1990 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.

1990 Pontiac Lemans

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Common 1990 Pontiac Lemans problems

The 1990 Pontiac LeMans, a compact car produced by General Motors, is known to have several common problems that have been reported by its owners. These issues span across electrical problems, build quality concerns, and mechanical faults.

Electrical problems are one of the most frequently reported issues with the 1990 Pontiac LeMans. These problems can range from minor inconveniences, such as malfunctioning interior lights, to more serious concerns, such as the engine control module (ECM) failing. The ECM, which is responsible for controlling various engine functions, can sometimes fail due to factory defects or wear and tear. In some cases, the ECM may need to be replaced, which can be a costly repair.

Build quality issues are another area of concern for the 1990 Pontiac LeMans. Many owners have reported problems with the car's finishings, such as dents and scratches that can occur easily. Additionally, the car's rubber hoses and gaskets are known to be of poor quality, which can lead to leaks and other mechanical problems. These issues can be particularly problematic in areas with harsh weather conditions, as the rubber components may degrade more quickly in extreme temperatures.

Mechanical faults are also common in the 1990 Pontiac LeMans. One of the most frequently reported problems is the engine shutting down without warning. This can occur while driving and may be caused by a variety of issues, such as a faulty fuel pump or a malfunctioning ignition system. In some cases, the engine may start up again after a short period of time, but in other cases, the car may need to be towed to a repair shop for further diagnosis.

Another common mechanical issue with the 1990 Pontiac LeMans is the car leaking oil. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as failing oil system components or leaking engine gaskets. In some cases, the leak may be minor and may not affect the car's performance. However, in other cases, the leak may be more severe and may require extensive repairs. If left untreated, an oil leak can lead to serious engine damage, so it's important to address this issue as soon as possible.

In summary, the 1990 Pontiac LeMans is known to have several common problems, including electrical issues, build quality concerns, and mechanical faults. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to more serious concerns that may require extensive repairs. If you own a 1990 Pontiac LeMans, it's important to be aware of these common problems and to address any issues as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems down the road.

1990 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 a Le Mans a GTO?

The GTO started out in 1964 as an option package for the Pontiac LeMans before becoming a separate model, and was built by GM until 1974. The name was briefly revived from 2004 to 2006, but for a rebadged car from Holden, GM's Australian subsidiary.

What year did they stop making Pontiac LeMans?

Pontiac LeMans (1962 to 1981)

The Pontiac LeMans was a model name that was applied to subcompact- and intermediate-sized automobiles marketed by Pontiac from 1962 to 1981. Manufactured in five generations in the 1960s and '70s, it was replaced by the downsized Pontiac Bonneville for the 1982 model year.

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.

Who made Pontiac LeMans?

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 LeMans a GTO?

The GTO started out in 1964 as an option package for the Pontiac LeMans before becoming a separate model, and was built by GM until 1974. The name was briefly revived from 2004 to 2006, but for a rebadged car from Holden, GM's Australian subsidiary.

Did Pontiac make a 4 door LeMans?

Prices shown are the prices you can expect to pay for a 1968 Pontiac Lemans 4 Door Sedan across different levels of condition.

1990 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
  • Power train problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Pontiac Lemans vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1990 Pontiac Lemans

The NHTSA has received 29 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Pontiac Lemans. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Pontiac Lemans vehicles.

2000-01-13

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE PRESSURE RELEASE VENT FOR THE WATER WHEN IT GETS HOT. THIS CAUSES THE PRESSURE TO BULID UP/ HOSES TO BUST, AND VEHICLE OVERHEATING. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
1997-07-25

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-07-09
  • VIN: KL2TX2460LB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: COMSUMER'S SON WAS DRIVING VEHICLE ABOUT 40MPH WHEN CLUTCH CABLE BROKE, LEAVING VEHICLE WITHOUT CLUTCH TO SHIFT GEAR ON HIGHWAY. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, BUT DIDN'T FIND ANY PROBLEM. *AK
1997-05-16

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KL2TN2466LB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM DASH NEAR STEERING WHEEL, THEN SUDDENLY FLAMES CAME FROM DASH DUE TO AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN WIRING HARNESS, VEHICLE INTERIOR WAS TOTALLED. *AK
1997-03-03

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE IS INOPERATIVE. *AK
1996-10-28

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KL2TN5469LB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THE BRAKE CALIPER WILL STICK IN CLOSED POSITION AROUND THE BRAKE DRUM, CAUSING PREMATURE WEAR OF THE BRAKE PADS. *AK
1996-07-26

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-07-17
  • VIN: KL2TN546XLB
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DRIVER SIDE FRONT DOOR HINGES CAME UNWELDED FORM THE DOOR
1996-06-13

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-06-05
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE PRIOR TO RECALL. (ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT)
1996-04-18

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-09-05
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2DKL2TN2468
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: FLOOR MOUNT SHIFT BECOMES SHAKY AND SLIPS OUT OF GEAR. *AK
1996-04-18

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-09-05
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2DKL2TN2468
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: FLOOR MOUNT SHIFT BECOMES SHAKY AND SLIPS OUT OF GEAR. *AK
1996-03-22

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-03-07
  • VIN: KL2TN5462LB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: DRIVER EXPERIENCED TOTAL LOSS OF HYDRAULIC BRAKES WHILE TRAVELING AT 25 MPH. *AK
1996-03-08

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KL2TN5468LB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: EXPERIENCE BRAKE MALFUNCTION, WHEN FRONT BRAKES HEAT UP, PADS WEAR EXCESSIVELY, PEDAL GOES TO FLOOR, BRAKE ACTION INADEQUATE NORMAL STOP AND GO CONDITIONS. *AK
1996-03-08

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: KL2TN5468LB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: EXPERIENCE BRAKE MALFUNCTION, WHEN FRONT BRAKES HEAT UP, PADS WEAR EXCESSIVELY, PEDAL GOES TO FLOOR, BRAKE ACTION INADEQUATE NORMAL STOP AND GO CONDITIONS. *AK
1995-11-08

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-01-14
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KL2TN2465LB
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHEN CAR IS IN REVERSE CAR ACCELERATES . TTCONSUMER STATES WITHOUT FOOT BEING ON THE PEDAL.*JB
1995-10-27

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-01-14
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KL2TN2465LB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: UNEXPECTED SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHEN SHIFTING AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION INTO REVERSE. TT *SLC
1995-08-16

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
  • VIN: KLZTN5469LB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE ROTOR SEPARATED FROM THE HUB, THE TIMING BELT BROKE, ALSO HAVING TRANS. PROBLEMS. TT
1995-08-16

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
  • VIN: KLZTN5469LB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: BRAKE ROTOR SEPARATED FROM THE HUB, THE TIMING BELT BROKE, ALSO HAVING TRANS. PROBLEMS. TT
1995-08-16

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
  • VIN: KLZTN5469LB
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: BRAKE ROTOR SEPARATED FROM THE HUB, THE TIMING BELT BROKE, ALSO HAVING TRANS. PROBLEMS. TT
1995-06-20

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-20
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: AUTOMATIC SEAT BELTS HAVE FAILED INVOLVED IN RECALL NO. 94V248000. TT
1995-06-19

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-19
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE RECALL REPAIRS REFUSED DUE TO UNAVAILABILITY OF PARTS (93V-154). *AK
1995-04-27

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-07-04
  • VIN: KL2TN5467LB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ABS BRAKE SYSTEM MALFUNCTION, RESULTING IN COMPLETE BRAKE LOSS, REPLACE PAD AT 15,000 MILES. TT
1995-04-18

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-01
  • VIN: KL2TN5463LB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AUTOMATIC RESTRAINT SYSTEN FAILED. TT
1995-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-04-11
  • VIN: KL2TN5468LB
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE CONTINUOUSLY OVERHEATS. *AW
1995-03-22

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-03-22
  • VIN: KL2TX2165KB
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: FRONT SPRING COILS RUSTED AND BROKE. TT
1995-03-13

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-01-01
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: AUTOMATIC SEATBELT DISCONNECTED DUE TO SHORTING OUT BATTERIES PRIOR TO RECALL. (94V-248) *AW
1995-03-10

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-03-01
  • VIN: KL2TN5463LB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: DISC BRAKES REPLACED TWELVE TIMES, ALSO ROTORS/MASTER CYLINDERS REPLACED. *SKD

1990 Pontiac Lemans recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1990 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).
1994-12-23
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING
  • Summary: INSUFFICIENT LUBRICATION IN THE GUIDE TRACK RAIL IN WHICH THE SHOULDER BELT CARRIER MOVES CAUSING A CHATTERING NOISE, MOMENTARY BINDING WHILE TRAVELING, CYCLING BACK AND FORTH, OR STOPS COMPLETELY.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIRRESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL LUBRICATE THE TRACK SYSTEM ON THESE VEHICLES.
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 1990 Pontiac Lemans problems:

2006 Suzuki Forenza/Reno (Rebadged Daewoo Lacetti) - Possible ...
2006 Suzuki Forenza/Reno (Rebadged Daewoo Lacetti) - Possible ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/2006-suzuki-forenza-reno-rebadged-daewoo-lacetti-possible-pitfalls-problems/88731

Jan 18, 2015 ... Are there any other common issues that occur with this car? Anything serious or are they all pretty minor like this sensor? db4690 January ...

Curbside Classic: 1990 Pontiac LeMans - The Lows And Rocky ...
Curbside Classic: 1990 Pontiac LeMans - The Lows And Rocky ...
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-american/curbside-classic-1990-pontiac-lemans-the-lows-and-rocky-mountain-highs-of-gms-deadly-sin-12/

Nov 12, 2022 ... I think the main problem of the Pontiac Le Mans was the poor quality of the rubber hoses and the gaskets! Sometimes after only few hundred miles ...

79 Corvette Door Lock Mechanism Very Stiff - CorvetteForum ...
79 Corvette Door Lock Mechanism Very Stiff - CorvetteForum ...
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Mar 7, 2009 ... Is this a common problem? Thanks ... 1977 to 1981 Pontiac Grand Lemans ( All Four Doors ) 1990 to 1992 Pontiac Grand Prix 2dr ( All Doors )

Curbside Classic: 1973 Pontiac LeMans Coupe- A Strong Start to a ...
Curbside Classic: 1973 Pontiac LeMans Coupe- A Strong Start to a ...
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-american/curbside-classic-1973-pontiac-lemans-coupe-a-strong-start-to-a-weak-finish/

Sep 5, 2013 ... ... Pontiac and Chevrolet knew they had a problem with the bumpers and ended up creating the Enduro bumper front ends for the Grand Am and ...

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 ...

Other years of Pontiac Lemans

pontiac lemans 1991 photo
Lemans 1991
Pontiac

34

3

2

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac lemans 1992 photo
Lemans 1992
Pontiac

25

2

2

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac lemans 1993 photo
Lemans 1993
Pontiac

34

2

2

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac lemans 1977 photo
Lemans 1977
Pontiac

2

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac lemans 1988 photo
Lemans 1988
Pontiac

24

4

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac lemans 1989 photo
Lemans 1989
Pontiac

18

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1990 Pontiac Lemans photo