Pontiac G6 problems
The Pontiac G6 is a mid-size car that was produced by General Motors under the Pontiac brand. It was introduced in 2004 for the 2005 model year to replace the Grand Am.
The G6 shared the GM Epsilon platform with the Chevrolet Malibu, Saab 9-3 and other General Motors vehicles. Features included a remote starting system (standard on GT, optional on base model), traction control/ABS, electronic stability control, automatic headlights as well as a panoramic sunroof option. A retractable hardtop convertible was offered for model years 2006-2009. Production ended in 2010 with the discontinuation of the Pontiac line.
With the G6, Pontiac introduced a two-digit naming convention, with the Pontiac G8 a class above the G6 and the Pontiac G5 a class below. In the case of the G6, the nameplate designated it as the sixth generation of its predecessor, the Pontiac Grand Am.
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Pontiac G6 model years
Common Pontiac G6 problems
The Pontiac G6 is a popular car model known for its sleek design and reliable performance. However, like any other vehicle, the G6 has its share of common problems that car owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most common issues with the Pontiac G6 based on complaints from owners:
- Faulty Power Steering: Some 2005 Pontiac G6 units have problems with their power steering, and this issue is also present in the 2006 and 2007 model years. Many of the affected owners encountered this problem at around 70,000 miles, but 2007 model year owners noticed this issue at around 100,000 miles. The problem is often due to a faulty power steering pump or a leak in the power steering system.
- Unresponsive Door Locks: Another common problem with the Pontiac G6 is unresponsive power locks. This issue affects various parts of the car's locking system, including the door locks and the trunk release. Owners have reported that the locks may stop working altogether or may only work intermittently.
- Unusual Noises: Some G6 owners have reported unusual noises coming from their cars, including grinding noises when turning, whining noises from the engine, and rattling noises from the dashboard. These noises can be caused by various factors, including worn-out brake pads, a damaged serpentine belt, or loose interior panels.
- Catalytic Converter Issues: Some G6 models have issues with their catalytic converters, which can cause the car to run poorly or fail emissions tests. This issue is often caused by a faulty oxygen sensor or a clogged catalytic converter.
In conclusion, while the Pontiac G6 is a reliable and popular car model, it is not without its share of common problems. Owners have reported issues with faulty lighting, faulty power steering, unresponsive door locks, unusual noises, and catalytic converter problems. If you are considering purchasing a Pontiac G6, it is essential to be aware of these common issues and to have any potential problems inspected and addressed by a qualified mechanic.
Is Pontiac G6 reliable?
Pontiac G6GT is a great reliable car
Rating breakdown (out of 5): Comfort 5.0. Interior 3.0. Performance 5.0.
Are Pontiac G6 expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a Pontiac G6 is $471. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
How many miles can a 2008 Pontiac G6 last?
How Long Will the 2008 Pontiac G6 Last? A well-maintained 2008 G6 will last around 150,000 miles, which is about 100,000 miles less than a Mazda6. Regular annual maintenance costs are high for a midsize car, according to Repair Pal, at $445 per year.
Why was the Pontiac G6 recalled?
Recall no. General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Saturn Aura and model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 vehicles, equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. On these vehicles, the tabs on the transmission shift cable end may fracture and separate.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Pontiac G6 years
We have researched Pontiac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Pontiac G6 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Pontiac G6 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Pontiac G6 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Pontiac G6 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Pontiac G6 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Pontiac G6 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Pontiac G6 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by G6 model years
A total of 240 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by G6 model years
There were a total of 79 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by G6 model years
There were a total of 150 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by G6 model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 5820 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Pontiac G6 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Pontiac G6 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- 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
- 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
- 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 G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- 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 G6 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- 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
- 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
- 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
- VIN: 1G2ZF58B374
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Electric power Steering cut out without warning while driving but came back after restarting the car.
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-03
- VIN: 1G2ZH558264
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The cars power steering keeps going in and out as I’m driving down the road. I’ve noticed similar incidents reported concerning this issue and I am unsure why my vehicle is not included in the recalls.
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 1G2ZH158264
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Brake lights are illuminating when accelerating (when brake pedal is NOT depressed) and are NOT illuminating when actually braking (when brake pedal IS depressed). I found GM recalls for this, but they are not attributed to my car, hence the recall that took place for this was not wide enough / did not cover all vehicles affected. (Recall 80317) (A poor electrical connection at the brake light switch could result in various electrical issues, one of which would be the brake lights failing to work, increasing the risk of a crash. GM IS RECALLING 8,012 MY 2005-2006 PONTIAC G6 VEHICLES. THE BRAKE LAMPS MAY NOT OPERATE PROPERLY BECAUSE OF CORROSION IN A WIRING CONNECTOR. CORROSION IN THE CONNECTOR COULD CAUSE THE BRAKE LAMPS TO ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL HAS NOT BEEN DEPRESSED, OR THE LAMPS MAY NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. IN ADDITION, THE CRUISE CONTROL MAY NOT ENGAGE, AND GREATER BRAKE PEDAL FORCE MAY BE REQUIRED TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE OUT OF PARK.)
Pontiac G6 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-14
- VIN: 1G2ZG558764
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Nothing happened but I would like to get this fixed because of the open recalls
Pontiac G6 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-05
- VIN: 1G2ZM577784
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: About 6 months ago I believe I file a complaint about this same issue and here I am again. A few nights ago driving home from the movies with my kids out of nowhere my headlights go out so I had to use my fog lights to make it home. I can't understand how isn't this a safety issue and why hasn't anyone done anything about it or why isn't there a recall. What is the wait? Are we waiting for a tragedy to occur to then do something?? This is like the 3 or 4th time that it has happened. Where is the urgency on this matter?? Or will I have to make a petition with other G6 owners that also have had this issue?? Some feedback would be nice on what to do or do I have to continue to spend $$$ with 0 results. Would appreciate some response and some results.
Pontiac G6 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-02
- VIN: 1G2ZG57B194
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The power steering warning flashed on the radio and immediately the car was not controllable the car was stopped and restared and clicks now when turning the wheel but hasnt been driven becauseofthe steering and there are multiple recalls for this but this specific vin number is not included but has the eps that is referred to because it has a 2.4 l engine which only comes with eps
Pontiac G6 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-26
- VIN: 1G2ZF57B084
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The dashboard showed an error message regarding the power steering. I took it to my mechanic and they put it on the computer to scan. It came back with 2 error codes. The first one was DTC C0569 46. The second one was DTC C0460 00/4B. I was told the dealership would have to address the issue. They told me these codes were not covered by the recalled part they replaced. The car has approximately 81,500 miles. There doesn't appear to be a leak. At this time the steering is working. There is no stiffness or squealing. This first popped up on the screen about a month ago. I've been concerned about driving it until I know more.
Pontiac G6 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-08
- VIN: 1G2ZM577894
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: Timing Chain making noise...voltage fluctuations throughout all the car...cruise control will shut off if I got to use wipers or blinkers or even turn on the air system and lights will dim if you use power windows or have the radio up loud.
Latest 5 recalls Pontiac G6
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 31 recalls for different components of the Pontiac G6.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Pontiac G6 2006
- Report Received Date: 2015-02-04
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured April 1, 2006, to June 30, 2006, and 2006-2007 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured April 18, 2006, to June 30, 2006. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.
- Consequence: If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly, free of charge. The recall began February 24, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14772. Note: This is an expansion of recall 14V-153 to cover additional vehicles built between April 1, 2006 and June 30, 2006.
- Model: Pontiac G6 2007
- Report Received Date: 2015-02-04
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured April 1, 2006, to June 30, 2006, and 2006-2007 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured April 18, 2006, to June 30, 2006. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.
- Consequence: If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly, free of charge. The recall began February 24, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14772. Note: This is an expansion of recall 14V-153 to cover additional vehicles built between April 1, 2006 and June 30, 2006.
- Model: Pontiac G6 2010
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-21
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.
- Consequence: A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.
- Model: Pontiac G6 2008
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-21
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.
- Consequence: A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.
- Model: Pontiac G6 2009
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-21
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.
- Consequence: A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.
Latest negative Pontiac G6 car reviews
Latest positive Pontiac G6 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
We're so glad to hear that you bought this car for your daughter! It's great to know that it has excellent safety and reliability ratings, and that she loves the look and comfort of both the front and back seats. Additionally, it's received the highest reliability ratings from consumer reports and Five Stars from the gov't crash test ratings.
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Vehicle year: 2005
I did a lot of research before purchasing this car. I actually gave up a Cadillac DHS for it and I'm glad I did. This car looks great and is pure fun to drive. The stereo is even better than what I had in the Cadillac, but my favorite feature is the panoramic sunroof. It moves quickly and easily. The acceleration is great and the trunk room is unbelievable. I just took my first trip in my new G6 and got an impressive 30.2 MPG. The stereo is loud and crisp and beats the Bose I had. It's clear that a lot of thought went into designing this car. This car is all about fun, fun, fun!
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Vehicle year: 2008
This car has a low gas mileage and average head room, so it may not be the best choice for taller individuals. However, it looks great with the top up or down and I always receive compliments and head turns because it is a rare find. The sound system is fantastic and it is a fun car to drive. While getting in and out of the backseat can be difficult, this car is not meant for families or frequent group trips. With the top up, grocery shopping is easy, and surprisingly, the trunk space is quite good. Overall, this is a great convertible, and the hard top is perfect for those of us with cats. The only downside is that the trunk is heavy due to the roof lift mechanism, and it may eventually wear out and not stay up when lifted. A friend with the same car mentioned that it can be expensive to fix, but it's a small price to pay for such a great car.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I have the base G6 Value Leader and bought it for $6,000 with 150,000 miles on it. I’ve had to replace a few parts, but they were all very cheap and easy to fix on my own. The car has been very reliable, and I haven't had any issues with oil consumption for over 150,000 miles. It drives very well and has held up nicely despite spending all its time in the midwest. I've driven many newer cars, but this G6 is still my favorite. It handles and corners very well, and has excellent acceleration. I was able to get 0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds for a 4 cylinder, which is very impressive for a 16 year old car with a 2.4 liter engine. I absolutely love this car! It's fun to drive, practical, reliable, and affordable, all from an iconic American brand.
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Vehicle year: 2009
My wife and I really enjoy driving this car. It's comfortable, has great power, and looks fantastic. We've been completely satisfied with it. Plus, compared to an import, it was much less expensive. We believe that American cars often get a bad reputation from reviewers.
Are you having problems with your Pontiac G6?
Andy Hoeger 2024-11-08
Vehicle year: 2008
In my experience, I found that the convertible aspect of the car was not enough to make up for its other issues. While I did enjoy driving with the top down, the car had a tendency to pull to the right and the hardtop rattled when closed. Additionally, the brakes did not seem to be very effective and driving in the snow was a scary experience. However, this is just my personal opinion and others may have had a different experience. Ultimately, I decided to switch to an Eclipse and now feel much safer on the road. While the car is certainly cute, it was not worth the daily stress for me.
Ethel Ferry 2024-11-07
Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased this car with 19,000 miles and have since experienced several issues, including the need to replace mirror covers multiple times, uncontrollable shaking while braking, a clicking sound when turning, and a burning smell and metal rubbing sound with acceleration at 61,000 miles. These issues are concerning, and I would not recommend this car to others.
Rhiannon Conroy 2024-10-20
Vehicle year: 2007
I see that you own a few GM products, that's great! It sounds like you really enjoy driving with the top down, and I can definitely understand why. Currently, you have three convertibles and a T-Top in your stable, that's quite the collection! I can see why the G6 caught your eye, with its hardtop convertible aspect and sleek exterior. It's fantastic that you've been able to drive it every day without worrying about the weather, thanks to the hardtop. With your prior experience owning muscle cars, I'm excited to hear your thoughts on the G6. Let's start with your favorite features!
Frankie Wiza 2024-10-02
Vehicle year: 2006
The Pontiac G6 convertible may not have been the most reliable car, but the engine and transmission have been trouble-free. Unfortunately, the car experienced several quality issues, including rattling roof, loose trim, poor paint quality, and muffler leaks. During the first year of ownership, the car spent at least six weeks in the dealer for repairs. Despite complaints to customer service, no one seemed to care. It is not surprising that the lack of quality and customer service contributed to the downfall of the Pontiac brand. Fortunately, there are many other options available outside of GM.
Dillon Williamson 2024-09-17
Vehicle year: 2007
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share an experience I had with my car recently. I noticed that my car can be taken out of gear without the keys in the ignition or by pressing the brake pedal. Unfortunately, my car was knocked out of gear 2 days ago and rolled into the street. I contacted GM and they informed me that this is a normal occurrence. I then took my car to a local GM dealership and they were surprised to hear this. Despite this, GM still maintains that it is normal and that the Shift Lock Control System, which is a safety feature, is only active when the key is in the ignition. It's concerning that this safety feature doesn't work when the keys are not in the ignition. I understand that this may be a new development, but GM is telling me that there is nothing they can do. I just wanted to share this experience with you so that you can be aware that your car may come out of gear if bumped. Thank you for your time and attention.