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: 2008
I have a 2008 Pontiac GT and it's the best car I've ever had. Before this car, I had a VW that would give me problems all the time. But with this car, I get all the information I need, from gas to tire pressure and oil levels. It's really convenient!
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Vehicle year: 2007
I find the dash lights that come on and off to be unpleasant, and the driver's seat to be somewhat uncomfortable. However, the vehicle handles the road exceptionally well, and it boasts good fuel efficiency if driven at speeds between 60-85 mph on the highway.
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Vehicle year: 2010
We purchased the car back in June '09 when it had only 5000 miles on it (as a demo). Since then, we have driven it for an additional 20,000 miles with very few issues. Ours has the 2.4 L 4 cyl and 6-speed auto trans, which gets in the low 30s on long-distance trips and mid-20s around town with a 50/50 mix of freeway and city driving. So far, we have not experienced any major issues. The most recent problem we had was with the brakes, but it seems to have been solved with new pads. The turn signal stalk came loose, but it was replaced under warranty. The only other issue we have noticed is a speck of rust on the trunk lid, which will also be repaired under warranty. The car has a muffled rattle in the headliner, but our Malibu had one too. This car was loaded up with all of the stuff you could get on a 4 cyl model. We plan on keeping it for a long time!
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Vehicle year: 2009
As a huge fan of Ford, I was pleasantly surprised to find a non-Ford vehicle that I could love just as much. From the moment I took it for a test drive, I was head over heels for this car. It performs great, handles smoothly in all situations, and has proven to be incredibly reliable. I was also thrilled to discover that it has impressive fuel economy. Overall, this car has many great perks and aspects to it.
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Vehicle year: 2010
This car is really fun to drive! The engine is powerful and it definitely has a sporty feel. While it may lack a bit of stability when taking off quickly, it's still a great ride overall. The exterior looks fantastic and really catches the eye. While the interior may not have as many options as some other cars, it still gets the job done. If you're looking for a luxury car, this may not be the best choice for you. However, if you're looking for a smooth and sporty ride, the Pontiac is definitely worth considering!
Are you having problems with your Pontiac G6?
Rafael Koepp 2025-09-11
Vehicle year: 2005
I have owned my 2005 Pontiac G6 GT for over 5 years now and while I initially loved the car, the past year has been less than ideal. Unfortunately, once the odometer passed 80,000 miles, several expensive repairs popped up, and the future doesn't look bright. After researching online, it seems that I am not alone with these problems. It's frustrating, especially considering GM's recent history from the bailout to Pontiac's untimely demise. While the car looks nice and is fairly fun to drive, its reliability seems like it will be a serious issue as the car ages. There are safer, better performing, and more reliable options available from the Germans and Japanese. However, I hope this review helps others make an informed decision when considering a Pontiac G6 GT.
Rocky King 2025-09-08
Vehicle year: 2010
The 09 G6 GT that I purchased with 28400 miles experienced a sudden breakdown today, displaying an anti-theft symbol on the dashboard and causing the speedometer to malfunction. Despite this setback, I was able to quickly contact ONSTAR for assistance and arrange for a tow truck to transport the vehicle. Although the tow truck company was unable to provide me with a ride, I was able to call a friend for a lift home. I am confident that the issue will be resolved promptly and I will be back on the road soon.
Kieran Reilly 2025-08-28
Vehicle year: 2009
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.
Dee Becker 2025-08-17
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased this car new and have primarily used it for highway driving, with about 32 miles to and from work. I have always made sure to keep up with the required maintenance and have never driven aggressively. However, I have had some issues with the brakes, speedometer, battery, lower intake gasket, front end control arms, differential seals, and transmission gears. While some of these repairs were covered by warranty, others were out of pocket expenses. Unfortunately, I had to replace the brakes again at 42,000 miles and the transmission gears blew through the case at 78,000 miles, requiring a rebuild. Despite these inconveniences, I have enjoyed owning this car and hope to continue using it for many more miles to come.
Marvin Gorczany 2025-08-04
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased a used G6 GT last March and have experienced several issues with the car. Despite these challenges, I have taken proactive steps to address each problem as it arises. I replaced the paint after it began to chip, and I also invested in a new BCM to fix the brake light issue. Additionally, I replaced the CD changer and brake pads, as well as both outer tierods and tires, which had worn out due to the tierods. Currently, I am addressing a power shift issue that causes the lights on the dash to surge to the radio and other parts of the vehicle. Despite these challenges, I remain confident in my ability to address any issues that may arise with my car.