1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 review from North America
"High maintenance, low value!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
At 3900 miles, the air conditioner was serviced twice due to a clogged drain.
At 6900 miles, the passenger air bag module was replaced due to failure. It was replaced again at 7300 miles.
At 29000 miles, faulty jumper harness for anti-lock brake system was replaced.
At 30000 miles, ignition wire set was replaced due to failure.
At 59000 miles, the fuel pump was replaced due to failure.
At 63000 miles, the transmission begins periodic episodes involving an odd noise and hard shifting. The Chevy dealership cannot find a problem. The problem subsides when the car is shut down and allowed to "rest" for approximately 5 minutes.
At 79000 miles, the vapor canister is replaced due to failure. Also replaced right hand rear wheel speed sensor and both rear sensor harnesses due to failure.
At 83000 miles, number 3 cylinder goes down. Also replaced left front bearing assembly due to failure.
At 85000 miles, number 1 cylinder goes down.
At 87000 miles, it's time for a new alternator.
General comments?
I put 105,000 miles on my Geo Metro and I never had nearly as many mechanical problems as with my Monte Carlo. I expected that such an expensive vehicle (more than 3 times the price of the Metro) would certainly be of comparable value. Boy was I wrong. I can't believe I have put up with this car for this long.
If you are not a mechanic with an in depth knowledge, do yourself a favor and stay away from this car. I will never buy a Chevrolet (or any GM) again.
Recommended reviews
| 1997 - Monte Carlo LS 3.1 Liter A safe, reliable, well built car |
| 1996 - Monte Carlo Z-34 3.4L V-6 A pretty car, but don't expect to win the Winston Cup in it |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.4L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 50 miles |
| Most recent distance | 87000 miles |
| Previous car | Geo Metro |
| Date of Entry | 19th June, 2002 |