After purchasing, the water pump had to be replaced. The dealer was kind enough to replace it. I thought this was very nice considering it was used with no warranty.
Next, the serpentine belt had to be replaced at 68,000 miles. I consider this routine maintenance.
We had a leak in one of the lines on the back brakes. This was relatively inexpensive to get fixed.
At 80,000 miles we had the head gasket replaced. We were told this was common for this model because GM used cheap plastic gaskets. The replacement was aluminum which hopefully means that it will last longer. this cost roughly $730.00 to fix.
Overall, I have to say that I love this car. Sure, we have had to fix some things, but I consider this normal. It is a man made piece of machinery. Over time it will cause some problems if not well maintained. We caught the gasket problem early on and avoided major engine problems with coolant and oil mixing.
This car is a great family hauler.
The car also handles and takes cures very well.
The transmission shifts seamlessly and beautifully.
This car also has a tougher look about it which makes me want to own it longer. Who knows, maybe we will reach 200,00 in this car.
I to owned a 97 Bonney, to which I traded it after 4.5yrs for a Grand Prix, and all I can say is I miss my Bonney and I regrett it. It was a very comfortable, fun to drive car and it was really good on gas.
I am a technician for a company that currently owns about 12 96-99 bonnevilles as sales cars. we currently average about 250,000 miles before they are replaced. I can't say enough good things about these vehicles. I have purchased 2 from the company so far. I have a 98 with a little over 300,000 miles and I drive it every day. the only real problem I see with these cars is the upper intake manifold. I have found that the aftermarket have pretty much corrected the manifold problem, so if you replace one, get it from an auto parts store and not the dealer!
I bought a 97 Bonneville in 1999 when it had 30,000 miles on it. It now has over 90,000 and while I have had to fix a few things, like the water pump, air conditioner compressor, I have been very pleased with it. Considering the size of this vehicle, I have been amazed at the consistent high mpg on the road. Sometimes, I get over 30 mpg!!
I had considered trading it in, but I have maintained it well, and I really think I might get well over 200,000 miles on it, who knows. Right now it is still running and performing like a new car.
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