Congratulations on the 'new' '00 Pontiac Bonneville SE. I test drove a new left over '00 Bonneville SE sedan (White/Tan cloth) and WHAT A RIDE!!!! Very smooth car! This car had a front bench seat ( I didn't know Pontiac had a six seater in their line-up), superb Delco AM/FM/Tape/CD stereo (Dura, we got CHEATED with the Impala radio, you have to listen to that puppy in the Bonnie) nice exterior shape (Car looks racy and NO CLADDING), roomy inside but I believe the Impala is a bit bigger still in despite of it beign a "W" body car.
The 3800 V6 in the Bonnie churns out 205HP since it rides on the slightly heavier 'H'(Cadillac Seville) platform. The Bonneville is 2 inches longer than the Impala (200 In vs 202 in overall length). Really nice car, but $2K over sticker when compared to a fully loaded Impala LS. I was impressed by the ride quality and handling of the Bonnie (Has the Magnasteer II steering system)and I think it rides a bit better than the Impala LS.
If you want Cadillac style ride at a Pontiac price, the Bonneville is it....very underrated and overlooked car. I was offered $22,500 for the new car (Only 12 miles on the odo) (About $1,000 under invoice) but I am sure I could push a bit more ;-) (Still I have my Impala, so I can't jump on anything new now).
I still think the Impala is a HECK of a value...true bang for the buck. But the Bonneville has one main advantage over the Impala....No front end problems!. The current Bonnie has a steel cradle and the only thing made of aluminum in the car is the hood.
Ken, again congrats, you got yourself a heck of a nice highway cruiser!
Don't get me wrong friends, I stil believe the Impala is a great sedan, but the steering and engine cradle problems are not acceptable quality control and safety issues in these cars.
We must rattle GM's cage if we want permanent resolutions to these problems.
All of my email about various stuff: AMP, spaekers, cradle trouble, steering has gone unanwsered. I have not sent rambling / ranting email that would be deleleted right away. I have sent to the *point* email.
Our Goodyear tires have about 5/32 tire left (at 30k miles) on them. I hope to go to 40k miles with them. I plan on Michelin X-1 tires for replacements....
My understanding is that the impala and intrigue intermediate shafts are different part numbers and also a different design. Do you think this is a manufacturing (supplier) issue or a design issue?
Why are the regal and grand prix not having this problem.
Also replacement on my 2/99 Intrigue did not solve the problem.
But lubing the strangely designed jounce bumpers cured the popping sound when turning right.....temporarily.
Hi all, Just checking in. 22k on the Impala LS and no problems. This is a GREAT car! Also loving the Perfect Fit bra. Took some pics today. I'll post them sometime this week.
I had the Intermediate Steering Shaft replaced a few thousand miles ago and it cured the problem I was having. As a matter of fact, that was the only problem I have had with the car. Pushing 22k at the moment. FYI..Build date is Feb. 2000.
I purchased a 2000 Impala LS in Oct.1999. Since I got the car from the factory after a long wait, it has been hesitating when I accelerate from a stopped position. This problem is occurring sporadically which is making it impossible for a mechanic to duplicate the problem. It may happen twice in a day and then it may not happen for a week or two. Recently, it was left at a dealership for 7 days while mechanics tried to duplicate the problem but they told me that they had no luck. The same night they gave it back to me the problem occurred twice! These Chevy dealers are acting like I am nuts because no codes are coming up when it is hooked up to the computer and I can't get a loner car for anything.
When you try to accelerate the car feels like it is going to stall, for 3-5 seconds, all of a sudden it kicks in and you take off. Recently my girl friend was almost hit by a truck when crossing a busy intersection in the car. I am making payments on a lemon and safety is coming into concern which is making me consider legal advice. I also contacted Chevy and they told me that there was nothing they could do besides take it to a dealer that can duplicate the problem. The real problem is though, the dealers are telling me that it is too expensive to put a mechanic in the car every day and give me a loaner!
My hesitation happens only when I start "cold" or after sitting for a few hours. It didn't use to. It used to start up and go without warming up. My car was factory ordered and the build date was January 17, 2000. Funny, I had a 91 Pontiac Grand Am which never needed warming up, even after 5 years!! And, it was a 4 cyl!
I couldn't connect to myhubcaps.com, but it could be a transient 'net thing. I'll try again later. The example table on the Impala Problem page is what a trouble report would look like. I have to go through all the old posts and collect all the issues that people have posted. I would have started today but I got sidetracked changing oil in the Impala and Saturn and then got caught up laying ceramic tile.
I have a 00' Impala LS with 26000 miles. Just recently I have noticed an occasional clunking feeling in the steering wheel when making slow speed turns. It doesn't happen all the time. It feels as though the brake calipers on the front were loose, but they are fine. The clunking can be felt in the steering wheel, more so than heard. Does anyone have any ideas on this problem?
Read my recent posts regarding the 'Steering Clunk' saga on my Impala LS with 13K miles....
According to the latest diagnostic (Car is still sitting at the dealer waiting for the parts to arrive)it appears to be that the INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT is the culprit behind the clunks felt on the steering wheel column as well as the brake pedal at low speeds.
Like I said, my car's steering shaft has not yet been replaced, so I don't know with certainty that the part replacement will cure the problem yet.
However, this is a SAFETY problem and even if the steering feedback feels fine otherwise, do not delay or hesitate to take the car back to the dealer. Also, the dealer very likely tell you that GM doesn't have a TSB or Recall campaign for this problem. Bring with you a printout of the entries were the problem is described in detail and show it to the service writer/manager.
It looks like the intermediate steering shaft failure could be affecting a certain range of build dates, but we need to determine that first.
We would appreciate if you can post on Night_owl's problem database, your vehicle's model, Build date, the LAST six digits of the VIN number and the mileage when the problem was first reported.
This problem has also plagued the Impala's sibling, the 1998 and 1999 Oldsmobile Intrigues.
As far as part numbers are concerned, the Intermediate Steering Shaft of the Impala is different from the one supplied in the Intrigue: (This is a response I received from GM)
"Thank you for visiting the GM Goodwrench Service Plus website. The same steering shaft is not used on the Impala and the Intrigue. Impala p/n 26079240 Intrigue p/n 26078302"
At this point, I don't know if these parts are the same or not. This could also be a case where a bad batch of shafts were installed on certain build date ranges...still I don't know.
The Impala doesn't have the Magnasteer steering system....does the Intrigue has Magnasteer??
The intrigues with PCS have magnasteer II, but i can't remember if the regular ones do. I seem to remember that they do. Somebody correct me if i am wrong.
The last 6 of my vin# are 169447 with a build date of 9/99. I haven't yet been to the dealer. I would rather wait until the problem is consistent so as not to get the BS about them not being able to reproduce the problem. Exactly what posts have details on this issue?
Teo - I read your post - I agree with you 100% that this car is an overlooked gem. It rides beautifully and has the same set-up inside as an Impala LS (great buckets, looks like the identical floor shifter, etc.) I wish it had the 60/40 split rear seat though. All Pontiac gives you is the tiny pass-through in the center armrest which in mine does not even have cup holders - they're in the rear of the console.
I'm not sure about the suspension settings compared to Impala LS - my suspicion is that Bonn SE has a 'std' suspension so that the upgraded SLE and SSEi can boast the additional handling capabilities. Still, the car handles like a rock and is soooooooo smooth!
What is this MAGNASTEER? Is it a particular type of rack and pinion?
Teo - my "Spruce Green" car has the 1SB package, CD and 5 spoke alum wheels - no other options that I can see. I'll probably add the spoiler later and perhaps a paint stripe - we'll see. It lacks the driver/passenger climate controls and the leather steering wheel as well as a sunroof that I had looked forward to having in an Impala LS. The next option package would have added much more content.
Anyone hoarse from whooping it up for Prez W?
Have a great day, everyone. It's pretty here today with a fresh blanket of snow everywhere. It'll be brown on the road sides by tomorrow.
The below site offers leather wheel covers, I have put one on my LeSabre and also put one on my base 2000 Impala. It is a very good quality leather, and the lacing makes it fit the wheel very tight. Then next best thing to a factory leather steering wheel. If you do buy one of them, DO WEAR GLOVES when installing the cover as the instructions say, the lacing they use will cut right through your hands otherwise. Also as said in their instructions, I don't think you could pull the lacing too tight, it is some very strong stuff.
I thought the same thing you did at first. That taillight design is so obnoxious for an otherwise subtle 4-door sedan. I read somewhere that it was an attempt at "retro" design to give it the flavor of the round-taillight Impalas of the sixties, but if that were the case, they should have used a three-light configuration. (In the old days, two lights on each side would have indicated a BEL-AIR or BISCAYNE model.)
My wife didn't like the lights at first either, but after she drove the car and loved it, she said "It's okay, I'll be driving, so I don't have to look at them" To each his (or her) own.
The way the full width lense takes up the entire back and has that slight V in the top edge is reminiscent of 59 - now there was an UGLY tail IMO. Then the placement of the round lights brings back thoughts of the 60s especially the 65 which I owned. That was also controversial, I believe. However, the 4 rather than 6 lights is more in keeping with either a BelAir or the later Malibu from 72-73.
My guess is that when the styling is freshened it will have 6 lights and a less 'in your face' look to the lens panel - perhaps wrapping a bit more to lessen the boxy look of the back - and increasing the horizontal sight line.
Still, the present edition is unique and that is good IMO - I'm tired of not being able to tell one car from another (and I consider myself fairly knowledgable there).
Interesting to speculate. Chevy ought to do like Mustang a few years ago - ask the public to send in designs and pick a winner. I'd draw one up - hey maybe the grand prize could be a new Impala SS!!
Kodamar, your wife's comment was the same thing I told my wife. Her response was , "But >I'll< have to see it when I'm driving behind you."
The problem page has been updated with the first report. I didn't check here before I did the update, so dmullins' issue has not been posted. I'll get on that later tonight and do another upload.
Teo, dmullins, and Taylor1276, please check to see that I got all your respective info correct on the Impala Problems page. Let me know if I futzed something up.
Taylor1276, how much mileage do you have on your Impala? And Have you had your fuel system serviced? I got my LS in April '00 and just had the dealer recommended service for 6K miles recently, which includes a oil/filter change, lock/hinge/weather-strip lube, fluid level check, tire rotation, fluid level checks, fuel system flush among a few other things. Just wondering, it may be a fuel system erratic problem. As far as the rear/taillight styling, I like it. When I first saw pictures of the car, I didn't like it, including the front end, since I liked the previous SS at that time. But, the looks grew on me, and it had all the features I like/needed. The body was designed by the same people that did the Corvette, so some say it sort of looks like a 4 door 'vette, including the taillights. It even has Corvette door handles, in case you didn't realize it by now. I also can spot the car from quite a distance at night, by the taillights. I just wish the grille insert was more high tech, like the previous SS's grille, dual exhaust, like the Monte Carlo SS that was hinted about being in the LS before production, and maybe the 17" wheels/tires and spoiler from the SS prototype, though the present spoiler is fine. night_owl1, thanks for all your hard work on your site, and the problem page! BTW, where can I find the build date for my car? Thanks. JACOB
I did check the posting regarding the steering problems and it looks fine. However, I had also submitted an entry for the A/C Compressor problem which I did give it a status of "Resolved". Let me know if you ever received this entry.
Day 9 of the saga and the car is still sitting at the dealer waiting for the "part" to come in. I am getting used to drive the Metro already....
I hadn't thought of the family resemblance to the Corvette in the present rear styling but it makes sense. That's why the lenses are so large and in pairs rather than tripets.
All the more reason to redesign - make it look more like the tail of a Corvette perhaps and then incorporate the 3 lights on each side - I can see it in my mind.
Owners with over 5,000 miles on the odo have experienced any steering or front related problems???
Has anyone looked under the front end of a new 2001 to see if the engine cradle looks different in any way and to verify if the welds look better than the 2000's cars???
But when the 94-96 Impala SS came out, no one, absolutely no one, questioned that car because it didn't had the trademark 6 tailights. As a matter of fact the mid '90's Impala had the same exact stock tailight lenses from the mundane Caprice. I like the look of the current car from behind and it for sure doesn't get lost in a sea of 'me too' cars.
I still think the current Impala is a great car, but GM has been PAINFULLY slow to acknowledge and fix some of the serious front end problems these cars have. Sometimes GM makes corrections to the design and manufacturing of vehicles for the new model year, but often leave behind the 'guinea pigs' that bought the first year models to deal with their problems. I love this car and everyone knows it here very well. But I must admit that these problems whether are design or craftmanship are unacceptable on a car of this caliber. For the past 9 days my car has been at the dealer waiting for this shaft to arrive (Like if it was made in Japan or Germany, sheesh)and while still making payments on it, I am forced to drive a Golf cart with just 3 cylinders in it.....insane.
May be 12 years of owning Japanese cars spoiled me to the point that I have Zero tolerance towards cars that need major repairs during the first year of ownership. Don't get me wrong, my Hondas and Acuras also had their own problems but often after 3 years, not steering or A/C problems during the first 12 months of use.
I still believe the Impala is one of the best full size sedan values in the market, but GM needs to pay more attention to small details, becuase those details DO COUNT in the end. Sometimes I would pass up on the interior Gizmos for a better bolted interior and better plastics. I would pass on the Tire Pressure Monitor gizmo if they would make sure that the steering gear and front end meets minimum tolerances. GM can get a nice package at a great price, but quality still needs to be improved. A Car is a complete package, not some reliable parts and not others. GM has great engines and transmissions, but they still need work on suspensions and interior build quality. Just a taught.
Understand, I'm not ALL THE WAY bitter, just half way. I own two of these vehicles, purchasing the second knowing of the problems with my first, however, that is no excuse for GM being so lax on this cradle issue. I only use the "creeker" for small local trips, and that is not fair as I'd like to feel "safe" on the interstate etc.
DON'T DO IT. This question has been raised by a few national auto writers and click and clack (car talk) They say there is absolutely no reason to clean the fuel injectors unless you have serious problems and then it is probally something else. I WOULD LOOK FOR A NEW DEALER, ANY DEALER TRYING TO MAKE A QUICK BUCK OFF YOU CAN'T BE TO HONEST. Today 90% of quality gasoline companies put detergent in the gas to keep everything clean. TEO, DO YOU CONCUR. JOE
I agree. On a new car there is no need to perform such service. Even with the relatively good quality of fuel, there should not be a concerned with cleaning the injector so often.
If anyone has gone to aftermarket wheels and have those alloys sitting in the basement or garage, I am interested. Prefer the "sport" with five-spoke design but will consider the "custom. Must be in like-new condition. E-mail me with condition and asking price. Pics would be appreciated. Thanks.
You're right. However, some dealers offer a service that decarbonize the injectors. I know GM offers it. It's not the same as fuel injection cleaners. And it really works. Ask your dealer about it. It cost about $50 but it only has to be done about every 35,000 miles. I've had it done to my Intrigue and Bonniville. Check it out.
I hope I'm not breaking any Edmund's policy here, but I'm quoting a message from the Monte Carlo conference that applies to us Impala owners also. It's a TSB to take care of the debris that collects in the rear wheel wells.
Here's the post:
#153 of 154 Rear Wheel Liners by darkhalf Jan 23, 2001 (10:07 am)
For everybody concerned about this issue, I work at a dealership and have had the same problem with my 00' SS. I got a hold of the published bulletin itself and scanned it in and made pictures of it. They are posted at http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/y2kmontecarloclub
Join its free and its great.
For Impala owners this published bulletin applies to you to. So let the rest of the owners know about it.
As far as 2001's are concerned if they do not have them, you can mention it to the dealership, but the bulletin states that it is for only 2000 models Monte Carlo/Impala.
Has anybody had this problem with the tugging feeling in their steering wheel correctly diagnosed (as the intermediate steering shaft) and correctly repaired? My '00 is going in Monday for the same complaint. I would like to be able to point it out to the dealer as being, what seems now, a common problem. Also, if it is the steering shaft, how long does the part take to get in and replace?
Went out last weekend with my wife to look at new Impalas and we both liked what we saw. I had been thinking heavily on buying one so going out to kick the tires was next step. When I got home I decided to get on the net to find out about impala and get the inside track. Boy all I can say is I'm glad I came across you folks, it has put a great damper on my enthusiasm for going back to Chevy. I have read most of the postings here and have seen the evolution of thought on the car. I currently own a VW and it has been a so so experience, good car crappy dealer. After dealing with Dieter I wanted to go back to American and thought the Chevy was the answer. I will continue to watch postings to see if you can determine if the steering and cradle problems are just a production problem or if they are design flaws. Just wanted to say thanks.
Darthpecker:: My '00 Impala LS has been sitting at the dealer for almost 10 days straight due to the problems with the severe steering clunks my car currently has. At first the dealer couldn't diagnose the problem and it was first believed that the engine cradle had something to do with the clunks coming from the steering column and brake pedal at low speeds. Since GM doesn't have a TSB or Recall on the problem, it took them another 2 days to determine the cause and they think the Intermediate Steering Shaft is the culprit behind the clunks. They ordered the part last Thursday and it takes 7 days to arrive to the dealer. The shaft should be arriving at my dealer sometime tomorrow, hopefully. I don't know yet if that will cure the problem or not. I believe I'll get the car back by Thursday or Friday. Needless to say, I am extremely dissapointed at this car. I already have had two major repairs in 11 months of ownership, first a failed A/C Compressor, now steering problems and may be next the dreaded engine cradle popping noises. I am currently pursuing GM to replace or repurchase the car. The GM district area manager has already been contacted by my extremely accomodating service manager. Chevy customer service has also been unusually effective and helpful in contacting my dealer and following up with the service manager and the GM area manager. My service manager fully supports me in my dissatisfaction claims with the car and he thinks the GM AVM (District manager)will do the right thing for me....I am waiting to see about that. Last, bring these posts to the dealer. Also if you need to leave the car overnight, the dealer should provide either a free loaner or rental up to $30 a day. This benefit its part of the limited warranty. See your booklet for more warranty benefits. Can you provide us with the last 6 digits of your VIN number, build date and mileage when the problem was first noted? Thanks!
Hener: The Impala is a great car, but unfortunately the engine cradle situation appears to be more a design flaw than a manufacturing problem...but it could also be a combination of both. Owners of new 2001 doesn't seem to complain about engine cradle related problems. As far as the intermediate steering shaft, this could be attributed also to a defective part or a part manufacturing problem. The 1998 and 1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue (Pricier Impala sibling) its notable on steering shaft problems as well.
By the way what year/model Volkswagen do you currently drive?
I was wondering how many Y2K impalas were made? Mine was built on 04/00. Anyone here with the same build date that has the engine cradle or other various problems??
I seriously don't think GM will make any engine recalls on the '00 impalas. So far..no one has been injured or had an accident due to these engine cradles. And GM won't spend countless amount of dollars overhauling the "x" amount of existing impalas out there.
I bet that GM took all of our complaints and feedback and improved the '01 impala. I think GM will deny and delay our engine cradle problems till the warranty runs out!
It's a pity how such a great car is hindered one major issue.
My other hypothesis is perhaps the engine cradle problem has not been fixed. And sooner or later the '01 owners will complain as well.
The thing I fear the most is that there is a major design flaw in the impala, and that it would be too costly to redesign the component/components!!
Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but can't you tell a '00 Impala from a '01 by the rear license plate area? The '00 models are body color in this area, while the '01 models have a black plastic section there that ties in with the black rub strip that runs around the car. I THINK all the '01s I've seen have had this, but I can't confirm 100%. I do think this extra black section helps balance the back end a little, and makes the tail lights blend in a little more.
My '00 Impala started the clunking a few months ago; only on right turns when applying the brakes initially, now pretty much anytime - even when applying the brakes while travelling in a straight line.
Mine was built on March 14, 2000; VIN 310600 - currently has @14,500 miles. I think one of the earlier posts mentioned a build date of Sept. 1999, so I don't think we're talking a limited problem. Back when the brochures first came out for the 2001 models, I mentioned my creaking noise to my sales guy when I dropped by to pick up my box of brochures, and he asked then if I could feel anything in the steering wheel or the brakes; even went out and sat in it and turned the wheel to see if he could feel anything. At that time he said they'd had a couple come in with this problem, and they'd ended up replacing the intermediate steering shaft.
Mine is to the point that it is easily noticeable, so I don't think I'll have a problem with them reproducing the problem. My biggest problem is finding the time to take it in. Knowing they'll keep it for awhile, I also hate the idea of getting stuck with a Metro for the interim as well. I've also been looking for an old pickup to knock around in; I'm hoping I'll find something soon so I'll have the truck to drive while the Impala is in the shop.
I agree that the Impala is the best value out there in this price range, for this type and size of car. It's just that if GM/Chevy could fix the problems, we could heartily continue recommending it to others, but as now, all we can say is that it's a great car, but... I like all the gadgets, like the automatic lights, and being able to turn off the ignition without turning off the stereo or windows, other accessories, etc. Still, that stereo lacks. When you try to get the front imaging, you lose bass. It sounds alright to some people, even me, per se, unless you've heard better, which I have. I still intend to swap the speakers and put in my other amp. I just want to make sure I can find the right inter connect hardware so I can keep the original equipment intact when I remove it. The tire pressure monitor may be a luxury to some but it came in handy last week to alert me to a slow leak I had(car had been sitting in driveway from Sunday evening to Tuesday afternoon when the monitor went on.) As far as the engine cradle, if the 2001 does not have the problems, did they use the police package cradle? If myself, or anyone else had the problem, we should ask, no, demand that it be replaced with the police unit, which should be stronger, even if we have to pay the difference between the two(unless the amount is ridiculous.) Still don't know if it is a defective design, or manufacture flaw , or both, and if the police cradle is affected, but I know that the police cradle must be stronger, if they knowingly reinforced the stock one. Like I said earlier, that alone proves they knew there is a deficiency in the stock unit. Hmmmm..... JACOB
I dunno what happened. Sometimes the submit button doesn't work. I added a confirmation message so that you know if the submit button registers. Can you please re-submit again?
Everyone, I am considering making another page where owners who have had no problems can stand up and be counted. Take a look at the "What's New" section and let me know what you think and if you have any suggestions.
If you haven't checked out a Bonneville SE, you ought to at least take one out for a drive - it is VERY similar to Impala LS but not flawed in the suspension or radio as many here have noted.
Like you, I also have been impressed with the ride, looks and features of Impala LS but am picking up my Bonneville tonight. The interior is very similar and the engine/tranny the same. Styling is nice IMO on the SE model whereas the upgraded SLE and SSEi (far more expensive) are overdone.
Pricing may be a couple grand more. Mine is a 2000 preowned and will be a fraction of the new cost.
Check it out - it's a very good alternative. Both of these cars are a real pleasure to drive.
...from the Impala. I hear a lot of complaining, from a few, but is the front end problem widespread, I think not (but it sure looks that way from this forum). So far Teo, you have managed to push tpken and hener away. Give your dealer a chance to repair the problem. Has anyone out there replaced the steering shaft and had the same problem resurface (in an Impala, not an Intrigue)? As far as the A/C compressor, you were unlucky. How can the A/C compressor reflect badly on the Impala when it is used in most of GMs larger cars. I still can't believe you are pursuing arbritation before the car is serviced unsuccessfully. And I can't believe you would get a replacement/buy back of your car unless they/Chevy are just getting tired of hearing you rant.
tpken: good luck with your Bonne. My wife is definitely leaning toward one when she replaces her car this spring. FYI - a friend of mine bought an SLE about 6 months ago. 8000+ miles, no reported problems.
I've been reading, and reading... and sure, I feel really bad for those who have the problems.
My Impala, built Sept 99, but purchased Jan 00 hasn't had one single problem...
No ticks, No pops, no nothing. So here it is...
Of course, I leased my car. So if it starts doing dumb things close to the end of the warranty.. I won't have to keep it. I said a long time ago. I've been burned on first editions of cars before. I had a first year model Stratus and it was TERRIBLE. Teo's problems are mellow compared to what I went through with that car, before and AFTER the warranty. (I had it 4+ years). So, the lease. I figured,,, it's more like dating, rather than getting "married" to the vehicle.
I'd say to Hener and anyone else. If you really like what you see, hear and feel in an Impala. Lease one. If it has nasty problems... it's gone! If you love it (which so far I do) you can buy it at the end of the lease, or get the newer model...
Every make and model has problems. When they make the perfect car, please e-mail me and I'll start saving my pennies.
Comments
The 3800 V6 in the Bonnie churns out 205HP since it rides on the slightly heavier 'H'(Cadillac Seville) platform. The Bonneville is 2 inches longer than the Impala (200 In vs 202 in overall length). Really nice car, but $2K over sticker when compared to a fully loaded Impala LS. I was impressed by the ride quality and handling of the Bonnie (Has the Magnasteer II steering system)and I think it rides a bit better than the Impala LS.
If you want Cadillac style ride at a Pontiac price, the Bonneville is it....very underrated and overlooked car. I was offered $22,500 for the new car (Only 12 miles on the odo) (About $1,000 under invoice) but I am sure I could push a bit more ;-) (Still I have my Impala, so I can't jump on anything new now).
I still think the Impala is a HECK of a value...true bang for the buck. But the Bonneville has one main advantage over the Impala....No front end problems!. The current Bonnie has a steel cradle and the only thing made of aluminum in the car is the hood.
Ken, again congrats, you got yourself a heck of a nice highway cruiser!
Don't get me wrong friends, I stil believe the Impala is a great sedan, but the steering and engine cradle problems are not acceptable quality control and safety issues in these cars.
We must rattle GM's cage if we want permanent resolutions to these problems.
Our Goodyear tires have about 5/32 tire left (at 30k miles) on them. I hope to go to 40k miles with them. I plan on Michelin X-1 tires for replacements....
Why are the regal and grand prix not having this problem.
Also replacement on my 2/99 Intrigue did not solve the problem.
But lubing the strangely designed jounce bumpers cured the popping sound when turning right.....temporarily.
Just checking in. 22k on the Impala LS and no problems. This is a GREAT car! Also loving the Perfect Fit bra. Took some pics today. I'll post them sometime this week.
Blessings,
Frank
Frank
When you try to accelerate the car feels like it is going to stall, for 3-5 seconds, all of a sudden it kicks in and you take off. Recently my girl friend was almost hit by a truck when crossing a busy intersection in the car. I am making payments on a lemon and safety is coming into concern which is making me consider legal advice. I also contacted Chevy and they told me that there was nothing they could do besides take it to a dealer that can duplicate the problem. The real problem is though, the dealers are telling me that it is too expensive to put a mechanic in the car every day and give me a loaner!
http://home.hawaii.rr.com/impala/
Does anyone have any ideas on this problem?
Thanks in advance.
According to the latest diagnostic (Car is still sitting at the dealer waiting for the parts to arrive)it appears to be that the INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT is the culprit behind the clunks felt on the steering wheel column as well as the brake pedal at low speeds.
Like I said, my car's steering shaft has not yet been replaced, so I don't know with certainty that the part replacement will cure the problem yet.
However, this is a SAFETY problem and even if the steering feedback feels fine otherwise, do not delay or hesitate to take the car back to the dealer. Also, the dealer very likely tell you that GM doesn't have a TSB or Recall campaign for this problem. Bring with you a printout of the entries were the problem is described in detail and show it to the service writer/manager.
It looks like the intermediate steering shaft failure could be affecting a certain range of build dates, but we need to determine that first.
We would appreciate if you can post on Night_owl's problem database, your vehicle's model, Build date, the LAST six digits of the VIN number and the mileage when the problem was first reported.
This problem has also plagued the Impala's sibling, the 1998 and 1999 Oldsmobile Intrigues.
(This is a response I received from GM)
"Thank you for visiting the GM Goodwrench Service Plus website. The same steering shaft is not used on the Impala and the Intrigue.
Impala p/n 26079240
Intrigue p/n 26078302"
At this point, I don't know if these parts are the same or not. This could also be a case where a bad batch of shafts were installed on certain build date ranges...still I don't know.
The Impala doesn't have the Magnasteer steering system....does the Intrigue has Magnasteer??
You car's last six digits from the VIN number
Build date
and....
At what mileage did the problem was reported...
Thanks!
I would rather wait until the problem is consistent so as not to get the BS about them not being able to reproduce the problem. Exactly what posts have details on this issue?
I'm not sure about the suspension settings compared to Impala LS - my suspicion is that Bonn SE has a 'std' suspension so that the upgraded SLE and SSEi can boast the additional handling capabilities. Still, the car handles like a rock and is soooooooo smooth!
What is this MAGNASTEER? Is it a particular type of rack and pinion?
Teo - my "Spruce Green" car has the 1SB package, CD and 5 spoke alum wheels - no other options that I can see. I'll probably add the spoiler later and perhaps a paint stripe - we'll see. It lacks the driver/passenger climate controls and the leather steering wheel as well as a sunroof that I had looked forward to having in an Impala LS. The next option package would have added much more content.
Anyone hoarse from whooping it up for Prez W?
Have a great day, everyone. It's pretty here today with a fresh blanket of snow everywhere. It'll be brown on the road sides by tomorrow.
Ken
http://www.wheelskins.com/covers.htm
Thanks again
Ken
My wife didn't like the lights at first either, but after she drove the car and loved it, she said "It's okay, I'll be driving, so I don't have to look at them" To each his (or her) own.
My guess is that when the styling is freshened it will have 6 lights and a less 'in your face' look to the lens panel - perhaps wrapping a bit more to lessen the boxy look of the back - and increasing the horizontal sight line.
Still, the present edition is unique and that is good IMO - I'm tired of not being able to tell one car from another (and I consider myself fairly knowledgable there).
Interesting to speculate. Chevy ought to do like Mustang a few years ago - ask the public to send in designs and pick a winner. I'd draw one up - hey maybe the grand prize could be a new Impala SS!!
Best to all
Ken
The problem page has been updated with the first report. I didn't check here before I did the update, so dmullins' issue has not been posted. I'll get on that later tonight and do another upload.
http://home.hawaii.rr.com/impala/
Day 9 of the saga and the car is still sitting at the dealer waiting for the "part" to come in. I am getting used to drive the Metro already....
All the more reason to redesign - make it look more like the tail of a Corvette perhaps and then incorporate the 3 lights on each side - I can see it in my mind.
Ken
Has anyone looked under the front end of a new 2001 to see if the engine cradle looks different in any way and to verify if the welds look better than the 2000's cars???
I still think the current Impala is a great car, but GM has been PAINFULLY slow to acknowledge and fix some of the serious front end problems these cars have. Sometimes GM makes corrections to the design and manufacturing of vehicles for the new model year, but often leave behind the 'guinea pigs' that bought the first year models to deal with their problems. I love this car and everyone knows it here very well. But I must admit that these problems whether are design or craftmanship are unacceptable on a car of this caliber. For the past 9 days my car has been at the dealer waiting for this shaft to arrive (Like if it was made in Japan or Germany, sheesh)and while still making payments on it, I am forced to drive a Golf cart with just 3 cylinders in it.....insane.
May be 12 years of owning Japanese cars spoiled me to the point that I have Zero tolerance towards cars that need major repairs during the first year of ownership. Don't get me wrong, my Hondas and Acuras also had their own problems but often after 3 years, not steering or A/C problems during the first 12 months of use.
I still believe the Impala is one of the best full size sedan values in the market, but GM needs to pay more attention to small details, becuase those details DO COUNT in the end. Sometimes I would pass up on the interior Gizmos for a better bolted interior and better plastics. I would pass on the Tire Pressure Monitor gizmo if they would make sure that the steering gear and front end meets minimum tolerances. GM can get a nice package at a great price, but quality still needs to be improved. A Car is a complete package, not some reliable parts and not others. GM has great engines and transmissions, but they still need work on suspensions and interior build quality. Just a taught.
Understand, I'm not ALL THE WAY bitter, just half way. I own two of these vehicles, purchasing the second knowing of the problems with my first, however, that is no excuse for GM being so lax on this cradle issue. I only use the "creeker" for small local trips, and that is not fair as I'd like to feel "safe" on the interstate etc.
platour@home.com
Here's the post:
#153 of 154 Rear Wheel Liners by darkhalf Jan 23, 2001 (10:07 am)
For everybody concerned about this issue, I work at a dealership and have had the same problem with my 00' SS. I got a hold of the published bulletin itself and scanned it in and made pictures of it. They are posted at http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/y2kmontecarloclub
Join its free and its great.
For Impala owners this published bulletin applies to you to. So let the rest of the owners know about it.
As far as 2001's are concerned if they do not have them, you can mention it to the dealership, but the bulletin states that it is for only 2000 models Monte Carlo/Impala.
Good Luck to all!
http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=223638&a=10790790
Last, bring these posts to the dealer. Also if you need to leave the car overnight, the dealer should provide either a free loaner or rental up to $30 a day. This benefit its part of the limited warranty. See your booklet for more warranty benefits. Can you provide us with the last 6 digits of your VIN number, build date and mileage when the problem was first noted? Thanks!
Hener: The Impala is a great car, but unfortunately the engine cradle situation appears to be more a design flaw than a manufacturing problem...but it could also be a combination of both. Owners of new 2001 doesn't seem to complain about engine cradle related problems. As far as the intermediate steering shaft, this could be attributed also to a defective part or a part manufacturing problem. The 1998 and 1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue (Pricier Impala sibling) its notable on steering shaft problems as well.
By the way what year/model Volkswagen do you currently drive?
I seriously don't think GM will make any engine recalls on the '00 impalas. So far..no one has been injured or had an accident due to these engine cradles. And GM won't spend countless amount of dollars overhauling the "x" amount of existing impalas out there.
I bet that GM took all of our complaints and feedback and improved the '01 impala.
I think GM will deny and delay our engine cradle problems till the warranty runs out!
It's a pity how such a great car is hindered one major issue.
My other hypothesis is perhaps the engine cradle problem has not been fixed. And sooner or later the '01 owners will complain as well.
The thing I fear the most is that there is a major design flaw in the impala, and that it would be too costly to redesign the component/components!!
Mine was built on March 14, 2000; VIN 310600 - currently has @14,500 miles. I think one of the earlier posts mentioned a build date of Sept. 1999, so I don't think we're talking a limited problem. Back when the brochures first came out for the 2001 models, I mentioned my creaking noise to my sales guy when I dropped by to pick up my box of brochures, and he asked then if I could feel anything in the steering wheel or the brakes; even went out and sat in it and turned the wheel to see if he could feel anything. At that time he said they'd had a couple come in with this problem, and they'd ended up replacing the intermediate steering shaft.
Mine is to the point that it is easily noticeable, so I don't think I'll have a problem with them reproducing the problem. My biggest problem is finding the time to take it in. Knowing they'll keep it for awhile, I also hate the idea of getting stuck with a Metro for the interim as well. I've also been looking for an old pickup to knock around in; I'm hoping I'll find something soon so I'll have the truck to drive while the Impala is in the shop.
Everyone, I am considering making another page where owners who have had no problems can stand up and be counted. Take a look at the "What's New" section and let me know what you think and if you have any suggestions.
Like you, I also have been impressed with the ride, looks and features of Impala LS but am picking up my Bonneville tonight. The interior is very similar and the engine/tranny the same. Styling is nice IMO on the SE model whereas the upgraded SLE and SSEi (far more expensive) are overdone.
Pricing may be a couple grand more. Mine is a 2000 preowned and will be a fraction of the new cost.
Check it out - it's a very good alternative. Both of these cars are a real pleasure to drive.
Good luck in your search.
Ken
tpken: good luck with your Bonne. My wife is definitely leaning toward one when she replaces her car this spring. FYI - a friend of mine bought an SLE about 6 months ago. 8000+ miles, no reported problems.
My Impala, built Sept 99, but purchased Jan 00 hasn't had one single problem...
No ticks, No pops, no nothing. So here it is...
Of course, I leased my car. So if it starts doing dumb things close to the end of the warranty.. I won't have to keep it. I said a long time ago. I've been burned on first editions of cars before. I had a first year model Stratus and it was TERRIBLE. Teo's problems are mellow compared to what I went through with that car, before and AFTER the warranty. (I had it 4+ years). So, the lease. I figured,,, it's more like dating, rather than getting "married" to the vehicle.
I'd say to Hener and anyone else. If you really like what you see, hear and feel in an Impala. Lease one. If it has nasty problems... it's gone! If you love it (which so far I do) you can buy it at the end of the lease, or get the newer model...
Every make and model has problems. When they make the perfect car, please e-mail me and I'll start saving my pennies.