2002 Chevrolet Prizm
Only 19 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 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 19
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2002
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2002: 19 complaints
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 19 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
4 of 19 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe and engine.
Show complaint excerpts
The tie down strap on the muffler rusted out at 45,000 miles. The muffler is stainless steel and should last 100,000 miles.
NHTSA ODI report, 2007-02-06
Latches/locks/linkages
3 of 19 total reports mention: latches/locks/linkages, most commonly citing latch.
Electrical system
3 of 19 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing switch and ignition.
Show complaint excerpts
Vehicle stalled at 35 MPH. Dealer determined that ignition coil had burned out. 2 cylinders had to be replaced as well.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-06-26
Steering
2 of 19 total reports mention: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
Tilt steering did not lock during a tight right turn.
NHTSA ODI report, 2005-03-25
Air bags
2 of 19 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing frontal.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving at 45 MPH consumer's vehicle was involved in a front end collision. Upon impact, air bags did not deploy. As result, major damage occurred. No warning light appeared prior to the crash. Manufacturer was notified.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-09-20
My 2002 Chevrolet Prizm (Same as a Toyota corolla) has its cruse control, horn, and the drivers side airbag all mounted on the steering wheel, electrically connected to the rest of the car through an inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil...
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-06-23
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2010-03-15Suspension10E002000 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…
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.
Buy-smart checklist
2002 Chevrolet Prizm — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Latches/locks/linkages: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 10E002000 · Suspension
FAQ
- Is the 2002 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 2002 Chevrolet Prizm?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 21% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2002 Chevrolet Prizm have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.