I had my 2004 Bonneville towed to the dealership last year at this time because it failed to start. I was told that the software was outdated in the car and it needed an update(?). It would not start today for what seems like the same problem and I had to again, have it towed to the dealership. Has anyone else heard of this problem?

I also have the clunking noise when I turn (which I have read could be the intermediate shaft). I also have the fog light problems (have had them replaced 5 times). We also replaced the brakes after reading on this forum that ceramic were the way to go (no thanks to my dealership). With all of the problems, I still love my car but the potential software problem concerns me. Any thoughts?

Just replaced the factory pads with ceramics. What a difference, no more black rims!!! Same braking performance. Can get you the part # if you want.

The 2004 GP'* has a simiar problem with a no start condition....i would just get the PCM update

I haven't had any problems with my 05 GXP as yet but the LaCrosse I owned needed a update once, then GM recalled the car and replaced the PCM altogether. Make sure the dealer gets it right before your warranty expires.

I've heard of many newer cars getting reflashed. Since it'* easy to do the engineer figures how to fix the issue.

No idea how that should relate to a no start though.

Bill, I imagine the PCM controls spark, fuel pump on and pressure and so much other crap on these newer cars.....I just wanna rip the engines wires from the dam thing and go from there. Sorry my rant is over. Isnt it funny they use term "outdated" in place of "FAULTY"

Today I got a recall notice for my 05 LaCrosse which has had two reflashes in a year. Now they tell me the chips were damaged and have to be replaced. i dont know if the same chip is used generally in GM'* but I hope not. The Buick reflashes pertained to start and engine warmup so it makes me hope the 05GXP didnt get same chip.

For the clunking noise:

If it'* the ISS, unfortunately you may be a bit on the SOL side, as far as GM goes. They've pulled the redesigned shafts from the shelves. But instead of taking it to the dealer and overpaying them, there'* an easy way to lube the shaft yourself.
Keep in mind, this was written for the Impala/Monte/GP, but I'm sure the shaft is in the same location and just as easy to get to in the Bonne.
0. Go to your local parts store and purchase a can of White Lithium Spray Grease (about 5 bucks).
1. Turn the steering wheel from center 1/4 turn left so that you can more easily access the ISS yoke.
2. Remove the black trim panel, disconnect the light and then remove the fuse panel cover. Remove two screws holding the lower dash panel, pull to the rear of the car and away from the dash. If you try to move it up or down and not straight back you risk breaking the tabs. Unplug the trunk switch to remove the panel from the car.
3. Pull back the black boot that covers the ISS and spray the grease down into the opening.
4. Reassemble the lower dash.
5. Drive, be happy.

My Impala had the issue the day I bought it. I performed this lube, and 40,000 miles later I have had no recurrance.

yep a friend of mine with a G6 just had his car in for some PCM related issue...

Reflashes aren't a huge suprise......GM'* always been tacky on their PCM'*. I don't think they really get the idea down of how they really want it to work until it'* too late. 95'* are pretty much the same issue.

Fog lamps, I just seen somewhere within the last 2 weeks that GM put a recall out on them. I could be mistaken though.