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Power
Combined, EPA 1996
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and based on isolated, anecdotal experiences from past ownership.
3 problems reported (3 isolated) · low confidence
Problems owners report
- IsolatedCatastrophic engine failure
Engine "blew up" on the highway, leading to the vehicle being towed to a junkyard.
- IsolatedChronic cooling system failures
Repeated issues with cooling hoses and the radiator.
- IsolatedElectrical/sensor issues
Problems with thermoswitch and crankshaft sensor replacements noted.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available for a definitive recommendation. One owner expressed a preference for the Beretta over the similar Chevrolet Corsica due to its "cooler" looks, availability of a V6 engine, and a manual transmission. Another mention references the high-performance Z26 trim with a 2.3L Quad-4 engine, and a special Indy convertible edition is noted, though it was reportedly never sold to the public.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and based on isolated, anecdotal experiences from past ownership. The vehicle is remembered as a basic, affordable coupe from its era, with some owners reporting positive experiences regarding the durability of its powertrain, specifically the 3.1L V6 engine. One owner reported their high-mileage example (over 300,000 km / 186,000 miles) continued running reliably for a subsequent owner. However, other feedback highlights significant and repeated mechanical failures, including catastrophic engine failure, chronic cooling system problems (radiator and hoses), and various electrical and sensor issues. The consensus from the limited data suggests the ownership experience was highly dependent on maintenance history and specific model year, with a notable propensity for major component failures that could lead to premature scrapping of the vehicle.
Positioning vs competitors
Insufficient owner data available.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available. One anecdote suggests the manual transmission and V6 engine combination was a desirable configuration compared to a base automatic model.
General recommendations
Not recommended as a primary vehicle due to age and reported reliability concerns. Potentially suitable only as a low-cost, disposable project car for an enthusiast familiar with GM platforms of the era, with the understanding that major repairs are likely. A pre-purchase inspection focusing on the cooling system, engine condition, and electrical sensors is critical. Ownership satisfaction appears heavily tied to obtaining the vehicle for a very low purchase price, as exemplified by one owner who bought and sold theirs for approximately $900-$1100 CAD ($660-$810 USD).
Remarks
The available feedback is sparse and retrospective, covering ownership experiences from decades ago. The data does not allow for a generation-by-generation breakdown, though specific model years (1988, 1990, 1992, 1993) are mentioned. The positive remark about powertrain durability (3.1L V6) and the negative reports of major failures are not contradictory but likely represent the two potential outcomes for an aging, mass-market vehicle from this period. The mention of a lawsuit between Beretta (the firearms company) and General Motors over the model name provides external context but is not an owner experience. Analysis based on approximately 9 substantive owner mentions across scattered discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | 80 | 2 | engine and engine cooling |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices2 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
1996 · fuel system, other:storage:tank assembly:pressure relief devicescampaign 07E021000
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.
1996 · interior lightingcampaign 98V027000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR THE INTERIOR LAMPS TO COME ON UNEXPECTEDLY WHILE THE VEHICLES ARE BEING DRIVEN. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 101, "CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS."
Specifications
3.1 i V6
3.1L 6-cylinder · 162 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 1987–1996