How many gallons of gas can a Chevy Cavalier hold?
The Cavalier typically holds about 13 gallons of fuel in its tank, roughly equivalent to 49 liters. This baseline can vary slightly by year and trim, but 13 gallons is the common reference point for most Cavaliers.
Produced from 1995 to 2005, the Cavalier came in two generations with modest differences in design. This article summarises typical tank capacities across major production years and explains how those numbers translate into real-world range.
Fuel tank capacity by Cavalier generation
To provide a clear reference, the following section lists typical fuel tank capacities by generation and era. Values are nominal and rounded to conventional measurements used in manufacturer specifications.
- 1995–1999 Cavalier: about 13.0 gallons (49 L)
- 2000–2004 Cavalier: about 13.0 to 13.2 gallons (49 to 50 L)
- 2005 Cavalier: typically around 13.0 to 13.2 gallons (49 to 50 L)
These figures reflect the common configurations for civilian market Cavaliers and can vary slightly with options or regional specifications.
Practical considerations
Estimated driving range
With typical fuel economy in the mid-20s to low 30s miles per gallon (mpg) for many Cavalier models, a full 13-gallon tank would provide an approximate range of 325 to 390 miles, depending on driving conditions and engine choice. Real-world range will vary based on maintenance, driving style, and load.
Fuel gauge behavior and refilling tips
Fuel gauge readings can vary, and the low-fuel indicator is designed to prompt refilling well before the tank is truly empty. Practically, it's wise not to push the gauge to the last few gallons, especially on long trips or in areas with limited fuel availability. If you’re planning a long trip, resetting expectations around a 13-gallon capacity helps with trip planning and pacing.
Note: Always refer to the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s door jamb sticker for the exact capacity for your specific car, as production changes or regional models can yield small differences.
Summary
In short, a Chevy Cavalier generally holds about 13 gallons of gas, with only minor variations across model years. This translates to a practical driving range of roughly 325–390 miles under typical conditions, subject to driving habits and maintenance. For precise figures, check your vehicle’s manual or the fuel door sticker.
