🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Vauxhall Model: Cavalier Model Generations Covered: Third Generation (J-Body) Production Years Covered: 1988-1995 Codes Chassis Codes: Vauxhall Cavalier Mk3 (internal designation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Family car, executive car (depending on trim and engine) Competitors: Ford Sierra, Volkswagen Passat (B3), Peugeot 405, Toyota Carina Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Comfortable ride, spacious interior, good handling, reliable mechanicals Manual Value Proposition: Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information for DIY enthusiasts and independent workshops 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicle Markets: United Kingdom (primarily), Continental Europe (as Opel Vectra A) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Thousands (actual number varies by specific manual compilation) Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: Acrobat PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, troubleshooting for all engine variants Engine Management: Fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition systems, emission control systems Transmission Manual: Service, repair, overhaul, troubleshooting of manual gearboxes Transmission Automatic: Service, repair, overhaul, troubleshooting of automatic transmissions (e.g., GM 4-speed) Suspension: Front struts, rear beam/independent suspension (depending on variant), bushings, shock absorbers, anti-roll bars Steering: Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rods, steering column Brakes: Hydraulic system, front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications Electrical System: 12V system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, accessory circuits Bodywork And Chassis: Panel replacement, structural repair, corrosion prevention, door mechanisms, glass replacement HVAC: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system service and repair Fuel System: Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications and replacement Exhaust System: Component replacement, gasket specifications, catalytic converter information Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides Component Replacement: Step-by-step guides for replacing common wear items and major components Engine Rebuild: Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly Transmission Repair: In-depth procedures for manual and automatic transmission overhauls Brakes System Service: Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, bleeding procedures Electrical Diagnostics: Tracing faults, testing circuits, component testing Body Repair: Panel alignment, welding procedures, trim removal and installation Suspension And Steering Repair: Component replacement, alignment specifications HVAC System Service: Refrigerant handling, component replacement, leak detection Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds Diagnostic Capabilities: Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine management and electrical systems Specific Data Availability: Torque settings, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, technical specifications 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Windows & MAC compatible Print Quality Visual Elements: Thousands of pages of detailed diagrams and step-by-step illustrations Binding Type Binding: Digital Download (N/A for printed binding) Paper Type Paper Quality: Digital Download (N/A for paper type) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Codes: Various GM Family II engines: C16SE, X18XE, C18XE, C20NE, C20XE (Redtop), X20XEV (later models) Displacement Common: 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L (1598cc, 1796cc, 1998cc) Horsepower Range: Approximately 75 HP (1.6L) to 150 HP (2.0L 16v C20XE) Torque Range: Approximately 128 Nm to 196 Nm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Petrol (Gasoline) Performance Redline Typical: Approximately 6500 RPM (varies by engine) 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox (e.g., F16, F18, F20) Optional Automatic Transmission: 4-speed automatic (e.g., GM 44-50 LE) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon (sedan), 5-door estate (wagon) - known as Vectra A in some markets Wheelbase: Approx. 2600 mm (2600 mm for saloon/hatch, 2615 mm for estate) Length: Approx. 4430 mm (saloon) - 4500 mm (estate) Width: Approx. 1700 mm Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 1100 kg - 1350 kg (depending on body style and engine) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Performance: Euro NCAP equivalent ratings for the era (pre-dates standardized Euro NCAP, but generally considered good for its time) Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims and later models Passive Features Airbags: Driver airbag available as an option on later models Seatbelts: Pre-tensioner seatbelts (front) on some models 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted radio/cassette players, optional CD players on later models Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option on higher trim levels Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle systems and basic comfort features. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 6,000 - 9,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type) Timing Belt Replacement: Every 40,000 - 60,000 miles or 4-5 years (critical for interference engines, check specific engine code) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 (refer to manual) Coolant Specification: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically with silicate inhibitors...
Cylinder head gasket leaks (especially on 2.0L engines), oil leaks from crank seals
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Vauxhall Legacy:
Vauxhall has a long history in the UK automotive market, known for producing reliable and practical vehicles.
Model Evolution
Cavalier Lineage:
The Cavalier was a staple of Vauxhall's range, evolving through several generations to meet market demands. The Mk3 Cavalier (J-Body) was a significant redesign, sharing its platform with the Opel Vectra A.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom (for Vauxhall) and Rüsselsheim, Germany (for Opel)
End Of Production:
The Cavalier nameplate was retired in 1995 and replaced by the Vauxhall Vectra.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
The Cavalier was consistently a strong seller in the UK market and often featured in 'car of the year' discussions for its class, though specific prestigious awards are less documented than modern vehicles.
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