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CHEVROLET PRIZM (1998–2002) — Technical Guide, Fault Codes & Maintenance
Built 1998–2002 · all production years covered on this single page
1.8L I4 • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair cost9.3
Parts & repairability4.6
Maintenance & durabilityn/a
Documentation & support8.9
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) uses ACDelco dexos1 5W-30 engine oil. Its battery is group 35 (BCI), rated at 500A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 1.8L I4 engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT
Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.
Related codes: P0217
Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT
ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.
Related codes: P0522
Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT
Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.
Related codes: P0524
Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT
Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.
Related codes: P0606
Throttle actuatorFREQUENT
Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.
Related codes: P2100
COMMON REPAIRS
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
1.0h
€70 – €90
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
1.0h
€70 – €90
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.5h
€35 – €45
ABS Module
Difficulty: Medium
2.0h
€140 – €180
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)
Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.
Brakes8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| ABS Module | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| ABS Pump | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| ABS Tone Ring | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Brake Bleed - All Four | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Brake Booster | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
| Brake Booster Check Valve | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
Cooling8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Bypass Pipe | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Coolant Flush | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Coolant Reservoir | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Coolant Temperature Sensor | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Cooling Fan Assembly | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Cooling Fan Motor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Cooling Fan Relay | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Engine Oil Cooler | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
Electrical8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag - Driver | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Airbag - Passenger | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Airbag - Side | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Airbag Module/Computer | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Alternator | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Alternator Belt | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Amplifier | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Antenna | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
Engine8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Camshaft Position Sensor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Camshaft R&R | 4.5h | € 202–€ 337 |
| Connecting Rod Bearings | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Crankshaft R&R | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Cylinder Head R&R | 4.5h | € 202–€ 337 |
| Cylinder Head Resurface | 4.5h | € 202–€ 337 |
| Engine Mount - Front | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
Exhaust8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Injection Check Valve | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Catalytic Converter - California | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Catalytic Converter - Universal | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Downpipe | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| EGR Cooler | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| EGR Tube | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| EGR Valve | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
Fuel system8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Canister | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| EVAP Purge Valve | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| EVAP Vent Valve | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Fuel Cap | 0.3h | € 13–€ 22 |
| Fuel Filler Neck | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
| Fuel Filter | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Fuel Filter - In-Tank | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Fuel Injector - Single | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
HVAC8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| AC Accumulator | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Clutch Coil | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| AC Compressor | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Compressor Clutch | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Compressor Oil Add | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Condenser | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Evaporator | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Expansion Valve (TXV) | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
Steering8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Center Link/Drag Link | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Electric Power Steering Module | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Electric Power Steering Motor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Idler Arm | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Pitman Arm | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Power Steering Fluid Flush | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Power Steering Gear Box | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Power Steering Hose - High Pressure | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
Suspension8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Line | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Spring/Air Bag | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Suspension Compressor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Suspension Height Sensor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Suspension Valve Block | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Ball Joint - Lower | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Ball Joint - Upper | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Ball Joints - Upper and Lower | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
Transmission8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Clutch Cable | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Clutch Disc | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Clutch Kit | 4.5h | € 202–€ 337 |
| Clutch Master Cylinder | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Clutch Slave Cylinder | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Flywheel Resurface | 4.5h | € 202–€ 337 |
| Kickdown Cable | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Neutral Safety Switch | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
📋 RECALLS & TSB (1)
NHTSA 10E002000
Suspension
Date: 11/02/2010
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. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEAR…
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1
Powertrain
P0171
System Too Lean Bank 1
Powertrain
P0300
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
Powertrain
P0441
EVAP Incorrect Purge Flow
Powertrain
P0128
Coolant Thermostat Below Regulating Temperature
Powertrain
P0455
EVAP System Leak Detected (Gross Leak)
Powertrain
P0700
Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
Powertrain
P0507
Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
Powertrain
P0174
System Too Lean Bank 2
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P1811
powertrain
HIGHP1884
powertrain
LOWP1875
powertrain
MODERATEP1870
powertrain
HIGHP1860
powertrain
MODERATEP1812
powertrain
CRITICALP1810
powertrain
HIGHP1632
powertrain
HIGHP1629
powertrain
HIGHP1626
powertrain
HIGHP1599
powertrain
MODERATEP1554
powertrain
MODERATEP1517
powertrain
HIGHP1515
powertrain
HIGHP1514
powertrain
HIGHP1483
powertrain
HIGHP1404
powertrain
MODERATEP1380
powertrain
MODERATEP1370
powertrain
MODERATEP1258
powertrain
CRITICAL
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
53 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
151 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Chevrolet Prizm across model years 1998–2002. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
27 crash reports 5 fires 14 injuries
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 200145
Model year 199936
Model year 199827
Model year 200024
Model year 200219
Most reported components (all years)
Air Bags27
Engine And Engine Cooling27
Electrical System15
Tires12
Latches/Locks/Linkages10
Seat Belts9
Sample reports
A MALFUNCTION OCCURRED WITHIN STARTER WHICH CAUSED A ELECTRICAL SHORT CIRCUIT TO OCCUR ,CAUSING ENTIRE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TO BECOME INOPERABLE. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK (MY 1998)
CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 30MPH ON HIGHWAY AND HEARD A GRINDING NOISE. THEN, VEHICLE FROZE UP/ NOTHING WOULD WORK. STARTER BURNED UP EVERYTHING IN THE DASH. *AK (MY 1998)
2001 CHEVROLET PRIZM WITH TOYOTA ENGINE BEGAN BURNING EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF OIL AT 70,000 MILES. NOW BURNING 1 QUART OF OIL EVERY 300-400 MILES. TOYOTA HAS ADMITTED A PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE, BUT GM REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING. *TR (MY 2001)
EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION (ONE QUART LOW EVERY 300-400 MILES), WORSENING, APPEARS TO BE KNOWN DEFECT FOR TOYOTA SUPPLIED ENGINES IN 2001 CHEVROLET PRIZM AND POSSIBLY OTHER YEARS OF THIS MOTOR TYPE (POSSIBLE FACTORY RING, VALVE EARLY FAIL… (MY 2001)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 1998–2002.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Chevrolet Prizm have any safety recalls?
Yes — 1 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: SUSPENSION. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.
What does fault code P0003 mean on the Chevrolet Prizm?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0002 mean on the Chevrolet Prizm?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0001 mean on the Chevrolet Prizm?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are airbags problems common on the Chevrolet Prizm?
Yes — 24 of 141 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the airbags. One owner reported: “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. THE CONTACT THEN ATTEMPTED TO REGAIN…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are electrical problems common on the Chevrolet Prizm?
Yes — 35 of 141 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “ABS LIGHT WENT ON WHILE I WAS DRIVING. COMPUTER CHECK AT QUA BUICK-PONTIAC IN SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH 216 561-1177 IN OCTOBER 2001 REVEALED THAT THE PMV VALVE HAD FAILED. MILEAGE AT TIME WAS 52,836. PAR…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are engine problems common on the Chevrolet Prizm?
Yes — 36 of 141 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “CONSUMER HAS FRONTAL & SIDE AIRBAGS. THEY DON'T DEPLOY, BUT THE SENSORS GO OUT WHICH MEANS THEY WILL NOT WORK & THE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYED ON. VEHICLE HAS BEEN REPAIRED THROUGH THE DEALER 5 TIMES. GMC…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What tyres does the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) use?
The original OEM tyre size for the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["175/65R14", "245/45R19", "185/65R14"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.
What is the right battery for the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002)?
The battery specified for the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) is group 35 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 500A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.
What engine oil should I use on the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002)?
The engine oil specification for the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) is ACDelco dexos1 5W-30. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Chevrolet Prizm (1998–2002) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
Found what you were looking for? Explore other Chevrolet models in our database, compare tyre offers in your size, or search a specific fault code in the TroubleAtlas OBD2 database.