Problem areas seem to centre around durability in 2000 to 2005 models. Many owners report lettering rubbing off of controls, peeling or fading dash plastics and 'cheap' feeling assembly quality. Brakes are another concern, and seem to wear or require service after abnormally short intervals. If you notice the brakes squealing excessively on a test drive, it may be problem remedied by replacement with revised brake pads. Remember that a non-ABS related pulsation during braking means that the rotors are warped and will require resurfacing or replacement. This may be called into play when negotiating a final price.
The GM 3.4 liter V6 engines were known for problems associated with coolant eating away at gasket material, causing leaks or premature head-gasket failure. The 3.8 liter engines were known to be very reliable, though they were also known for intake manifold issues. The 3.4 and 3.8 liter engines deliver respectable fuel economy and reliable operation- though it's important to be aware of the vehicle's service history. A good GM mechanic should be able to spot trouble signs.
A full check of the entire selection of interior features is a good idea- as reports of broken switches, dials or power windows aren't uncommon. Ensure proper operation of the used Monte Carlo's air conditioning as well. It should blow icy cold within in a few seconds.
Note the feel and consistency of gear shifts from the automatic transmission. Though they appear to be fairly un-problematic, several owners report hard shifting as the beginning of potential transmission issues which seem hard to diagnose.
Recalls were mainly airbag related, though one dealt with a potentially defective bolt holding the brake caliper to the steering knuckle which could result in handling or braking problems. Check with a dealership about the performance of recall work.
In 2006 and 2007, the Monte Carlo was updated to ride the latest-generation Impala platform, complete with a lineup of new engines. A 3.5 liter, 211 horsepower V6 was the base powerplant, while a 3.9 liter, naturally aspirated V6 matched the output of the old supercharged V6 at 240 horses. In this generation, a 5.3 liter, 303 horsepower smallblock V8 was available too. The model remained a front-wheel drive.
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| 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS |
The GM 3.4 liter V6 engines were known for problems associated with coolant eating away at gasket material, causing leaks or premature head-gasket failure. The 3.8 liter engines were known to be very reliable, though they were also known for intake manifold issues. The 3.4 and 3.8 liter engines deliver respectable fuel economy and reliable operation- though it's important to be aware of the vehicle's service history. A good GM mechanic should be able to spot trouble signs.
A full check of the entire selection of interior features is a good idea- as reports of broken switches, dials or power windows aren't uncommon. Ensure proper operation of the used Monte Carlo's air conditioning as well. It should blow icy cold within in a few seconds.
Note the feel and consistency of gear shifts from the automatic transmission. Though they appear to be fairly un-problematic, several owners report hard shifting as the beginning of potential transmission issues which seem hard to diagnose.
Recalls were mainly airbag related, though one dealt with a potentially defective bolt holding the brake caliper to the steering knuckle which could result in handling or braking problems. Check with a dealership about the performance of recall work.
In 2006 and 2007, the Monte Carlo was updated to ride the latest-generation Impala platform, complete with a lineup of new engines. A 3.5 liter, 211 horsepower V6 was the base powerplant, while a 3.9 liter, naturally aspirated V6 matched the output of the old supercharged V6 at 240 horses. In this generation, a 5.3 liter, 303 horsepower smallblock V8 was available too. The model remained a front-wheel drive.
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| 2006-2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo |