MotorDeets

Chevrolet Prizm problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every Prizm from 1990 to 2002: 155 owner complaints and 0 recalls across 8 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2001 (45), 1999 (36), 1998 (27). Best fuel economy: 31 mpg combined (2002).

Chevrolet Prizm
Photo: Cutlass · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Engine & cooling30
Airbags27
Electrical16
Tires13
Latches & locks11
Seat belts10
Body & structure9
Exterior lights9

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
199001–
199102–
199601–
199802729
199903629
200002430
200104531
200201931

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Chevrolet Prizm.

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Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Chevrolet Prizm?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2001 (45), 1999 (36), 1998 (27).

How many recalls has the Chevrolet Prizm had?

Across 1990–2002, NHTSA lists 0 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).