Pontiac Montana problems

pontiac logo

The Pontiac Montana is a minivan that was sold by General Motors under the Pontiac brand for model years 1997 to 2009. Its badge-engineered variants were the Chevrolet Venture and the Oldsmobile Silhouette in the first generation, and the Chevrolet Uplander, Saturn Relay, and Buick Terraza in the second generation. Prior to the 1997 model year, it was known as the Pontiac Trans Sport.

In 1996 for the 1997 model year, the Trans Sport added the Montana moniker as part of an available trim package. This package proved so popular the line was renamed Montana in 1998 for the 1999 model year in the United States and 1999 for the 2000 model year in Canada. When the van was redesigned in 2004 for the 2005 model year, the name was changed to Montana SV6. It was discontinued after the 2006 model year in the United States because of slow sales, but continued to be sold in Canada and Mexico until 2009. Since their introduction, the Pontiac minivans were GM's most popular minivans among consumers in Canada.

The Doraville, Georgia assembly plant which produced the Montana and its siblings closed on September 26, 2008. Sales of the Montana SV6 continued for Canada and Mexico until 2009, a year before the Pontiac brand was discontinued in 2010.

photo of Pontiac Montana car production

Social links

Pontiac Montana model years

pontiac montana 2008 photo
Montana 2008
Pontiac

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 2006 photo
Montana 2006
Pontiac

37

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 2005 photo
Montana 2005
Pontiac

81

7

48

1.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 2004 photo
Montana 2004
Pontiac

39

5

34

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 2003 photo
Montana 2003
Pontiac

97

7

42

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 2002 photo
Montana 2002
Pontiac

135

5

48

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 2001 photo
Montana 2001
Pontiac

169

11

37

1.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 2000 photo
Montana 2000
Pontiac

250

7

48

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 1999 photo
Montana 1999
Pontiac

262

7

50

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 1998 photo
Montana 1998
Pontiac

53

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
pontiac montana 1997 photo
Montana 1997
Pontiac

18

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Pontiac Montana problems

The Pontiac Montana, a minivan produced by General Motors, has had several common problems reported by owners, particularly with engine and intake manifold gasket issues.

One of the most frequently reported problems is the intake manifold gasket failure, which is especially prevalent in the 1999 model year. This issue has been reported by many owners, with an average repair cost of $2,300 and an average mileage of 92,000 miles at the time of repair. The intake manifold gasket is responsible for sealing the intake manifold to the engine block, preventing coolant and combustion gases from mixing. When this gasket fails, it can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and reduced engine performance.

Another problem reported by Pontiac Montana owners is related to the engine itself. The 2001 model year has been identified as the worst for engine problems. This problem can lead to engine misfires, reduced performance, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, some owners have reported that their Montanas have experienced issues with the gas gauge, with the gauge dropping from full to empty in just a few minutes while driving at highway speeds. This issue can be dangerous, as it may lead to unexpected engine stalling. Despite multiple visits to the shop, mechanics have been unable to reproduce the problem, leaving owners without a clear solution.

Lastly, the Pontiac Montana's emissions system has been criticized for being sensitive, leading to engine code issues and increased repair costs. This can be particularly frustrating for owners, as it can lead to frequent and costly repairs.

In summary, the Pontiac Montana has had several common problems, with engine and intake manifold gasket issues being the most prevalent. These problems can lead to reduced engine performance, increased repair costs, and even safety concerns.

Pontiac Montana

Is the Pontiac Montana reliable?

These parts include the intake manifold, condenser, and tail lights. Overall, the Pontiac Montana is pretty reliable, and most owners report only a few minor bugs that they consider normal for a vehicle of its age.

How many miles per gallon does a Pontiac Montana get?

Based on data from 12 vehicles, 695 fuel-ups and 221,619 miles of driving, the 2008 Pontiac Montana gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.12 with a 0.33 MPG margin of error.

What kind of engine does a Pontiac Montana have?

The Pontiac Montana offers a V6 engine in 3.4, 3.5 or 3.9 L displacements depending on model year and trim package, with the higher-displacement sport packages delivering the most horsepower.

What year did they stop making Pontiac Montanas?

2009

No more improvements were made to the Montana models after the 2005 model year. Pontiac stopped selling them after the 2006 model year in the United States. They continued to be sold in Canada and Mexico until the 2009 model year. GM discontinued the Pontiac division after the 2010 model year.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Pontiac Montana years

We have researched Pontiac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Pontiac Montana cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Pontiac Montana model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Pontiac Montana model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Pontiac Montana years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Pontiac Montana car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Pontiac Montana , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Structure problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Power train problems
  • Air bags problems

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

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Montana model years

A total of 74 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 Montana model years

There were a total of 21 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 Montana model years

There were a total of 133 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 Montana 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 1142 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Pontiac Montana . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Pontiac Montana vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Pontiac Montana 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-19
  • Date Complaint: 2023-04-19
  • VIN: 1GMDV23E25D
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: When I start the engine & try to put in another it it nearly impossible. With engine on, it smells of gasoline! I'm afraid I will die from the fumes. Transmission only goes up to 20 mph. I know there is a gas leak and I want others to be notified before my family or someone else's family catch fire and burn to death! If I have to run the heater then it takes power from the engine/transmission and I can only go 10mph. When I am in on on the highway the van will shut off. It shut off out of nowhere and I almost lost my life that day!
Pontiac Montana 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-12-07
  • Date Complaint: 2022-05-20
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GMDX13E53D
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Van crashed with damage to the front when it ran off the road and went into a culvert/ditch and air bags did not deploy resulting in paralyzation of the wife of the owner after van had been apparently donated to Charity Cars as junk vehicle or salvage vehicle. Vehicle was apparently repaired by towing company and offered for sale at at a used car dealership in Zanesville, Ohio. The passenger side lower dashboard had a white wire hanging down which may have been connected to a defective replacement airbag. I am an attorney representing the owner and the owner's wife. Black box was analyzed in 2019, but not with the latest program.
Pontiac Montana 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2020-10-10
  • VIN: 1GMDU03L86D
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WHEN HAVING MY OIL CHANGED AT A GARAGE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS ON THE LIFT BOTH FRAME RAILS HAD SEVERE RUST DAMAGE. SINCE THIS IS WHAT GIVES THE UNIBODY FRAME IT'S STRENGTH, WHY DIDN'T GM ZINC COAT THEM OR APPLY RUST PROOFING? I LIVE IN SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN WHERE THEY USE SALT ON THE ROADS IN WINTER. SEEING GM IS ALSO IN MICHIGAN YOU WOULD THINK THEY WOULD BE AWARE OF THIS AND ACT ACCORDINGLY? THE ONLY REASON I CAN THINK OF IS TO SAVE MONEY, INCREASE PROFITS, AT THE EXPENSE OF THE VEHICLE BEING SAFE FOR THE CONSUMER. I DON'T SEE DESIGNING THE FRAME RAILS TO LAST FOR 20-25 YEARS FOR SAFETY REASONS AS BEING UNREASONABLE.
Pontiac Montana 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-04-08
  • Date Complaint: 2020-04-08
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GMDV33E45D
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE HAS BEEN PROPERLY MAINTAINED UNDER HOOD COMPONENTS FOR YEARS. ONE DAY I STARTED IT UP AND WAS SMOKING HEAVILY. NO EVIDENCE HAS BEEN SHOWN TO BE A FAILURE TO MAINTAIN. NO LOOSE OR BARE WIRES, NOTHING UNORDINARY GOING ON UNDER THE HOOD THAT COULD CAUSE THIS. NO SIGNS OF OPERATOR ERROR SO FORTH. *TR
Pontiac Montana 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-03-11
  • Date Complaint: 2020-03-12
  • VIN: 1GMDV33L95D
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: MY GAS GAUGE STOPPED WORKING AND IS FLUCATING AND THE DASH READING IS SAYING THINGS. ITS ALL MESSED UP
Pontiac Montana 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-13
  • Date Complaint: 2020-02-02
  • VIN: 1GMDV33L36D
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: WHEN IT'S COLD AND YOU START THE VEHICLE I GET A MESSAGE REDUCED ENGINE POWER. YOU HAVE TO IMMEDIATELY SHUT IT OFF. SOM ETIMES WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND IT IS WARMED UP IT WILL DO THIS AND YOU HAVE TO FIND A SAFE PLACE TO PULL OVER BECAUSE IF YOU TRY TO GIVE IT GAS IT WON'T GO ANYWAYS. I THINK IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE IT CAN HAPPEN WHEN YOU ARE GOING 70 MPH ON THE INTERSTATE AND CARS ARE RIGHT ON YOUR ASS. LUCKILY I WASN'T ON THE INTERSTATE BUT I WAS ON A HIGHWAY GOING 60MPH WHEN IT HAPPENED.
Pontiac Montana 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-26
  • Date Complaint: 2019-12-05
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 PONTIAC MONTANA. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL RUBBING SOUND COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION DETACHED FROM THE SUBFRAME OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SEVERAL INDEPENDENT MECHANICS AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION OF THE SUBFRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Pontiac Montana 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-05
  • Date Complaint: 2019-02-08
  • VIN: 1GMDV33L36D
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE, OR AFTER AWHILE WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING THE VEHICLE IT WILL COME UP AND READ REDUCED ENGINE POWER THEN YOU HAVE TO STOP BECAUSE IT WILL NOT LET YOU ACCELERATE THE GAS PEDAL. SOMETIMES WHEN YOU TURN IT OFF AND RESTART IT, IT WILL BE FINE AND SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO WAIT ABOUT 10 MINUTES THEN RESTART. IT DOESN'T MATTER IF YOU ARE ON A SIDE STREET OR ON THE HIGHWAY, IT JUST RANDOMLY DOES THIS.
Pontiac Montana 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-09
  • Date Complaint: 2018-11-11
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E23D
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: I WAS IN A ACCIDENT AND HIT A TRUCK BROADSIDE. I ENDED UP HITTING THE STEERING WHEEL WITH MY CHEST. NOT ONLY WAS MY SEATBELT INEFFECTIVE, BUT THE AIRBAG DID NOT OPEN. I DID SUSTAIN CHEST INJURY. IRAN A STOP SIGN IN TOWN.
Pontiac Montana 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2018-08-13
  • VIN: 1GMDV33L46D
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: THE DASH KEEPS TELLING ME THAT THE TRACTION CONTROL AND STABILITY SYSTEM NEED TO BE CHECKED. I HAVE WIRING ISSUES FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT LIGHTS, THEY COME ON AND OFF. FUEL GAUGE DOES NOT READ PROPERLY ALL THE TIME AND NOW MOST RECENTLY THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT ALARM DOES NOT REGISTER THAT THE SEAT BELT IS CONNECTED. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCES THESE ISSUES MOVING AND STATIONARY.
Pontiac Montana 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-04-15
  • Date Complaint: 2018-04-16
  • VIN: 1GMDX03EX4D
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: INTAKE GASKET GOES BAD. WHILE DRIVING WITH NO WARNING
Pontiac Montana 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-04-10
  • Date Complaint: 2018-04-11
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E73D
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WHILE IN A STATIONARY MODE AFTER PARKING TO GET AIR FOR MY TIRES, THE STEERING COLUMN LOCKED. TOOK ABOUT 20 MINUTES WITH ASSISTANCE TO UNLOCK, THIS I FEEL IS UNSAFE WITH THE CLIMATE OF THE WORLD TODAY, YOU NEED TO BE ABLE TO GET IN YOUR VEHICLE TURN IT ON AND BE ON YOUR WAY. NO IMAGE OR DOCUMENT TO UPLOAD JUST FRUSTRATION.
Pontiac Montana 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-08-22
  • Date Complaint: 2017-08-22
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E72D
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC MONTANA. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN AND PARKED, THE CONTACT NOTICED A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL EMERGING FROM THE REAR. THE CONTACT CHECKED UNDER THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED FUEL COMING OUT THE SIDE OF THE FUEL TANK WHERE THE SEAL WAS MAKING A PUDDLE ON THE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: A-31191114851. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 192,000.
Pontiac Montana 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2017-08-05
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E82D
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE FUEL TANK IS LEAKING AROUND THE SEAL WHERE THE ELBOW CONNECTES,. THIS SEAL HAS BEEN DISCONUTINED. THE DEALERSHIP SAID I WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE FUEL TANK. I CANT AFFORD A NEW TANK. IF THEY CANT REPLACE THE SEAL THEY SHOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE TANK, THERE HAS BEEN TWO RECALLS ON THE GAS TANK ON THIS VEHICLES. I AM LUCKY THAT MY VAN DIDNT CATCH ON FIRE GOING DOWN THE ROAD WITH ME AND TWO CHILDREN IN THE VAN, WE PUT SOME PUTTY ON IT FOR GAS LEAKS AND THAT HAS SLOW THE LEAK DOWN, I HAVE NOT CHOICE BUT TO DRIVE THE VAN MY ONLY WAY TO GO, I CANT AFFORD TO PUT A NEW GAS TANK FOR 725.00. I DONT THINK IT IS FAIR THAT THEY CAN DISCONTIUNED A SEAL LIKE THIS THAT AND NOT WILLING TO REPLACE A HAZARD PART LIKE THIS, I PUT MY LIFE AND THE GIRLS LIFE IN DANGER EVERYDAY WE GO OUT IN THE VAN BUT WE HAVE NOT CHOICE.
Pontiac Montana 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-02-03
  • Date Complaint: 2017-08-01
  • VIN: 1GMDX13E03D
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC MONTANA. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS IN WET CONDITIONS, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED INTERMITTENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE POWER STEERING MADE AN ABNORMAL WINDING NOISE. THE DEALER (STOOPS BUICK GMC, 1251 QUAKER BLVD, PLAINFIELD, IN, 46168, 317-839-7771) INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 216,000.

Latest 5 recalls Pontiac Montana

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 56 recalls for different components of the Pontiac Montana.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Pontiac Montana 2008
  • Report Received Date: 2010-03-19
  • Manufacturer: BRAUN CORPORATION
  • Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
  • Summary: THE BRAUN CORPORATION HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2008 GENERAL MOTORS MOBILITY CONVERSION, HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE LOW FLOOR MINIVANS. DURING CONVERSION, THE DRIVER OR PASSENGER SIDE TRAILING ARM MODIFICATION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY WELDED.
  • Consequence: A SQUEAKING OR CLUNKING NOISE MAY DEVELOP. THE TRAILING ARM BUSHINGS MAY PREMATURELY WEAR AND THE TRAILING ARM MAY FRACTURE OR SEPARATE, ALLOWING THE REAR AXLE TO BECOME PARTIALLY SEPARATED FROM THE CHASSIS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND WILL HAVE A SUPPLY OF RETROFIT PARTS AVAILABLE TO REMEDY THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 4, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BRAUN AT 1-800-488-0359.
  • Model: Pontiac Montana 2005
  • Report Received Date: 2010-03-19
  • Manufacturer: BRAUN CORPORATION
  • Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
  • Summary: THE BRAUN CORPORATION HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2008 GENERAL MOTORS MOBILITY CONVERSION, HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE LOW FLOOR MINIVANS. DURING CONVERSION, THE DRIVER OR PASSENGER SIDE TRAILING ARM MODIFICATION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY WELDED.
  • Consequence: A SQUEAKING OR CLUNKING NOISE MAY DEVELOP. THE TRAILING ARM BUSHINGS MAY PREMATURELY WEAR AND THE TRAILING ARM MAY FRACTURE OR SEPARATE, ALLOWING THE REAR AXLE TO BECOME PARTIALLY SEPARATED FROM THE CHASSIS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND WILL HAVE A SUPPLY OF RETROFIT PARTS AVAILABLE TO REMEDY THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 4, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BRAUN AT 1-800-488-0359.
  • Model: Pontiac Montana 2006
  • Report Received Date: 2010-03-19
  • Manufacturer: BRAUN CORPORATION
  • Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
  • Summary: THE BRAUN CORPORATION HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2008 GENERAL MOTORS MOBILITY CONVERSION, HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE LOW FLOOR MINIVANS. DURING CONVERSION, THE DRIVER OR PASSENGER SIDE TRAILING ARM MODIFICATION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY WELDED.
  • Consequence: A SQUEAKING OR CLUNKING NOISE MAY DEVELOP. THE TRAILING ARM BUSHINGS MAY PREMATURELY WEAR AND THE TRAILING ARM MAY FRACTURE OR SEPARATE, ALLOWING THE REAR AXLE TO BECOME PARTIALLY SEPARATED FROM THE CHASSIS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND WILL HAVE A SUPPLY OF RETROFIT PARTS AVAILABLE TO REMEDY THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 4, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BRAUN AT 1-800-488-0359.
  • Model: Pontiac Montana 2000
  • Report Received Date: 2009-02-17
  • Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONSTM" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN THE STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING IN THE HUB AREA.
  • Consequence: A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-2492 AND PRESS 5.
  • Model: Pontiac Montana 2002
  • Report Received Date: 2009-02-17
  • Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONSTM" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN THE STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING IN THE HUB AREA.
  • Consequence: A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-2492 AND PRESS 5.

Latest negative Pontiac Montana car reviews

  1. Carter Kuvalis 2025-10-16

    Vehicle year: 2004

    I have owned two Pontiac Montanas, and while the 2003 model may not have the same fuel efficiency as the 2000, it still offers ample storage space. The 2000 model had cargo nets, pockets behind the front seats, and larger slots in the dash for items and papers, but the 2003 model still provides sufficient storage options.

  2. Gabe Klocko 2025-10-14

    Vehicle year: 1999

    Hello! We wanted to share with you some of the updates we've made to our car since we purchased it in 1999. We had to replace the head gasket at 75K miles, and later on, at 125K miles, we decided to upgrade to a 3.4L V6 engine. Unfortunately, we experienced some issues with the intake manifold gasket, which caused some trouble with the engine light. We also had some trouble with the CD player, which stopped working at 30K miles. We reached out to Pontiac Customer Service for assistance, but unfortunately, they were unable to offer any goodwill assistance. All in all, we've spent around $6K on major repairs so far. While we haven't been able to experience the same level of driving excitement as before, we're still grateful for our car and the memories we've made with it.

  3. Ismael Spencer 2025-10-04

    Vehicle year: 2000

    What a great find! Although there were some issues with the power door module, rear door seals, blower motor, coolant leak, and passenger front door panel, I'm glad I never bought new and opted for a used buy instead. Taking out a 3 year GM Extended warranty was a smart decision as it saved us $5,000 in year one alone. It's unfortunate that the quality of the product was not up to par, as the van drives well and handles great in the winter. Despite this experience, I remain open to considering other options in the future.

  4. Rick Goyette 2025-10-02

    Vehicle year: 1999

    Hi there! I noticed that you recently purchased this van second hand with 153,000 km. It sounds like you've put a lot of work into it already, replacing the water pump, spark plugs, wheel bearing, rocker panels, head gasket, intake gasket, and thermostat. I also noticed that the roof leaks and there are a few other things that need attention, such as the front and rear struts, rear windshield wiper, ABS light, air bag light, and front end vibration. It's great that you're keeping up with the maintenance! I hope you're able to get everything sorted out soon. By the way, it's getting about 500 km to a tank, which is pretty good. Just wanted to let you know that it needs a transmission part, as it's shifting hard. Let me know if you have any questions or need any help!

  5. Norberto O'Hara 2025-09-27

    Vehicle year: 2000

    In my experience of over 28 years of owning vehicles, including 5 GMs, this particular vehicle was unfortunately the worst. We purchased it as a buy back in 03 and thankfully had the platinum warranty. However, we encountered numerous issues such as ignition wiring, spark plug problems, fuel and torque converter issues, head gasket problems, and rusting on the roof. Additionally, we had to deal with a window that stopped working, AC clutch assembly, flush injectors, valve body and pressure solenoid in transmission, throttle body, and electrical problems that prevented starts or constant running. We had to recondition the heads, intake and plenum, t-stat, and drive seal for the coolant leak in engine. These issues all occurred within the first year of ownership.

Latest positive Pontiac Montana car reviews

  1. Hardy Metz 2025-10-13

    Vehicle year: 1999

    I love my van! It has been so reliable, with only a minor issue with the intake gasket at 75,000 miles which was fixed for under $500. I've kept up with routine maintenance and replaced the fuel pump, and it still rides well and is very comfortable. I use it to commute to work and take long trips with my extended family. We've even loaded it up with a carrier on top and it still runs like a dream. I couldn't ask for a better minivan!

  2. Ahmad Jaskolski 2025-10-11

    Vehicle year: 2005

    The driver's captain's chair is adjustable (electric), which makes for a comfortable ride. As a handicapped individual, I find entering and exiting any seating area to be excellent. The front and side airbags provide excellent safety, with quick opening times depending on the type of accident. The cargo space is also excellent. The interior lighting for both front and rear passengers is top-notch. Additionally, the rear heat and air, along with headset jacks for passengers, make for a comfortable ride. The rear heat and air can be controlled from both the driver's area and the rear passenger area. The factory fog lights are an excellent assistance in bad weather, as well as for night driving. However, the rear windshield wiper and front wipers are poorly designed for areas with snow and ice, as they tend to freeze and are hard to thaw. Lastly, the controls on the steering wheel are a convenient feature.

  3. Josue Smith 2025-10-09

    Vehicle year: 2005

    The SV6 is such a stylish and enjoyable vehicle to drive! The DVD system, captain chairs, and sound system are a hit with the kids. The low step in height is a great feature, and the front visibility is perfect. Although the rear headrests can get in the way, the power rear doors are a fantastic addition. The seats are incredibly comfortable, much more so than the ones we test drove (and trust me, my husband and I test drove them all!). We didn't mind that they weren't stow and go because they were so comfortable. The only minor issue we had was that it felt a little sluggish when fully loaded with people and luggage on the highway, but other than that, it was perfect!

  4. Hipolito Pouros 2025-10-06

    Vehicle year: 2000

    I've been driving a short version of Montana for 5 years now, and it's been a great experience. Despite having 380,000km on it, the van still runs smoothly, and I've only had to deal with minor problems. Regular maintenance is key, and if you take care of this car, it will serve you well. This van has lived in Toronto, Edmonton, and Vancouver, and it's been a reliable companion throughout. I'm upgrading to a 2003 Pontiac Montana Thunder, which has many improvements over the previous models, including AWD and independent suspension. If you're looking for a good, reliable, and enjoyable vehicle to own, look no further; there simply is no better option given their cost.

  5. Rollin Ullrich 2025-10-03

    Vehicle year: 2003

    The best used car! You made a great choice buying this car used with 90k+ miles on it. It's amazing that it's still running fine with 140k++ miles on it, without any issues. All you needed were oil changes and brake pad changes. This car is very stable and has great pickup. Its HwyMPG can go as high as 27-28, which is better than any sedan of the same time frame. You have an excellent car!

Are you having problems with your Pontiac Montana?

Add car complaint
Pontiac Montana photo