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 A/C compressor may fail, causing a squealing or missing drive belt. The compressor fails from not turning on the rear A/C controls, but running only the front. After the A/C parts are replaced, the body control computer requires reprogramming. (2001)

Doors: Loose weather strip tricks the power sliding door into thinking there is an obstruction making it misbehave during opening or closing. The weather strip must be replaced.

Engine noise: Engine tapping noise on startup of V6 engines requires updated exhaust valve swivel pads. (1998-03)

Engine stalling: The engine may lose power or stall, especially when the temperature is below freezing, requiring replacement of if the throttle position sensor. (2001-02)

Fuel gauge: The fuel gauge may drop below the actual level while driving, but may return to the correct reading after sitting for about 10 minutes due to a kinked hose at the leak-detection-pump filter. (2001-02)

Suspension noise: Knocking or squawking sounds from the front suspension are corrected by replacing the sway-bar links. (2001)

Water leak: Some early production (prior to April 2001) vehicles may have a serpentine belt that squeals of jumps off (in cold weather) the pulley caused by water leaking from the wiper module drain tube. In cold weather, ice forms on the pulley. (2001)

Water leak: A wet passenger-side carpet is often due to condensation from the A/C drain tube blowing back into the passenger compartment and replacing the tube with a longer one corrects the problem. (2001-02)

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.

2001 w/o keyless entry: Sliding door latches could release in severe accidents. Dealers will replace both sliding door cylinder links free of charge.

2001: Lower control-arm bolt could fracture and lead to a loss of vehicle control. Dealers will replace affected parts.

2001-02 Grand Caravan: Condensation from air conditioning ducts may drop through vent holes in top of radio, resulting in short-circuit that could result in speaker fire.

2002 Grand: Fuel-tank-control valve weld joint could separate resulting in a fuel leak or fire. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.

2002: Some owner's manuals are missing instructions for installing child seats. Owners will be provided with an addendum to the owners manual.

2002-04 w/V6 engine: Upper power steering cooler hose may split and cause fluid leak, which could result in underhood fire.

2003: Power liftgate latch may not engage the striker, allowing liftgate to open while vehicle is moving.