Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Automatic transmission: 4T60E transmissions may drop out of drive while cruising, shift erratically, or have no second, third, or fourth gear because of a bad ground connection for the shift solenoids. Poor grounds also allow wrong gear starts. (1991-94)

Automatic transmission: TH-125 or 440-T4 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1991-93)

Engine noise: An engine rattle at startup may be due to too much wrist-pin-to-piston clearance. (1993-94)

Engine noise: A rattling noise at startup is often caused by automatic-transmission pump starvation or cavitation, or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. (1991-94)

Oil leak: The plastic valve covers on 3.1-liter engines were prone to leaks and should be replaced with redesigned aluminum valve covers. (1992-94)

Steering noise: The upper bearing mount in the steering column can get loose and cause a snapping or clicking, requiring a new bearing spring and turn-signal cancel cam. (1994)

Transaxle leak: The right front axle seal at the automatic transaxle is prone to leak. GM issued a revised seal to correct the problem. (1992-94)

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.

1990: Brake lights may not illuminate or, in some cases, will not stay illuminated all the time when brakes are applied, due to faulty stoplight switch.

1990: Cracks may develop in mounting surface of certain Kelsey-Hayes steel wheels; wheel will separate from vehicle.

1990: Front seatbelt may not properly restrain passenger in an accident.

1990: Front-shoulder safety-belt webbing may separate at upper guide loops on either side of front seat.

1990-91 in 15 states: Corrosion due to road salt could permit one or both front engine cradle bolts to pull through retainer; could result in steering-gear separation.

1990-91: Due to corrosion at front subframe, steering shaft could separate from steering gear, resulting in crash.

1991: Fron-door shoulder-belt guide loops may be cracked and not in compliance with federal standard; occupant faces increased risk of injury in a sudden stop or accident.

1992: Reverse servo apply pin of 4-speed automatic transmission may bind, which could cause loss or slipping of reverse, poor performance, or transmission to remain in "Reverse" while the indicator shows "Neutral" position.

1993: Some front seatbacks may recline without prior warning.