1987 Chevrolet Nova
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 15
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1987: 15 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1986 | 4 |
| 1987 | 15 |
| 1988 | 11 |
| 1990 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Only 15 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
8 of 15 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission and axle assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
While vehicle was being driven speedometer cable snapped. 10 miles later, entire front end locked up due a malfunction within the transmission. *ak the mechanic determind that the trans case, all gears and right and left c.v.
NHTSA ODI report, 2000-10-06
Seat belts
4 of 15 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing retractor and buckle assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
Seat belts in front seat failed to hold driver/passenger in place in rear end collision, causing injuries.
NHTSA ODI report, 1996-09-30
1987 Chevrolet Nova does not secure passenger properly. *ts the consumer stated the seat belts do not catch and stop when he grabs them abruptly as he would expect in an accident.
NHTSA ODI report, 2006-02-14
Tires
1 of 15 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
{1}north bound freeway work right lane from, lindon exit to salt lake city. There are several grooves, holes and uneven lanes.
NHTSA ODI report, 2005-11-09
Also filed under Steering
Steering
1 of 15 total reports mentions: steering, most commonly citing tie rod assembly.
Service brakes
1 of 15 total reports mentions: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1987 Chevrolet Nova — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 8 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Tires: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1987 Chevrolet Nova reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1987 Chevrolet Nova?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 53% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1987 Chevrolet Nova have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.