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. (1994)

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. (1990-94)

Engine misfire: Cars with the 3.1-liter engine may stall, idle roughly, or suffer from tip-in hesitation after extended idling. Additionally, the defroster may not clear the windshield when the temperature is around 40-50 degrees F. The fix is to get a new PROM and a vacuum-hose elbow for the PCV system. (1994-95)

Engine noise: A tick or rattle when the engine is started cold may be due to too much wrist pin-to-piston clearance. (1994-95)

Engine noise: Bearing knock was common on many 3.3- and 3.8-liter engines due to too much clearance on the number one main bearing. (1992-93)

Engine noise: An intermittent rattling noise after starting is often caused by automatic transmission pump starvation or cavitation, or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. (1994-95)

Oil leak: The plastic valve covers on 3.1-liter engines were prone to leaks and should be replaced with redesigned aluminum valve covers. (1994-95)

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. (1994-96)

Transmission leak: The right front-axle seal at the automatic transaxle is prone to leak and 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.

1990-91 w/six-way power seats or power recliner: Short circuit could set seats on fire.

1990-96: Rear-outboard seatbelt anchors may not withstand required load; in a collision, metal may tear and allow anchor to separate from body.

1992: The reverse servo apply pin may bind causing the transmission to remain in reverse when shifted to neutral.

1993: Right front brake hose on some cars is improperly manufactured and can cause reduced brake effectiveness.

1994: Cruise control cable may separate from the conduit while engaged, resulting in loss of accelerator control.

1994: Improperly tightened spindle nut can cause premature wheel bearing failure.

1994: Secondary accelerator control may not return throttle to the fully closed position and could cause a collision.

1994: Water can cause short circuit in power door-lock assembly.