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 system may quit working intermittently due to failure of the low pressure switch on the compressor. (2003)

Battery: The battery may go dead because the ignition switch may not be in the fully off position, even with the key removed requiring replacement of the ignition switch. (2003-05)

Clutch: A rumbling noise at just below 55 mph is caused by the normal full lockup of the torque converter clutch; and the vibration is transmitted to the passenger compartment by the rear springs which must be replaced. (2003-05)

Electrical problem: The instrument panel may quit working and the transmission may default to second or third gear due to no voltage to the transmission solenoid. (2003-06)

Electrical problem: Transmission may upshift too quickly and even engage the lockup converter below 20 mph due to an electrical short that tricks the powertrain control module into believing the transfer case is shifted into four-wheel low range. (2003-04)

Vehicle noise: Various noises from the front end due to prematurely worn stabilizer links. (2003-04)

Water leak: Water on the front floor may be due to one or more leaks at the A-pillar near the windshield. (2003-05)

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.

2003 Ascender: Rear side closure latch on some vehicles sold in certain states may not latch or unlatch due to corrosion caused by road splash.

2003-04 Ascender: In certain vehicles, moving turn-signal lever up or down may cause front marker/turn lights and rear turn lights to flash in a manner similar to hazard warning.

2005 Ascender: In a crash, windshield might not be retained, due to improper urethane bead adherence.

2006 Ascender: During extreme steering maneuvers, the power steering hose on some vehicles may fracture and leak fluid, causing loss of power assistance and increased steering effort.

2006 Ascender: Tire and loading information label may show inaccurate vehicle capacity weight.