2001 Chevrolet Lumina 3.1 Liter V6 from North America
Summary:
A family car with enough performance for dad!
Faults:
Noticed a rumbling from the front suspension when turning right, dealer tightened hubcap fasteners. Rumbling increased, especially over bumps. Dealer replaced struts. Rumbling returned 1 week later, dealer replaced steering rack. Engine starting to make noise as if lifters are going bad, told by dealer this is typical of this type of engine--no valve adjustment can be done.
General Comments:
My wife and I bought our Lumina (it was her car) from an out-of-town dealer who gave us a great deal and provided splendid service. We were about to make our first extended trip in the car when one day I was broadsided by another driver. The car stayed together rather well considering it went airborne after it was struck, took out a lamppost while in-flight, and landed in a drainage ditch on it's roof. My only complaint is that GM should make their pillar supports a little better as the roof caved in to the headrests of the driver's seat after landing; this resulted in my head being forced to the right and damaging my spine--but I'm still alive.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 28th July, 2003
10th May 2006, 23:34
I was in an accident in my Lumina. Sturdy as a rock. It probably saved my life. Loved that car.
8th Jun 2009, 22:13
We have a '98 Lumina, and my sister got herself T-boned in it. The car still runs and drives great, and the driver's door even still opens and shuts! (which would surprise you if you saw how badly it's been damaged).
The engines in these cars DO make a lifter noise, and the dealer was right, a valve adjustment would do no good because it's the PISTONS causing this noise! Large-scale factory defect on GM's part (go to www.pistonslap.com).
Mine continues to run great despite the noise (goes away when warmed up), but I wonder how much longer it'll last...
23rd Apr 2006, 13:40
You are really lucky to have survived. I own a 1998 lumina and feel that it is a safe car for my wife. hope you do OK with your spine injury. God bless.