2004 CHEVROLET Monte Carlo

Never again, General Motors!

Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 2

I was excited when I bought this car after enduring a major life event that was health related. I had always had General Motors vehicles my entire life, both my parents worked for GM in Rochester, NY. The car had just under 95K miles when I purchased it. My first impression was the car having lots of pep and quite economical for being a good sized car. In the time I owned it (2 years), I have replaced all 4 rotors and brakes, the exhaust system (I replaced that with single exhaust, replacing the faux-duals would have costed a small fortune) and the rear parking brake linkage, which came apart. The 4 way flasher button on the dashboard broke and came apart. The high-beam switch doesn't click and keep them on high properly and periodically the dash will reset itself (as if starting the engine) in the middle of driving. The right front wheel sensor acts up when conditions are wet, which automatically disables the traction control. Topping it off, a week ago, I was returning home from running errands. I was exiting the expressway when I felt and heard a nasty vibration as I was coming to a stop. The car's transmission (4T65E) went, right then and there, at 108K miles. The car will now only move in reverse. Quite ironic, because I took a major step backward when I purchased this car. Too bad I didn't have a crystal ball. It's time to cut my losses. This coming week, I will be stepping into a Honda Civic. I can't wait! My Dad might spin in his grave, but GM cars have taken a major step back (or SIX) in quality over these last years. I don't plan on ever buying another one, I'm done.