Chevrolet Lumina

jpstax · May 2001

Check out this guy's website! It's about a '91 Lumina, with a modified supercharged 3800 Series II engine, that runs like a bat out of hell:

http://luminasupercharged.com/

I imagine the same thing could be done with the new Impalas and Montes, but you'd have to replace standard 4T65E tranny with the heavier-duty one.

Buck531 · May 2001

I have the same thing in my 98 LTZ. From what I've seen and done, I just had to put air in the tires. It seemed to happen at very low speeds (under 10 mph) turning. I just put air in the tires and it was fine. Hope this helps.

Buck

powerjack · June 2001

I will try that and let you know if it works, do you know what pressure you put in your tires?
Matt

Buck531 · June 2001

I think around 32 or 33 lbs of air should do it. Actually, I need to do it again.

Buck

tckinch · June 2001

My wife has a 98 Lumina. Recently, the solenoid that unlocks the shift lever from park when you step on the brake pedal, has started to make much more noise than it did before. Has anyone else had this problem? Should we just live with the noise? Or is it doomed to fail and should be replaced? Is there a way to eliminate it? Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks TCK

lainaluigi · June 2001

My wife and I own a 95 Lumina which has over all served us well for the first couple of years of owning (we bought it in '99). We loved the over all feel of the car; how it drives and performs. I've driven other cars (such as rentals) that just doesn't feel the same. However, our love for it has been tested recently.

You should know that '95 was the premier year for that body style and with it came "enginering enhancements". It takes a few years for repetive problems to surface in any vehicle. The biggest machanical complaint that is recorded with this car is the 3.1Ls EGR valve failing. GM went with an electronic design wich tends to carbon up. The cost of this part is not cheap either; you can find a after market for under $200 & the dealer will charge you close to $400. I've been through two of them so far & I still don't have the problem fixed. The next step is wiring and possibly a new computer which is surprisingly inexpensive @ a little over $200 from the dealer. I'm told everything grounds to the computer. If your seeing a "service engine soon" light, take it in for a scan before you buy it.

As I mention before, our Lumina is on our bad side right now. We've rebuilt our transmission twice. As with any aluminum block engine, take any sign of coolent problems seriously. We had a leak in the thermastat housing simultaneously with our radiator going bad. By the time we figured out all that was wrong, it cost us our engine. We had a cracked head. We've put enough money into this car this past year to have bought a decent used car & it needs to start acting like one.

Please be aware, I'm not trying scare you away from this car. In a lot ways, it's served us well. We had 135,000 miles on the car before we started having these problems. When this car is running good, it's the greatest car.

One more additional note ~ in '95, GM claimed you could go 100,000 miles between servicing. Ignore these recomendations & service it with more regularity.

blue65 · June 2001

I recently purchased a 1996 Lumina with just under 30,000 miles on it, and I think I'm having the same problem as message #307 described. Does anyone know what causes this, how they fix it, and how to prevent it?

bsweeneydc · June 2001

I have a '95 Lumina and I am having problems starting the car. I believe this is a result of the microchip on the key or the module in the car that reads the key. When I turn the key, the car does nothing. Then engine doesn't even turn over. Just silence. Does anyone else have any experience like this? If so, please contact me at bsweeney@email.unc.edu. Thanks for your help.

occupant1 · June 2001

On Monday I will be going to work in a 2000 Lumina, at Yellow Cab in Dallas. 2000 models are absolutely identical to 95-99 models but they were sold as fleet only while everyone else could buy Impalas. I don't know how many miles (if any) are on the car, but I'll let you know how it holds up.

wworkman1 · June 2001

I test drove a 1993 and 1994 Lumina today. On the 1993 there was a bumping noise coming from the rear (I think passenger side) Does this sound like a strut or shock gone bad? This car has 137,00 miles on it. On the 1994, after driving it, got out and the rear brakes were smoking. This car has 147,000 miles. Both cars look great. From reading everything sounds like the brakes and suspensions on these cars are terrible. I can get either of these for $2000. Should I try Toyotas instead? Does anyone have a clue as to what the problem may be on these cars?

occupant1 · June 2001

the clunk from the rear could be anything from a misaligned muffler, to a loose strut/shock bolt, to a child's shoe blocking the path of the axle. I've seen it all. The worst case would be replacing both mounts and shocks/struts, maybe $400 total.

The rear brakes smoking, well, drum brake technology is no different today than in the fifties, so that's a cheap fix, even if you need to redo both sides completely, no more than $100-$150 at a reputable mechanic.

Take each car to a Midas and have it checked out for free. They'll tell you what needs replacing, then you can shop around for the parts and labor.

occupant1 · June 2001

For $2000 each, I would buy both of them, drive each for awhile, fix what they need, sell one for $4000, and drive the other one for free.

virgo9 · June 2001

Just recently purchased a 95 Lumina from an auction for $2500.00 has 100k miles on it and is in extremely good condition as far as interior and body. Underneath the hood is clean to say the least so it appears to have been well maintained. Drove it home from the auction (approx 100 miles) combination of highway and city and ran extremely well and all options work. It has the 3100 engine but has more than enough power for my wife to do her normal park n ride to work and errand running, she's not a highway driver so it will probably get a lot of stop and go work maybe 5k a yr. type driver. I have read some of the prior comments and there is a sense of uneasiness on my part in regards to this particular engine and a possible constant valve intake leak commonality. The car was manufactured in Canada, not to knock American manufacturing plants but does anyone know whether their standard of quality in assembly was any different and was this a good buy for the price and what things should I be on the look out for considering the mileage.

occupant1 · June 2001

This car looks good, drives good, and only has two small problems. The left front wheel bearing is groaning (shop will change it out in the morning) and there is a vacuum leak causing the AC to blow out the defroster vents on longer uphill grades, long meaning more than 500 feet or so. So I have to adjust my acceleration habits. Bet the vacuum loss is the main reason the car is getting only 22mpg.

jpstax · June 2001

Has anyone heard of the "Tornado" device? I saw an ad on TV this past Saturday, and it mentioned this web-site:

http://www.tornadoair.com

They claim it boosts horsepower and gives better gas mileage. I wonder if it really works. I have a '98 LTZ with the 3800 engine that could use a few extra horsepower.

ricks2 · June 2001

I just replaced the alternator on my '95 Lumina (well, after 160K miles, I guess it was time...). The tech said that the Lumina requires a "high output alternator" about $40 more. Is this right?

occupant1 · July 2001

I gave up on the 2000 model, they said it would be several days before they could fix it so I switched to a 1999 Lumina, lost my tachometer, lost my electric trunk release, but gained a CD player, window tint, and the 16" alloys. It's nice, and if I take any pictures soon, I'll post them here. The car is in beautiful shape for 101K and 22 months of service. Only broken item is the right rear power window, it's up and dead. Sure wish I could put in a trunk release. Maybe the mechanics can save those parts off the next vehicle they strip and put them on mine.

The alternator is what, 115 amps? It's DEFINITELY high output. And it does cost more to buy the part. And they do fail often because of underhood temperatures. If you can't put your hand on the fender, your engine is probably running too hot and will burn up the alternator that much quicker. Iceberg alternators may make an alternator for the Lumina, but I wouldn't know so you might want to look them up on the web.

Buck531 · July 2001

Yeah, I saw that too the other day. I was really wondering how it will make a difference in HP and MPG. I'm still kinda leary about this until I've seen someone use it and really know it works.

grlee · July 2001

I just brought a '95 lamina sedan 3100 engine. When I go up a hill or steep grade with the air on the compressor shuts completely off including fan blower till I reach the top of the hill or level. Any ideas what causes this ???

occupant1 · July 2001

I'll be driving a van for awhile until I get Y-751 back. But I like this Astro, it's getting the same mileage and I'm making more money. Might not go back...

jpstax · July 2001

Haven't had any problems until last week. Roof got stuck 1/2 way closed. I had to reach through the front window and activate the switch with my left hand, while pushing the roof closed with my right hand. Haven't opened it since. I'm taking it back to my dealer (under extended warranty).

lmccart3 · August 2001

My 95 ChevyLumina needed a lot of engine work at 20,00 miles including Head gasket. Now at 49,000 miles my car started ticking one morning then the low coolant light came on. I brought it to the gas station who couldn't figure out the exact problem. I then brought it to Chevy the same day and was told the engine is gone and the insides were fried. Upon talking to the service manager he informed me that he would like to take the engine apart to see if the insides were ok or not and what the problem was. I asked him why? being that they already called me, told me the insides were shot, and that a new engine would be $4,000 PLUS labor!!!. He told me they didn't open it up yet. I am appauled. Now I have no car and a lot of expenses. I might as well junk it. I am still shocked it only has 49,000 miles and needs a new engine.All in a 24 hr. period . Yes, I do change the oil as Chevy tried to blame me. My mechanic doesn't buy it either as Chevy told him of a lifter problem in the Luminas. So please if you have any similar experience or input please email me at LMCCART3@OPTONLINE.NET .

lainaluigi · August 2001

I've posted before about the problems my wife & I had with our '95 @ 135,000 miles. All I can tell you is, with the aluminum block, the 3100s depend on coolant to survive. I think this engine normally runs much hotter, making it harder on just about everything under the hood. If anything doesn't allow the coolant to flow well, it causes critical harm to the engine. We discovered this fact the hard way. I do believe, if we caught our problem in time, our old engine would still be running strong. We actually discovered we cracked a head (presure check ruled out merely replacing a head gasket) by drops of oil in the coolant. Given enough time, I imagine this mixture on internal parts could make it look like you haven't as much as popped the hood open in 49,000 miles. I don't envy you. We faced the same tough decisions. I hope this helps you a little.

pluto5 · August 2001

Hear that clicking in the morning when your 3.1 liter engine starts? This seems to be a problem that GM doesn't want to address.

pat · January 2002

After 45 days without a message posted, this discussion was auto-archived. I've been asked to open it up again, so here ya go!

Let's talk some more about the Lumina.

Pat
Host
Sedans Message Board

teo · January 2002

Last one (Lumina) was manufactured in GM's Oshawa, Ontario, Canada Autoplex on April 27th, 2001.

Impala is simply much better car than the Lumina ever was.

Next?

jrosasmc · January 2002

Why are we still talking about this car? It's history!

pluto5 · January 2002

Yes, Impala is probably better car but where is the side airbag for front passenger, and seat belt pretensioners? Will buy an Impala when it has competitive safety features. Lumina is a good car for beginnning driver.

teo · January 2002

Impala already has pretensioner seat belts. yeah I know passenger side airbag is needed but Lumina doesn't even have a single side airbag.

Impala features 4-wheel disc brakes standard and a 5 star rating. 3800 V6 equipped models have ABS standard and electronic traction control.

Not to mention the better brakes and superior handling prowess.

The Impala beats the Lumina no matter how you look at it.

pat · January 2002

Because it is still on the road and according to my email, folks are still interested in talking about it.

Am I right, people? Who has something to say/ask/discuss about the Lumina?

Pat
Host
Sedans Message Board

bearmer · January 2002

My wife and I were thinking of buying an Impala last year. I drove an LS at a dealer then we rented a base for a weekend. I liked the base car better than the LS but I couldn't get comfortable with the steering and cradle problems. We ended up buying a 1999 Lumina LTZ with 29K mi. from a dealer for $12,300. It has a 3.8L engine, 4T65E transaxle, ABS, leather bucket seats and a sunroof. I think it's quieter than either Impala but otherwise feels similar to the LS. Just wanted to pass along my experience.

pluto5 · January 2002

Neither Edmunds nor Chevrolet web sites say that Impala has front seat belt pretensioners. And some of the Impala safety features are options or are not even available on the base model. Safety should not be an option for a family sedan.

Judging from the number of complaints on this site it appears that Impala has more quality problems, typical of GM models in first two years.

teo · January 2002

I have driven a 1998 Lumina and I have owned 2 Impala LS sedans. No comparison folks.

The Lumina is a good car,but the Impala is better in every single aspect of the equation, from fit/finish to handling and safety.

My 2001 Impala LS has 10K miles and no a single issue with it. Best car I ever owned.

tomf11 · February 2002

tomf11 · February 2002

Bought this car new, 53 k on the odometer, and the transmission goes out. No reverse, lots of noise. Followed maintance to the letter. Bottom line $1900.

Here's the upside to the story I will never buy another american made car again. I would rather buy a Toyota with 150k on it first.

pluto5 · February 2002

The 95 was the first year of production of new model and GM is notorious for poor build quality in the first two years. CR statistics show that latter production much more reliable.

dispencer · February 2002

Was there any difference between the 2000 and 2001 Lumina? I am in the market for a "program" car and prices for both years are very reasonable. It is tough to find one with a power seat and CD though. Back to the guy who had a transmission fail at 53k. I always get a GM Protection Plan extended warranty. I know that CR feels that it is a waste of money but my 1998 Silhouette van needed a head gasket at 80k. The warranty paid for itself just on that one repair. Shop around for the warranty. Each dealer prices it differently and any GM dealer can sell you one for any GM product. I'd be interested in reports of how the 2000 and 2001 Luminas hold up. Thanks - Karl Spence

this_is_nascar · February 2002

Given the choice, it probably always makes sense to go with the newest model possible. Since 2000 and 2001 wasn't really a model change year, you're probably safe either way. I would recommend, however, that you do go with the LTZ model with the 3800 Series II motor. Beware, that despite what many folks say, the LTZ (in 1999 anyway) does not neccesarly mean the cars has the 3800. The earlier models in '99 did come with both the 3800 and the 3100 motor.

teo · February 2002

2000 & 2001 Luminas were sold exclusively to fleets. The last Luminas sold to retail customers were during the 1999 model year, right before the Impala was introduced to market.

If you are buying an used 2000 or 2001 Lumina it is quite possible that it came from a fleet operator.

I doubt that LTZ models were manufactured after 1999.

jpstax · February 2002

Let the Impala & Monte owners brag all they want. So far, my Lumina LTZ (0-60 in 7.6 seconds) has yet to lose a stoplight race to an Impala LS, or Monte Carlo SS, and they were all trying. Of course, the LTZ is a little lighter than the Impala LS & Monte SS. However, in my opinion, the Impalas & Montes ARE a little bit nicer looking, but not that much.

this_is_nascar · February 2002

What are to talking about? I don't think anyone is bragging over the Impala or Monte. I had at '98 LTZ. It was a nice car. The only reason I traded it in on my Impala LS was for the Series II engine. I bought the LTZ on a whim and didn't do enough research to know of the different engines available. There is no comparision between the 3800 Series-II and the 3100 motors.

pluto5 · February 2002

They are both "old technology" pushrod engines so I don't see much to get excited about. EPA rating is higher on the 3100 but the 3800 is probably quieter but in the "real world" cannot see how the price diff can be justified. If it gives you pleasure, go for it.

pj1234 · February 2002

Hi,
This is my first time here.
I had a 95 lumina which was totaled(not my fault)Now, I am trying to decide between 2001 lumina with 16,000 miles, 2001 malibu with 18,000 miles or 200l Mercury Sable with 21,000 miles. I would appreciate any advice from any owners or anyone of this models.
Thanks,
PJ

ss92lumina · February 2002

I have a couple of questions for anyone that might know the answer(s). I have a 1992 Lumina w/ 175,000 miles on it and last summer I had all the struts replaced. I was told it would ride stiff for a while. It rode like it had no struts at all u could feel every bump in the road. My problem is, it hasnt gotten all that much smoother. Does it really take THIS long to break the struts in or do I have some other kind of problem???

tomcat630 · February 2002

A '95 Lumina used the same drivetrain as the 1990-94, didn't it?

There's alot of "never buy US again" due to one car problem, too bad.

ss92lumina · February 2002

a 95 lumina does not use the same drivetrain. Well, kind of. The 3.1 in the 95s and is basically a new design for that engine but w/ the same basic layout..if that makes any sense. The fuel injection is different I know that and its smoother than the 90-94 3.1 I know this because my car is a 92 w/ the 3.1 and my sister's 95 grand prix has the new 3.1.

rjones2001 · February 2002

pj1234, i have just bought a 97 Lumina LS and have done extensive research through edmunds, CR (consumer reports) and other guides, and I think the 2001 Lumina would be your best bet. CR rated the 2001 Malibu with average reliability. Now, the Mercury sable received average predicted reliablity by CR and was recommended. I was going to buy a 97 Taurus, but chose Lumina because many taurus are prone to new transmissions with 60K+ miles. I personally dont like Ford/mercury.

rjones2001 · February 2002

ok, i just bought a 97 Lumina LS with 60K on the clock. Does anyone know of any problems i should be aware of later. I plan to keep this car 5+yrs;200K plus miles.

pj1234 · February 2002

Thanks rjones. I appreciate your answering and I am really leaning toward the lumina. I have never had any problems with Chevrolet service whenever I needed it. I am not sure about Ford Service.
PJ

tonyj33 · February 2002

i currently own a 1995 lumina ls with the 3.1 liter. it's a fine engine, great gas milleage but i need more power, i was wondering if anyone had added on performance parts to there luminas and the whether or not the were satisfied. or if you haven't done anything and just have a good idea it would be much apperciated. mind you i am not rich and would like to stay relitivly cheap, i have already added 17 in rims and 235 sticky michellen tires and some bad [non-permissible content removed] tints but now i want the car to fly so give me some help.

Chevrolet Lumina

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