2003 Pontiac Bonneville problems
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.
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Common 2003 Pontiac Bonneville problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2003 Pontiac Bonneville, several common problems have been identified:
- Loss of Power Steering Fluid from Steering Rack Failure:
- Another common complaint is the loss of power steering fluid resulting from steering rack failure.
- Steering rack issues can cause difficulty in steering, noise while turning, and in severe cases, complete loss of power steering.
- Another common complaint is the loss of power steering fluid resulting from steering rack failure.
- Electrical System Problems:
- Complaints related to the electrical system include issues such as ignition problems, wiring issues, and electronic stability control malfunctions.
- Electrical system problems can manifest in various ways, affecting the car's overall performance and safety.
- Complaints related to the electrical system include issues such as ignition problems, wiring issues, and electronic stability control malfunctions.
- Airbag Malfunctions:
- Some owners have reported problems with the airbags, including frontal airbag issues.
- Malfunctioning airbags can pose a serious safety risk in the event of a collision.
- Some owners have reported problems with the airbags, including frontal airbag issues.
- Intermittent Steering Shaft (ISS) Issues:
- The intermediate steering shaft (ISS) has been a point of concern for some Bonneville owners, with specific part numbers mentioned for the 2003 model.
- Steering shaft problems can lead to steering wheel vibrations, clunking noises, and compromised steering control.
- The intermediate steering shaft (ISS) has been a point of concern for some Bonneville owners, with specific part numbers mentioned for the 2003 model.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2003 Pontiac Bonneville highlight a range of issues that can impact the car's performance, safety, and overall driving experience.
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 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 rare is Pontiac Bonneville?
Just 630 production examples of these cars were ever made – one per dealer in the United States, plus two prototypes.
What motor is in a 2003 Pontiac Bonneville?
3.8 L V62003 Pontiac Bonneville / Engine
All are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 with overhead valves, developing 205 horsepower in the SE and SLE. The SSEi adds a positive-displacement supercharger that boosts output to 240 horsepower.
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 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 the Pontiac Bonneville a luxury car?
It entered the production lineup as a high-performance, fuel-injected luxury convertible version of the Star Chief in 1957, and was loaded with every available option as standard equipment to include leather upholstery, power adjustable front seat, power windows, power steering, power brakes and power convertible top ...
What kind of engine does a Pontiac Bonneville have?
A 3.8-litre with 205 ponies is standard on the Bonneville; a supercharged version of the same engine is optional.
2003 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:
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Pontiac Bonneville vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Pontiac Bonneville
The NHTSA has received 66 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Pontiac Bonneville. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Pontiac Bonneville vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-13
- VIN: 1G2HX52K334
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PASSENGER CONTROL ARM IS BAD
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2HZ541634
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN, SMOKE EMERGED FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER (WHEELERS CHEVROLET OF MEDFORD, 704 N 8TH ST, MEDFORD, WI 54461) AND WAS REFERRED TO THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 113,600.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-09
- VIN: 1G2HZ541034
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WITH THE KEY TURNED TO ACC YOU CAN PULL THE CAR OUT OF PARK WITHOUT DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL. WITH THE KEY TURNED TO RUN YOU MUST DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO PULL IT OUT OF PARK. CAR IS NOT RUNNING. ALSO CHECKED 3 OTHER PONTIAC BONNEVILLE'S. ONE IS A 2002 VIN # [XXX]. THEY ALL SHOWED THE SAME OPERATING CHARACTERISTICS. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-01
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS BEEN ON SINCE 2003, HAVE HAD 5 DIFFERENT SERVICE TECHS, INCLUDING DEALER LOOK FOR THE PROBLEM, NO ONE SEEMS TO BE ABLE TO FIX OR FIND THE PROBLEM.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-08
- VIN: 1G2HX52K234
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BURNT SMELL AFTER RUNNING CAR. SERVICEMAN CHECKED AND OIL WAS LEAKING. NEED NEW VALVE COVER GASKETS AS LEAKING ON MANIFOLD WILL CAUSE A FIRE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-01
- VIN: 1G2HX52K534
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE MOVING THE VEHICLE FROM ITS PARKED LOCATION, THE CONTACT NOTICED ENGINE OIL LEAKING ON THE GROUND UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN EXPERIENCING DIMINISHED ENGINE POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000. UPDATED 03/16/16*JB
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-01
- VIN: 1G2HX52K534
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: LEAKING OIL, SAME ENGINE AS OTHER CARS IN RECENT RECALL.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-01
- VIN: 1G2HX52K934
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE CAR I DRIVE (3.8 LITER SIX CYLINDER) HAS AN OIL LEAK COMING FROM THE LEFT VALVE COVER. AFTER I COME TO A STOP OR MAKE A LEFT TURN, I SMELL OIL FUMES AND CAN SEE A LIGHT SMOKE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE CAR. I'VE BEEN READING ABOUT THE CURRENT RECALL FOR CARS MADE BEFORE AND AFTER MY CAR. HOW DO I GET MY CAR ON LIST OF RECALLS FOR REPAIR?
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-25
- VIN: 1G2HY54K334
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS REFUELED, A FUEL ODOR EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING AND THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V238000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000. UPDATE 01/15/16 MA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-10
- VIN: 1G2HX52K834
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: MY CAR SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING. I NOTICE IT BECAUSE POWER STEERING IS HARD TO USE AND RPM'S GO DOWN TO ZERO AND CAR HAS SHUT OFF. IT STARTED UP AGAIN. THIS HAS BEEN A REAL PROBLEM. DEALER TESTED CAR AND SAID IT WAS A CRANKSHAFT SENSOR. I REPLACED THE CRANKSHAFT SENSOR AND THE PROBLEM CONTINUES. CAM SENSOR REPLACED TOO. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. NO ONE KNOWS WHY THE CAR SHUTS OFF WHEN IT WANTS TO. NOW THE CAR STILL SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING, BUT ALSO IT TAKES 2 TO 3 TIMES TO RESTART. STILL TRYING TO FIGURE THIS OUT. IT IS AUGUST 2015 AND I NEED THIS CAR. IS THIS A RECALL ISSUE?
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-01
- VIN: 1G2HX54K834
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PONTIAC BONNEVILLE 2003, CAR WOULD JUST TURN OFF WHILE WE WERE DRIVING. WE DIDN'T REALIZE IT WAS TURNING OFF AT FIRST, WE JUST THOUGHT THE STEERING AND BRAKES WERE BECOMING HARD TO WORK. WE WOULD HAVE TO PULL OVER AND TURN THE CAR BACK ON. *JS *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-01
- VIN: 1G2HZ541734
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL FUMES EMITTED INTO THE VEHICLE AND ALL THE WARNING LIGHTS ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL INJECTORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUNROOF FAILED TO OPERATE, BOTH SIDE MIRRORS WOULD OPERATE INDEPENDENTLY AND WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED A WHISTLING NOISE ACTIVATED THAT WOULD LAST FOR SEVERAL MINUTES. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC REPLACED UNKNOWN PARTS. HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-14
- VIN: 1G2HX54K334
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER A BUMP, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-04
- VIN: 1G2HZ541734
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FUEL INJECTOR STARTED HAVING ISSUES, AND THE CAR HAS A WHISTLING SOUND WHEN THE IGNITION IS TURNED ON. THE SMELL OF GAS IS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD OF THE CAR. THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM HAS BEEN OFF SINCE WE GOT THE VEHICLE IN NOVEMBER OF 2013, THE MIRRORS MOVE BY THEMSELVES AND THE SUNROOF NEVER WORKED CORRECTLY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-22
- VIN: 1G2HY52K634
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION LOCKED AND PREVENTED THE KEY FROM TURNING TO START THE VEHICLE. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, THE KEY WAS UNABLE TO BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. THE DEALER REPLACED THE KEY, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE SECURITY SENSOR ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE WAS IN SECURITY MODE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,875.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-04
- VIN: 1G2HX52K634
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CAR WILL FROM TIME TO TIME ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN. ON ONE OCCASION I TOOK IT TO THE SHOP AFTER IT HAD BEEN DOING FOR ABOUT A WEEK, HOWEVER ON THE DAY I TOOK IT TO THE SHOP IT WAS NOT DOING IT AND THE SHOP COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. RECENTLY IT HAD BEEN DOING IT FOR A COUPLE DAYS AND THE MORNING I WAS TAKING IT TO THE SHOP, IT WOULD NOT DO IT SO I DID NOT TAKE IT BECAUSE, AS BEFORE, AT THE TIME THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT. IT SEEMS TO BE AN ELECTRONIC OR VACUUM CONTROL PROBLEM. WHEN IT STARTS ACCELERATING, I CAN PUT IT INTO NEUTRAL AND IT WILL INCREASE RPM'S BRIEFLY THEN IDLE DOWN. IT IS UNPREDICTABLE WHEN IT WILL START DOING. ON A STRAIGHT ROAD, IT WILL GET UP TO ABOUT 55 MPH WITH MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR AND CRUISE CONTROL OFF. IF IT STARTS DOING AGAIN, I WILL TAKE IT TO A SHOP RIGHT AWAY. *TR
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-04
- VIN: 1G2HX52K634
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE LOST POWER. I SHIFTED VEHICLE TO NEUTRAL AND ATTEMPTED RESTART. ENGINE RESTARTED. CONTINUED DRIVING WHEN DRIVE OVER BUMPS, BUCKLES IN PAYMENT ENGINE LOOSES POWER. ALL NEEDLE INDICATORS DROP TO OFF POSITION, CAR STARTS TO SLOW DOWN, STEERING LOOSES POWER, ALL LIGHTS GO OUT AS WELL. THIS IS A CONDITION THAT HAS BECOME INCREASING MORE DANGEROUS AS SPEEDS INCREASES. I HAD VEHICLE CHECKED OUT AND MECHANICS ARE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSIS. I PREVIOUSLY OWNED 2001 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE AS WELL WHICH DID THE SAME WHEN DRIVEN OVER BUMPS, OR IMPERFECTIONS IN THE ROAD. THIS IS MY SECOND COMPLAINT, AND I HAVE NOT HEARD ANYTHING. I PREVIOUSLY STATED I BELIEVE THIS PROBLEM IS RELATED TO RECALL GM HAS RECENTLY ACKNOWLEDGED FOR SOME CARS. I DON'T BELIEVE THEY HAVE INCLUDED ALL VEHICLES THAT CONTAIN THIS PROBLEM. MY PREVIOUS ODI (YOUR CONFIRMATION NUMBER (ODI NUMBER) IS: 10564622 )THIS PROBLEM SHOULD BE NOTED, AND INCLUDED WITH SAFETY RECALL BY GM AND NHTSA. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-03
- VIN: 1G2HX52K634
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY ENGINE LOST POWER COMPLETELY. I HAD WENT OVER BUMP IN THE ROAD AND THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER. I PLACE THE CAR IN NEUTRAL, AND ABLE TO RESTART AND CONTINUE DRIVING. HIT BUMP IN ROAD AGAIN AND ENGINE LOST POWER AGAIN. I WAS FORTUNATE TO BE ABLE TO PULL OVER. RESTARTED ENGINE AND RETURNED HOME. HAD REPAIR SHOP CHECK VEHICLE FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO RESOLVE ISSUE. NEITHER WAS GM DEALER. I HAVE HAD THIS HAPPEN EVERYTIME I GO OVER BUMP IN ROAD, USUALLY AT SPEEDS OVER 40 MILES PER HOUR. I HAD SAME PROBLEM WITH 2001 BONNEVILLE. I SAW GM RECALLING 2005 G5 WITH SAME PROBLEM. I BELIEVE MY PROBLEM IS RELATED ISSUE AND IS A SAFETY HAZARD THAT SHOULD BE HANDLED SIMILARLY BY GM. I DO NOT BELIEVE THE PROBLEM IS LIMITED TO G5 AND COBALT. AS I STATED 2001 AND 2003 BONNEVILLES HAVE SAME ISSUE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-20
- VIN: 1G2HZ541534
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: ON 8/1/11 WHILE DRIVING I HEARD A LOUD NOISE LIKE I HAD BEEN HIT BY SOMETHING SO I PULLED OFF THE HIGHWAY AND NOTICED THAT MY LEFT REAR WINDOW HAD DROPPED DOWN BY ITSELF AND I COULD NOT RAISE IT BY ACTIVATING THE SWITCH. GM REPLACED THE OPERATOR. ON 12/13/13 MY RIGHT FRONT WINDOW OPERATOR FAILED AND I SHARED THE COST OF THE REPAIR WITH GM. NOW ON 1/19/14 MY RIGHT REAR WINDOW OPERATOR HAS FAILED. I SEARCHED THE INTERNET AND HAVE FOUND THAT MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM. THIS VEHICLE HAS ONLY 7300 MILES ON IT AND IN MY ESTIMATION SHOULD NOT HAVE THESE PROBLEMS. GM SHOULD HAVE A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM. *TR
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2HY54K334
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ACTED LIKE IT WAS RUNNING OUT OF GAS, LOSS OF POWER AND SPEED. ONLY 50MPH WHEN A BOOM IN THE ENGINE, PULLED OVER POPPED THE HOOD LATCH, SAW SMOKE, EXITED CAR AS FLAMES CAME OUT OF THE HOOD. CALLED 911.. CAR BURNT TO THE GROUND. WITNESS STOPPED AND TOLD ME THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH FAULTY FUEL LINES . *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-23
- VIN: 1G2HX52K734
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HAVING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE, SHE WAS NOTIFIED THAT THE UNDER BODY CARRIAGE WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE UNDER CARRIAGE WAS WELDED TOGETHER INSTEAD OF REPLACED, WHICH HE ADVISED WAS AN EXTREME SAFETY HAZARD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 108,231.
STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-29
- VIN: 1G2HZ541534
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN I KICKED IT DOWN. MY SERVICE LIGHT STARED TO BLINK. NOISE IN MY STEERING WHEEL AND FRONT OF CAR. *TT
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-14
- VIN: 1G2HZ541534
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE WITH 6500 MILES ON IT I HEARD A LOUD NOISE WHICH STARTLED MY TO THE POINT THAT I THOUGHT I HAD BEEN HIT BY ANOTHER CAR. WHEN I GOT TO MY DESTINATION I DISCOVERED THAT MY REAR WINDOW HAD DROPPED AND WOULD NOT OPERATE. I UNDERSTAND MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM GM SHOULD HAVE HAD A RECALL WITH THIS PROBLEM AS IT IS A VERY EXPENSIVE FIX. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-21
- VIN: 1G2HX54K834
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE NOTICED AN OVERPOWERING FUEL ODOR AS THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FUEL TANK AND CATALYTIC CONVERTER WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO EXPLAINED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V238000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY). THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 90,000.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2HX52K334
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE. WHILE APPROACHING A TRAFFIC STOP AT 25 MPH, THE CONTACT FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT'S SEAT BELT FAILED TO PROPERLY RESTRAIN HER AND DID NOT RETRACT. THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE CHEST, HEAD, AND BACK. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT PROVIDE A REASON FOR THE AIR BAG AND SEAT BELT FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 72,000.
2003 Pontiac Bonneville recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Pontiac Bonneville.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN CADILLAC DEVILLE AND SEVILLE PASSENGER VEHICLES, FUNERAL COACHES, AND LIMOUSINES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.6L) ENGINE, OLDSMOBILE AURORA PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.0L ) ENGINE, AND PONTIAC BONNEVILLE SSEI PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A SUPERCHARGED V6 (3.8L) ENGINE, THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSORS ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE TO MALFUNCTIONS. IF THE SENSOR MALFUNCTIONS, EXCESSIVE VACUUM CAN BE APPLIED DURING SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TESTING.
- Consequence: FUEL SYSTEM COMPONENTS CAN BE DAMAGED AND FUEL CAN LEAK FROM THE VEHICLE WHEN IT IS REFUELED. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER, MINI VANS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE AN AIR BAG INFLATOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE THAT COULD FRACTURE AT A WELD DURING A DEPLOYMENT.
- Consequence: PIECES OF THE INFLATOR COULD STRIKE AND INJURE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS AND THE AIR BAG CUSHION WOULD NOT INFLATE FULLY, REDUCING THE CAPABILITY OF THE BAG TO PROTECT THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT, AND REPLACE, IF NECESSARY, THE AIR BAG MODULE ASSEMBLY ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 15, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737.
Negative 2003 Pontiac Bonneville car reviews
Positive 2003 Pontiac Bonneville car reviews
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This car is amazing! I love every moment I get the pleasure of riding in it. It gives me something to look forward to every time I hit the highway for work. It's the best car I have ever owned. The 3800 series 2 V6 has great pick up.
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This car is really great! It's smooth sailing, comfortable, and just an all around great car. I've had it for 2 years and put some good miles on it because of my jobs and visiting family out of town. I did have to replace the ball joints and CV joint on the driver's side, but other than that, it's been a really great car. However, I'm a delivery driver and I'm looking for a smaller car.
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I bought this Certified Used Vehicle from my local Chevy Dealers' Used Car Lot. This 2003 Pontiac Bonneville SLE is one of the nicest vehicles I've ever owned (and I'm 46). The overall styling is striking and it gives me a thrill every time I see it! I'm getting almost 24 mpg in mixed (city/hwy) driving. The reliability is exceptional! I simply love this car! I'm also disappointed that GM has discontinued producing the Bonneville (as of the 2005 model year). I plan to drive this car for quite a long time. In fact, my plan is to drive this car for at least another 5 years, then look for a clean 2005 Bonneville GXP and be in Bonneville Heaven! (I know the 2005 GXP is the best ever!!)
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You've made some very minor mechanical observations. It seems like the seats could use slightly larger bolsters and the dual climate system could be a bit more effective. However, overall, I'm very pleased with the car. It's very powerful for a six cylinder and I actually don't mind the premium fuel requirement as it gets very good gas mileage for such a large car. I'm averaging 24 miles to the gallon with a mix of highway and city driving. It could use a bit more knee room on the passenger side (I'm 6'1
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I really appreciate this vehicle. It feels like you're riding on a cloud. I love the sleek lines of this car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Pontiac Bonneville problems:
2003 Pontiac Bonneville Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
Top 2003 Pontiac Bonneville Problems · Engine Stalling Due to Mass Air Flow/Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure · Mode/Temperature Door Actuators May Fail · Car ...
Common Issues & Solutions : 2000-2005 (other than GXP)
Year and Trim: 2003 Pontiac Bonneville SSEi. Toms94 wrote: OK, I need some links about the IM shaft. I was just out to the "other" Bonneville ...
2002 SSEi All kinds of problems : 2000-2005 (other than GXP)
... common problem child. Does the transmission ... 2003 Bonneville SSEi - The Black Mirror SOLD! ... 2000 SSEi problems: No Start, Security Problems.
2002 Bonneville wit probable common problems & need insight ...
2002 Bonneville wit probable common problems & need insight ... Year and Trim: 2003 Bonneville SE. [quote][/ ... '02 Pontiac Bonneville SE 108,539 ...
What causes cruise control to stop working on Bonneville cruise ...
Dec 17, 2009 ... Hi. I have a 2003 SLE. Cruise control quit working. Any common issues with Bonneville cruise control?
Other years of Pontiac Bonneville
Are you having problems with your 2003 Pontiac Bonneville?
Moses Mitchell 2024-07-10
This car has been a disappointment since we purchased it. We have experienced an extreme vibration from the beginning that has not been resolved despite multiple attempts. We have had to replace the tires twice, balance them countless times, and fix the steering column twice. Additionally, we have had issues with the brakes, a shifting driver's seat, and water leakage. We have spent around $3000 on repairs and are still experiencing issues. Unfortunately, this experience has left a negative impression of GM and we will not be making any future purchases from them.
Kevin Lind 2024-06-12
The car is good-looking and very comfortable for long rides. It has a large trunk, gets good gas mileage, and handles and rides well. However, there have been some issues with little parts breaking off, the latch on the trunk pass through breaking after only three uses, the paint on the radio buttons wearing off, the sun shade flopping like a deflated balloon, and the paint on the wheel covers flaking. Additionally, the radio reception is not great. It would be great if GM could improve the radio's AM reception, as my VW can pick up New York AM stations 45 miles from NYC that have long faded to static in the Pontiac. Overall, GM needs to focus on doing the little things well.
Terence Breitenberg 2024-03-08
The front seats could use more adjustability for greater comfort, especially for larger or taller individuals. Additionally, the placement of the light and windshield wiper controls could be improved. Personally, I prefer two-door cars, but I have enjoyed driving the Pontiac Grand Prix GTP in the past and plan to purchase a new one this September. They offer great handling and plenty of room in the front.