1996, 2.2 chevy cavalier, I keep getting different answers. Does it have a timing chain, or timing belt? If it has a timing chain, does that need to be changed?

Go to YouTube.com and search for "1991 chevy cavalier water pump replacement". They have several videos on Cavaliers, one for a 1991 with a 3.1L engine. You didn't state engine size, so scroll through the search results to see if you find a video for your model engine (could be a different year though).

A Haynes or Chilton manual will have that.

Hello nwuggles: My name is Roger and I will help you. On a 202 engine there is only one engine used. What you need for belt replacement is do or do you not have a/c. I attached a picture of both a/c and non a/c. Just use the appropriate picture to replace your belt. Please rate the answer. Should you need further help please just ask. Thank You for using Fix Ya. Roger

Hello chriso201: My name is Roger and I can answer this question. The Chevrolet Cavalier 2.2 engine does not have a timing belt. This engine uses a timing chain. Check the compression if you have less then 100 psi on the cylinders I would think timing chain. Any thing over 100 the chain should be ok. I would prefer to see above 150 psi. Should you need further help please just ask. Please rate the answer you received. Thank You for using Fix Ya. Roger

Diagram should be under the hood
The auto tensioneris down low and dificult to get to.
If it has not been changed in a while you will need a long thin push stick and a serpentine tool.
Push on the belt hard at the auto adjuster and pop the belt off the smooth pully (located top).
hook up the serpentine belt tool and then mount the new belt

All shops charge differently. Call around. Plan on spending about 500 give or take.

Go to your local Library and you can probably get great help there if your gonna do this ur self and if u don't want to spend money on a manual for ur car and even that might not have what u need.

You have a timing chain, don't have to change it like you do a belt.

did you align the points on the crank and on the cam so they are straight up and down? they have to be aligne to let the car run right

your car does not have a timing belt it has a chain. but yes if the pump is driven by timing belt and it starts leaking the coolant gets on belt and it will fail. if your car has the 2.4 engine the water pump runs off of the timing chain and depending on mileage it would be smart to go ahead and replace it since it will be tore down anyway will save on labor