1989 Pontiac Lemans problems

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The Pontiac LeMans /ləˈmɑːnz/ is a model name applied to automobiles marketed by Pontiac. The name came from the French city of Le Mans, the site of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world's oldest active sports car endurance race that began in 1923. Originally a trim upgrade package based on the Tempest, the LeMans became a separate model in 1963.

In its first five generations spanning from 1961 until 1981 (1983 in Canada), the LeMans was a domestic RWD car; the first generation was a compact, with Gens 2-5 intermediates. From 1988 through 1993 the LeMans name was resurrected for a sixth generation, a FWD subcompact badge-engineered version of the Daewoo LeMans manufactured by Daewoo in South Korea.

Pontiac produced some notable GT/performance versions in the RWD models. The 1st generation not only featured a front-engine/rear-transaxle that very nearly resulted in an ideal 50/50 weight distribution, but also included four-wheel independent suspension for nimble handling, and could be ordered with an optional Buick 215 aluminum V8 engine. The Pontiac GTO is credited with popularizing the muscle car market segment of the 1960s, and by many as the very first muscle car. The 1970 model year introduced the LeMans GT-37 package. The 1973-75 Grand Am and 1977 Can Am combined luxury with performance features to emulate European coupes, focusing on balancing handling with power.

1989 Pontiac Lemans

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Common 1989 Pontiac Lemans problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 1989 Pontiac LeMans, several common problems have been reported:

  1. Headlight Switch Issues:
    Owners have experienced problems with the headlight switch, which can lead to difficulties in controlling the headlights. This issue can affect visibility during night driving and compromise the safety of the vehicle.
  2. Rotors Wear and Tear:
    Another common problem reported is the need to have the rotors turned. Rotors are essential components of the braking system, and when they wear out, it can result in decreased braking performance, leading to safety concerns.
  3. Air Intake Clogs:
    Owners have complained about the air intake system clogging regularly with unknown debris. A clogged air intake can impact engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions, potentially leading to engine stalling or rough idling.
  4. Muffler Detachment:
    The muffler being ready to fall off is another issue highlighted by owners. A loose or detached muffler can cause excessive noise, reduce the efficiency of the exhaust system, and potentially lead to harmful fumes entering the cabin.

These reported problems with the 1989 Pontiac LeMans indicate various issues that owners have faced, ranging from safety concerns related to lighting and braking systems to performance and maintenance issues affecting engine operation and exhaust efficiency. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to address these common problems and ensure the continued reliability and safety of the vehicle.

1989 Pontiac Lemans engine

Is a Pontiac LeMans a muscle car?

The Pontiac GTO is credited with popularizing the muscle car market segment of the 1960s, and by many as the very first muscle car. The 1970 model year introduced the LeMans GT-37 package.

What motor did the Pontiac LeMans have?

Tunnel back rooflines were added to match the other Pontiac intermediate body styles. The LeMans base engine was given a new 230 cu in I6 with a one-barrel carburetor that made 165 hp. An optional “Sprint” package was available for the station wagon with an Inline-6 a four-barrel carburetor and made 207 hp.

Is LeMans a GTO?

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...).

When did Pontiac stop making the LeMans?

1988–1993. The Pontiac LeMans was the subcompact car Daewoo LeMans manufactured by Daewoo Motors in South Korea between 1986 and 1994, although LeMans sales ended in 1993. It was only available as a two-door coupe and as a four-door sedan. The LeMans took its underpinnings from a European Opel design.

Is a Pontiac LeMans a muscle car?

The Pontiac GTO is credited with popularizing the muscle car market segment of the 1960s, and by many as the very first muscle car. The 1970 model year introduced the LeMans GT-37 package.

What was the first year of the Pontiac LeMans?

1961

As for history, the very first ever Lemans options appeared on the 1961 to 1963 compact Tempest, and these early models rode on a three-inch shorter wheelbase of 112 inches. Power was either a 4-cylinder or a 215-inch aluminum V8 for power.

What engine did a 1965 Pontiac LeMans have?

The standard 215-cu.in. inline six-cylinder produced 140 horsepower but stepping up to a V-8 delivered a 326-cu.in. regular-fuel-friendly 9.2:1 compression ratio, two-barrel engine with 250 hp—a 110-hp increase over the six.

Do Le Mans cars have AC?

Since 2007, a forced cooling or air conditioning system has been required in any car competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans that keeps the cabin "89.6 degrees maximum when the ambient temperature is less than or equal to 77 degrees" and "a temperature less than or equal to ambient temperature above 44.6 degrees if it is ...

1989 Pontiac Lemans car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Lemans problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Seat belts problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Pontiac Lemans vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Pontiac Lemans complaints

The NHTSA has received 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Pontiac Lemans.

1999-09-20

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-09-16
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CONSUMER PARKED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT BUMPER WAS MELTED DOWN BY THE TURN SIGNAL, AND VEHICLE WAS NOT RUNNING AT THE TIME. AK
1999-04-14

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KL2TN5165KB
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: VERY DISAPPOINTED IN CAR. NO OTHER SUMMARY GIVEN. *MJS
1998-08-07

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1991-01-01
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: AIR CONDITIONER HOSES FAILED.
1997-09-30

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-08-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KL2TN5160KB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: WHILE GOING THROUGH A GREEN LIGHT VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION . THE FRONT OCCUPANTS WENT THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD BECAUSE THE RESTRAINTS DID NOT RETRACT, INJURING THE FRONT OCCUPANTS. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER HAVE BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
1997-04-19

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-04-19
  • VIN: KLQTN5165KB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELTS FAILED AFTER RECALL REPAIRS.
1997-02-18

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: THE PASSENGER'S SIDE FRONT WHEEL HUB WEARS DOWN AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, PE 91-101 .
1996-03-07

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-01-10
  • VIN: KL2TS21K7KB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT RETACTOR; FAILURE ON THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT RETACTOR, SEAT BELT IS TOO SHORT TO BE PLACED IN THE BUCKLE. *AK
1996-03-07

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-01-10
  • VIN: KL2TS21K7KB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT RETACTOR; FAILURE ON THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT RETACTOR, SEAT BELT IS TOO SHORT TO BE PLACED IN THE BUCKLE. *AK
1995-11-17

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-11-01
  • VIN: KL2TX2168KB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: SEATS BELTS ON THE FRONT DO NOT LOCK ,AND BRAKES ON FRONT DO NOT WORK WELL AND THEY HAVE BEEN REPLACED THREE TIMES. TT
1995-11-17

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-11-01
  • VIN: KL2TX2168KB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEATS BELTS ON THE FRONT DO NOT LOCK ,AND BRAKES ON FRONT DO NOT WORK WELL AND THEY HAVE BEEN REPLACED THREE TIMES. TT
1995-09-08

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-09-08
  • VIN: KL2TS21K3KB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE, SEAT BELT WILL NOT LATCH PROPERLY. TT
1995-08-30

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-08-12
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE DRIVERS SEATBELT HAS BROKEN. THE RED TAB IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BUCKLE CAME OUT AND NOW IT DOES NOT LATCH. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
1995-06-27

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-05
  • VIN: KL2TN5160KB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: STEERING WHEEL COLUMN FAILED, LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL. TT
1995-03-31

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1990-03-30
  • VIN: KL2TN5167KB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: PREMATURE WEAR OF BRAKES. *TW
1995-03-28

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1989-03-29
  • VIN: KL2TX2166KB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: HEARD RUBBING NOISE, LEFT FRONT BRAKES SEIZED; WEARS OUT PREMATURELY; ALSO, ENGINE STALLS WHILE DRIVING. DETAILED INFO WILL BE PROVIDED. TT
1995-03-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1989-03-29
  • VIN: KL2TX2166KB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: HEARD RUBBING NOISE, LEFT FRONT BRAKES SEIZED; WEARS OUT PREMATURELY; ALSO, ENGINE STALLS WHILE DRIVING. DETAILED INFO WILL BE PROVIDED. TT
1995-03-13

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-08-01
  • VIN: 1G2WP14W1KF
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CORRODED REAR DISC BRAKES. TT
1995-02-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1993-09-01
  • VIN: KL2TS21K6KB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILED/REPLACED TWICE, CAUSES VEHICLE TO PERFORM SLUGGISHLY UPON ACCELERATION. *AW

1989 Pontiac Lemans recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1989 Pontiac Lemans.

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).
1993-09-21
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES MAY NOT LATCH OR MAY NOT RELEASE DUE TO THE FRACTURE OF THE RED RELEASE PUSH BUTTON.
  • Consequence: THE BUCKLE MALFUNCTION WOULD PREVENT THE USE OF THESAFETY BELT SYSTEM, PLACING THE FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT IN INCREASED RISK OF INJURYIN THE EVENT OF A SUDDEN STOP OR ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: REPLACE OR REPAIR THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLES.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Pontiac Lemans problems:

eB: 1989 Pontiac LeMans LE | Page 2 | VW Vortex - Volkswagen ...
eB: 1989 Pontiac LeMans LE | Page 2 | VW Vortex - Volkswagen ...
https://www.vwvortex.com/threads/eb-1989-pontiac-lemans-le.7246141/post-88313683

Sep 16, 2015 ... I often see them with the heads pulled off, and a bunch of mangled valves. The other common problem with the Forenzas is actually not so hard to ...

Pontiacs always Overheat - PY Online Forums - Bringing the Pontiac ...
Pontiacs always Overheat - PY Online Forums - Bringing the Pontiac ...
https://forums.maxperformanceinc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=795446

Neither of mine EVER ran hot, even after sitting in Cincy work traffic on I-75 back during the major expansion in 1989/1990. ... Overheating problems are epidemic ...

Misfire problem need help | Pontiac G8 Forum
Misfire problem need help | Pontiac G8 Forum
https://www.g8board.com/threads/misfire-problem-need-help.287551/

Oct 27, 2021 ... ... engine failure does anybody know what the problem might be or what other people in here that have misfires what could be the common problems ...

79 Corvette Door Lock Mechanism Very Stiff - CorvetteForum ...
79 Corvette Door Lock Mechanism Very Stiff - CorvetteForum ...
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c3-tech-performance/2269254-79-corvette-door-lock-mechanism-very-stiff.html

Mar 7, 2009 ... Is this a common problem? ... 1977 to 1981 Pontiac Grand Lemans ( All Four Doors ) ... 1987 to 1989 Pontiac Safari ( All Four Doors, Tailgate Door )

Considering purchasing a Firebird? Heres some advice. : r/Pontiac
Considering purchasing a Firebird? Heres some advice. : r/Pontiac
https://www.reddit.com/r/Pontiac/comments/2fsd93/considering_purchasing_a_firebird_heres_some/

Sep 8, 2014 ... This is aimed at only the 3rd and 4th Generations as these two generations are the most common. Firstly, remember that these are 2 door cars ...

Other years of Pontiac Lemans

pontiac lemans 1990 photo
Lemans 1990
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pontiac lemans 1991 photo
Lemans 1991
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pontiac lemans 1992 photo
Lemans 1992
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pontiac lemans 1993 photo
Lemans 1993
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pontiac lemans 1977 photo
Lemans 1977
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pontiac lemans 1988 photo
Lemans 1988
Pontiac

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1989 Pontiac Lemans photo