I'm not sure the SE'* suffer from the transmission problem that effects the SSEi'*, as the SE has a different transmission. Generally, the SSEi'* seem to have problems at between 40K-60K miles.

I have a 2000 SE with enough options to make it almost an SLE. It has about 55,000 miles on it. Haven't had any major problems. I have had a few minor problems over the past few years. (my car is about 5 years old since I purchased it in December of 1999). The rear window motor broke - I think this was the regulator ($350), Some lights went out on radio dispay ($300), control arm ($150), air conditioner drain clogged ($80). I have an extended warranty so this wasn't a big deal. If I had to pay out of my pocket I would not have fixed radio display. Overall, a very reliable solid car. I just bought a 2004 GXP and love it (my wife has my 2000 SE).

I was really amazed that the original brake pads lasted about 40,000 miles and I still have the original battery in the car.

FYI. The coolant seal on the 3.8L engine is covered by a GM recall that is in effect until July 2005.

I have a 2001 with 112,000 km on the clock. Other than a few minor problems, the car has stood up quite well. The problems (covered under warranty) were altinators (3 of them...all defective from factory), climate control balance issues (adjustments), rear air shocks (this was a true deftect - back end looked like a car from the 70'*) and a seat heater switch. Now that I think of it, I also had a right front brake stick causing a fire and a left front strut mount bearing give up...

Perhaps there was more problems that I thought. The good news is that GM covered all of these issues and I have not had any problems since the car was out of warranty.

I dont think you would be disapointed with this car...and a SLE would be fine! I know the SSEi would be nice...but I agree that you have to watch the $$ when you can!

Hmmm. I was going to post a question to ask if anyone has experienced the SSEI running rough during heavy wet weather. Mine seems to clunk into gear in wet weather. It runs smoothly most of the time, but it acts upl in wet weather - although sometimes it IS ok in wet weather.

So I'm wondering - is this how the tranny goes? intermittently until it totally craps out?

Otherwise, I love the car.

has any one had an issue wit the heated seats switches mine jus light up when you push the button and then goes back out but nuthing happens wat can that be ?