1981 Chevrolet Cavalier - Maintenance & Specs
The 1981 Chevrolet Cavalier belongs to a Chevrolet Cavalier lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 22 model years, from 1981 to 2002. This 1981 car is the earliest model year on record for the Chevrolet Cavalier. Detailed oil, fluid and parts specifications for this generation are still being expanded - the related Cavalier model years listed below may carry more complete records.
Oil specifications for this vehicle should be verified with your owner's manual or authorized dealer.
No NHTSA safety complaints or open recalls are currently on record for this vehicle, which for an older or low-volume model often reflects limited reporting.
Quick Specs
| Engine oil | See owner's manual |
Common Trouble Codes
- P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
- P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
- P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
- P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
- P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
- U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A
Related Vehicles
Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.