Problems with the suspension started with numerous/continuous problems at 15,000 miles (May 2002). The car would make a loud noise as I would pull it into a parking space. Dealer couldn't duplicate. I went for a test drive with the service manager and it did it the first time out. They replaced the front rotors, brakes, and gears that had seized up. I was told they were defective from the factory. I picked the car up and drove it approx 5 miles and it did it again. They replaced the steering rack. When I picked it up that time the service manager went along and told me to drive it right into the service bay after driving it 2 more miles. They replaced the shocks. I had the car back for 2 weeks and had to drive it to Wisconsin for a family emergency (approx 500 miles one way) and had to have service in Wisconsin after the front end started making loud noises as the tires rotated. They replaced the front tires that were rim-rubbed. Once again I was told defective from the manufacturer. I had the car back one month and noises again coming from the suspension. Dealer told me that the frame was sitting on parts due to a defective steering rack and once again it was replaced.
Two months later I smelled a burning, hot smell under the hood. Dealer replaced a blower fan.
One year later (May 2003) and still had numerous problems with the suspension and front brakes. Dealer replaced front struts and mounts on the struts after taking it in 4 more times that month.
June 2003 had to have transmission and drive train replaced after hearing extremely loud and constant noise in engine compartment.
September 2003 - I took it in because the low coolant light came on, but didn't stay on; ticking noise in the engine compartment; and problems starting the first time. Dealer found leaking intake gasket, bad lifters, and defective starter.
Very roomy interior and the Monsoon stereo system is great. When the car is actually running well and in my possession rather than the dealer, it runs awesome. Would I recommend this car to others? Not in this lifetime.
Check the sticker inside your door, it should tell you which factory, and when, your car was built. With this rampant poor quality in initial production of your car, there may have been some sort of problem with that batch of car at the factory during that time.
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