Pontiac problems
Pontiac, or formally the Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors, was an American automobile brand owned, manufactured, and commercialized by General Motors. It was originally introduced as a companion make for GM's more expensive line of Oakland automobiles. Pontiac quickly overtook Oakland in popularity and supplanted its parent entirely by 1933, in turn establishing its position as one of GM's dominant divisions.
Sold in the United States, Canada, and Mexico by GM, Pontiac came to represent affordable, practical transportation with an emphasis on performance. The division’s name stems from the Odawa chieftain Pontiac, who led an indigenous uprising around the city of Detroit from 1763 to 1766.
In the hierarchy of GM's five divisions, it slotted above Chevrolet but below Oldsmobile, Buick, and Cadillac. Starting with the 1959 models, marketing was focused on selling the lifestyle that the car's ownership promised rather than the car itself. By emphasizing its "Wide Track" design, Pontiac billed itself as the "performance division" of General Motors that marketed cars with the "we build excitement" tag line.
Facing financial problems and restructuring efforts, GM announced during the 2008 financial crash that it would discontinue the Pontiac brand by the end of 2010. The last Pontiac-badged cars were built in December 2009; the final Pontiac was a white G6 that was assembled in January 2010. Franchise agreements for Pontiac dealers expired on October 31, 2010, leaving GM to focus on its four remaining North American brands: Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, and GMC.
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Pontiac models
Common Pontiac problems
Pontiac, a brand known for its performance and muscle cars, faced several common problems based on owner complaints. One of the most prevalent issues was with the intake manifold, which affected multiple models, including the Grand Am and Grand Prix. The intake manifold is responsible for distributing the air-fuel mixture to the engine's cylinders. When it malfunctions, it can cause a rough idle, misfires, and reduced engine performance.
Another common problem was with the ignition switch, which was particularly prevalent in the Grand Am and G6 models. Faulty ignition switches can lead to difficulty starting the car, stalling, and even causing electrical issues.
Power window malfunctions were also a common complaint, affecting models like the Grand Am, Grand Prix, and Bonneville. Malfunctioning power windows can be frustrating and potentially dangerous if they fail to operate correctly during an emergency.
The G6 model also had issues with its light system, door locks, and catalytic converter, which could lead to grinding noises and other operational problems.
In addition to these specific issues, some Pontiac models also faced reliability concerns. For instance, the Pontiac G8, although well-received for its performance and longevity, had issues with seat belt cables, suspension, and the pressure monitoring system. These problems, while not unique to Pontiac, affected the brand's reputation for reliability.
In conclusion, while Pontiac cars were known for their performance and muscle, they faced several common problems based on owner complaints. These issues included malfunctioning intake manifolds, faulty ignition switches, power window failures, and other operational problems. Additionally, some models faced reliability concerns, affecting the brand's overall reputation for durability and dependability.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Pontiac models
We have analysed all the complaints filed against Pontiac cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Pontiac models:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Pontiac brand.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Pontiac models
We have also compiled a table for you with the number of complaints about specific models of Pontiac cars:
Distribution of Pontiac car problems by type
Based on an anlyse of all Pontiac related complaints and concluded that the most common problems with Pontiac cars are the following:
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
Below is a graph with statistics on all Pontiac vehicle components and the number of complaints about them.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Pontiac models
A total of 1851 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Pontiac models
There were a total of 1561 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Pontiac models
There were a total of 1891 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Pontiac models
There were a total of 130 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
The NHTSA has received 30229 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Pontiac Pontiac. Below are 15 recent complaints about various Pontiac models. In order to research complaints about a particular brand you need to select it from the list of available models above.
List of the last 15 complaints about Pontiac models
Pontiac Grand prix 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 2G2WP552671
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, there was a sudden loss of power steering functionality. The contact coasted to a stop and restarted the vehicle with the ignition key. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the vehicle regained power steering functionality. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred at various speeds. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V400000 (Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZG558X64
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While driving the vehicle, the break lights are on, when you stop, or press the break peddle, the break lights go out, therefore giving no warning to the vehicles behind you.
Pontiac G6 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZG58B474
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: When driving the steering will just stop working it is hard to turn wheel or control steering. I was told there was a recall on the steering system. There is a electrical problems within the steering system.
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZH158X64
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEATS
- Summary: I have had to get 3 new keys made for this car due to the security light coming on, sometimes it will not crank or start, so I have replaced the starter twice, have replaced relays and fuses, and the security light will come on while drive down the road and all gauges drop to zero, even the gas light says empty and every light on the dash comes on. But the car will still drive. But once you turn it off it will not start for a few hours! It’s impossible to find parts for Pontiac anymore so everything has to be ordered! This should’ve been recalled a long time ago!
Pontiac Solstice 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2MB33B86Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Pontiac Solstice. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V061000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 192,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZH158764
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My brake light switch keeps going out which makes it to where my brake lights are on until i press on the brakes then the brake light goes off. i have a 06 G6. i have had it replaced two times and it went out again. has anyone had this problem and what can i do to make sure it doesnt keep going out. my mechanic says its the way it is designed but this has happened 3 times in three months!
Pontiac Vibe 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5Y2SP67889Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact called on behalf of her sister who owns a 2009 Pontiac Vibe. The contact stated that while her sister was driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle was making an abnormal noise and the steering wheel was shaking abnormally. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the steering rack needed to be replaced. The contact was notified of an unknown recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact drove the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 64,000.
Pontiac Vibe 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5Y2SL63845Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Pontiac Vibe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V285000 (Air Bags); and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were contacted.
Pontiac G6 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZG58N674
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact's daughter owns a 2007 Pontiac G6. The contact stated while the driver was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure persisted while starting the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was undrivable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-11
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZH158864
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The electric power steering went out while driving. I could not steer the car. Very dangeres in traffic. The Torque Sensor failed which controls the power steering. There is a recall on the issue (#14772) but my Vin is not listed.
Pontiac G6 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZF58B374
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brake lights operate backwards at times, sometimes they operate normal. Sometimes not at all.
Pontiac G6 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2ZF58B374
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Electric power Steering cut out without warning while driving but came back after restarting the car.
Pontiac Solstice 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2MB33B66Y
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hello i would like to make an agreement with someone to recover a seized vehicle by cbp at the border I made a mistake and i really want to fix it because i really need the car for work but all proof of ownership is inside the vehicle under the driver seat on a red docs bag the guy that sold it to me doesnt want to help me and im Just a young buddy I got it on payments with the condition that i was going to have the original tittle until i pay it all help
Pontiac Solstice 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G2MB35B56Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Pontiac Solstice. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the passenger’s side seat sensor air bag warning light was not illuminated; however, the passenger’s side seat was occupied. The contact was notified that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V061000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that the inflatable restraint passenger presence module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 38,153.
Pontiac Vibe 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5Y2SL62814
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Latest 5 Pontiac recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 755 recalls involving various Pontiac models.You can learn more about the model you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2004
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-23
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The replacement air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation in high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not inflate properly increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the passenger air bag module, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2020. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192278940.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2003
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-23
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The replacement air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation in high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not inflate properly increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the passenger air bag module, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2020. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192278940.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2005
- Report Received Date: 2019-08-28
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly or sub-assembly, free of charge. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1Q and K0Q. Pontiac owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192273760.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2008
- Report Received Date: 2019-08-28
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly or sub-assembly, free of charge. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1Q and K0Q. Pontiac owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192273760.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2007
- Report Received Date: 2019-08-28
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly or sub-assembly, free of charge. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1Q and K0Q. Pontiac owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192273760.
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