1998 Chevrolet Prizm
Only 27 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 27 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1990 | 1 |
| 1991 | 2 |
| 1996 | 1 |
| 1998 | 27 |
| 1999 | 36 |
| 2000 | 24 |
| 2001 | 45 |
| 2002 | 19 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 27 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 27 total reports mention: tires.
CRASH3 of 27 total reports mention: air bags.
CRASH INJURY3 of 27 total reports mention: air bags.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 CHEVROLET PRIZM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OVER LOOSE GRAVEL, THE CONTACT TEMPORARILY LOST CONTROL OVER THE VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20121211
2 of 27 total reports mention: suspension.
2 of 27 total reports mention: steering.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
THE CAR ACCELERATES AND DEACCELERATES ON ITS OWN AND CAUSE THE STEERING TO MALFUNCTION.
NHTSA ODI report, 19990208
SAFETY TIMELINE
RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE
Remedy: RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
Campaign 10E002000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Chevrolet Prizm — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for tires issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 10E002000 (suspension) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1998 Chevrolet Prizm 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 1998 Chevrolet Prizm?
The most-reported component is tires, accounting for 11% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 Chevrolet Prizm have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.