Target Audience:
Individuals seeking reliable transportation with a touch of luxury and performance, and DIY mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Intrepid.
Powertrain Options:
Known for its supercharged 3800 Series III V6 engine option.
Platform Shared:
Shares the W-body platform with other GM vehicles like Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo.
Value Proposition:
Offers a blend of comfort, performance (especially with the supercharged engine), and durability, often at a competitive price point.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, timing, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, diagnosis and testing.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 4T65-E), torque converter, differentials, drive axles, transfer case (if applicable).
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, electronic brake control, brake rotors, pads, calipers, lines, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument panel, body control modules, infotainment, wiring diagrams.
Heating Air Conditioning:
HVAC system, climate control, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, heater core.
Body Chassis:
Body structure, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, exterior trim, interior trim, corrosion protection.
Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic fault finding, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom analysis, component testing.
Repair Rebuild:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Reading wiring diagrams, testing electrical components, circuit tracing, module diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive OE-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step repair instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic procedures, and specifications.
NHTSA Frontal Driver 2004:
5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger 2004:
5 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset 2004:
Good
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Available/Standard on certain trims
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, available side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 6-12 months with synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed for air quality.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect/replace at approx. 100,000 miles (longer life plugs)
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect periodically, change every 50,000 - 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (Orange Extended Life)
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
On L36 and L67 engines, the original plastic intake manifold gaskets could degrade and leak coolant, leading to misfires and coolant loss. Updated designs are available.
Supercharger Tensioner:
The idler pulley or tensioner assembly for the supercharger belt on L67 engines can fail, causing noise or belt slippage.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear out prematurely, causing humming or grinding noises.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
The 4T65-E transmission can sometimes develop issues causing hard shifts or delayed engagement, often related to solenoid issues or fluid degradation.
