* Lock-up torque converters were a relatively new technology in the late 1980s. They became more common in the early 1990s.
* The 1988 Cavalier was a budget-oriented car. Lock-up torque converters were an added expense, and it's less likely to have been included in a base model.
How to Check:
* Look for a button or switch on the dashboard. Some lock-up torque converters had a button or switch that allowed the driver to engage or disengage the lock-up function.
* Check the owner's manual. This will specify if the vehicle has a lock-up torque converter.
* Consult a mechanic. A mechanic can inspect the transmission and tell you for sure.
In summary: While it's possible a 1988 Cavalier with a higher trim level might have a lock-up torque converter, it's more likely that it did not.
