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: 2005
Only had to have basic maintenance done as expected and a wheel bearing replaced. This car has been really reliable and I'm getting 28mpg at 236K miles.
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Vehicle year: 2006
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my G6. I've had it for 4 years now and overall it's been great! I have noticed some minor issues like the paint chipping on the radio and the CDs getting stuck, but nothing major. Unfortunately, during the hottest week of the year, the A/C compressor went out which was a bit of a surprise. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that nothing else goes wrong. I have noticed some strange behavior with my brakes at times, especially when I'm going around 50 mph. I did some research and found that there have been some issues with the brakes on 2006 G6's. Have you experienced anything similar? Let me know! Take care.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I test drove all 4 of the reasonably-priced hard-top convertibles. While the Mazda was too small and the Chrysler was not good, the Eos is worth a look. However, to get one with all the great features that the G6 has would require spending about 3K more. During the test drive, I loved the G6, but some of the negative comments I read in professional reviews were discouraging. However, after buying the car, I realized that those comments were unnecessarily over-critical. Comments on the lack of trunk space when the top is down are silly. It's a 'hard-top'. Where else does one expect the roof to go? Many people have commented on the 'poor quality of interior material', but I don't get it. The interior is just fine. I highly recommend this car.
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Vehicle year: 2007
This car is amazing! It has plenty of room, is super fast, has great handling, and the sound is fantastic. We bought it as a birthday present for my wife, and we couldn't be happier with our choice. We've only taken it out on sunny days so far, but when we do, it really goes! It's equipped with the 3.9 engine, performance exhaust, and body kit, which gives it an impressive 250 horsepower. Plus, the tan seats on the black body make it truly one-of-a-kind. It looks absolutely stunning with the top down!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I've had Pontiacs in the past, but my new G6 is on a whole other level! I absolutely love the way it drives and handles. While I do wish it had navigation, the interior looks are simply amazing. As I start a new family, I couldn't have made a better decision when buying a new car.
Are you having problems with your Pontiac G6?
Carson Hill 2025-05-21
Vehicle year: 2009
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with you regarding a recall letter I received for the transmission of my car back in December 2012. I took my car to the dealership to have the recalled part repaired in March of 2012. Unfortunately, two days after the repair, I started experiencing problems with my steering and my power steering went out a week later. After doing some research online, I found out that this is a common issue for this model. I decided to call Pontiac and they opened a case for this issue. They advised me to take my car to my local dealer and if they confirmed that it was not due to wear and tear or lack of maintenance, then they would assist with reimbursement. I took my car to the dealer and they advised me that the torque sensor was bad. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
Nick Armstrong 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! It's great to hear that you've been enjoying your 3.5L G6 V6 for the past two years! It sounds like you've had a pretty good experience overall, with the exception of some trouble with the Bosch Platinum 4-post spark plugs. Thanks for the heads up on that! It's impressive that you've been able to get up to 31 mpg on a trip from Tx to WI with your family. That's quite the accomplishment! Although you did have a couple of issues with the intermediate steering shaft and rear passenger side door lock, it's great to hear that you haven't had any other problems with the car. And wow, 0-60mph in 6.2sec is pretty quick! Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Gunner Wisoky 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2005
I recently purchased a GM vehicle and unfortunately, I have had a negative experience with it. Despite being diligent with maintenance and driving responsibly, I have encountered several issues with the car. It seems that every 5000 miles, something breaks and I have already had to replace the engine three times. As a result, I have spent a significant amount of money on repairs and maintenance. I have decided that my next car will be a Honda, as I have heard positive things about their reliability. Thank you for listening to my experience.
Frederick Kovacek 2025-05-16
Vehicle year: 2006
I am confident in my assessment that the car is experiencing significant mechanical issues. The front brakes and rotors have already been replaced twice in less than two years of ownership, and the car consistently leaks. Additionally, there are concerning noises when turning the left wheel and shifting into reverse. These issues require immediate attention from a qualified mechanic.
Reyes Hyatt 2025-05-05
Vehicle year: 2006
I've been the proud owner of my 2006 G6 sedan for two years now. It has been a reliable and comfortable companion on my daily commute to and from work. However, one issue that I have encountered with these cars is the passenger side headlight. Unfortunately, GM used a subpar harness which plugs the headlight assembly into the main harness, causing it to overheat and melt. If you haven't experienced this issue yet, it's only a matter of time. The best solution is to bypass the plug wiring and use your own spade connectors. I also had to wire my own headlight ground. It would have been great if there was a recall for this issue. Occasionally, I get a check engine light accompanied by hard shifts, but it clears up on its own. Additionally, the driver's door seal leaks water. Apart from these minor issues, the car has been very reliable and only required regular maintenance such as brakes and normal wear items.