The best way would be to use a load testing unit, but most people don't really have the means to get their hands on one. Most shops and even auto parts stores will offer free load testing service (in hopes of selling you a battery) and should even create a print out or show you the numbers.
On your battery there will be a CCA (Cold-cranking amps) number (probably between 5-600 CCA's for a cavalier) if the battery test averages 100 CCA or more below this number it may be time to get a new one.
When the timing chain is bad on a 2002 Cavalier, the engine could have several symptoms. The engine could run rough, be hard to start, or not run at all.
Usually your computer doesn't start or you can see it wherever the battery charging icon if the battery is charging or not.
Charging problem, altenator going bad or has already gone bad.
The 2002 Cavalier has a reverse light switch. The switch can be bad, or have a loose connection causing the lights not to work.
my 05' cavalier has a bad alternator problem its charging the battery a little bit then stops and the little power my battery has is drained by the end of the night. I replaced the alternator twice and the battery but still no difference.
The battery light can be on for several reasons. A bad alternator is the top cause in my experience. Have the charging system tested and see what is going on.
Bad Alternator, Bad Battery, loose cables
There are many reasons why this could happen. 1. battery might be bad 2. ignition switch might be bad 3. battery cable bad 4. bad starter 5. bad sensors. the list can go on for miles, my advice to you would be... hook the car up to a obII computer to pin point the poblem.
compression? bad/worn/broken timing chain..
Weak battery? Loose battery or starter cable? Bad starter? Timing too far advanced?
One of 3 problems: wheel sensor is bad, abs cables, or hubs.
Yes.