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: TH-700-R4 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1991-93)

Engine noise: The exhaust valves on the 4.3- or 5.7-liter engines may not get enough lubrication causing a variety of noises. Usually, the same engine consumes excess oil because the valve-guide seals on the exhaust valves are bad and have to be replaced. (1994-96)

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)

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: Shoulder-belt guide-loop plastic covering may crack and expose the steel subplate; in a crash, seatbelt webbing can be cut.

1991-92: Secondary hood-latch assembly can corrode.

1991-96 police/taxi: Rear lower control arm can crack.

1992 w/special-order 4.3-liter engine: Engine-mounted fuel-feed and return pipes on some cars may fracture.

1992: Antilock brake-system modulator can corrode and leak fluid; may reduce brake effectiveness and increase stopping distance.

1994 Capri w/speed control system: The speed control deactivation switch may, under certain conditions, leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn. This could result in an underhood fire. Dealers will install a fused wiring harness.

1994: Fuel-tank strap fasteners can detach, eventually allowing tank to sag.

1994: Oil-cooler inlet hose may be too close to steering gear, causing chafing that could result in leakage and fire.

1994: On small number of cars, paint between wheel and brake rotor/drum can cause lug nut to loosen.

1994-95: At low temperatures, throttle return spring could fail due to excess friction.

1994-95: Lower ball joint on a few cars sent to Guam and Puerto Rico can separate (also applies to 1995-96 police/taxi/limo).

1995: Improperly adjusted transmission linkage may permit shifting from "Park" position with ignition key removed.

1995-96 station wagon: Airbag caution label and roof-rack caution label were incorrectly installed on same side of sunvisor.

1995-96: Wheel lug nuts were not tightened to the proper specification. This could result in wheel loss.