Used 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Consumer Reviews
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Reliable, and Lots of Fun!
roman238, 01/14/2013
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I no longer own this car, but I felt it deserved my review. Bought this car used in 2002 with 23,000 miles on her. At the time it was overall the best car I had ever owned, and I've owned quite a few. At 34k the rear seals went bad, (a common problem with the 3100 that year). At about 45k I replaced the brakes. The muffler cracked at 60k...replaced that. The gas tank at 64k and the water pump at 85k. I put new tires on when I first bought her, and they passed inspection in May 2012. Other than those repairs, all I did was change the oil and rotate the tires. In Nov. of 2012, I traded the old girl in on a 1998 Monte Carlo Z34 with only 45k which I will review as well. The best car I ever had!
Best car I ever owned.
chevylover333, 02/15/2014
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Here is a list of all the things I have replaced on this car. Both front hub assemblies, right front brake caliper, fuel pump and lower intake manifold gaskets because the oil and coolant were mixing. Things that currently don't work are sun roof, air conditioning (due to leak in line going into the condensor) and brake lights only work when pulling back on turn signal while braking. I think that is a really good track record for a car that has 235k on it and counting! The transmission and engine are in excellent condition even though Im pretty sure the transmission fluid has only been changed once. Its the wifes car and I took over maintenance at 150k and I know it hasn't been changed since
Still kickin'
Mr. B, 03/31/2005
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've now had my '98 Z34 for 5 years. I've had few issues with her. She now has over 160,000 miles on the original engine and transmission and she runs smoothly. Surprisingly, the gas mileage has gotten better with age! I average around 24 MPG (21 around town; 28 on the Interstate). All of the accessories have held up well. One of the few complaints I have is the quality of the center console--there is a plastic coating that tends to rub off and the hinges for the console storage lid broke. Mechanically, this car has done pretty well. I've had some seemingly unique issues: transmission solenoid failed at 40K mi.; plenum warped at 130K (plastic cover on top of engine). Overall, I am VERY happy with my '98 Z34!
Better than most expect
Malaclypse, 07/12/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for over a year and am rather pleased with how it's handled both in terms of driving and reliability. The key to keeping this car for a very long time is maintainence. Take care of this car and it'll take care of you.
Monte Carlo Sadly No Good
dan ryan, 03/02/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
ALthough very room(front seats only)and smooth styling the craftsmenship(things snapoff it)and the engine actually started on fire!!!!!!!! At best it is only a poorly crafter fancy Lumina!
210,000 miles!
Logan, 08/04/2008
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
At 210,000 miles this thing is still driving great. God bless the 3.8! I have repaired a waterpump, replaced one battery and a starter. The most expensive repair was around 75 dollars and a couple hours of labor. I'll change the oil every 4 to 6 thousand miles and keep an eye on my brakes for maintanence and change out my air filter every 15,000 miles. If you rode in this car you would never guess that it has driven over 200 thousand miles and eaten through 3 sets of tires. Anyway, great car and better motor!
10 years and going
Alan, 09/04/2008
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Never thought I would love a Chevy. Have my Monte for 10 years and 140k. Always reliable & comfortable. Usual repairs and maintenance and nothing too expensive. The one bother is the lights on the radio panel have gone out which makes the dash a bit less attractive. Impressed with GM, bought a Trailblazer and love that too.
Love the Z34
Z34 Lover, 05/28/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car just over 2 years. I've put over 60,000 miles on it since I bought it (about to rollover 100K). It is very comfortable, powerful, stylish, and fun. Considering the mileage I've racked up on it, my Z34 still looks and feels like she came off the showroom floor. However,problem I have had include: a faulty brake switch (a cheap fix) which led to the malfunction of a solenoid in the transmission (an $800+ repair--OUCH!!). Other than that, VERY pleased with this car. If you have one or are considering one, have a mechanic plug in to the Onboard Diagnostic system to check the brake switch (and for any other problems).
Decent
Wade, 06/19/2009
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love driving this thing! However I have had major issues, alternator went once and nearly killed me the way it went off. I have also replaced the controls arms for three wheels. It gets really good mileage on the HW (nearly 30 most of the time) and around 18 for daily around the town use. I've also had issues with the brakes but nothing major. Good car for the price and after reading other reviews my experience seems to be an outlier. I love driving it though and I would be another if it came along.
Monte Carlo, Reliable for the price!
NawlinsNative, 01/22/2010
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased in September, 2000, it has less than 25K miles on it. Other than maintenance, it has been perfect. Ten years of reliability. Will be soon passed on to our son in college in another state. We trust its reliability. The 3.1L still gets close to 30 mpg on hwy, 20 city. Just traveled to Ohio a few months ago. Smooth ride. Recommend this car for its value.
Very Pleased 1998 Monte Carlo LS Owner
Gil, 08/12/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car 8 months and have only put in $400 in repairs for an alternator and new battery. I am a Courier and this car gets a 150 mile metro driving workout six days a week. I have not had ANY of the problems others list here. At times I wish I had the bigger engine but the 3.1 is plenty of power. I get a combined mileage of 22-27 mpg city/highway. I've owned everything from GTO's to little foreign cars and this is my overall favorite of all of them. I plan to trade it in on another Monte Carlo when the time comes. I am a 285 pound guy and very comfortable in this car.
Very good car (for older driver) :)
KS~Driver, 08/23/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I decided to buy my Monte after totalling a Cavalier and deciding bigger WAS better. It has been very reliable! It's only been in the shop every 3,000 miles for its oil change. The only complaint is that it looks like a "old people's" car and not very attractive for a teenager, like me, to drive.
Daily Driving
monte_z34, 09/24/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Awesome car. Great style and handleing with great burnout/ smoking capabilities. Definetly an incredible vehicle.
Nice
Adan, 08/23/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought a 98 monte carlo..its real nice
Love My Car
Lynniepooh, 01/25/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my car. When I was looking and I was looking for a car I wanted a safe, goodlooking car. A lot of the safe cars are old people looking. The Monte Carlo is for all ages. I was so picky on finding a car. It took me 3 years to find the one I like.
98 Monte Carlo
Richard Black, 07/10/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice smooth running reliable car.
MC
Rupi, 07/20/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
gretas car. Runs great makes you feel like nascar driver. smooth drive and very comfy. Sporty family car. lots of space. Good balance in snow
watch out for the battery!!!
John1234, 08/12/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the original battery has corrosion problems. The acids from the battery will leak out and cause severe corrosive damage to the interior of the engine bay. On our car, the leak caused a 1" diameter hole in the inside sheetmetal, and extensive corrosion around the battery and to the battery plate holder. Due to the batteries location, the damage to neither the vehicle nor the battery is visible until it has to be replaced! Then you will only find out if the mechanic replacing the battery tells you of the damage, which is past the 3/36 warranty. Even though it is within the 6yr/100k body corrosion warranty, Chevrolet will try not to cover this repair
All good but the transmission
KennyCashmere, 12/21/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new as a leftover in August 1998. Now, in December 2004, with 90K miles, and after NO major repairs, it is still such a reliable, comfortable, and yes, economical car that I'm wondering if I should keep it AND buy a new one. Why buy a new one at all? The transmission gets stuck in second gear (won't upshift or downshift to first) when the car is very cold, and after five service visits to three separate dealers, they still don't know what's wrong. The new ones don't have standard ABS (cheesy!) like the '98 did, the transmission shifts roughly on the new ones, the brake pedal is too high on the new ones, the seats uncomfortable, etc. But the '98 has been a great car!
A Good Product
Satisfied Gal , 01/29/2005
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased my Z34 new in torch red with charcoal leather seats and practically everything available on it. Feed it regular gas and synthetic oil with regular non-extravagent routine preventive maintenance. The Front wheel drive and large tires give outstanding control in snow. The Z34 Monte is most reliable car have had yet. Comfortable & attractive,everyone notices it -- not always a good thing! At 118K miles reliability degraded & a few quirky, not so small repairs started. Transmission hiccupped at 129K miles then at 140K miles. Cost some money to fix. Would get a Chevy again if could find a caring mechanic. Curious to see how long this car will last--was a good buy.
great car
hiebert, 03/03/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this car is fun to drive and has lots of power.
I wanted the best and I got the best!
Tony G, 01/05/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car for 15 months and I haven't had a problem with it. This car has only had normal maintenance done to it by me. This is a smooth riding car, sporty and fun. The car drives like a champ. Some of the best features are the dual climate controls (my wife says that we can never buy a car without this feature), huge trunk, 3.8 liter engine and the accessability of controls (steering wheel and center console). If you are looking for a good reliable car this is it. Just remember to give it proper up keep and find one that was taken care of and it's a car to enjoy for a long time. Enjoy the pleasure of owning this car.
Best car I've ever owned
Dave, 09/24/2005
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Truly the best car I've ever owned. It has never been in the shop for anything other than routine maintenance. I've gotten as high as 29 MPG on the highway- four cylinder mileage with six cylinder power. City MPG is holding up at 24- I couldn't ask for anything more. Great handling, excellent tire wear, a/c blows cold, no rattles, and no service visits. I will definitely own this car until it dies- which I don't believe will happen- it keeps going. Kudos, GM, on the best car I could ever ask for.
My Car
Lissa, 01/13/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great Car! Few small things, cup holders cheaply made, electrical system issues, otherwise no problems!
Ok car for the money
Jessz71, 01/23/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased the car in 1/2003 and have had it for a year. It is a decent looking car, but not that I am nearing 100,000 miles seems like everything is going at once. When you accelerate to 3500 the transmission shifts very hard when it is warm, but when it is cold smooth as a daisy. It is leaking oil from the pan and when you roll the windows up when it is cold the don't roll all the way up. The anti lock light also is on and it seems that the shocks are going. I change oil and do regualar maintenance, but i just don't understand.
I Love My Monte
Patricia Engelbrecht, 11/09/2005
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I believe something happened to my car before I bought it...the front seats are NOT right. The time I asked them to be checked I was told they were normal...but I have checked other 1998 Monte Carlos and they are better. My husband is a big guy and he does not have much room. Besides this problem, I love my Monte Carlo. (I owned a 1985 Monte Carlo before I bought the 1998.)
Reliable car
nascarfan3, 02/03/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been a very reliable car for me. Had a new transmission put in around 90k because of something very rare. Mechanic had never seen it happen before, just a fluke. Have had no other problems. Still drives well and gets decent gas mileage.
good family car
energyguy, 03/29/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a good family car that gives you a break from the minivan. My Monte Carlo is a reasonable compromise between power and fuel economy for an american product. It lacks in sportiness in comparison to the older rear wheel drive models, but it has been a good choice as a second family vehicle used for daily work commuting.
Good Car
Jared, 07/24/2006
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great all around car to have. I bought it with 97,000 miles a year ago. It had a few problems right away with the directional switch, but the dealer fixed it. Then it had a problem with the starter, but my warranty covered it. Besides that it is quite solid, and the engine purrs the way it did when it was brand new I'm sure. I have no big complaints because all other problems are minor. The hinge on the storage compartment on mine broke too, and the transmission doesn't seem to grip right away when it's shifted into park (it coasts a bit and then snaps to a rest pretty hard). Also, the gas mileage isn't great on mine (22 mpg) average, but I'm buying some upgrades to improve that.
At 100,000 Miles.......................
Bill60532, 04/12/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the car when it was 2 years old with about 20,000 miles. Car ran well, good power and torgue from the solid GM 6 cylinder. However, as noted by one other reviewer, at 100,000 all heck has begun to break louse. Problems with breaks, locking up for no reason. Now, it appears I may have to replace the transmission. Note, the hard shifting you feel is the start of bad things, and should be corrected. GM 4 speed automatic is not as sturdy as thier 3 speed. Potentail cost of a new trans, about $2,500.
WoW! Exceeded Expectations
Mamahoot, 04/21/2004
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the car 9/97 off the showroom floor and it now has 200,000 miles. I am a sales rep and travel many a mile in my Z34. I love the power of the engine and the gas mileage is great. I have had no issues with the car. I feel it is time to retire the car because of the mileage but feel it still has many miles yet to come. The tires that come on the car are superb - I have only had to replace the tires twice in the 200,000 miles.
So So
Eric, 03/07/2005
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I purchased the car it had a whine from the power steering pump, but was corrected by replacing the hose with a larger diameter one. Had replaced the alternater 3 times with a battery each time. Fuel economy is about 19 mpg average. Car rides like a dream and power is great. Anti-lock brakes and AC does not work and too costly to repair.
Durable
sbbarnes, 02/18/2006
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Monte Carlo from my uncle who bought it new. It had a few minor oil leaks and some transmission leaks. It was easily fixed and now it currently has over 225,000 miles. Not one spot of rust, though some stone pecks. The doors haven't dropped at all. It is just as quiet as ever. This one has the 3100 engine. No problems yet. Though the gas mileage isn't as good. I average 24-27 mostly highway.
Not Bad
BigDub, 04/02/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle in January of 2001 with 45,000 miles on it. I drove that car any and everywhere and never put it in the shop. I took very good care of the vehicle as far a oil changes and tires. When I purchased the car I bought an extended warranty and warranty ran out so I traded the car in October of 2002. At the time of the trade the car had 76,000 miles on it. I never had a problem
funner than most
zillaryder, 05/01/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Monte. But i do have a few things that could be better. 1. The drivers seat is to soft. It needs to grip you better. 2. The seat belt guide is annoying when trying to get something or someone out of the backseat. 3. The passenger airbag fit isn't the greatest. 4. I put stiffer tires on mine to help it's cornering ability. 5. I've broke the lid on the center consol twice when leaning over it to get something out of the back. 6. GM's dedication to the "unistick" cruise, signals, wipers & brights all on one stick. 7. The negetive stereotypes that come with the name "Monte Carlo". My brothers call it the "Granny Carlo" among others.
Easy Monte
Jay63146, 06/13/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car on a whim when I took the car that I owned in for an oil change. I loved it so much from the get go that I cancelled the oil change and arranged to buy this car. GM's 3800 V6 is wonderful and powerful, seats are comfy. Good stereo and love the steering wheel controls. Like this much better than the newer Montes.
Monte Carlo!
blake, 03/17/2008
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i have had this monte for 2 years and I put a lot of work into it. I upgraded some parts to performance. air intake, rims, tinted windows, performance chip, painted calipers. Chevy is easy to handle, maintain, easy to replace everything. I get about 17 gallons per gallons tho, and its bad since the gas prices are right now!
monte
matt101, 03/14/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is awsome.
Fire
Jerry, 10/11/2020
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Massive roomy car but my engine caught on fire!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Very Poor Resale Value!!!
dissapointed, 04/09/2002
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Overal it is not a bad car. It has power to move, and the interior is laid out nice. However, I have had to have the rotars on this car replaced 3 times so far (that is front and back). I have had the pad replaced probably about 5 times (also front and back). My major beef is how can a car that I purchased brand new in '98 for about 22K be appraised for 4.5K only 3 yeras later..? Yes I do put excesive millage on the car, however I keep it in immaculate condition (inside and out). The turing radius on this car is very poor at best. The paint job scratches and dents very easily.
MC-1
sleepyhollow, 03/11/2003
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
First brakes at 44700, all wheels wearing very evenly. New brakes pads squeek however. Just had first new battery at 45000. Original corroded severly and positive post fell off battery. Recommend change out after 3- 4 years reqardless of condition. Very difficult to access battery, under windshield washer. Very thin an weak hood sheet metal. Dents if you push it closed. Let drop to close.
A Great Car !
Cari, 08/18/2005
1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 2dr Coupe
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I did not plan on keeping my car this long. But it just keeps going and going and going. It has been a great car with very few repairs needed. I am still waiting for a reason to get a new one. Not yet !