is permanently illuminated. Your Channel is the Best ! Thank you for your mini college courses you share with the world 😊

[@jasepoag8930]

I love my C5, but they can be a bit of a handful. The motors are rock solid, but they have a lot of issues with the HVAC, electrical, window regulators, and dash rattles.

[@tjwatson0403]

That's what all GM from that era is. I had a GMC Sonoma that was the same way

[@brandon18054]

Some year C5's were better than others, especially the 01-04 cars since they had most of the common problems worked out by then. I have a 1998 and although it is an early year production car I've had almost no issues with it.

[@jasepoag8930]

@@brandon18054yeah, mine is an 01. At least all the problems on it are still fixable unlike the EBCM and steering sensor from earlier years.

[@discerningmind]

I've noticed from '68 on Corvette interiors don't seem to hold up. I had a '95/C4 that the interior had many broken fasteners and fastener mounts. Even the console finish peeled with cleaning. A Corvette lover told me to buy dielectric grease and apply it everywhere there was a squeak or other rubbing sound. I couldn't believe how overall broken the interior became as I'd never seen any car do this to the extent it ended up being.

[@Attachments.]

Jase Poag i got an 02 avalanche which has a bad steering sensor yet it doesnt even do anything but sometimes makes it a lil tougher to steer. Might turn the wheel by itself if not held onto strangely but still fine. Also all those problems are just old gm vehicle signs. If the windows dont rattle while rolled down it aint old enough lol

[@cool2180]

*I just love how the carwizard gives good advice.* *There is always going to be these people who like to find out the hard way.*

[@KatnlssEverdeen]

"And for the love of god just don't buy a Chevy Aveo.. They're just ugly as hell." Love you Car Wizard.. Also, glad I watched these after he listed every car i've ever owned, not to buy..

[@heartofdixie67]

You need to sell GM Traverse Transmissions and Engines on your website !!!🤗

[@JDMHaze]

Tony K WITHOUT WARRANTY

[@cali2468]

You're wrong about the '98-02 F-body. I've owned 8 of them. They are very reliable and can make for a good daily if necessary. The only issue really is changing the #8 spark plugs and but you easily access it from underneath the car. It's not a bad car at all and it's actually a great performance bang for the buck.

[@charleycollins1]

Cali I couldn’t agree more with what you’ve said.

[@L1nkOne]

If you want a little more power with a bulletproof 3.8, the Monte Carlo from 00-05' are awesome. They also have a supercharged version that was sold in 04 & 05

[@aidenwilson6805]

Had a 04 ss non s/c replaced only the thermostat, ran perfect

[@jimjohnson7931]

This gentleman here is sheer automotive genius in the flesh. I would genuinely consider shippin my vehicle out to omega in kansas to have the wizard work on it

[@MiamiZombie2012]

My first car was an 02 cavalier and it's what I cut my teeth on when I gained interest in automotive repair. Cheaply made but man was it reliable.

[@cjmarsh504]

Yep, very

[@jasonbirdwell6342]

02 was the LAST good year for Cavalier. 2003 to 2005 was a TERRIBLE car because of the 2.2 Ecotec engine. Those are VERY unreliable engines.

[@MiamiZombie2012]

@@jasonbirdwell6342 Yea totally dude, worked on enough of those crap engines. Definitely don't miss them.

[@murphymaximus2273]

Thats funny, i have a 2005 caviler with 300k miles and never had a problem

[@MiamiZombie2012]

@@murphymaximus2273 That's awesome dude, I'd love to see it. Do you happen to have a video on it, if not can you make one? Get that baby to 500k on the original drivetrain and that'll be truly impressive.

[@ChrisC-bc8od]

Iv'e been a GM tech from 00 to 2013 and i absolutely agree with EVERYTHING you have said haha EXCEPT for the cavalier and cobalt part. from 03-05 the cavalier was the same 2.2 ecotec motor in the cobalt all the way to 2010. yes they are cheap AF cars but im my experience they are very reliable cars. its cool to see another techs experience though. love your vids man keep it up!!

[@waterloo123100]

The engine isnt exactly the problem its the rest of they car. cobalts are ridiculously cheaper compared to a cavalier

[@atx-cvpi_99]

The Cobalts was poorly engineered and that’s the problem with them. They have power steering motors failing, electrical problems, and fuel system problems that causes fires, and stalling engines. My dad used to have a 2003 Saturn Ion and it was a absolutely pile of junk.

[@Superevilfrog]

Yeah. I bought my 2005 Cobalt SS Brand new and drove it until last year. Nearly 16 years of ownership, 190,000+ and the car was still going strong. Only major issues I had with it was a clutch master cylinder failure and a corroded fuel line. (clamp holding it in place broke, and it vibrated enough to put a hole in it.) Also had a smaller pulley and some supporting mods. I would get it to up to redline almost every time I drove it just to hear the supercharge whine. Sold it to my nephew, who killed the transmission and had to replace the axles. Transmission was likely his fault since it was his first manual. But it's back on the road now with another 10,000 miles on it. Also had a 98z24 Cavie. That was a nice car too.

[@Superevilfrog]

Oh yeah. I did have the electric power steering motor go out. It was like $60 bucks for a replacement. Interior wasn't great. Replaced the shifter because the top came apart and replaced the seat covers once. Again, not expensive on either of those. Went with a short shifter.

[@troublesome3607]

I have a 2017 Traverse. I've only had minor AC issues with. But, when I bought it I knew to take extra care of the engine and Transmission. It probably helps that I do my own work so it hasn't cost me much as all. Good video

[@zackc.8015]

I always liked those..👍

[@boxerdog5979]

Chevy Tahoe is bullet proof in my experience. My wife bought one new in 2007 with the 5.3 V8. Just change the oil, and basic maintenance. It just went past 120k miles, runs perfect. It is a simple body on frame SUV, but sometimes simple is better.

[@Man_in_a_Gucci_Suit]

120k is nothing tho

[@2dashville]

I've got a 2015 Encore that I bought new and I love it. Replaced the battery this year but no other problems. Make sure you test drive it though. The first one I looked at was hard to start and ran rough. Paint and interior finish looked cheap. The one I finally chose had an upgraded interior and paint job. It started and ran smoothly. I test drove the Enclave also. Didn't like anything about it, thank goodness.

[@mereskimade]

Great Advice! Absolutely nobody better to ask what car to buy than a multi brand, independent mechanic like you. P.S. Happy Birthday, You're killing it at 40. Be proud!

[@rueben44]

Sorry wrong!

[@Maxvolume123]

The TrailBlazers are great vehicles too. I have a friend who has one with over 200k miles and it is running with no issues.

[@aidancurren7899]

I was worried since he didn't mention it because I'm actually looking at a 2004

[@charlesstull4582]

I got a 2006 envoy with 170000 & all I've done to it in 10 years is a water pump, thermostat & alt. The 4.2 inline 6 are good engines

[@stranger5088]

I had an 01 cavalier with the 2.2 ohv engine. That was hands down the best car I’ve had right up until John Force’s granny left the stop sign and hit it in the A pillar. I had 180k on it and had only ever changed the oil and replaced the radiator.

[@kclefthanded427]

Jeremy Clarkson said "Yes, you can buy an Italian supercar for under £10,000. But for the love of god DON'T!"

[@rturner4205]

Especally if the seller claims the engine was rebuilt ;)

[@olilambert4416]

I have an 08 Acadia with the 3.6 now at 450K Miles still on the original engine but on it's third trans. The engine will go forever if you get the oil up to date ! My opinion. Lived in Quebec, so we have harsh weather and it's pretty capable.

[@zackc.8015]

Sounds like you guys your money's worth a couple times over!

[@Soulmodulation]

I think the cobalts were pretty good, other than the bland interior. Decent mpg, pretty reliable, easy to fix, fun to mod, and dirt cheap parts. Had a 100,000 mile red '06, and loved it to death. Rust did it in at the end tho, fuel lines and frame :/

[@spookytreats2195]

True I had the hhr that I love and made it 330k miles!!

[@dumpsterstu4474]

Favorite Chevy car came from Australia The Holden Monaro or Pontiac GTO total dream machine.

[@brandonw465]

I wanna know his opinion on the g8s since im looking at one.

[@ItsMichaela_F]

Brandon slays i have 09 g8 3.6, highly recommend going for 6.0 v8 . Depends on your budget. 3.6 timing chain issues, motor mounts, tmps sensors on (v6 and v8), cheap plastic break easy and sucks gas both v6 and 8 but definitely get one before they disappear

[@lesexytimederp]

The SS is awesome too. I have a Commodore SSV, which was imported into the US as the Chevy SS if you want something a bit newer.

[@kelvindavid722]

I see pontiac g series for sale everywhere i go, everyone is trying to get rid of them. They tried bringing back GTO, but failed. Even tho it runs but breaks down too often.

[@clutchthepearls3062]

@@brandonw465 100% get the V8. Like he said the V6 is suspect and the transmission on them isn't really up to snuff handling the output of the V6. The V8 is solid all around.

[@groeneklodder]

Chevy Aveo is actually rebranded Daewoo i believe

[@rebelguy9487]

You'd be correct on the Aveo/Daewoo connection

[@Sonicfan1661]

With how far reaching GM is I'm not surprised.

[@benjyfriedman]

Aveo Hatchback = Lanos Hatchback / Aveo Sedan = Nubira Sedan.

[@buick95gs21]

Your right I own a Aveo a piece of shit car well the engine is no good

[@theLV2]

Yeah, the Aveo line was originally Chevy Kalos which was a rebranded Daewoo.

[@NickGuzelian]

This is the most helpful video I've watched all year, probably ever, because you just help me decide on a car for my family, and saved me from making a big mistake. Thank you Mr. Wizard!!!

[@lonwillis783]

My favorite chevy car was a 1975 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS SUPREME WITH A 350 ROCKET ENGINE. I put 350000 yes 350,000 miles on the engine and it burned NO oil!

[@jbatic8094]

that was 100% Oldsmobile, the rocket 350 and the Chevy 350 are completely different

[@lonwillis783]

@@jbatic8094 yes I know distributer was in the back of mine

[@SoI_Badguy]

@@lonwillis783 distributor is in the back of a SBC too

[@TheOzthewiz]

@@jbatic8094 That was during a time when both Olds and Chevy were built on the same lines. Oldsmobile buyers got cars with CHEVY engines. Owners sued, of course. Don't remember if they won.

[@tim4269]

@@TheOzthewiz After that fiasco they stated something like "cars are equipped with GM manufactured engine", not a Chevy or Buick, etc)

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

I can vouch for the Cavalier, yes its cheap GM plastic but if you just want a reliable cheap car that can get you to work and back its perfect.

[@anabolicdopeboy7413]

Sure is

[@manfromnantucket9544]

Odd, I had an fbo base G5 (Cobalt) that I beat on savagely everyday for 5 years and besides the recall stuff (ignition & power steering) it was a peach. Never let me down. Rear springs did bust on me but replaced those with SS stuff so wasn't a big deal for me

[@wannafly34]

Happy Birthday Wiz! Just did 45 myself - congrats!

[@MatthewBuntyn]

A friend of mine bought a new Acadia several years ago, but got rid of it in about a year because of electrical issues

[@gagechapin1000]

Own a 2000 Camaro Z28. Can confirm it is brutal to work on but it is also a true to form muscle car with it's live rear axle. It's very mechanical in every aspect and I like that.

[@mws3779]

Chevy Impala PPV.😀 I will stick with my Honda with the K-series engines primarily the K20.

[@jamesearlcash7725]

I had a 2002 cavalier base model. Great little car. Always ran, took a lot of abuse. I dogged it and it kept on moving. I miss it.

[@shtboxgarage2323]

My 04 monte carlo with the 3.4 hardly has any problems except for regular maintenance I would recommend one because they look good they have lots of room inside and they are very easy to work on

[@arvbergstedt3303]

Lucky you. 3.4 junk. Get anti freeze in oil. Takes out rod bearings.

[@201950201950]

My 2001 Chevy cavalier has over 200,000 miles. All we've done to it is valve cover gasket fuel pump including regular maintenance. The dash is made out of gingerbread though may cracks easy. Other than that the little thing won't die It's been passed on and on in the family

[@ItsMe-ic7on]

My daughter-in-law had an 88 Chevy cavalier convertible whoever had it before she did must not have taken care of it because that was one piece of crap she couldn't wait to get rid of it constantly constantly breaking down. The only thing she had on her side was her brother was a mechanic a licensed mechanic so he constantly kept it running for her and told her she just needed to get rid of that and I could not blame him

[@standyourground9973]

A little more on the Camaro vs Corvette: Find me a C5 with less than 110k miles for under 6k. LS Camaros are able to be had for under 10k all day in great shape.

[@TheLadeef]

why would I wan't a wannabe sports car sled? good for street racing that's about it.

[@sammolloy8129]

Don’t discount the 3.8 Camaros. More power than a 1985 IROC, light on its feet with the Buick engine far behind the front axle. Don’t put mufflers on it though. It is what it is.

[@clutchthepearls3062]

@@TheLadeef They're good for curves too. Don't believe everything you read about "IRS always good, SRA always bad".

[@skullknight2008]

Hell yea, J bodies representing! I've had 2 Js but I also had an 07 Cobalt SS and I never had an issue. I actually think it was a lot of car for the price. I cant speak on 08-10s. Never had a turbo balt.

[@joefaracevideos]

Thanks you so much for these videos, Wiz. You are doing a public service, And Happy Birthday, Wiz from a fellow Gemini.

[@LordCoolnessocity]

I'm currently working out of a 2008 Express 3500 with a 6.0 Vortec and she's currently at 408k miles. 👍

[@av8rbri473]

LordCoolnessocity excellent to hear, and i believe it

[@jaketapper7653]

2003 Pontiac Sunfire was my first and most reliable car I have ever had 220k miles only replaced the alternator. Got to the point I was abusing it to see if she could take it and that thing is basically a little tank

[@natehahn85]

Never had a Chevy without a v8. They have all been very reliable.

[@whydoihave6neutrals772]

My dads Chevy truck died while he was going 65 it flipped and he was killed. Fuck Chevy and their shitty fucking cars

[@jointaimbot55]

Trey With a basketball game tomorrow big rip

[@ryanpham3308]

@@whydoihave6neutrals772, driver error.

[@ninevoltmodz4687]

@@ryanpham3308 Kinda reminds me of the ignition switch issue that apparently killed many people. I mean, it is GM so what can you expect.....

[@muskie0291]

I had a Traverse, put 200k miles on it and it only needed a water pump, liked it very much. Guess I was lucky.

[@mattkessler2]

Mark P I still have an 11 traverse. Only a few small ish repairs. Like it with 110k miles

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

Either that or you know to change your oil as much as possible

[@waltbullet1287]

Got a 2002 Sonoma with 2.2 GOT 250 K BUT I BOUGHT IT NEW AND MAINTAINED IT RELIGIOUSLY! Full maintenance log since day 1 slow but it still goes

[@lashlarue7924]

Boy, Wizard I really thank you for sharing this. I respect it and will spread the Word. Your channel is one of my very favorites, and I take your Word as gospel.

[@jmonsted]

I felt old when i turned 40. Now that i'm 41, i don't any more.

[@digitalrailroader]

Jesper Monsted I feel old and I’m 30!

[@dragasoni]

Same here, turning 40 was rough...

[@centralcoastcamper9631]

I thought I was old when I turned 40, but that all changed when I passed fifty!

[@jamesavery6671]

Hell I was 1 years old 3 years ago. Good times are gone. Used to be breast fed and pampered now im just another toddler

[@man_on_wheelz]

I'm glad that my literal only interest in Chevy cars were the ones listed as "To Buy" on Wizards list. I've never even considered any of the "Do Not Buy" cars. Guess I've been on the right track with Chevy.

[@p4277]

Bought my 2000 Camaro new and it’s still my daily driver. It has the 3.8 V6 and 5-speed manual transmission. At 218,000 miles I get 30 mpg on the highway, and doesn’t burn any oil. It’s not super fast, but it handles pretty well. I would recommend the 4th gen Camaro for anyone looking for an affordable car that’s fun to drive.

[@mattjozwiak1797]

My mom had a 2009 traverse and it got 140,000 before the transmission started to go. But 140k for a transmission doesn’t sound bad to me 🤷🏼‍♂️ and everyone I know with a Cruze has never had any significant problems

[@mattjozwiak1797]

*update* I just bought a Pontiac G6 GXP Coupe with the 3.6 v6

[@honkhonkler7732]

To those of us used to reliable cars that get over 200K on a transmission, that isn't great. Not jatco bad, but not great.

[@borginator1493]

We bought '87 Cavalier that we named Beater for $400, Had to replace the starter & a brake line but it just keeps chugging along, also have a '02 Bonneville for $700. While the 3800 motor & transmission are solid, sadly it's developing electrical issues & the master cylinder just failed. Ah hell I still enjoy these old cars though.

[@willharris9139]

ive owned a 82 84 2000 cavaliers even a 91 sunbird they last forever and cheap parts too

[@ferenc-x7p]

I had a 2012 Chevy Cruze with manual, bought it with 85k. Before anyone laughs, the car had nearly everything replaced on it (by previous owner showing all the service records) , including clutch and flywheel, brakes, all the recalls (lot's of them). 6speed manual, but with a discontinued engine (the non-turbo 1.8), it had trouble going up on the hills, but the only issue I had with it was a leaking coolant hose. I traded it in 140k. Some people said I was lucky, because their Cruzes died before reaching 100k.

[@kadenzside5878]

My grandma has a 17' chevy traverse Its still going strong it has almost 100,000 miles it has about 80 to 90k miles

[@matteo3893]

KadenGaming I got a Honda Civic with 350,000 miles on it

[@jamespn]

40 cool, happy birthday Wizard. Looking forward to more videos.

[@johnwakley1951]

Your Right Car Wizard on that Cavalier i still have my 1998 sunfire GT its not a Cavalier but same platform the secret about those Cars DON'T ABUSED them they will last and the age that it's in i dont care my paint of dings and brings me to work everyday and its been payed for long time ago LOVE THE CHANEL by the way KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK !!

[@FilmStrike]

I love my 02 Z28, but the engine is a pain to work on and I found suspension doesn't last long but still a great car will never get rid of it, great vid btw 👍

[@DarnellHendeason-dk3uw]

... looking for a Firebird.

[@stewiegriffin3549]

I got a 99 Z28 still the LS1 6speed I’ll never get rid of mine either

[@whosbetterthanme]

I got a 95 Z28 w/ Lt1 engine & 6 speed manual.. Nightmare to work on but it is a reliable car.. I think the 98-02 LS1 is even more reliable... Pain to work on, yes.. But its the only spark plugs, wires, Egr, headers & optispark(LT1) that r a pain.. Everything is straight forward.. I've owned 1 for over 10 yrs

[@MisterTonyG]

Yes the LS1 is a treat. I have an 04 Pontiac GTO 6 speed with headers and all kinds of goodies. Very reliable.

[@robertwhatley9078]

I'm in the market for a used car and this series is so helpful. Thank you so much man, I am a subscriber

[@rayd2100]

I've never had an issue with the 3.6. We've owned an 08 malibu 2013 Camaro and a 2016 Camaro with 3.6 never had an engine issue. The Malibu had 180,000 miles on it when we traded it. My brother had an 09 Cadlillac cts with no issue and well over 100,000 miles. My parents have a 16 Impala no issues.

[@fuelmj]

The Malibu you showed, the V6 was dropped starting in 2013 and was replaced with the 2.0 turbo. Great video as always!

[@bronsondrewry2491]

The Malibus with the turbo motors don't necessarily have many if any issues as long as you do 5K mileage oil changes and that's mostly due to the turbo. I got my younger sister a great deal on one that was last years model and only had 1,200 miles on it used as the Dealerships company car. Got it for $14,500. Great looking car.

[@atx-cvpi_99]

Watch out for cam driven vacuum pumps on those newer four cylinder GM engines. They destroy the cams when they go out.

[@md2k8]

@@atx-cvpi_99 Agreed

[@Ragingxplorer92]

We had a traverse for a while and you’re right about it, it absolutely just destroyed itself after 150,000

[@chadhaire1711]

You got 150,000 miles what are you bitching about?

[@cardude5323]

150k is pretty good tbh.

[@orincat10]

I know someone with an enclave at 200k miles. No problems.

[@sscam2001]

The 2000-2002 camaro's are a great buy, yes, reaching the rear of the engine is a PITA but these cars have great power, T-Tops room for 2 adults and two mini sized people, and plenty of available parts to keep them on the road without breaking the bank.

[@madchoochoo1501]

My 98’ Camaro with the 3.8 has got 300k on it and is still going strong 💪

[@Mikey-xz4vn]

I never thought the Cobalt to be that bad- really the only consistent problem I see with em is fuel line leakage near the fuel filter or along the rocker panel

[@Chitenza]

Cobalts were horrible. I have one sitting at n my driveway with 130k miles. I only a really even clicked this video to see if he would mention the Cobalt to see if he was the real deal. Lol. He is for sure cuz I was surprised not o my did he mention the Cobalt sucked but that the predecessor Cavalier was good (ugly but good). Add the reason I bought a Cobalt was due to my good experiences with the Cavalier. Also fun side note use to be a racing team sricker id see on other folks Cobaltsbthat said Team Recall. 😂 a😂 a death trap surprise I didnt die in one.

[@EleeBot]

@@Chitenzawhy is the cobalt bad

[@brandonsmith5506]

Happy birthday Wizard but my favorite Chevy was the 1982-1993 S10 or any of the older Chevy trucks

[@Ttomisabeast1581967]

Best damn trucks ever made (minus the 2.8 V6. we don't talk about that). That old TBI 4.3L will run forever.

[@reginaldbryant1919]

Happy Birthday Wizard!! You don't look a day over 39 :-)

[@cpscps2679]

I bought a '12 Cadi SRX with 99k miles on it, sold it with 145k miles. Zero problems, other than the accelerator sensor [$56]. Synthetic oil change every 5-6k miles, Seafoam or MMR in the oil a few hundred miles before each change. Ran like a top, but roof paint peeled.

[@sabbath2112]

i see tahoes everywhere i turn, now it makes sense.

[@condeerogers5858]

Jamie....You're right. They are everywhere. My 98 Tahoe has 346,000 miles on it and it doesn't smoke or burn oil. Runs like a sewing machine. The last of the floor shift transfer case. This thing is bullet proof. I can't believe it.

[@CalvinJGreen]

@@condeerogers5858 ooh Nice! floor shift manual transfer cases are rare! The Electric ones are garbage! Not a danm one that works properly; I have the manual transfer case on my 01 Silverado.

[@condeerogers5858]

@@CalvinJGreen ...I thought the floor shift transfer cases after 1999 were gone forever.

[@CalvinJGreen]

@@condeerogers5858 not sure Probably not completely gone til o6

[@condeerogers5858]

@@CalvinJGreen ....I have a Trailblazer, 04, and it's on the dash. So far so good. I wish it was on the floor.

[@cedricm5153]

40 years old with a daughter who's already heading to college... Amazing. And here I am 30 years old WISHING for a son, some day. *feels bad man*

[@anabolicdopeboy7413]

No way bro,you're smart. Feel good about that. Just wait on that woman that's old school with morals and principals then have a kid after atlease 2 years of getting to know her

[@asvpapi]

Wow, I have a 2000 Chevy Cavalier! You are correct! They are simple and economic. Thanks!!!

[@FriedTendi]

I got a 05 Cobalt that doesn't have a supercharger and it is pretty reliable. But mines also stick and I take good care of it.

[@pancak355]

What's the mileage? I've got an 07 with 137K and never had any issues

[@GodleyX]

Cobalt are fine. Idk why wizard says they're bad. Just make sure you get the ignition replaced with the recall.

[@270eman]

Yeah my cousins mom had one and that car was running strong over 200k miles. It was a 2009 with an automatic.

[@jfrodr]

Would love a VW-Audi episode were the wizard just yells "NONE OF THEM!". Wish you a happy birthday!

[@MrMduchesne23]

As an owner of a 2015 vw mk7 gti....my fingers have been crossed since I bought it.it now has 80k km. It really is the best driving car I ever had. I really hope it doesnt magically turn to shit

[@markvanderwel7182]

Why? Last week someone showed me his VW Lupo diesel with 754.000 km on the clock. That's about 490.000 miles. He is still driving 1.000 km per week with this VW Lupo. With that milage every American should drive it.

[@reistje]

They had a lot of issues last 15 years, I would even agree there's a lot of them you should dodge. Not all of them are shit though, like the Golf 7 GTI mentioned is fine. Anyways in the USA you miss the diesels which is the interesting stuff.

[@jfrodr]

@@reistje yeah, i would say nearly every VW over 2012 is no more problematic than a Toyota or a Honda, but the wizard does suggestions over the 2000-2010 period and a that time most vw-audi cars had a lot of issues, mainly electronics, but also some engine design flaws in the late 2000s

[@MrConor159]

The e golf is quite reliable

[@georgeperkins4171]

Those impalas. Ive had 2 an 03 and 04 but the 3.4. They both had the security lock out issue where it wouldnt start for 10 minutes. Finally fixed by soldering in a resister and it never failed again. Also the 3.4 had the intake manifold coolant leak pre-04. Fixed that and it was a pleasure to drive.

[@atx-cvpi_99]

My step mom has an Equinox with the 2.4 garbagetec and as soon as it starts burning oil excessively or has major problems, she should get rid of it and get a RAV4 or CX-5 instead.

[@Highrollinhunter]

Well Chevy fans are crazy I'm a Chevy fan right now I drive a Corsica it's a really reliable car

[@atx-cvpi_99]

@@Highrollinhunter My biological mother had one and she told me that she will never buy any GM product again because it's a total POS.

[@Highrollinhunter]

@@atx-cvpi_99 yeah

[@md2k8]

The RAV4 and CX-5 are much better compact crossovers.

[@TheRotacker]

I love my 05 Chevy impala ls 3.8 v6 aswell as my 01 Monte Carlo ss 3.8 v6 never left me stranded just had the common sway bar being cracked and with the Monte Carlo the fuel sensor went bad

[@livingmybestlife8410]

Car Wizard you are so right! I had a Chevy Aveo and I had problem after problem after problem with it. I only paid $2,000.00 for it but spent way more trying to keep it fixed and on the road. Mine was cute! lol

[@JBM425]

I'm glad you mentioned the GMC siblings to the Traverse. I have seen some attractively-priced Buick Enclaves and GMC Acadias and wondered if they had some of those same issues.

[@honkhonkler7732]

Any GM car with the 3.6 has these issues

[@Coolizzy-e5l]

He forgot Torrent

[@b.ellerrr]

The 00-06 5.3L V8s are the most reliable USA engine in my opinion

[@markofexcellence5209]

I really like my 4.2 vortec if we’re talking about cars in this era, that’s got over 200,000 miles and all I’ve had to do to the motor really is just the coil packs - super easy to do yourself

[@12mak]

@@markofexcellence5209 That's not part of the motor though, the motors don't need much but fluid changes