2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
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2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo ▼
- Price Range: $3,200 - $12,600
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Instruments/controls
- Acceleration (SS)
- Steering/handling (SS)
Cons
- Engine noise
- Road noise
- Rear-seat entry/exit
Vehicle Highlights
Totally redesigned for 2000, Chevrolet's midsize sports coupe switched from the Lumina platform to that of the new, larger Impala sedan. Eye-catching styling stood out from any other domestic model, and even featured some design cues from the original Monte Carlos of the 1970s. Two inches shorter overall than the previous Monte, it was three inches longer in wheelbase, giving passengers an extra inch of leg room. A 180-horsepower 3.4-liter V6 went into the LS coupe, while the sporty SS got a 200-bhp 3.8-liter V6, along with firmer suspension settings and standard alloy wheels. Each engine drove a four-speed automatic transmission. Both versions had all-disc antilock braking, but side-impact airbags were not available. Front bucket seats made for five-passenger capacity. Leather upholstery and GM's OnStar emergency/communications were optional for both the LS and SS. Standard equipment included air conditioning, power windows, a rear defroster, tilt steering column, and tire-inflation monitor. SS coupes added traction control, a rear spoiler, dual-zone climate control, remote keyless entry, and fog lamps.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
Year to Year Changes
2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo:
A side-impact airbag for the driver became standard on the SS coupe for 2001. Both versions now included traction control. OnStar became standard in the SS. A new Sport Appearance package for the LS coupe included five-spoke aluminum wheels and a rear spoiler. For the LS, that optional group features lower body cladding, unique five-spoke wheels and rear spoiler, and bright exhaust tips. Also new was an emergency inside trunk release.
2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo:
Dual-zone climate controls and a rear-seat center shoulder belt were newly standard for 2002. To honor the late NASCAR driver, 3333 Monte Carlos equipped with the Dale Earnhardt Signature Edition option package were made available at midyear. Based on the SS, these cars included the High Sport option package and special exterior and interior trim.
2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo:
Additions for '03 included standard remote keyless entry for the LS, and a newly optional XM satellite radio with 100-channel digital receiver. Added midyear was a specially trimmed Jeff Gordon Signature Edition of the SS.
2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo:
New for '04 is a Supercharged SS trim level, with a 3.8-liter V6, firmer suspension, 17-inch wheels, and standard tire-inflation monitor.
2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo:
Standard OnStar assistance is the main 2005 change for the Monte Carlo.
Our road test for the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Modest handling skills are the rule for the LS version of this relatively large coupe, but it feels reasonably balanced and secure in corners. The SS edition shines on twisty roads, showing minimal body lean and great grip. Stable during highway cruising, both offer firm, accurate steering and a comfortable ride. A responsive automatic transmission works with the base V6 to furnish adequate acceleration. Although the SS is no muscle car, its bigger V6 provides brisk takeoffs and ready power for freeway merging and backroad passing. Both engines are loud and gruff in hard acceleration, and tire roar is prominent on coarse surfaces. Even the firm SS suspension is compliant enough on bumpy urban streets. Brakes feel strong and have good pedal modulation, but hard stops induce excessive nosedive. Midsize dimensions give the Monte a big advantage in interior space, compared to most coupes on the market. Two adults can stretch out in front, and rear leg room is adequate for average-size adults. Head room gets tight with an optional sunroof, but there's far more clearance than in, say, a Mercury Cougar or Dodge Stratus. The cabin feels roomier than an Accord or Solara. The trunk is tall, wide, and deep, with convenient bumper-height liftover. The driver gets a comfortable bucket seat with plenty of lateral bolstering, but thick rear roof pillars impede over-the-shoulder vision. Gauge groupings and graphics are excellent, controls handy, and front occupants have individual temperature controls.
Value for the Money
Roomier than other sports coupes, the Monte trounces models like the Avenger in size, comfort, and performance. New or used, it also beats an Accord or Solara in features for the price. Though less poised than Japanese-brand rivals, it has its own American character. Resale value has not been strong, which can be a bonus for used-car shoppers.
Roomier than other sports coupes, the Monte trounces models like the Avenger in size, comfort, and performance. New or used, it also beats an Accord or Solara in features for the price. Though less poised than Japanese-brand rivals, it has its own American character. Resale value has not been strong, which can be a bonus for used-car shoppers.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo .
Trouble Spots
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.
Brakes:
The rear brakes make squealing or moaning noises. Countermeasure brake pads are available. (2000-01)
Coolant leak:
The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (2000-04)
Coolant leak:
Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (2000-04)
Hard starting:
Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)
Hard starting:
Chafed wiring harness near the A/C accumulator can cause check-engine light, no-start, ABS warning light, stalling, or poor drivability. (2000-02)
Vehicle noise:
Fuel makes banging and sloshing noises in the tank when less than half full. (2000)
Vehicle noise:
Banging, clunking, or popping noises from the front under acceleration or braking require shims between the engine cradle and frame. (2000)
Wipers:
The wipers may not stop in the correct position due to a problem with the wiper motor bracket. (2002)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
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.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $525 |
| Alternator | $275 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $895 |
| Brakes | $485 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $750 |
| Exhaust System | $565 |
| Radiator | $450 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $975 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $325 |
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| Monte Carlo LS, LT | $8,500-10,300 | $7,700-9,300 | $4,400-5,400 |
| Monte Carlo SS | $12,500-14,000 | $11,300-12,600 | $7,100-8,000 |
| 2004 | |||
| Monte Carlo LS | $7,300-8,300 | $6,600-7,500 | $3,600-4,100 |
| Monte Carlo SS | $10,000-11,800 | $9,000-10,600 | $5,200-6,100 |
| 2003 | |||
| Monte Carlo LS | $6,200-7,000 | $5,400-6,100 | $2,700-3,000 |
| Monte Carlo SS | $8,700-9,600 | $7,800-8,600 | $4,500-5,000 |
| 2002 | |||
| Monte Carlo LS | $5,200-6,000 | $4,400-5,100 | $2,100-2,400 |
| Monte Carlo SS | $7,200-8,000 | $6,400-7,100 | $3,500-3,900 |
| 2001 | |||
| Monte Carlo LS | $4,500-5,300 | $3,700-4,400 | $1,600-1,900 |
| Monte Carlo SS | $6,300-7,200 | $5,500-6,300 | $2,800-3,200 |
| 2000 | |||
| Monte Carlo LS | $3,900-4,600 | $3,200-3,800 | $1,200-1,400 |
| Monte Carlo SS | $5,500-6,200 | $4,700-5,300 | $2,300-2,500 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 110.5 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 197.9 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.2 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3340 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.8 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.1 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.5 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.8 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two engines power Monte Carlos, essentially identical to those in the Impala. A 3.4-liter V6 in the LS coupe makes 180 horsepower, versus 200 horsepower for the 3.8-liter V6 in the SS coupe. Both engines work with a four-speed automatic transmission. The new-for-'04 Supercharged SS model gets a 240-hp 3.8-liter V6.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Supercharged ohv V6 | 3.8 / 231 | 240 | 280 | 4-speed automatic: 18/28 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V6 | 3.4 / 205 | 180 | 205 | 4-speed automatic: 20/32 | 4-speed automatic: 21 |
| ohv V6 | 3.8 / 231 | 200 | 225 | 4-speed automatic: 19/29 | 4-speed automatic: 21 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Canada
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2000 Monte Carlo |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2000 w/TRW seatbelt-buckle assemblies:
Seatbelt-buckle assemblies fail to conform to federal requirements because buckle base was not properly heat treated.
2001:
On certain cars, airbag sensing and diagnostic modules could experience a memory error, and airbags might not deploy during a crash.
2002:
Airbag inflator could fracture, possibly injuring passengers.
2003:
Owner's manual doesn't adequately explain child-restraint anchorage system. Dealers will send vehicle owners a supplement to their manual.
2004:
Both front brake caliper-to-steering knuckle attachment bolts may be inadequately tightened; if a bolt backs out or fractures, this can result in locking of the wheel during braking, abrupt steering input, reduced braking or steering control, noise, severing of brake hose, or increased brake-pedal travel.
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