1996 Chevrolet Beretta Engine cooling Problems

“My 1996 Chevrolet Beretta has had chronic leaking problems around the lower intake manifold. First it was from various bolts, then from the main gasket even though the car only has 75k miles on it. I called car shops in the area and everyone I spoke to said this was a common problem with the GM 3.1l engines. It's ridiculous that there is a faulty gasket in these cars that costs about $600-800 to replace, but there is no recall.”

“Consumer has multiple problems with the vehicle. Brakes & rotors had to be replaced at 17,495 miles. Dealer said it was normal wear. On october 5th, the vehicle was in for a lube job, and dealer never detected that head gasket & freeze plug were leaking. Consumer took it to a mechanic to be checked. Vehicle has now 19,000 miles.”

“Vehicle idled at about 3000 RPM for no reason. No engine check light came on, and no faulty codes were detected. Consumer had air control valve replaced, but it did not fix the defect. Problem still exists.”

“Vehicle has intermitent loss of power which can occur at highway speeds. Vehicle has been serviced five times; yet, the problem is recurring. The engine makes a ticking noise, and power drops to about 35 MPH. Dealer replaced fuel filter, fuel pump, fuel guage, o2 sensor. This time, the dealer insists that it must be a clogged catalytic converter. It is dangerous to lose vehicle power on a major highway, and it is aggravating to be told by a dealer that the problem has been fixed for the fifth time.”

“Oil should be changed every 3000 miles, I have to add oil every 1000 - 1500 miles, not under warranty anymore, it should not leak after seal was replaced.”