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.

Air conditioner: The HVAC system mode switch gets stuck in the vent position as oil gets into the control head as a result of a leaking vacuum switch on the transfer case and a redesigned switch is available. (2001-03)

Engine misfire: The powertrain control module may cause a lack of power, early upshifts, late shifting in the 4WD-Low range. (1996)

Engine noise: Exhaust valves 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. (1996)

Engine noise: Engine knock at startup is usually eliminated by using an oil filter with a check valve. However, GM has revised PROMs and may even replace the main bearings if no other solution is found. (1995)

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)

Transmission leak: Fluid may leak from the pump body on 4L60-E transmissions due to the pump bushing walking out of the valve body. (1995-96)

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.

1995 w/4WD: A few upper ball-joint nuts were undertorqued; stud can loosen and fracture, resulting in loss of steering control.

1995 w/air conditioning: Fan-blade rivets can break and allow blade to separate from hub.

1995: Brake-pedal bolt on some vehicles might disengage, causing loss of braking.

1995-96 w/4WD and ABS: Increased stopping distances can occur during ABS stops while in 2WD mode.

1995-96 w/4WD and ABS: Under certain conditions, stopping distances in 2WD mode could be excessive.

1995-96 w/AWD/4WD: During development testing, prop shaft contacted inboard side of fuel tank, rupturing the tank; fuel leakage was beyond permissible level.

1995-96: Windshield wipers may work intermittently.

1996-97 2-door w/manual-locking recliner bucket seats: Outboard seatbelt webbing can separate during frontal impact.

1996-97: Failure of an upper and lower control-arm ball-joint assembly could occur due to corrosion, resulting in impaired steering or steering loss, or a partial or complete collapse of the front suspension.

1996-97: The windshield wiper motor may fail on certain vehicles. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.

1997: On certain vehicles, the outside rearview mirror switch may short circuit. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.

1998 w/4WD or AWD: On a few vehicles, one or both attaching nuts for lower control arm could separate from frame, resulting in loss of control.

1998: Daytime running lights do not meet FMVSS No. 108 requirements.

1998: Fatigue fracture of rear-axle brake pipe can occur, causing slow fluid leak and resulting in soft brake pedal; if pipe breaks, driver would face sudden loss of rear-brake performance.

2000 w/2WD: On certain vehicles, right-hand ABS module feed pipe and/or brake crossover pipe tube nuts could have been tightened improperly; seal could have been broken, causing leakage and increasing stopping distance.

2000-01: Some seatbelt assemblies were not properly heat treated and do not pass the load-bearing requirement.

2000-02: Brake lights and rear hazard flashers may fail if the multifunction switch develops an open-circuit condition.