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: If it is difficult to shift out of park, the transmission's parking pawl must be replaced. (1990-91)

Automatic transmission: If the transmission is slow to engage after being parked, the torque converter is draining down and a new cooler line with a check valve must be installed. (1990-91)

Automatic transmission: The automatic transmission dipstick may break requiring the broken bits to be removed. (1990+)

Brakes: Some of the ABS (antilock brake system) hydraulic motors were faulty, causing them to run intermittently even after the key is turned off. (1990-94)

Hard starting: Hard starting can be caused by silicone contaminating the ignition relay. (All)

Heater core: A clicking noise caused by the heater mode door actuator can be fixed by installing a new resistor in the wiring harness. (1992-94)

Poor transmission shift: Erratic shifting of the automatic transmission accompanied by a check-engine light is often due to a corroded battery ground connection at the engine. (1990-94)

Seat: Misaligned side rails prevent the seat from locking in place. Shims must be added to the outer rail to remedy the problem. (1990-94)

Vehicle noise: Popping noises from the front end are usually due to loose stabilizer-bar bushing clamps that must be rebent and reinstalled. (1990-92)

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: Lever pin of defroster shutter door may become dislocated and allow the shutter to close, preventing defroster from functioning and affecting visibility.

1990-91: Torque of latch screws on front doors may loosen over time, due to gap between latch base plate and inner door panel, so door could not be opened from inside the car.

1990-91: Under certain conditions on cars with 4EAT electronically controlled automatic transmission, park gear may not disengage immediately when lever is moved from "Park" to "Reverse," which could result in abrupt vehicle movement and possible loss of control.

1990-93 all-wheel drive: 5-speed manual gearbox may leak if driven continuously in extreme cold or high humidity; transmission could seize, bringing vehicle to sudden stop.

1992: Top of fuel tank may have been punctured during assembly, which could cause fuel leakage that results in fire if leak occurs near an ignition source.