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: 2010
I wasn't planning on getting a G6 but when we test drove one at the dealership I fell in love with it. It rides so amazingly, it has every feature I would want and more. The inside is so roomy and it is very sleek looking. It looks great on the outside too. It's a shame that Pontiac was discontinued, because this is seriously the best car I have ever owned. I don't even mind that it only gets about 21 mpg, because I just love it so much!
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Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share our experience with our Pontiac G6 convertible. We bought it back in January 2008 and have been eagerly waiting for the warm weather to arrive. During that time, we discovered that the remote starter on our G6 works great from inside my office, while my co-worker's BMW remote starter wouldn't work from the same distance. The car is an absolute joy to drive, whether the top is up or down. In fact, many of our co-workers thought it was a sporty coupe until the top folded into the trunk! We're also really pleased with the gas mileage we've been getting. Although we haven't taken any long trips yet, we're averaging close to 20 MPG around town. Admittedly, the trunk is basically useless with the top folded down, but we knew that when we purchased it. Overall, we're very happy with our Pontiac G6 convertible. Enjoy!
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Vehicle year: 2010
My wife was looking for a convertible to replace her Infiniti G35 coupe. She specifically wanted a hard top which limited our options. While the G6 is not exactly like the G35, it is a more affordable option, costing about 30-35% less. However, the G6 is still a great car that can get you from point A to point B with plenty of pick-up and go. Living in the Midwest, it's important to have a car that can handle snow, and the G6 does an excellent job with its stock tires. It's a sporty, functional, and fun car to drive - I can't wait for summer! We haven't had any problems with it so far.
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Vehicle year: 2009
We needed a winter car as our Mercedes is rear wheel drive. Normally we drive luxury or sporty cars or SUVs. We chose the G6 because we prefer front-wheel drive cars on ice or slick roads. We have two SUVs for deeper snow. For the price, this is a great car. It's comfortable, performs reasonably well, has great fuel economy, and looks decently mature. The seats are comfortable, and I appreciate the Onstar, iPod hookup, traction control, and ride. It's quieter and rides nicer than I expected.
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Vehicle year: 2010
The car is highly customizable, even if it doesn't come with everything you need. I personally replaced the stereo with a Pioneer for Bluetooth and swapped out the oxidized headlights for new ones. I also upgraded the climate control to a newer model (09-10) with ease. This car offers endless possibilities for customization that are not available in other cars or are much more difficult to achieve. I purchased the car for $5.5k back in late Nov of '14 with 81k miles on it and sold it to the insurance company in the summer of '17 for $6k after a hail storm. Throughout my time with it, I had no major issues with the car other than the air conditioning, which didn't work when I bought it but didn't realize until the summer. I went without it until the beginning of the summer that I sold it. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking in this price range.
Are you having problems with your Pontiac G6?
Quinn Douglas 2025-03-26
Vehicle year: 2009
I have owned this car for a year now and I am looking forward to upgrading soon. Although I bought it used with 40k in June 2010, I have had some issues with it. For instance, I noticed that the carpet in the back was wet a week after purchase. I initially thought it was a seal in the door, but it turned out to be something else. I have been experiencing some problems with the driver headlight, which doesn't work properly. I have had the bulb replaced and wiring tightened, but it still comes on and off at random. Additionally, the brake lights stay on all the time, except when I'm using my brakes. I had the brake light switch replaced, but it still doesn't work properly. Lastly, the silver/chrome interior is peeling and looks unsightly. I had a 1999 grand prix that I loved, and although this car has been a bit of a disappointment, I am hopeful that my next car will be better.
Uriel Schaefer 2025-03-05
Vehicle year: 2005
After driving GM vehicles for 36 years, I am disappointed with my G6 GT. Although the styling and gas mileage are great, the build quality is not up to par. At only 59000 miles, I have experienced moisture inside the headlights, a broken driver's seat, deteriorating leather, a broken hood release handle, and damage to the left front fender caused by a bicycle. Unfortunately, this car seems to be cheaply built. As a loyal G6 owner, I believe that Pontiac should offer us an additional credit towards our next car. I have never seen such poor workmanship on a GM product.
Raven Zemlak 2025-02-26
Vehicle year: 2007
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I think you made a great choice by buying a used car. Your car sounds perfect for commuting, especially with all that LA traffic. Plus, it's great to hear that you're getting good gas mileage. It's always a plus when you can save some money on gas! I'm glad to hear that you've had a positive experience with your car so far. It's always nice when you don't have any complaints about quality or drivability. And I totally agree with your wife - your car definitely stands out on the road. It's always nice to have a car that looks unique. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your car - it sounds like a great choice overall!
Urban Boyle 2025-02-18
Vehicle year: 2010
The interior of the G6 lacks quality materials, such as the thin leather that feels fragile to the touch. The sports package is also disappointing, with only half electric seats and a difficult handle to adjust the seats. However, the car still has its merits, such as the classic exterior look, great engine, and good value for the money. As a proud American, I chose to support GM and its unique style.
Quincy Will 2025-02-16
Vehicle year: 2005
When I first saw this car, I was really excited to have it. It was sporty, roomy, and affordable. However, I have had to bring it in for repairs several times, including a ball joint and power steering column replacement, random light bulb replacements, keyless entry failure, belt replacement, and shock replacement. It's frustrating that these issues have come up, especially since the car isn't even that old. I also purchased the model with the panoramic sunroof, but unfortunately, it's quite noisy. Despite these issues, I'm grateful that I bought an extended warranty.