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.

Alarm system: The theft alarm may go off randomly, most often in high winds, and is often due to a misaligned hood. (1995-96)

Automatic transmission: Transmission tends to default to second gear only for no apparent reason requiring the transmission control computer to be reprogrammed. (1996)

Engine misfire: Rough idle, hesitation, and hard restarts during cold weather are due to a defective engine control computer. (1995)

Hard starting: A corroded connector behind the left headlight may cause hard starting, intermittently flashing "Check Engine" light, and radiator/condenser fan that will not run. (1995)

Hard starting: Intermittent no-starts may be due to a damaged wire near the transaxle shift lever. (1995)

Oil leak: Oil leak from gallery plug(s) on the 2.7-liter V6 can be fixed by adding an additional plug. (2001-02)

Steering noise: A bad pinch bolt on the coupling between the steering intermediate and gear shafts may cause clunking or rattling noise in the steering column. (1995-00)

Sunroof/moonroof: The pivot pin in the power sunroof may come out, or the plastic tabs on the control unit may cause interference, preventing the sunroof from closing completely. (1995) The sunroof may open by itself if water shorts the control unit. (1995-96)

Vehicle noise: Noise from rear of vehicle on rough roads might require replacement of spring seats and bushings. (1997-99)

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.

1995-97: Lower ball joint can separate due to loss of lubrication; could cause loss of control.

1996 JX w/2.5-liter engine: Disconnected vacuum hose may cause increase in engine idle speed and loss of braking power assist.

1996 convertible: Electrical contacts of power mirror switch can accumulate road salt, which may result in fire.

1996-98 w/automatic transmission: If operator presses button to shift out of Park with key in locked position, pin can break; "ignition-park" interlock would then be nonfunctional.

1997 coupe: On small number of cars, improperly welded head restraint support bracket on passenger side can break.

1998: Dash panel pad can shift, interfering with throttle cable control.

1999-2000: Lower lateral ball joints may have been damaged during assembly, leaking moisture that could corrode the ball stud.