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.

Alternator belt: The drive-belt tensioner pulley or idler pulley bearings are apt to make a squealing noise when the engine is started in cold weather. (1993-96)

Automatic transmission: Transmission shudder or vibration under light acceleration or when shifting between third and fourth gear above 35 mph can be fixed by replacing the transmission fluid with Mercon fluid. (1992-94)

Automatic transmission: The transmission may slip and the engine may flare when the transmission shifts into fourth gear, which can often be traced to a bad TR/MLP sensor. (1993-95)

Blower motor: Squeaking or chirping blower motors are the result of defective brush holders. (1993-94)

Engine stalling: The in-tank fuel-delivery module may cause low or no fuel pressure. (1995)

Hard starting: If the engine does not want to start or cranks for a long time then stalls, the idle-air control valve may be sticking. (1995-96)

Heater core: Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1993-98)

Odometer: Because of a software problem, the odometer may quit registering after 65,531 miles. (1995)

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.

1993-94: Headlights can flash intermittently as a result of a circuit-breaker opening.

1993-98 Mark VIII 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.