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 transmission 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. (1992-94)

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

Automatic transmission: The 4T60-E automatic transmission can suddenly go into neutral at highway speeds due to a problem with internal shift valves. (1995-96)

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. (1993-99)

Coolant leak: Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1995-99)

Cruise control: If the cruise control doesn't stay engaged, or drops out of cruise, the brake switch can usually be adjusted. (1992-95)

Engine knock: Bearing knock is caused by too much clearance on the number one main bearing. (1992-94)

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

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. (1992-95)

Engine temperature: Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)

Horn: The horn may spontaneously sound in cold weather. Airbag assembly must be replaced. (2000)

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. (1994-95)

Transmission 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.

1992: Parking-brake lever assembly may release one or more teeth when applied, so parking brake might not hold the car.

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.

1996: "Key in the Ignition" warning chime, driver seatbelt-unbuckled warning, and other functions may fail to operate properly.

1996-97: Backfire can break upper intake manifold, resulting in no-start condition and possible fire.

1997: Seatbelt might not latch properly.

1998-99: A faulty fuel-pressure regulator may allow a fuel leak to enter the intake manifold, resulting in possible fire. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.

1999: Clip that secures linkage of transmission detent lever can loosen and disconnect; indicated gear would then differ from actual state of the transmission.