Used 1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Consumer Reviews
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1997 Monte Carlo LS
1997_, 01/15/2014
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Our monte carlo was purchased brand new in January of 97. 250,000 miles and 4 family members later, all that its needed is a head gasket, an alternator, and regular mantinence. It's a great car for long trips, in town, and as a highschool car.
Comfortable, Roomy, Reliable, Safe
maxp, 12/20/2009
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Not a car that is going to burn up a race track, but acceleration and road holding is fine for everyday situations. The roomy interior, smooth and quiet V6 engine, supple ride quality, and light steering make the Monte a very comfortable car that is a nice place to spend time in. Great for long freeway trips and relaxed cruising. Fuel economy is good on the freeway for a car this large (~27 MPG) but not impressive in the city (less than 20). 3.1 and 3.8 liter engines have good reliability, but avoid the 1995-1997 Z34 models as their 3.4 liter is expensive to fix. I've driven a lot of cars, and the interior design and controls are among the simplest and easiest to use of any car I've been in.
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Randaaall!!!, 07/24/2010
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased mine 3 yrs ago. It's been an ok car, but has had it's share of problems. First of all, the 2 middle injectors gave ma A LOT of grief in the beginning. The computer NEVER reads the EGR valve correctly, which keeps the service engine light on continuously. Injector replacements are not cheap, and i have replaced the egr valve and installed the recommended screen over the port. I still cannot figure out how to get the drum off the rear brakes, and have tried multiple times. I am now starting to have multiple electrical problems, and don't think the car is worth fixing at this point. I love the room in the car, and like the style of it a lot. The gas mileage in my opinion isn't good.
Good for young drivers
ericnelson, 08/18/2010
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I got this car about a year ago with 155K on it. It now has 166K and is still running pretty strong. It always starts right up, I haven't had to do anything to it except the regular oil change. However its very slow for being a "sporty" 2-door. Also there is one cup holder for five seats and it breaks easily so i don't even use it anymore. Overall i would give this car a 5 out of 10.
Nice car, but ...
ChelseaMadrox, 08/26/2010
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This was the first car that I got after I got my license a year and a half ago. It lasted until this week when it literally BLEW a plug and became unfixable. I replaced the brakes once and it needed a new control arm after 185K miles. The interior dash lights and windows also went out, but the window fixed itself. Overall, I'm very satisfied with it. Good acceleration and steering. I would have loved to have driven it when it first came out!
Good overall car
kcrenn, 05/02/2002
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased a used monte carlo. Its a very nice reliable car. The gas mileage is great and the interior is classy. The only problem I had was a bad fuel injector which is pretty minor. I reccomend this car for anyone who wants a practical coupe thats good for short and long runs.
I Love This Car!
Glenda, 12/12/2008
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I spotted my Monte Carlo on the lot just after it rolled off the truck & bought it the same day! I've had it for almost 13 years & enjoy driving it just as much today as I did when it was brand new. It's big enough that I feel safe in it, it's very comfortable, all my friends comment on what a smooth riding car it is & can't believe it's still on the road after all these years. Plus, it still gets 25MPG highway miles! I've upgraded the stereo & speakers,it's had normal wear & tear but it's never needed any major repairs plus the oil's changed every 3000 miles. I've bought a new car for road trips but continue to drive the MC to work daily, 50miles. I'll drive it til the wheels fall off!
Indestructable
jeff, 01/05/2008
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is great. I bought it with 130,000 miles on it. I have no garage, so it stayed outside. There'd be a Nor eastern, and 3 feet of snow and ice would get dumped on it. I'd be lazy and leave it that way for a few days till I had to use it; just clean it off and it'd start right up, first time. The only trouble I had w/ it was the gas tank needed replacement, as the salt from the roads rotted a whole in it. Just the other day, a deer ran headlong into the side of it when I was driving. Broke the headlight and the fender pretty bad, smashed its head on the hood; car kept going like nothing happened. It's big front end makes parking a lil tricky at first. The doors are quite heavy too.
Great car/Though requires maintenance
kalicoast, 12/14/2007
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really like the Monte Carlo Z34's performance. The 3.4-Liter V6 engine is great and with the Z34 you get that extra umph. I'd say performance wise, on curvey roads, it can turn better than your average car. I find as the person who drives the care 98% of the time that it is extremely comfortable to sit in and relax on long trips. It's very spacious although if your over 6 feet the roof can get kind of low in a hurry. Then after about 5 years of life into the car you start up yearly maintenance and it's not the cheap stuff. I've gotten the brakes completely done twice, lower intake manifold gasket, the entire muffler(s) ($500), driver/passenger windows, moonroof(read below), AC($200)twice.
Garbage, Plain and Simple
J.A.N., 05/24/2002
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Problems I have and continue to have: Fuel Injectors Replaced - twice, three times in cylinder #3 Power Control Module replaced Oxygen Sensor replaced Spark Plugs/Wires replaced - twice Driver's side window track repaired, falling apart again ABS system failing and doesn't work properly Cooling system problems Transmission slips I could go on and on. Save your money people and don't buy a new one or a used one. These cars are unreliable pieces of junk. Problem after problem. GM should be ashamed to offer this vehicle for sale to the American public.
Great Buy
bec10, 05/07/2009
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Monte Carlo five years ago; it's been a great car. I've noticed that the people that are giving this car negative reviews are the owners of the Z34, which explains a lot. When I was shopping, I was warned not to buy the Z34 due to its bad reputation. The 3.1 liter engine in the LS is the way to go if you are shopping. My car now has 170,000 miles on it, and I've only replaced the alternator (at 160,000 miles) and had standard maintenance done. That is exceptional for a car 12 years old, and I highly recommend this car, especially if it is your first. Notice that overall, most people's complaints are about minor things, such as the cupholder.
The comfort and look you want.
margiej, 06/23/2002
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall, I love this car. It has plenty of room and plenty of luxury with the look I want. I'm only 20 years old and most people at my age seem to think my car is too big, but it's safe, fun, comfortable, and looks great. It could use a couple of improvement, but I haven't had any serious problems with anything.
MONEYPIT!!!!
BadMonte, 07/07/2002
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a beautiful car. Leather interior, roomy, handles nice. Not so great with gas and it is WAY TO EXPENSIVE TO FIX!!!! If you like having Mechanics guessing on what the problems are even after Diagnostics are preformed and willing to pay $5,000 to replace your 3.4L Engine and Transmission all to ride around in a beautiful Monte Z34, KNOCK YOURSELF OUT.
Problem Car
Kar O, 07/16/2002
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 1997 Monte Carlo Z34 brand new and loved it for one year. After one year it has had nothing but problems with misfiring. It has had 4 set of wire & plugs, fuel injectors, coils and modules, many other things replaced,diagnostics up the ying yang. At least 15 times back and forth to the dealer and no fixes yet. Still today runs horrible and the engine light makes a good night light. I will never buy a chevrolet again nor go to the above dealer ever, ever again.
my '97 monte carlo
steve ulczak, 07/19/2002
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love my monte carlo. its a great car, and looks sharp. with tinted windows and a few other upgrades, my car looks better than the new model
Nice but not really.
Daniel Haynes, 01/02/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I bought my Z-34, I was excited. After 5,000 miles the transmission started to go. The sunroof stopped working, and the dash lights didn't work. This is a nice car. It looks good and is one of the fastest where I live, even as an automatic. Now, if I fix all of my problems, it will be at least $1,500, and the trade-in is less than $5,000. If you get one, they are nice cars, but have some money saved back.
Great Car!!
p311, 09/14/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first car and I Love it. It took a little bit of cash to get it up to speed but Im in love with the car and highly recommend it.
Still gets 34MPG !!
Jonson7118, 10/06/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car just turned over 100000 miles and I am still getting 34 mpg and the performance of a new car!
good
lsieczkowski, 10/12/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
car handels like a dream, plenty of power for city driving, comfterable.
MY MC
UHUHH, 01/24/2004
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is sporty looking it seems as if there were a lot of white cars made. I would like to purchase a newer body style, that is how much I enjoy the monte carlo. This is my first chevrolet and I feel I made an excellent choice.
I can't complain...it's been a great car
KirbyMorgan, 01/25/2004
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After nearly seven years and 88,000 miles I've yet to have mechanical problem with my Monte Carlo. Granted, it doesn't tear up the road; but to get from Point A to Point B it has been great. The gas milage is an acceptable compromise for a reasonably stylish vehicle. I'm entering a phase of life where a more family friendly vehicle is necessary. But, I will be back to a Monte Carlo when the time comes.
Wife's Baby
BobbyD, 02/24/2006
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall, this auto has grown attatched to my wife and I. Although I have to replace something or repair something each year at least once in the shop. It is better than paying a big price for a new car!!! I have enjoyed driving it every now and then if my wife lets me. I bought this car for her for Easter. She really loves it.
Josh
djamyx, 05/07/2006
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall, a decent reliable car. Strong engine that will drive for several thousand miles. Be aware of minor repairs that will add up in the long run. Fuel pump, water pump, alternator, battery, coil pack, as well as other things have all needed replacement in the past 3 years. Overall, a good buy for the money!
it felt like a tank
brittany, 03/27/2004
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Really loved owning this car. I worked shifts and always felt it was realiable in all weather and felt very safe in the vehicle. It was large enough in trunk space to pack gear for camping, and yet looked good when going out to diner.
pleased
BobbyD, 07/11/2004
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had few problems with car. My wife drives it more than I do. She said she will never get rid of it!
Best car I ever had
mjkanejd, 11/24/2004
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been a pleasure to own and drive. The 3.4L is strong, reliable and well engineered. Other than replacing the alternator at 75,000 miles, I have never had to put a dollar into it other than routine maintanence (Plugs, Oil changes, air filter etc.). I just replace the timing belt at 82,000 (recommended at 60,000) and it showed very little wear. I do all maintanence myself and it is relatively to work on. The only negative is the standard sound system. Pretty pathetic if you are an audiophile.
Excellent used car value
drumjess2002, 04/05/2006
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My girlfriend totaled her previous 1995 Monte, so I got her this one, and we both drive it everywhere. What we know is these cars are reliable, low maintenance, good gas mileage, comfortable, car. Only has 115k, cold a/c, everything works, no problems...go get one!
My Monte
Joanne, 08/15/2006
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new off the lot in 7/96. I love this car. I have 55,000 miles. Change the oil every 3 months and it runs better than anyother Chevy that I've owned. I'm having trouble parting with it for an updated model.
My car is junk too
c carr, 04/22/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Two weeks after I bought this piece of junk i had to have it repainted. The clearcoat was chipping all over the place. Everything was fine for the next year or two, then the seat belts stopped retracting, the air conditioner went out, the fuel pump went out, and the paint on the door started chipping again. In the last six months I have had to have the fuel injection cleaned and replaced. Hmm that seems to be a theme here. May GM SHOULD RECALL THE CAR.
Love My Monte
wingsrstanley, 08/10/2007
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned my 97 Monte Carlo for over a year now. I have put over 65,000 miles on it, and have had no problems at all. I get 27 mpg on the highways and about 23.5 mpg on back roads. There are days were I am in the car all day long, and enjoy the comfort of the car. I am glad that I found this car.
No problems first 5 years
charliep, 04/28/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought mine new in 1998, and five years later am still pleased with my $20,000 investment. I've only had a couple of minor problems that you'd expect from any car. I plan to keep it at least 2 more years before I have to trade for a SUV (new baby due soon).
a+ review
carlo7car, 05/05/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car 5 years ago and except for upkeep have not spent any money on
Chevy lover turning a new leaf??
G, 03/09/2008
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The most expensive and newest car I ever bought lasted the shortest amount of time. Mechanics have refused to work on the nightmare motor. Got offered $500 trade in a couple months ago. Replaced motor, fuel pump, water pump, timing belt twice, thermostat (still over heats), altenator, the back brakes cannot be fixed, tried too many times to count. Strut broken and tranny is weak. Had power when it was still good, but I'm lucky to get 22 MPG now. Only 130K on motor too.
chevy outdid themselves
putz, 05/25/2003
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
love this 1997 so much i just bought a 2003 monte carlo. the key is taking care of your car and it will take care of you.i've followed the maint. manual for service, no problems. i've dealt with the same dealer with my last 3 cars ,no problems. only problem i have now after 6+ years is inside panel on driver's door is loose.
My Monte Carlo
dcrookbigpat, 05/23/2008
1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car has ran great since I owned it. It doesn't take hits well but is still reliable. It is easy to work on. The fuel economy could be a lot better and it would be nice if it was rear wheel drive like the 80's Monte Carlo. Overall this car is great