Pontiac J2000 problems
The Pontiac Sunbird (also known as the Pontiac J2000 and Pontiac 2000) is a model line that was manufactured and marketed by Pontiac from the 1976 to the 1994 model years. Loosely deriving its name from the Pontiac Firebird, the Sunbird was introduced as the eventual replacement for the Pontiac Astre, replacing it entirely in 1978 as the smallest Pontiac (the later T1000 was slotted below it in size).
The first generation of the Sunbird used the subcompact GM H platform. Serving as the Pontiac counterpart of the Chevrolet Monza, the Sunbird was offered as a two-door notchback coupé and three-door hatchback and station wagon. The model was manufactured alongside the Monza, Buick Skyhawk, and Oldsmobile Starfire at Lordstown Assembly (Lordstown, Ohio), South Gate Assembly (South Gate, California) and Sainte-Thérèse Assembly (Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec), Canada.
The second generation of the Sunbird used the compact GM J platform. Serving as the Pontiac counterpart of the Chevrolet Cavalier, the Sunbird was marketed at various times as a two-door notchback coupé or convertible, three-door hatchback, four-door sedan, and five-door station wagon. The model line was manufactured alongside the Cavalier at Lordstown Assembly (Lordstown, Ohio), Ramos Arizpe Assembly (Ramos Arizpe, Mexico), and alongside the Buick Skyhawk and Oldsmobile Firenza at Leeds Assembly (Kansas City, Missouri) in 1982 only.
While not as long-running as the Bonneville, Grand Prix, and Firebird nameplates, Pontiac would use the Sunbird nameplate for 17 model years. After the Sunbird skipped the 1981 model year entirely, it was released as an early 1982 and renamed the J2000; the Sunbird name was returned for 1984. For 1995, the Sunbird underwent a substantial model update and was renamed the Pontiac Sunfire.
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Pontiac J2000 model years
Common Pontiac J2000 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Pontiac J2000, several common problems have been identified:
- Transmission Problems: Complaints mentioned transmission issues with the Pontiac J2000, particularly in the Sunbird variant, which could lead to premature failures and costly repairs. Transmission problems can manifest as slipping gears, rough shifting, or complete transmission failure.
- Reliability Concerns: Despite being considered a reliable car by some owners, there were reports of the J2000 having reliability issues, especially in comparison to other vehicles like the AMC Spirit, Ford Escort, and AMC Alliance. These concerns could include various mechanical failures, electrical issues, or premature wear and tear.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Owners highlighted comfort issues with the J2000, particularly in comparison to other vehicles like the Citation and AMC Spirit. Complaints included uncomfortable seating positions, lack of thigh support, and overall discomfort during long drives.
- Name Confusion: The Pontiac J2000 underwent several name changes over the years, causing confusion among consumers and potentially affecting brand perception. The constant rebranding from J2000 to 2000, Sunbird, and Sunfire could have led to marketing challenges and customer dissatisfaction.
- Performance Concerns: Some owners expressed disappointment with the performance of the J2000, especially in terms of acceleration and handling, highlighting a lackluster driving experience compared to other vehicles in its class. Performance issues could be attributed to engine power, transmission capabilities, or overall vehicle dynamics.
Addressing these common problems with the Pontiac J2000 is crucial for owners and potential buyers to make informed decisions regarding maintenance, repairs, and overall satisfaction with the vehicle.
What year did the Pontiac J2000 come out?
After the Sunbird skipped the 1981 model year entirely, it was released as an early 1982 and renamed the J2000; the Sunbird name was returned for 1984.
Why did Pontiac and Oldsmobile fail?
Similar to Plymouth and Pontiac, Oldsmobile suffered from a lack of brand identity and differentiation (as you might see, there is an area-curing mistake in every example so far). As consumer preferences shifted, Oldsmobile failed to adapt and lost its appeal to younger generations.
Where is Rick Dobbertin J2000 now?
UPDATE 17 September 2023: After 19 years of searching for and attempting to purchase the Pontiac, Matt and Deb Hay are the new owners of Rick Dobbertin's J2000. The couple plan to go through the driveline and then bring the car back onto the show scene, with Rick making selected appearances with the car.
What year did Pontiac go away?
2010
Facing financial problems and restructuring efforts, GM announced during the 2008 financial crash that it would discontinue the Pontiac brand by the end of 2010. The last Pontiac-badged cars were built in December 2009; the final Pontiac was a white G6 that was assembled in January 2010.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Pontiac J2000 years
We have researched Pontiac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Pontiac J2000 cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Pontiac J2000 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Pontiac J2000 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Pontiac J2000 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Pontiac J2000 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Pontiac J2000 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Seat belts problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Pontiac J2000 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by J2000 model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Pontiac J2000 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Pontiac J2000 vehicles.
List of Pontiac J2000 complaints
Pontiac J2000 1984
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-19
- Date Complaint: 1997-04-22
- Number Of Injuries: 5
- VIN: 1G2AB6904E7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS FAILED DURING COLLISION, CAUSING INJURIES.
Pontiac J2000 1984
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-19
- Date Complaint: 1997-04-22
- Number Of Injuries: 5
- VIN: 1G2AB6904E7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SPARE TIRE AND OTHER OBJECTS KEPT INSIDE THE TRUNK PROTRUDED THROUGH REAR PASSENGER SEAT DURING COLLISION DUE TO POOR DESIGN OF TRUNK, CAUSING INJURIES.
Recalls Pontiac J2000
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Pontiac J2000.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Pontiac J2000 1984
- Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
Are you having problems with your Pontiac J2000?
