1968 Pontiac Gto problems
The Pontiac GTO is a front-engine, rear-drive, two-door, four-passenger automobile manufactured and marketed by the Pontiac division of General Motors over four generations from 1963 until 1974 in the United States — with a fifth generation made by GM's Australian subsidiary, Holden, for the 2004 through 2006 model years.
The first generation of the GTO is credited with popularizing the muscle car market segment in the 1960s. The Pontiac GTO is considered by some to have started the trend with all four domestic automakers offering a variety of competing models.
For the 1964 and 1965 model years, the GTO was an optional package on the intermediate-sized Pontiac Lemans. The 1964 GTO vehicle identification number (VIN) started with 22, while the 1965 GTO VIN started with 237. The GTO became a separate model from 1966 through 1971 (VIN 242...). It became an optional package again for the 1972 and 1973 intermediate LeMans. For 1974, the GTO was an optional trim package on the compact-sized Ventura.
The GTO was selected as the Motor Trend Car of the Year in 1968.
The GTO model was revived from 2004 to 2006 model years as a captive import for Pontiac, a left-hand drive version of the Holden Monaro, itself a coupé variant of the Holden Commodore.
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Common 1968 Pontiac Gto problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here are common problems reported by owners of the 1968 Pontiac GTO:
- Timing Problems: Some owners have experienced timing issues with their 1968 Pontiac GTO. This can lead to rough running, backfiring, and difficulties in starting and maintaining the engine. Problems with timing can result in misfiring and backfiring, indicating a need for adjustments to the distributor or potential issues with the engine's timing.
- Engine Performance: Engine-related problems have been reported by owners, including issues with engine performance, rough running, and backfiring. These problems can be attributed to various factors such as incorrect timing, distributor misalignment, or other engine-related issues that affect the overall performance of the vehicle.
- Interior Wear and Tear: Over time, the interior of the 1968 Pontiac GTO may experience wear and tear, leading to issues with the dashboard, seats, and door trims. Owners have found solutions such as using dash covers to conceal cracks and opting for repair kits for seat and door trims to maintain the interior aesthetics of the car.
- Cooling System: Some owners have reported issues with the cooling system of the 1968 Pontiac GTO. Ensuring that the car's cooling system is functioning properly is crucial to prevent overheating and maintain the engine's optimal performance. Regular maintenance and checks on the cooling system are recommended to address any cooling-related problems that may arise.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and timely repairs to ensure the smooth operation and longevity of the 1968 Pontiac GTO.
Which year of the Pontiac GTO is the best?
If there is a Holy Grail GTO it's the 1969 Judge Convertible with the Ram Air IV. Only five were produced, making it one of the only muscle cars that can make a Hemi Cuda convertible look common. Next up in terms of collectability is the 1970 Ram Air IV Judge Convertible, with an estimated 18 produced.
Why did the Pontiac GTO fail?
GM cited the failure to reach 2007 airbag safety standards as the reason for discontinuing the imports of the GTO on February 21, 2006.
What engine came in a 1968 GTO?
A 400-cid four-barrel V-8 remained standard. The base version gained 15 bhp, to 350, while the HO and Ram Air editions climbed to 360 bhp. Midyear, Pontiac replaced the original Ram Air engine with the Ram Air II. Improvements included new cylinder heads, forged pistons, and lighter valves.
Are Pontiac GTO reliable?
GTO owners have made 22 complaints over 3 model years. It ranks 5th in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems.
Are Pontiac GTO reliable?
GTO owners have made 22 complaints over 3 model years. It ranks 5th in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems.
Which year of the Pontiac GTO is the best?
If there is a Holy Grail GTO it's the 1969 Judge Convertible with the Ram Air IV. Only five were produced, making it one of the only muscle cars that can make a Hemi Cuda convertible look common. Next up in terms of collectability is the 1970 Ram Air IV Judge Convertible, with an estimated 18 produced.
Why did Pontiac stop making the GTO?
Production stopped in mid-2009, following the GM decision to suspend the Pontiac brand.” General Motors (GM) stopped making the Pontiac GTO and Chevy SS. Why was this decision made? They sold too few to be profitable.
What engine came in a 1968 GTO?
A 400-cid four-barrel V-8 remained standard. The base version gained 15 bhp, to 350, while the HO and Ram Air editions climbed to 360 bhp. Midyear, Pontiac replaced the original Ram Air engine with the Ram Air II. Improvements included new cylinder heads, forged pistons, and lighter valves.
1968 Pontiac Gto car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Gto problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1968 Pontiac Gto vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1968 Pontiac Gto complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1968 Pontiac Gto.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-09
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: LOWER BALL JOINT BROKE WHEN BACKING OUT OF DRIVEWAY, CAUSING RIGHT FRONT END TO FALL ON THE GROUND. HAD VEHICLE REPAIRED. DEALER DOES NOT KNOW WHY IT BROKE. STORE IS HOLDING BROKEN PART, HOPING TO HAVE AN INVESTIGATOR LOOK AT IT. *AK
1968 Pontiac Gto recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1968 Pontiac Gto.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1968 Pontiac Gto problems:
68 GTO with Hideaway Problems | Pontiac GTO Forum
Nov 14, 2013 ... Gentleman, I have a 68 with Hideaway headlights. My problem is when the engine is running the headlight doors stay closed.
68 GTO Hood rub on Anco Wiper Arms - PY Online Forums ...
Unfortunately this is a common problem even with all OEM parts. Make sure the wiper arms are 100% installed on their studs. Maybe they need to be pushed ...
Starter problems | Pontiac GTO Forum
Apr 18, 2022 ... Starter problems. Jump to Latest ... 1967 M151A1 Army Jeep 1968 Pontiac GTO Convertible ... You may end up with a common Oldsmobile/Pontiac starter.
'69 GTO problems ??? - Pontiac General Discussion/Questions ...
Jun 13, 2018 ... Our community is dedicated to celebrating everything Pontiac, from the iconic GTO to the legendary Firebird and everything in between. Unlock ...
Why does my tire rub the fender on my 68 - PY Online Forums ...
Why does my tire rub the fender on my 68 68-69 GTO Tempest & LeMans TECH. ... Hopefully this is a common problem that you guys have seen. ... 1969 GTO, 455ci, 230/ ...
Other years of Pontiac Gto
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