2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

The 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is a front-wheel drive coupe known for its comfortable ride and sporty styling. Engine options included the 3.4L LA1 V6 (180 hp, 205 lb-ft of torque), the 3.8L L36 V6 (200 hp, 225 lb-ft of torque), and the 3.8L Supercharged L67 V6 (240 hp, 280 lb-ft of torque) available only in the SS trim. All engines were paired with the 4T65-E 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Monte Carlo’s spacious interior and smooth highway cruising. Common dislikes include the relatively bland handling and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.4L LA1 V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak externally and/or internally causing the engine to overheat and/or white smoke from the exhaust. Can also cause rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Elbow Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the plastic elbows connecting the coolant lines to the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the plastic elbows with aluminum elbows.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L L36 V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak externally and/or internally causing the engine to overheat and/or white smoke from the exhaust. Can also cause rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Elbow Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the plastic elbows connecting the coolant lines to the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the plastic elbows with aluminum elbows.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L Supercharged L67 V6

• Supercharger Coupler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squealing noise from the supercharger, loss of boost.
  • Solution: Replace the supercharger coupler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak externally and/or internally causing the engine to overheat and/or white smoke from the exhaust. Can also cause rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Elbow Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the plastic elbows connecting the coolant lines to the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the plastic elbows with aluminum elbows.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E 4-Speed Automatic

• Pressure Control Solenoid (PCS) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace the pressure control solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling at idle, shuddering while driving, trouble locking and unlocking the torque converter.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when turning.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Sag/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low in the rear, especially with passengers or cargo, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Passlock Security System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle will not start, the security light is flashing.
  • Solution: There are various methods, ranging from a 10-minute reset to a permanent bypass or module replacement. A scan tool with the ability to relearn the system is also needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, or flickering on and off.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle snaps when trying to open the door.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, makes grinding noises, or does not move at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light stays on.
  • Solution: Typically caused by a faulty sensor. Requires diagnosis using a scan tool to determine the specific sensor at fault.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, while generally comfortable, does have some common issues. The intake manifold gasket and coolant elbows are frequent problems across all engine options. Transmission issues, especially with the 4T65-E, are also common, which can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches with the Passlock system and headlight switches also occur. Suspension components like strut mounts and coil springs can fail. Overall, while not excessively problematic, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs.