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 ABS warning light may come on due to a poor electrical ground for the electronic brake control module. (2004-05)

Electrical problem: The turn signals may stay on, or all four may flash at the same time due to a faulty flasher. (2004)

Electrical problem: If the OnStar system quits or won't come (no power), but comes back to life if the fuse is removed for five minutes, the vehicle communications interface module must be replaced or else the problem ill recur. (2004-06)

Electrical problem: On vehicles equipped with OnStar the global positioning system may lose precision (lose track). Window tinting may cause this or, if the antenna is in the rear parcel shelf, by things placed on the shelf. (2004-05)

Fuel gauge: The engine may not start or may stall because the tank is empty yet the gauge shows fuel remaining, or the fuel gauge will not show full after refilling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender and, if after treating with Fuel System Cleaner PLUS the problem remains, the sender may need to be replaced. (2004-06)

Fuel pump: If the gas tank is hard to fill because the nozzle keeps clicking off, or gas spits back out, there is a problem with the filler pipe, which needs to be replaced along with a section of hose that has a check valve. (2004)

Tail/brake lights: The taillights and brake light may quit working and new circuit board(s) will be installed under warranty for up to 6 years/72,000 miles. (2004)

Water leak: Vehicles with the 4.2L 6-cylinder engine may suffer from water in the transmission evidenced by rust on the dipstick and shuddering between 40-50 mph, requiring replacement of the dipstick tube. (2004-05)

Water leak: Strange behavior of the 4WD or AWD system, especially after a car wash or rain could be due to water entering the speed sensor wiring at the rear sensor. (2004-05)

Wipers: The rear wiper may do a poor job for which there is a revised replacement wiper arm. (2004)

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.

2004 Rainier: On some vehicles, operating the turn-signal switch normally may cause the front marker/turn light and rear turn lights to flash in a manner similar to a hazard warning, rather than signaling the desired turn.

2004 Rainier: Vibration and heat could cause taillamp/stoplamp bulb to loosen; bulb may flicker and eventually become inoperative.

2005 Rainier: Windshield might not be retained in the event of a crash, because during the curing process, the urethane bead may not have adhered to certain areas of the car body.

2006 Rainier: 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 Rainier: Tire and loading information label may list inaccurate vehicle capacity weight.