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. (1991-94)

Coolant leak: The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (1993-96)

Coolant leak: Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1995-96)

Cruise control: If the cruise control doesn't stay engaged or drops out of cruise, the brake switch can usually be adjusted. (1991-95)

Cruise control: Cruise control doesn't stay engaged, or drops out of cruise. (1991-95)

Engine knock: Bearing knock was common on many 3.8-liter engines due to too much clearance on the number one main bearing. (1992-94)

Engine noise: An intermittent rattling noise at start up is often caused by automatic-transmission pump starvation or cavitation, or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. (1991-95)

Oil consumption and engine knock: Models with the 3.8-liter engine are prone to excessive oil consumption often accompanied by spark knock during normal driving conditions due to failure of the valve-stem seals. (1993-95)

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.

1991: Parking-brake lever assembly may release one or more teeth when applied, reducing cable load to rear brakes; parking brake might not hold the vehicle, allowing it to roll.

1992-93: Transmission-cooler line in cars with certain powertrains sold in specified states can separate at low temperature.

1995: Driver-side headlamp lens has incorrect aim pad number; if headlamps are reaimed using those numbers, result would be out of specified range.

1996: "Key in the Ignition" warning chime, driver seatbelt-unbuckled warning, and other functions may not operate properly.

1996: Backfire can break upper intake manifold, resulting in possible fire.

1996: Cars were assembled with one or more incorrect safety belt and/or buckle ends, so belt may not latch properly.