The alternator went at about 80,000km.
The floor rug is wearing thin unexpectedly and large bald spots are opening up.
There seems to be a problem with the thermostat; the engine is running at a lower than expected temperature. The replacement doesn't match (I believe Chevrolet made the change) and it does not correct the supposed problem.
There is too little headroom with the leather seats. Being 188cm (6'3") tall I notice this more so than others would, but still, my friend's 1991 Camry has more headroom than my Monte. I have the power seat adjusted all the way down and tilted to the point that 1 more nudge will make the seat rise. Even after making these adjustments, I must recline the seat to keep my head from hitting the roof, and usually must view traffic lights through the sunroof. This interior is quite short and not designed for anyone average height or taller. I have been considering trying to move the seat track back (probably not possible) or purchasing a new drivers seat from a performance company.
This article I am commenting on was written by me. I believe it is important to note the model year is 1999, not 1998 (the year it was manufactured).
By the way, there have been no changes to the vehicle as it is still being stored!
My 2004 Monte Carlo SS S/C (leather int) is also KILLING my back. I have to go in for medical testing now, and am on pain killers and anti-inflammatory medication, and I am pretty sure that the seat with the lumbar adj. aggravates my condition. Try getting the seat redone. They put a lot of hard padding in there. Or maybe get a more comfortable car! Good luck.
Thanks for your comments, but my seats do not have a lumbar support. I had regretted this until reading about your troubles. I have been driving it again for about a month now and am starting to feel the strain. They also seem to protrude on the sides so that my shoulders are constantly under pressure and I fear eventually my shoulders will be further ahead than my chest!
I also own a 98 Monte Carlo, Z34 and I find it interesting that I also had to replace my alternator at around the same time. However, at the time that I am writing this, my Monte Carlo is now operating on its 4th alternator, when I bought it with 54k miles it still had the original. I'm starting to think that GM maybe should have done a recall or something.
I purchased my 1998 Z34 Monte Carlo 2 years ago, and also had to have the alternator changed at 81,000 miles.
Other than that, I have no complaints. The car is fast and furious, a little stiff in the suspension, but handles quite well for a car this size.
The fuel pump in the gas tank whines when tank is near empty, suggesting a costly replacement in the near future.
I love this car and hope to be driving it for many more happy miles.
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