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.

Audio system: A short causes popping noises from the speakers when the power seat is operated. A jumper harness with a filter has been released for installation under the seat. (1999-2001)

Automatic transmission: The automatic transmission may shudder, surge, or vibrate due to thermal breakdown of the original transmission fluid (SPII). The system must be flushed and refilled with revised fluid (SPIII). (1999-2001)

Electrical problem: Heat from the exhaust manifold, could damage the battery cable harness and blow main fuse. (2000)

Vehicle noise: Banging, creaking, and popping noises from the front end are usually due to dry stabilizer-bar bushings. Revised bushings are available as replacements. (1999-2000)

Vehicle noise: Popping and creaking noises from front end of vehicle are caused by worn front stabilizer bar bushings. (1999-2000)

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.

1998-03: Bilingual English/Spanish removable airbag warning labels on dashboard and sunvisor do meet size requirements.

1999-2000 w/V6: On certain cars, battery-cable wiring harness can become heat-damaged by front exhaust manifold, which could cause grounded circuits. This failure could cause any of the following to occur: (1) engine will not start because main fuse will blow if power lead is grounded; (2) low oil-pressure warning lamp will illuminate if signal wire is grounded; (3) air conditioner will become inoperative if lead to magnetic clutch is grounded; and (4) turn signal/hazard lamps will become inoperative if voltage-monitor lead is grounded.

1999-2000: Steering-column multifunction switch levers can become loose or break over time; loosening or cracking can cause directional lamps that do not self-cancel or operate, headlamps that do not turn off, windshield washers that operate continuously, and/or windshield wipers that do not operate.

2000: Power-steering pipe could wear through, allowing fluid leakage. Can result in a fire and continued loss of fluid will result in a loss of power assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

2001: Bulge in fuel tank on small number of vehicles resulted in thinning of material, increasing risk of fuel leakage.

2001: Harness for crankshaft position sensor could contact new protective shield, causing grounded circuit; prolonged contact could cause wiring insulation to wear and eventually to ground out, causing engine to die.

2001: Some incorrect driver's seat mounting bolts were installed.

2002: Front harness may be routed so that it comes into contact with a rough edge, possibly causing grounded circuits, loss of stop- or turn-signal lamp operation and/or engine hesitation.

2003: Excessive fuel pressure could lead to fuel leak and fire.