1996 Chevrolet Lumina review from North America

I have changed the water pump, but I ran the car real hard when I first got it. The thermostat went out and that was a bit too complicated being that I had to take off a rail that ran from the front above the water pump to the back to the heater core hoses. Then, I had to remove the air filter assembly. This was due to actually reaching the bolts. It's kind of in a tight spot; not something you want to do on a really hot day in the sun. I did have a fuse popping for the climate control module in the dash and changed the module out. Not too hard there since the dash snaps in and out of place. Otherwise, no other problems.

Overall, the car is a comfortable ride without leather seats (which leave not room for breathing and make you stick to them anyway). I saw one that a guy rolled when he was drunk and it barely did anything to the roof, or anything else for that matter. Just a slight crush in the four corners and it didn't even bust the windows. The transmission is strong along with the C/V joints... I know, I've given them heck. The engine is only the 3.1, but it still make ample power when it's not loaded down with luggage or people; this due to it's light weight. Trunk space is generous. The roof offers a little lack in height as complained by a friend of mine complaining of hitting his head a lot getting in. Watch your head! The suspension could use a little stiffening because of rolling in curves a slightly. It could also use an inch of lowering for center of gravity. That aside, it has great ground clearance if you live on a dirt road or have a brother who does. Acoustics are awesome in this car as I demand great sound quality in my vehicles. I have (with a little improvising) fit 6 1/2 3-ways in the doors, 6x9 3-ways in the rear deck, and 2 12" JBL speakers in the trunk in a box. It seems to seal a lot of the bass in the car with little to no rattle, but when you are in the car, the sound is channeled perfect to sound loud! I have gotten a lot of comments from my friends. Customizing (yes, a family car, heh) is fairly easy if you or someone you know has the knowledge of how to take off panels and the rear seat and deck. I give this car an overall rating-from 1 to 10-an 8.5. It could use improvements, but does most of what I expect it to do.