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.

Electrical problem: The interior lights may not work (or may stay on) and/or the overhead courtesy lights may flicker due to damaged wiring near the trunk light or bad terminal in the courtesy-light connector. (1999)

Keyless entry: The range of the optional automatic garage door opener is poor. A replacement antenna is available. (2000)

Steering noise: Pinhole leaks in the rubber bellows of the steering gear may cause a rattle from the front end. (1999-2000)

Steering problems: Loose or sloppy steering feel may be due to bad inner tie-rod bushings. (1999-2001)

Vehicle noise: Front end makes a squeaking noise when going over speed bumps, etc. due to problem with MacPherson struts' striker caps.

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.

1998-02 300M/LHS: Some vehicles may have faulty seat recliner bolts, allowing the seat to unexpectedly recline. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.

1999 LHS: Front seatbelt retractor on certain vehicles does not work properly.

1999-00: Inadequately manufactured seatbelt shoulder height-adjustable turning loop top mounting bolt may not withstand sufficient force to function properly in certain impacts.

2000 300M: Passenger-airbag inflator assembly in small number of cars contains incorrect inflator charge amount, which could increase risk of passenger injury under certain crash conditions.

2000: Manufacturing molding error can prevent operation of G-lock and tilt lock functions on some driver-side seatbelt retractors.

2000-01: In the event of a crash, there is a potential for injury if the occupant's head were to contact the B-pillar. Owners will be sent a storage-bin accessory unit that can be attached to the B-pillar along with installation instructions.

2000-01: Some owner's manuals are missing full instructions for properly attaching a child-restraint system's tether strap.

2003: An inadequately manufactured hood latch component may cause hood to open without warning. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.