1990 Pontiac Bonneville problems

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The Pontiac Bonneville is a model line of full-size or mid-size front-engine rear drive cars manufactured and marketed by Pontiac from 1957 until 2005, with a hiatus for model years 1982-1986.

The Bonneville (marketed as the Parisienne in Canada until 1981), and its platform partner, the Grand Ville, are some of the largest Pontiacs ever built; in station wagon body styles they reached just over 230 inches (5.8 m) long, and at 5,000 pounds (2,300 kg) and more were also some of the heaviest cars produced at the time.

The Bonneville nameplate was introduced as a limited production performance convertible during the 1957 model year, its name taken from the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah — an early site of US auto racing and numerous world's land speed record records, itself named after U.S. Army officer Benjamin Bonneville.

1990 Pontiac Bonneville

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Common 1990 Pontiac Bonneville problems

Based on the search results, the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville was a full-sized car produced by General Motors. While the car was well-regarded for its interior and exterior design, there were some common problems reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:

  1. Engine Stalling Due to Mass Air Flow/Crankshaft Position Sensor: One of the most common issues reported by owners of the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville was engine stalling due to problems with the mass air flow sensor and the crankshaft position sensor. These sensors are critical for the proper functioning of the engine management system, and if they fail, the engine may stall or not start at all.
  2. Cooling System Problems: Another issue reported by some owners of the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville was problems with the cooling system. If the cooling system is not functioning properly, the engine may overheat, which can lead to serious damage.
  3. Transmission Issues: Some owners of the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville reported problems with the transmission. These issues can range from difficulty shifting to complete transmission failure.
  4. Electrical System Problems: Some owners of the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville reported problems with the electrical system. These issues can range from minor problems, such as blown fuses, to more serious issues, such as electrical shorts.
  5. Power Steering Problems: Some owners of the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville reported problems with the power steering system. These issues can make the car difficult to steer, especially at low speeds.

It is important to note that not all 1990 Pontiac Bonneville owners reported these issues, and many owners had no problems with their cars. However, if you are considering purchasing a 1990 Pontiac Bonneville, it is important to be aware of these potential issues and to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing.

1990 Pontiac Bonneville engine

How much is a 1990 Pontiac Bonneville worth?

The value of a used 1990 Pontiac Bonneville ranges from $1,220 to $7,048, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

How reliable are Pontiac Bonneville?

Bonneville owners have made 494 complaints over 16 model years. It ranks 10th in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems.

How many miles can a Pontiac Bonneville last?

The Bonnevilles are the GM car I will miss the most with their restructuring. The bigger car ride, smaller car handling, full instrumentation and adult styling made the Bonnies an all-American car. The 3800 engine is very hard to fault and this car can easily last 200,000 miles with modest attention.

How rare is Pontiac Bonneville?

Just 630 production examples of these cars were ever made – one per dealer in the United States, plus two prototypes.

How reliable are Pontiac Bonneville?

Bonneville owners have made 494 complaints over 16 model years. It ranks 10th in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems.

How much is a 1990 Pontiac Bonneville worth?

The value of a used 1990 Pontiac Bonneville ranges from $1,220 to $7,048, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

How long can a Pontiac Bonneville last?

The bigger car ride, smaller car handling, full instrumentation and adult styling made the Bonnies an all-American car. The 3800 engine is very hard to fault and this car can easily last 200,000 miles with modest attention.

Is a Pontiac Bonneville a sports car?

The Pontiac Bonneville Special is a concept car unveiled at the General Motors Motorama in 1954, the first 2-seat sports car prototype the division had ever produced. Conceived by renowned designer Harley J. Earl and hand built by Homer C.

1990 Pontiac Bonneville car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Bonneville problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Latches/locks/linkages problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Pontiac Bonneville vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1990 Pontiac Bonneville

The NHTSA has received 44 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Pontiac Bonneville vehicles.

2003-12-26

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-02-01
  • VIN: 1G2HX54C0L1
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: AREA AROUND PLATE THAT HOLD HOOD LATCH PIN IN PLACE CORRODED, CRACKED AND FAILED.*AK
2002-12-04

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2HX54C8L1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: CONSUMER HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE SEAT BELTS NOT STAYING LOCKED AT ALL TIMES WHILE IN MOTION. MR
2002-11-08

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-11
  • VIN: 1G2HX54C8L1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATED THE FRONT SEAT BUCKLE DID NOT LATCH PROPERLY. MR *JB
2002-01-09

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-01-01
  • VIN: N/A
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: ALL FUEL LINES HAVE BEEN REPLACED DUE TO CORROSION, VEHICLE CONTINUED TO LEAK FUEL AFTER THE REPAIRS. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
2001-08-16

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2HY54C2L1
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: ACCLERATOR STUCK.
2001-04-27

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: THE LIGHTS ON THIS MODEL, AND I HAVE SEEN MANY, HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE LENS. AS THEY AGED, THEY FADE AND BECOME VERY WHITE AND WEATHERED. IN THE DAYTIME IT IS DIFFICULT TO SEE THE BRAKE LIGHTS FOR THE PERSONS BEHIND THE CAR. I NOTICED THIS MYSELF BEHIND ONE. WHEN I WENT FOR INSPECTION, I WAS ASKED IF THE LIGHTS WERE OUT, THEN IT WAS REALIZED THAT THEY DO WORK. AT NIGHT THEY ARE MORE VISABLE. PONTIAC SHOUD REPLACE THE LENSES ON THESE CARS. THE LE AND SE MODELS DO NOT HAVE THIS PROBLEM. THEY LOOK FINE, AND BRITE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME.*AK
2001-04-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-02-14
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1G2HZ54C6L1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: SUSPECT RELATED CAMPAIGN FOR ABS HYDRALIC VALVE BLOCK (INTERMITTENT PULL IS WHEEL LOCKOUT). *AK
2001-03-12

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-07-15
  • VIN: 1G2HY54C7L1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHILE ON A TWO WAY STREET, BRAKES GOT HARD AND CAR WOULD NOT STOP. CONSUMER HAD TO KEEP PUMPING ON BRAKES UNTIL IT STARTED TO SLOW DOWN.*AK THE ABS FAILED TEICE AND THE CONSUMER FEELS UNSAFE TO DRIVE THE VEHCILE. *YH
2001-01-09

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-12-05
  • VIN: 1G2HY54C0L1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THE ABS BRAKE SYSTEM HAS FAILED INTERMITTENTLY SINCE THE CAR WAS NEW. IT WAS NEVER FIXED AND WAS HARD TO DUPLICATE. THE BRAKE PEDAL WILL BE LOCKED OUT UNDER A PANIC STOP BUT THE ABS FAILS TO KICK IN AND THE CAR IS ESSENTIALLY BRAKELESS. OTHERS HAVE UNDOUBTEDLY DIED OR SUFFERED SERIOUS INJURY BECAUSE WHEN THIS OCCURS THE CAR IS A MISSLE. *AK
2000-10-11

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-11-28
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • VIN: 1G2HX54C1L1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: FIRESTONE LEMANS TIRE P215 65 R15 EXPERIENCED BLOW OUT, CAUSING VEHICLE TO ROLL OVER SEVERAL TIMES AND INJURING 2 CONSUMERS. (ATTORNEY STEVEN BUDAJ FOR CLIENT). *SLC
2000-10-11

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-11-28
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • VIN: 1G2HX54C1L1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: FIRESTONE LEMANS TIRE P215 65 R15 EXPERIENCED BLOW OUT, CAUSING VEHICLE TO ROLL OVER SEVERAL TIMES AND INJURING 2 CONSUMERS. (ATTORNEY STEVEN BUDAJ FOR CLIENT). *SLC
2000-06-07

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-05-23
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FMCU14TXLU
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: A VEHICLE FIRE ORIGINATED IN ALTERATOR WIRING HARNESS AFTER PULLING INTO DRIVEWAY. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. STATE FARM INSURANCE ASKED CONSUMER TO NOTIFY NHTSA. *AK *ML
2000-03-19

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1993-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2HZ54C9L1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHEN ABS SYSTEM FAILED I HAD NO BRAKING, I AM ABOUT TO REPLACE THE THIRD ABS SYSTEM. *AK
1999-09-09

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-09-09
  • VIN: 1G2HX54COL1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: WHEN ATTEMPTING TO BUCKLE THE LEFT HAND SIDE OF THE SEAT BELT IT WON'T LATCH. THERE IS NO CATCHING AND THE BUTTON HAS COLLAPSED. DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. *AK
1999-08-17

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-17
  • VIN: 1G2HXI4COL1
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: SEATBACK LATCH COLLAPSED. *AK
1999-05-28

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-17
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1G2HY54C3L1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE PEDAL BECAME FROZEN, WOULD NOT MOVE OR GO DOWN IN POSITION TO BRAKE, CAUSING A LOSS OF BRAKES, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. DEALER CANNOT DETERMINE DEFECT. *AK
1999-01-04

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-24
  • VIN: 1G2HY54C6L1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: BRAKE PEDAL SUDDENLY IS VERY HARD TO PUSH AND WILL BARELY STOP CAR. SEAT BELT DO NOT TIGHTEN TO HOLD YOU FROM BEING THROWN, THEY ARE VERY LOOSE.
1998-04-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-04-21
  • VIN: 1G2HY54C7L1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: FOR THE LAST FIVE YEARS HAD TO HAVE AN ALTERNATOR INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE TWO TIMES A YEAR. THE DEALER HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO DUPLICATE OR FIND THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. *AK
1997-10-16

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2HY54CXL1
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: DOOR LOCKS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES.
1997-10-16

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2HY54CXL1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ANTI LOCK BRAKES FAILED SEVERAL TIMES.
1997-10-07

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-06-01
  • VIN: 1G2HZ54C5L1
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: BOLTS THAT HOLD CUSHIONED SEAT ASSEMBLY DETACHED FROM ALUMINUM MOUNTING RAILS, CAUSING DRIVER TO BE THROWN INTO BACK SEAT.
1997-09-30

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-09-30
  • VIN: 1G2HX54C8L1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CAR STALLS--BRAKES AND STEERING ARE LOST. CAUSE UNKNOWN. *TR
1997-09-30

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2HX54C8L1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE STALL WITHOUT WARNING, LOSSING BRAKES AND STEERING. SAME THING HAPPEN TO SECOND CAR 1988 CHEVROLET CAVALIER VIN# 1G1JC5117JJ224922.
1997-03-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-03-18
  • VIN: 1G2HZ54C0L1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ABS PUMP/MOTOR FAILED. *AK
1997-02-04

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-03-18
  • VIN: 1G2HZ54C011
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ABS PUMP AND MOTOR ASSEMBLE FAILED AT 53,000 MILES AND THERE IS AN INTERMITTENT THUMPING NOISE AT THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL.

1990 Pontiac Bonneville recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1990 Pontiac Bonneville.

2006-05-19
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Negative 1990 Pontiac Bonneville car reviews

  1. Rex Hagenes 2024-08-13

    It sounds like you've had a lot of issues with your vehicle, including electronic problems with the power locks and mirrors, a bad transmission, and even the entire exhaust system falling off. That must have been frustrating to deal with.

  2. Orville Von 2024-05-24

    Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my 2002 Pontiac car. I was really impressed with the power of the 3800 engine, it was amazing! Unfortunately, I did have some issues with the oil pump which caused the car to stop working at around 140,000 miles. Also, I had to replace the transmission twice, which was a bit of a bummer. However, I did enjoy the handling of the car, especially the independent rear suspension. Overall, while I wouldn't buy another Pontiac due to their reputation for transmission issues, I did have some great memories with this car!

  3. Alford Stanton 2024-04-24

    Based on my extensive experience with the Bonneville, I strongly advise against purchasing this car. The amount of money I have spent on repairs is more than triple the initial cost. The underside of the car was so corroded that even replacing a flat tire was impossible. The muffler and many other parts under the car were also rusty. The rear doors are completely inoperable, and the alternator has required multiple replacements. Additionally, the battery cables were corroded, and the engine required significant work. It is my professional opinion that this car is not worth the investment.

Positive 1990 Pontiac Bonneville car reviews

  1. Michel Mosciski 2024-11-21

    This car drives very nicely. The take off is very smooth. When idling it is very quiet. It excels very nicely on the open highway. In town it is very dependable. This car starts on the first try with no hesitations. I bought this car from an elderly couple that bought the car new. This car is in exceptional shape.

  2. Westley Schulist 2024-11-14

    We're so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your vehicle! It's great to know that it still looks as good as the day you bought it and turns heads when you're out and about in town.

  3. Rashawn Robel 2024-11-05

    I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I bought it brand new and it still drives like a dream! It's always a smooth ride with plenty of pep. Plus, the last time I checked, I got 25mpg. Let me know if you have any questions!

  4. Jackson Jones 2024-09-20

    I love driving this car every day. It's so comfortable and reliable. I've had to replace a few parts, but nothing major. I'm actually planning to take this car from New York to Florida and back, and I'm confident it can handle the trip. If anyone else has this car, make sure to take good care of it - it'll last you forever!

  5. Ismael Quigley 2024-08-25

    This car has been a great companion for travelling. I have been driving it for about 3 years, including this year to college, covering a distance of about 150 miles. Additionally, I have taken it on vacation to Texas and New Mexico.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1990 Pontiac Bonneville problems:

1990-91 Bonneville Information. : 1987-1991
1990-91 Bonneville Information. : 1987-1991
https://www.pontiacbonnevilleclub.com/forum/1987/topic45146.html

I would like info such as their reliability and common problems. I don't know if pontiac even made packages, but I will guess it is an se, ...

Pontiac Bonneville Problems and Complaints - 42 Issues
Pontiac Bonneville Problems and Complaints - 42 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/pontiac/bonneville

Top Pontiac Bonneville Problems · Engine Stalling Due to Mass Air Flow/Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure · Mode/Temperature Door Actuators May Fail · Car Won't ...

Q&A: 1991 Pontiac Bonneville - Common Issues, Troubleshooting ...
Q&A: 1991 Pontiac Bonneville - Common Issues, Troubleshooting ...
https://www.justanswer.com/car/0rpio-1991-pontiac-bonneville-261-000.html

Jul 5, 2007 ... I have a 1991 Pontiac Bonneville with 261000 miles on it. it is a 4 door. The rear defrost, power seat and power locks - Answered by a ...

Pontiac Bonneville Problems and Complaints - 42 Issues
Pontiac Bonneville Problems and Complaints - 42 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/pontiac/bonneville/2

Top Pontiac Bonneville Problems · Engine Runs Lean Due to Vacuum Leak in EGR Tube · Loss of power steering fluid from steering rack failure · Engine Performance ...

Pontiac Bonneville General Maintenance and Repair - Page 18 ...
Pontiac Bonneville General Maintenance and Repair - Page 18 ...
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/917/pontiac/bonneville/pontiac-bonneville-general-maintenance-and-repair/p18

May 31, 2000 ... That's about what my 1990 Bonneville with 110000 miles uses. ... 1997-1998 Pontiac Grand Prix with 3.8 L Engine ... common problem with these cars.

Other years of Pontiac Bonneville

pontiac bonneville 1991 photo
Bonneville 1991
Pontiac

29

2

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac bonneville 1992 photo
Bonneville 1992
Pontiac

132

3

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac bonneville 1993 photo
Bonneville 1993
Pontiac

160

1

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac bonneville 1994 photo
Bonneville 1994
Pontiac

107

0

28

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac bonneville 1995 photo
Bonneville 1995
Pontiac

257

1

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac bonneville 1996 photo
Bonneville 1996
Pontiac

153

3

14

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1990 Pontiac Bonneville photo