1997 Chevrolet Lumina problems
The Chevrolet Lumina is a mid-size car that was produced and marketed by the Chevrolet division of General Motors from 1989 until 2001.
Background
The first generation of the Lumina replaced the Chevrolet Celebrity and Chevrolet Monte Carlo under a single nameplate; the mechanically unrelated Chevrolet Lumina APV minivan served as the successor for the Celebrity station wagon. The model line was based on the front-wheel-drive GM10 platform (later designated the GM W platform), shared with Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac. For 1995, the second-generation Lumina was introduced, serving as a substantial exterior revision of the previous generation (the two-door coupe was renamed the Monte Carlo). For the 2000 model year, the Lumina was replaced by the Chevrolet Impala; the model line would retain the W platform through the 2016 model year.
Throughout its production, both generations of the Lumina were produced by General Motors Canada at Oshawa Car Assembly (Oshawa, Ontario). For markets outside of North America, the Chevrolet Lumina was derived from other large GM sedans. From 1998 to 2013, the Lumina was marketed in the Middle East and South Africa as a Chevrolet-badged version of the Holden Commodore produced in Australia. From 2005 to 2006, GM Philippines sold the Lumina as a Chevrolet-badged version of the Buick Regal (sharing much of its body with its American counterpart).
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Common 1997 Chevrolet Lumina problems
The 1997 Chevrolet Lumina has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the issues and their details:
- Power to the Car Quits When Using Brakes: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina have reported that the power to the car quits when using the brakes. This can happen when the car is slowing down, and it can be caused by a major wire that runs through the car being weak and breaking in half. This can result in the loss of power to the car's electrical systems, including the radio, speedometer, lights, power steering, and brakes. This can be a serious safety issue, and it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
- Interrupted Acceleration: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina have reported that the car experiences interrupted acceleration, where it loses power and accelerates more slowly than expected. This can be caused by several issues, including a head gasket leak, a faulty MAF sensor, a broken vacuum transmission modulator, a faulty upstream O2 sensor, or a faulty knock sensor. These issues can cause the car to lose power and accelerate more slowly than expected, and they can be difficult to diagnose and repair without specialized equipment.
- Vacuum Leaks: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina have reported that the car experiences vacuum leaks, which can cause the engine to stall when applying the brakes or when idling. This can be caused by a crack in a vacuum hose or a leak in the vacuum system. Vacuum leaks can be difficult to diagnose and repair, and it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid engine damage.
- Faulty Sensors: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina have reported that the car experiences issues with faulty sensors, including the MAF sensor, the O2 sensors, and the knock sensor. These sensors can send inaccurate information to the engine control module (ECM), which can cause the car to experience issues with acceleration, fuel efficiency, and engine performance. It is important to have these sensors tested and replaced as needed to ensure proper engine performance.
- Upper and Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina have reported that the car experiences leaks in the upper and lower intake manifold gaskets. These gaskets are responsible for sealing the intake manifold to the engine block, and over time, they can degrade and fail, leading to leaks. This can result in a loss of coolant or engine oil, which can cause overheating or engine damage.
In summary, the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina has several common problems based on complaints from owners. These include issues with the intake manifold gaskets, power loss when using the brakes, interrupted acceleration, vacuum leaks, faulty sensors, and upper and lower intake manifold gasket leaks. It is important to have these issues diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid engine damage and ensure proper engine performance.
Is a 1997 Chevy Lumina a good car?
1997 Chevy Lumina LS
It is extremely comfortable with lots of front and rear leg room. I take it everywhere, including camping in the mountains along dirt roads. It has been rear ended twice and still going strong. Still drives straight and true.
Is a Chevy Lumina a good car?
With a competent car and a pricing structure that undercuts Ford and Chrysler, Chevy's Lumina offers a fine blend of function, value and performance. This is one GM product that was done right the first time, just like the new Malibu, which should be investigated closely by buyers interested in the Lumina.
How long does a Chevy Lumina last?
Most of the 1995's and up that I know of have well over 200,000 miles on and still very strong. I had 278,000 on mine when I sold it. It still ran perfect and everything still worked on the car. The only issue that I had was an intake gasket at 200,000.
What is the value of a 1997 Chevy Lumina?
The value of a used 1997 Chevrolet Lumina ranges from $195 to $1,120, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Is a 1997 Chevy Lumina a good car?
1997 Chevy Lumina LS
It is extremely comfortable with lots of front and rear leg room. I take it everywhere, including camping in the mountains along dirt roads. It has been rear ended twice and still going strong. Still drives straight and true.
Is a Chevy Lumina a good car?
With a competent car and a pricing structure that undercuts Ford and Chrysler, Chevy's Lumina offers a fine blend of function, value and performance. This is one GM product that was done right the first time, just like the new Malibu, which should be investigated closely by buyers interested in the Lumina.
How long does a Chevy Lumina last?
Most of the 1995's and up that I know of have well over 200,000 miles on and still very strong. I had 278,000 on mine when I sold it. It still ran perfect and everything still worked on the car. The only issue that I had was an intake gasket at 200,000.
What is the value of a 1997 Chevy Lumina?
The value of a used 1997 Chevrolet Lumina ranges from $195 to $1,120, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
1997 Chevrolet Lumina car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Lumina problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Chevrolet Lumina vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Chevrolet Lumina
The NHTSA has received 371 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Chevrolet Lumina vehicles.
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2G1WL52M9V9
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I'M DRIVING AND MY STEERING IS TIGHT AND WHEN TURNING WHILE IN MOTION AND WHILE ITS PARK. YOU CAN ALSO SMELL LIKE SOME THING BURNING
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-16
- VIN: 2G1WL52M1V9
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DASHBOARD COVER ON PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG HAS DETACHED/PULLED AWAY AND BUCKLED UP FROM THE FOAM AIR BAG CASING. GM/CHEVROLET WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM VIA PHONE. THE RESPONSE GIVEN BY GM/CHEVROLET REPRESENTATIVE WAS THAT THE CAR WAS TOO OLD TO WARRANT THEIR ATTENTION/REPAIR. THIS DOES NOT ANSWER THE QUESTION, IF THE AIR BAG WILL DEPLOY PROPERLY. THE CHEVROLET DEALERSHIP STATED THAT THEY WOULD REPLACE AND PAINT IT AT COST AND04/16/2012 LABOR PAID BY CUSTOMER. AUTO INSURANCE HAS REFERRED THE PROBLEM TO THE MANUFACTURER. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN PROGRESSIVE IN NATURE, BEGINNING APPROXIMATELY 4 YEARS AGO.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-02
- VIN: 2G1WL52MXV9
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: KEY STUCK IN ON POSITION WILL NOT ALLOW ENGINE TO BE TURNED OFF IN EITHER PARK OR NEUTRAL. WILL TURN TOWARDS START. CAR WILL DRIVE BUT UNABLE TO TURN CAR OFF UNLESS POWER IS UNPLUGGED FROM STEERING COLUMN. WAS AT WORK WITH NO WAY TO TURN CAR OFF HAD TO LEAVE RUNNING TILL POWER WAS DISCONNECTED. UPON RESEARCH FOUND THAT THIS WAS A COMMON ISSUE REPORTED FOR THE 97-98 CHEVY LUMINA BELIEVE THAT THIS SHOULD BE A SAFETY RECALL
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G1W52M1V92
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY SON WAS IN A BAD ACCIDENT THAT TOTALED THE CAR AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING HOME ONE DAY ANOTHER DRIVER HIT THE SIDE OF THE CAR CLOSE TO THE HEADLIGHT ON THE DRIVER SIDE THIS HIT CAUSED ME TO NO LONGER BE ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE AIRBAGS IN THE VEHICLE DID NOT DEPLOY.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-15
- VIN: 2G1WL52M9V9
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET LUMINA. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE RACK AND PINION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 228,890.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE DRIVING HOME. CRASHED. POLICE REPORT IS IDENTICAL TO STEERING RECALL. WHICH NEVER WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN NUMBER I HAVE AT HOME. NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED EVEN THOUGH I SMASHED INTO A CULVERT. *TR
STEERING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING HOME VEERED OFF THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD LOST CONTROL THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT SPUN IN CIRCLES UNTIL FINALLY HITTING A CONCRETE CULVERT NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED. I BROKE 4 VERTEBRAES 7 RIBS AND RECEIVED A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY. COULDN'T EVEN RECALL MY PARENTS FOE MONTHS OR EVEN THEY LIVED TOGETHER . LAID IN THE CAR TIL PARAMEDIC FOUND ME ABOUT AN HOR LATER. THE AIRBAG WAS DESIGNED TO PREVENT HEAD INJURY. THE 1997 CHEVY LUMINA FAILED HORRIBLY. PLUS TENDAYS IN A COMA LOST A $50 K YR JOB AND SENT TO A NURSING HOME TO SPEND MY 33RD,THANKSGND CHRISTMAS IN UNTIL I WAS RELEASED FROM GUARDIANSHIP. 12/30/13 PLEASE HELP! HOW IS THE 1997 MALIBU DIFFERENT THAN ALL THE LUMINAS RECALLS? SAME YEAR. GM ISTRYING TO CUT THERE COSTS OH BUT THEY MESSED UP. *TR
STEERING,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G1WL52M4V1
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS TRAVELING HOME. LOST CONTROL AND COULD NOT TURN. THE STEERING WENT OUT, AND FUEL SYSTEM. I WAS LEFT IN A COMA FOR TEN DAYS. MY AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY LIKE IT WAS DEVELOPED TO DO. I RECEIVED A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY BECAUSE OF THE LACK OF IT DEPLOYING BROKE 11 BONES. 7 RIBS AND FOUR VERTEBRAES. SPENT A MONTH IN LESTER E COX HOSPITAL (SOUTH), 4 MONTHS IN THE UNIVERSITY OR MISSOURI BRAIN INJURY UNIT WAS AWARDED A STATE GUARDIAN, [XXX] , AND SPENT 3 MONTHS IN MARIES MANOR LOCATED IN VIENNA MISSOURI. THE STATE GUARDIAN CLEANED ME OUT OF ALL ASSETS EVEN THOUGH I HAD TWO INSURANCES. ONE CIGNA AND ONE MEDICAID. SO NONE OF MY MONEY WENT TO MEDICAL CARE BUT TO PAY HIS 3 ATTORNEY FEES. MY TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY I DEAL WITH EVERY DAY. IT DOES NOT GO AWAY. FOR LIFE. YOUR FIRM COVERED UP NEARLY 15 YEARS OF ANOTHER RECALL THAT DOES NOT DEPLOY THE AIRBAG IN MANY VEHICLES. NO MORE! 11 MONTHS IS TOO LONG. PLEASE INVESTIGATE MY ACCUSATION. I AM A MEMBER OF THR MISSOURI BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION. AND ALL MY MEDICAL CARE CAN AND WILL BE VERIFIED. YOU HAVE MY CONTACT INFO UPDATED 09/05/14*LJ UPDATED 09/12/2014 *JS *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-15
- VIN: 2G1WL52M9V1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET LUMINA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHT ILLUMINATION WAS EXTREMELY LOW DIM. THE CONTACT ACTIVATED THE HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHTS IN ORDER TO SEE THE ROADWAY. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMALL FRACTURES IN THE HEADLIGHT LENS. THE CONTACT CLEANED THE HEADLIGHT LENS BUT CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE LOW VISIBILITY AND WOULD HAVE TO ACTIVATE THE HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. UPDATED 5/11/12 *CN
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-27
- VIN: 2G1WL52M1V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET LUMINA. THE CONTACT WAS ATTEMPTING A LEFT TURN AT 15 MPH WHEN THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE WOULD ONLY OCCUR WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN. THE CONTACT CHECKED THE BRAKE FLUID LEVELS WHICH WERE ADEQUATE. HE WAS ABLE TO LOCATE A RECALL FOR THE FAILURE (NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V527000- STEERING: RACK AND PINION) BUT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 110,000. UPDATED 11/03/10. *LJ UPDATED 11/04/10
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-27
- VIN: 2G1WL52M0V9
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET LUMINA. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED COMPLETELY LOSING ALL POWER. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND DRIVE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE TIRE RODS WERE DEFECTIVE, THE ENGINE MOUNTS HAD FALLEN OUT, AND THERE WERE ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. THE MECHANIC REPAIRED THE TIE ROAD AND ENGINE MOUNT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 199,876.
STEERING,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 2G1WL52M7V1
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS
- Summary: MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING TO WORK WHEN AN ELK RAN OUT INFRONT OF HIM. HE SWERVED LEFT TO AVOID THE ELK, THE CAR OR WHEELS OR STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP AND THE CAR WAS THROWN TO THE RIGHT CAUSING IT TO ROLL 4 TO 5 TIMES. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2G1WL52M5V9
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FIRE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO BURN COMPLETELY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-10
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TWICE NOW WHEN TRYING TO START MY 1997 LUMINA LIGHTS COME ON AND CAR WON'T TURN OVER. SOMETHING MUST BE GOING ON WITH THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. AFTER GETTING OUT OF THE CAR AND LEAVING THE KEY ON, THE CAR KICKED OVER. ANY REASON FOR THIS TYPE FOR BEHAVIOR. GRANTED I KNOW THE CAR IS GETTING OLDER, BUT AT 87K MILES IT MAKES ME UNEASY TO GO ON ANY LONG JAUNTS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY CAR ONE DAY, AND WHEN SHUTTING IT OFF BRIEFLY IN A FRIENDS DRIVEWAY, IT REFUSED TO START. I HAD ACCESSORY POWER, BUT THE STARTER WOULD NOT CRANK. AFTER CHECKING THAT THERE WAS A GOOD CONNECTION WITH THE BATTERY, THERE WAS STILL NO ABILITY TO CRANK. AFTER TRYING FOR ABOUT 5 MINUTES MULTIPLE TIMES, THE CAR FINALLY TURNED OVER AND STARTED. I IMMEDIATELY DROVE IT HOME, WHICH TOOK ABOUT 1 HOUR, BUT THE SECURITY LIGHT KEPT INTERMITTENTLY COMING ON AND TURNING OFF. THE CONSEQUENCES OF THIS WAS THAT I ALMOST STRANDED AN HOUR AWAY FROM HOME, AND NOW I CANNOT RELY ON MY VEHICLE TO START, AND SO I FEEL IT CANNOT BE RELIED ON TO DRIVE. WHEN LOOKING IN FORUMS AND SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS TO THIS QUESTION, I HAVE FOUND THAT A LOT OF USERS ARE EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THEIR PASS LOCK SYSTEMS, AND WE DO NOT FEEL THAT THIS SYSTEM SHOULD BE FAILING. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I KNOW OF SEVERAL OWNERS OF CHEVY LUMINA WHERE PAINTS IS PEELING AND ENGINE FAILURE IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO START AN INVESTIGATION. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-03
- VIN: 2G1WL52M9V9
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET LUMINA. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE HAD BECOME FLAT. HE BEGAN CHANGING THE TIRE AND NOTICED THAT THE VALVE STEM WAS DEFECTIVE. A WEEK PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT HAD THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE REPAIRED FOR THE SAME DEFECT. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 74,000. UPDATED 07/08/08. *BF FOUR TIRES AND VALVE STEMS WERE REPLACED IN MAY 2006. THEY HAVE SINCE BEEN REPLACED AGAIN IN JUNE 2008. UPDATED
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-16
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I NOTICED THE SMELL OF GASOLINE. INITIAL SEARCHES FOR THE SOURCE OF THE LEAK WERE UNSUCCESSFUL, BUT AFTER1 - 2 WEEKS IT GOT WORSE AND I WAS ABLE TO FIND IT EASILY. THE PRESSURE REGULATOR WAS LEAKING. I CHECKED FOR A RELATED RECALL AND FOUND THAT UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR'S) PRODUCED AFTER 1/9/07 HAD BEEN RECALLED, BUT MINE, I BELIEVE, IS THE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT PRESSURE REGULATOR. NEVERTHELESS, IT MAY HAVE A DESIGN DEFECT. THE CAR HAS ABOUT 161,000 MILES ON IT. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT FAILURE OF A PART WITH THAT MANY MILES ON IT WOULD NOT BE SUBJECT TO A RECALL, EVEN THOUGH IT IS A SAFETY-RELATED FAILURE. I SOUGHT OUT THE NHTSA SITE TO TRY TO FIND OUT IF THAT IS THE CASE, OR NOT. THE "INCIDENT DATE" NOTED BELOW IS THE DATE I FOUND THE LEAK. NO DAMAGE WAS DONE, AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-06
- VIN: 2G1WL52M7V9
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1997 LUMINA HAS LOUD LIFTER NOISE. LIFTERS REPLACED ONCE BY DEALER, BUT NOISE IS ESPECIALLY LOUD NOW THAT THE WEATHER IS COLD. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-07
- VIN: 2G1WL52M3V9
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: '97 CHEVY LUMINA WITH A DEFECTIVE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET WHICH GM WILL NOT COVER REPAIR. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-26
- VIN: 2G1WL52M7V9
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE DETECTED BEFORE ANY INCIDENT. CENTER LIGHT FUNCTIONS WHILE SIGNAL/BRAKE COMBINATION LIGHTS FAIL. FAILURE CAUSED BY MULTI FUNCTION SWITCH LOCATED IN STEERING COLUMN. THIS PART CUTS OFF THE BRAKE LIGHT WHEN THE SIGNAL LIGHTS ARE ACTIVATED. THIS PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT, WHICH MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO IDENTIFY AT FIRST. THROUGH INTERNET RESEARCH, I HAVE FOUND MANY REFERENCES TO THIS PROBLEM. ALTHOUGH MY CAR IS 1997, IT ONLY HAS 64K MILES, THUS I WOULD NOT EXPECT THIS TYPE OF FAILURE RELATED TO MODERATE USAGE. IF NOT FIXED, BRAKE LIGHT FAILURE MAY RESULT IN REAR-END COLLISION. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G1WL52M7V1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. DURING PRE-IMPACT BRAKING THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE LOWERED AND WENT UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE IN FRONT. THE HOOD AND RADIATOR WERE PUSHED BACK HOWEVER THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE FRONT BUMPER. ALTHOUGH SEAT BELTS WERE IN USE, HEAD AND CHEST INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT FILED AT THE SCENE. THE MANUFACTURER AND INSURANCE COMPANY ARE SENDING REPRESENTATIVES TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-01
- VIN: 2G1WL52M2V1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE WINDOW WILL NOT ROLL DOWN ON THE CHEVROLET LUMINA 4DR. I HAD THE WINDOW FIXED FOR ABOUT $400.00 AND 90 DAYS LATER THE WINDOW DID NOT ROLL DOWN AGAIN, JUST AFTER THE WARRANTY ON THE WORK WAS OVER. *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G1WL52M6V1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY DURING CRASH. THE CAR WAS TOTALED AND NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED AT CRASH IMPACT. *JB
1997 Chevrolet Lumina recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 Chevrolet Lumina.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE LOWER PINION BEARINGS IN THE POWER RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE RETAINER TABS WERE NOT CRIMPED PROPERLY. THESE RETAINERS COULD FAIL AND PERMIT THE BALL BEARINGS TO ESCAPE.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE PINION SHAFT CAN BE FORCED UPWARD DURING LEFT TURNS AND BACK DOWN AS THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED BACK AND TO THE RIGHT. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL NEED TO EXERT MORE EFFORT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL, SIMILAR TO A VEHICLE WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED STEERING. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES EVEN FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL REQUIRE MUCH HIGHER EFFORT TO TURN LEFT AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TURN THE WHEEL AS MUCH AS INTENDED. WITH THE MAXIMUM PINION SHAFT MOVEMENT, WHICH REQUIRES INTERNAL GEAR COMPONENT DAMAGE, THE DRIVER CAN ENCOUNTER HIGH RESISTANCE TO TURNING LEFT, FOLLOWED BY UNINTENDED POWER ASSIST TO THE RIGHT. IN ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW LOWER PINION BEARING UNLESS INSPECT OF THE EXISTING BEARING INDICATES THAT REPLACEMENT OF THE GEAR ASSEMBLY IS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
Negative 1997 Chevrolet Lumina car reviews
Positive 1997 Chevrolet Lumina car reviews
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I've had this car since we bought it in '97. It's been really reliable, and I've only had a few expected problems as the car has gotten more use. It's also really comfortable and there's plenty of room for a sedan.
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Hello! I noticed that you have 190,000 miles on your 97 Lumina. That's amazing! It sounds like it has served you well and been very reliable during that whole time. I'm glad to hear that you've only had to replace a water pump and one alternator. Even though you have to rebuild the motor at 190,000 miles, I'm sure it will be as sturdy as ever and you can expect another 150,000 miles from this amazing car!
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I really like your car!
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The Chevy Lumina is such an amazing car! I had mine for 12 years and never had any problems with it. I wish they still made it. I just got the Impala and I hope it will be as good to me as the Lumina was.
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Our Lumina has been the most reliable and efficient vehicle you could ever own. The 3.1 engine is economical and runs effortlessly (just keep the oil changed and it will run forever). This vehicle is perfect for transportation.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Chevrolet Lumina problems:
1997 Chevrolet Lumina Problems and Complaints - 27 Issues
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Common 1999 Chevy Lumina Problems: Q&A with Experts
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Top Chevrolet Lumina Problems · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil · Failed Fuel Pump Can Cause Engine to Stall · High Pressure Power Steering ...
1997 Chevrolet Lumina Problems | Kelley Blue Book
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Q&A: 1997 Chevy Lumina Ignition Switch Problems - No Start, Key ...
Feb 8, 2021 ... Your 1997 Lumina has known issues with failing ignition switches so the place to start on this one is to make sure the two fuses shown in ...
Other years of Chevrolet Lumina
Are you having problems with your 1997 Chevrolet Lumina?
Westley Howell 2024-10-01
I've been driving my Lumina for 4 years now and it has been a decent car overall. Although I had to replace the battery, alternator, starter and water pump in the last 2 years, I still think it's a reliable car. It's great for cruising down the highway and has decent gas mileage for its size. My family and I feel very safe when we're in it. I bought it with 82800 miles on it and now it has 147000 miles. Lately, the transmission has been giving me some issues, so I'm considering replacing it. All in all, for what I paid for this car, it has served me well. If you come across a Lumina with low miles and a decent price, it's definitely worth considering. If not, an Impala might be a good alternative.
Dusty Upton 2024-07-23
Owning this car has been quite expensive. Despite having only driven it for a short time, I have already had to make some costly repairs, totaling close to $2000. While I was able to save on labor costs by doing some of the repairs myself, I still had to replace the intake gasket, EGR valve, catalytic converter, and brakes, as well as flush the transmission. Unfortunately, every time I fix one issue, another seems to arise and trigger the check engine light. Overall, I feel that this car is a good example of a modern-day disposable vehicle. If I had the means, I would consider disposing of it at a junkyard. However, I do believe that the engineering could be improved to prevent these issues from occurring.
Dewitt Collins 2024-06-21
This is such a reliable car! I've only ever needed to change the oil, batteries, and tires. It's been my only car since 1996 and I'm the only driver. I really wish they still made them. If the Lumina ever becomes impractical to keep, I'll probably go for a Chevy Impala.
Rudy Beer 2024-05-27
It's great to hear that you've had this car for 2 and a half years now! When you first got it, it had 56k miles and now it has 84k. I noticed that it started to lose coolant in the overflow bottle almost from day one, but it's good to know that it's still running well. It's not uncommon for a car with this kind of mileage to need some repairs, and it sounds like you've taken care of it really well. Even with the repairs, it's still a great deal considering the cheap price you got it for. The car rides quieter than your '97 Camry and gets better gas mileage too, which is fantastic! Although the seats are fair at best, it has a big trunk which is always useful. While it may not be screwed together as well as Hondas and Toyotas you've had, it's still a great car overall. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Clifford Reinger 2024-05-20
The Lumina has great pick-up, especially considering that I live by a busy highway and need acceleration! It's impressive for a V-6. However, this only came after extensive repairs to the new motor, new rotors, new water pump, and three new alternators (two). I gave one to the system I later installed at the end after I was financially able to afford to buy accessories.