1998 Pontiac Montana problems
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.
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Common 1998 Pontiac Montana problems
The Pontiac Montana, manufactured by General Motors, has been known to have several common problems, particularly with the engine. Here are some of the issues reported by owners of the 1998 Pontiac Montana:
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: This is one of the most reported problems with the 1998 Pontiac Montana. The intake manifold gasket is responsible for sealing the intake manifold to the engine block, ensuring a proper seal for the engine's combustion process. When this gasket fails, it can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage. The average cost to fix this problem is around $2,300, with an average mileage of 92,000 miles.
- Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure: This issue can cause erratic shifting, which can lead to further transmission damage if not addressed promptly. The transmission pressure control solenoid regulates the hydraulic pressure in the automatic transmission, and its failure can result in poor shifting, slipping, or even complete transmission failure.
- Engine Problems: Engine issues are common with the 1998 Pontiac Montana, with many owners reporting problems such as coil pack failure, head gasket issues, and engine overheating. Coil pack failure can lead to misfiring and reduced engine performance, while head gasket issues can result in coolant leaks and engine damage. Engine overheating can be caused by various factors, including coolant leaks, a faulty thermostat, or a malfunctioning cooling fan.
- Tail Light Failure: This problem is not as severe as the engine issues, but it can still be a nuisance for owners. The tail lights are essential for visibility and safety, and their failure can lead to accidents or traffic violations. In some cases, the tail light failure is due to a blown fuse, while in others, it may be due to a faulty wiring harness or bulb.
- Leaking Water Pump: The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine to maintain proper operating temperature. When it leaks, it can lead to overheating and engine damage. The average cost to fix a leaking water pump is around $800, with an average mileage of 84,000 miles.
- Leaking Refrigerant: This problem is specific to the air conditioning system, which can leak refrigerant due to a faulty O-ring or a damaged condenser. A refrigerant leak can result in reduced cooling performance or complete air conditioning system failure.
In summary, the 1998 Pontiac Montana has several common problems, particularly with the engine. These issues can lead to costly repairs and decreased vehicle reliability. If you are considering purchasing a 1998 Pontiac Montana, it is essential to be aware of these potential problems and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.
Is the Pontiac Montana a good vehicle?
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.
What year did they stop making Pontiac Montanas?
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.
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 replaced the Pontiac Montana?
The minivan was built near Atlanta, Georgia. On November 21, 2005, GM announced that it would close the Doraville, Georgia assembly plant, which produced the Montana SV6, in 2008. As part of most Pontiac dealerships also selling Buicks and GMCs, the Lambda-based GMC Acadia crossover SUV will replace the Montana SV6.
Is the Pontiac Montana a good vehicle?
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.
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.
When did they stop making Pontiac Montana?
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.
Is Pontiac Montana a SUV?
The Pontiac Montana was a minivan sold by the Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors. Before the 1999 model year, it was known as The Pontiac Trans Sport. Since 1997, its most popular trim package had been the 'Montana sport package'. It gave the minivan more SUV-like features.
1998 Pontiac Montana car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Montana problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Pontiac Montana vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Pontiac Montana
The NHTSA has received 53 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Pontiac Montana. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Pontiac Montana vehicles.
2014-04-28
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-18
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD INTERMITTENTLY STALL WHEN MAKING TURNS OR WHEN DECELERATING. THE CONTACT TOOK HER VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WHERE SHE WAS ADVISED THAT THEY COULD NOT DIAGNOSIS THE FAILURE WITHOUT IT OCCURRING IN THEIR PRESENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER FIVE ADDITIONAL TIMES BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE DEALER WAS FINALLY ABLE TO DIAGNOSE A TRANSMISSION FAILURE AFTER SIX PREVIOUS FAILED DIAGNOSTICS. THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 07/03/14 MA
2014-03-09
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-06
- VIN: 1GMDX03E4WD
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: THE ENGINE JUST TURNED OFF WHILE STARTING TO TURN A CORNER. LOST POWER STEERING AND POWER BREAKS, BUT THE CAR JUST ROLLED ON. PUT CAR IN NEUTRAL AND TURNED KEY IT STARTED AND THEN DROVE NORMALLY. THIS HAS NOW HAPPENED 4 TIMES. THE PREVIOUS OWNER, WHEN CONTACTED, SAID, JUST RESTART THE CAR! DOES THIS RELATE TO GM IGNITION SWITCH RECALL? *TR
2013-10-01
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-21
- VIN: 1GMDX03E2WD
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT REDUCED SPEED THROUGH URBAN AREAS, THE VEHICLE WILL INCREASE RPMS AS IF THE ACCELERATOR IS BEING DEPRESSED, EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN AT A CONSTANT SPEED WITH NO PRESSURE BEING APPLIED TO THE ACCELERATOR. IT IS UNSETTLING, BECAUSE YOU HAVE TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO INSURE THAT YOU DO NOT RUN INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE IN FRONT OF YOU. THE CRUISE CONTROL IS TURNED OFF WHEN THIS OCCURS. IF THE VEHICLE IS SHUT DOWN AND RESTARTED, THE RPMS RETURN TO NORMAL. IF YOU CONTINUE DRIVING WHEN THIS SITUATION OCCURS, THE ENGINE RETURNS TO NORMAL ONCE YOU ARE ABLE TO INCREASE YOUR SPEED IN LESS CONGESTED AREAS. WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE USED RECENTLY, AND WE HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF ANY MAINTENANCE ISSUES. THE RECALLS THAT WE VIEWED ON YOUR WEBSITE DID NOT REFER TO THIS PARTICULAR ISSUE. ANY INSIGHT THAT YOU CAN OFFER WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. *TR
2012-07-10
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SLIDING DOORS COULD NOT BE OPENED ELECTRONICALLY, ONLY MANUALLY. IN ADDITION, THE GEAR SHIFTER FAILED AND COULD ONLY BE SHIFTED INTO DRIVE OR REVERSE WITH FORCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 234,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 239,000.
2010-06-22
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-03
- Crash: 1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA,LEFT FRONT TIRE BLEW OUT. THE CONSUMER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND STRUCK THE MEDIAN BARRIER *BF OHIO TRAFFIC REPORT # 10-0246-90. *JB
2009-03-11
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
- VIN: 1GMDX03E2WD
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 PONTIAC TRANSPORT-MONTANA! THE DEALER INDICATES IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL OF THE 02V28600. I AM HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THE STEERING AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL. IT IS NOW TO THE POINT I AM GOING TO HAVE TO REPAIR OR REPLACE THE PROBLEM PART AND IT IS OBVIOUS GM KNEW AND SHOULD REMEDY THE PROBLEM. ACCORDING TO THE DEALER MINE IS TOO NEW FOR THE RECALL EVEN THOUGH THEY KNOW THE PROBLEM AND HAVE FIXED IN VEHICLES THAT WERE BUILT ONLY MONTHS BEFORE. EA02033 FIXES THE VEHICLES UP TO OCTOBER 31 1997. MINE IS A 1998 WITH IDENTICAL PROBLEMS SEEING AS IT IS A TRANSPORT WITH MONTANA TRIM. I THINK THEY SHOULD FIX THIS BEFORE IT FAILS AND SOMETHING HAPPENS TO MY WIFE AND KIDS. I SPOKE WITH PONTIAC AFTER TALKING TO THE DEALER AND NEEDS LESS TO SAY I GOT NO PLACE. I KNOW TIMES ARE TOUGH BUT , COME ON YOU ARE MESSING WITH THE HEALTH OF MY FAMILY! *TR
2009-01-20
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-13
- VIN: 1GMDX03E8WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I NOTICED I HAVE BEEN USING A LOT OF ANTIFREEZE IN THE VAN BUT NO LEAKS UNDER IT. I TOOK IT TO THE GARAGE TO CHANGE THE THERMOSTAT AND TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT. THEY TOLD ME MY HEAD GASKETS ARE BAD AND NEED TO BE REPLACED, WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER HE SAID I NEEDED A NEW RADIATOR TOO! I HAVE BEEN LOOKING ON THE WEB AND FOUND MANY CONSUMERS WITH THE SAME COMPLAINT AS MINE. WHY HAVEN'T THESE 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA'S BEEN RECALLED? *TR
2004-11-16
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GMDX03E4WD
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON MARCH 16,2004 I HIT BLACK ICE IN THE ROAD,WENT OFF THE ROAD, ROLLED OVER AND BOTH FRONT DOORS CAME OPEN BY THEMSELVES AND I SUFFERED A HEAD INJURY THAT I AM STILL RECOVERING FROM DUE TO THE DOORS OPENING. IT COULD HAVE BEEN ALOT MORE SEROIUS BECAUSE DURING ROLLOVER I FELT MY LEGS GO OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE.*AK
2004-06-10
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-03
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE PARKED PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. AS A RESULT, WINDSHIELD SHATTERED WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
2004-05-13
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-26
- VIN: 1GMDX03E8WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: A YEAR AGO,I PUCHASED A PREVIOUSLY OWNED 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA TRANSPORT VAN WITH APPROXIMATELY 58,000 MILES ON IT. I AM A CERTIFICATED AIRCRAFT MECHANIC WITH OVER 10 YRS OF EXPERIENCE. SO, I AM AWARE OF POTENTIONAL PROBLEMS WITH USED VEHICLES. I DID NOT HAVE ANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS VEHICLE UNTIL 3 MONTHS AGO. WHEN I HAD A LOW COOLANT LIGHT COME ON. I IMMEDIATLEY CHECKED THE FLUID LEVEL AND IT WAS LOW. I THEN, BEGAN TO LOOK FOR A REASON FOR LOW COOLANT. I FOUND THE COOLANT LEAKING EXTERNALLY OUT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD AREA. I WAS ABLE TO PUT A SOCKET ON THE NEAREST INTAKE BOLTS AND FOUND THAT THEY WERE LOOSE. THIS TEMPORARILY STOPPED THE LEAK. SERVICED ALL THE FLUIDS. I ASSUMED THIS PROBLEM WAS FIXED. I DID NOT NOTICE ANY ENGINE NOISES, NO OTHER PROBLEMS, NOTHING ELSE. TWO WEEKS AGO, THE VAN AND IT LOST POWER MOMENTARILY, THEN A SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT CAME ON. NO OTHER PROBLEMS, VAN RESUMED PERFORMANCE. WHEN I INSPECTED THE VAN AND ITS COMPONENTS. IT HAD A CODE OF 300 WHICH MEANT "RANDOM MISFIRE" IN THE ENGINE. THIS IS A CODE THAT COULD BE GIVEN BY NUMEROUS REASONS. I ALLOWED THE VAN TO IDLE TO OPERATING TEMPERATURES. WHEN SUDDENLY THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN. I IMMEDIATELY START IT BACK UP. NOW IT HAS NO OIL PRESSURE AND THE VALVES ARE RATTLING. I CONTACTED MY LOCAL PONTIAC DEALER TO SEE IF THEY WERE AWARE OF ANY RECALLS OR SERVICE BULLETINS RELATING TO THIS MODEL. THEY DID NOT KNOW OF ANY. I BEGAN TO RESEARCH THIS PROBLEM. I WAS ALARMED AT WHAT I HAD FOUND. APPARENTLY, THIS IS A PROBLEM THAT IS REPEATED OVER AND OVER WITH THIS PARTICULAR ENGINE AND COOLANT COMBINATION. SPECIFICALLY DEXCOOL, THE ORANGE COOLANT. IT IS SHOWING POSSIBLE INCOMPATIBILITIES BETWEEN THE COOLANT AND THE GASKETS USED ON THE INTAKE MANIFOLDS, HEADS AND OTHER VITAL ENGINE COMPONENTS. ONE OF THE WEB-SITES I RESEARCHED WAS WWW.GM-V6LEMONS.COM. I WOULD LIKE FOR GM TO RADIFY THIS INTO A RECALL( SERVICE BULLETIN) BECAUSE SO MANY OF US HAS SUFFERED FROM THIS POSSIBLE DEFECT.*AK
2004-02-12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-18
- VIN: 1GMDX03E3WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON JULY 18, 2003 WE TOOK OUR 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA (58,000 MILES) TO DOMAILLE BUICK-MAZDA-MITSUBISHI IN ROCHESTER, MINNESOTA FOR A 3,000-MILE OIL CHANGE PRIOR TO LEAVING FOR OUR SUMMER VACATION. ON THAT DAY THE MECHANIC INFORMED US ABOUT EVIDENCE OF A LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET LEAK AND THE NEED FOR IMMEDIATE REPAIR. HE ADVISED US NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE FOR FEAR THAT THE ENGINE COULD SEIZE UP IN THE MIDDLE OF MAJOR TRAFFIC. THIS COSTLY PROBLEM, OF WHICH WE ARE NOW ACUTELY AWARE, IS FAIRLY COMMON AMONGST THIS LINE OF VEHICLE (CHEVY VENTURE AND OLDS SILHOUETTE). WE HAVE LEARNED VIA A PLETHORA OF INTERNET SOURCES THAT THE INCIDENCE OF THIS PROBLEM OCCURS REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE, AS SOME CONSUMERS ENDURED THIS PROBLEM WHILE STILL UNDER WARRANTY. THE MANUFACTURER RESPONSE TO THIS SERIOUS AND COSTLY MECHANICAL PROBLEM HAS BEEN TO REDESIGN THE GASKET FOR NEWER MODEL VEHICLES. IN THE MEAN TIME, CUSTOMER AFTER CUSTOMER HAS FORKED OUT THE COST OF THESE REPAIRS. WHILE WE SADLY REFER TO OURSELVES AS ONE OF THE LUCKY ONES IN THAT OUR REPAIR BILL TOTALED A MERE $850.00 (SEE ATTACHED) AND WE CAUGHT THE PROBLEM PRIOR TO OUR VACATION, AND THAT WE WERE NOT INJURED AS A RESULT OF THIS PROBLEM, OTHERS HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THEIR ENGINE AT THE COST OF $4000.00 OR MORE. THIS IS A MAJOR CONSUMER CONCERN DUE TO SAFETY. FOR EXAMPLE, ANY GM OWNER COULD EXPERIENCE SUDDEN AND UNEXPLAINED STALLING OF THEIR VEHICLE IN THE MIDST OF TRAFFIC, AS A RESULT OF A LEAKY INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET. THE TRAFFIC EXPERIENCE COULD BE ON A COUNTRY ROAD OR ON A MAJOR INTERSTATE GOING 70+ MPH ... ENGINE SEIZING UP AND TRACTOR TRAILERS BEHIND YOU?!?!? THE DISASTROUS POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS.
2004-02-06
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-04
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ALONG HWY 101 THE OVERHEAT LIGHT TURNED ON AND THE TEMPERATURE GAGE JUMPED TO OVER THE LIMIT. WE PULLED OVER AND CHECKED THE VEHICLE, IT WAS NOT HOT. HOWEVER, THE GAGE WOULD NOT RETURN TO NORMAL, CAUSING THE VEHICLE THE CHUG AND HAVE VERY LITTLE DRIVE UNTIL 15 MINUTES DOWN THE ROAD IT KICKED BACK INTO NORMAL LIKE A BAT OUTTA HELL. THIS, ALONG A MOUNTAINOUS FAST MOVING HIGHWAY WITH LOGGING TRUCKS ON MY TAIL; NOT A VERY SAFE SITUATION. ON THIS SAME TRIP, THE PASSENGER WINDOW WOULD NOT GO BACK UP, @ 55MPH AND 40 DEGREES, IT WAS NOT PLEASANT.*AK
2004-01-21
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-19
- VIN: 1GMDX03E6WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BLOWN HEAD GASKET AT 98001 MILES. LEAKING ENGINE COOLANT.*AK
2004-01-15
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-15
- VIN: 1GMDX03E8WD
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WE HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT POWER WINDOWS. THE RIGHT POWER WINDOW STARTED STICKING HALF WAY UP. IT WAS REPAIRED AT 36,000 52,000 AND 80,000 MILES. THE SYMPTOMS WERE ALWAYS THE SAME EXCEPT AT 80,000 THE WINDOW STUCK DOWN (DURING A VERY RAINY WEEKEND). IT WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRENTY AND WE HAD TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR. NOW AT 90,000 MILES THE DRIVER WINDOW IS STICKING HALF WAY UP AGAIN. IT WILL TOTALLY FREEZE SOON. THE PASSANGER WINDOW, WHICH WAS ALIGNED AND LUBED AT 80,000 MILES IS STUCK IN THE UP POSITION. WE CAN'T MAKE IT GO DOWN AT ALL. HELP
2004-01-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-15
- VIN: 1GMDU06E8WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTAKE GASKET FAILED ALLOWING COOLANT TO LEAK INTO OIL.68638 MILES VALVE LIFTER KNOCKING.74809 MILES STALLING OF ENGINE COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKING AND STEERING. DESTRUCTION OF ENGINE.75110 MILES FAILURE OF CAMSHAFT. ENGINE THROWN INTO GARBAGE
2004-01-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-15
- VIN: 1GMDX03E5WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CURRENTLY RUNNING, BUT NOT FOR LONG. LOW COOLANT LIGHT ON LIFTERS CLANGING. 75,000 MILE NOW..... RUNNING LIKE CRAP. I SEE THAT THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ON THIS MATTER WITH MAJOR ENGINE REPAIRS. $$$$$$ WHEN IS GM GOING TO RECALL???????
2004-01-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-15
- VIN: 1GMDX03E8WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WE PURCHASED THE 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA IN MARCH 1998. SINCE WE PURCHASED THE CAR, WE HAVE HAD THE RIGHT TURN SIGNAL SOCKET REPLACED THREE TIMES DUE TO MALFUNCTION. IN OCTOBER 2002, WE TOOK THE AUTOMOBILE IN FOR PROBLEMS NOTED. IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT WE NEEDED TO REPLACE THE TURN SIGNAL SOCKET AGAIN, REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR, REPLACE THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDES DOOR POWER WINDOW MOTORS, REPLACE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET, AND THEY WORKED ON THE SLIDING DOOR FOR THE FIFTH TIME DUE TO A RECALL. THE TOTAL ESTIMATE FOR THE PENDING WORKS CAME TO $3500.00 PLUS. I CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER WITH ME CONCERNS, BUT MY CONCERNS FELL ON DEAF EARS. ALL THE AGREED TO HELP ME WITH WAS THE PRICE ON THE PARTS OF THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR AND THAT WE WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LABOR AND ALL OF THE MAJOR REPAIRS/REPLACEMENTS BECAUSE THEY FELT THAT WE DID NOT HAVE ANYMORE WARRANTY ON THE AUTOMOBILE. THE SERVICE MANAGER ADVISE ME TO TRADE IN THE VEHICLE SINCE IT WOULD BE EXPENSIVE TO DO THE JOBS REQUIRED, BUT WE THOUGHT IT NOT TO AT THIS TIME. WE EVEN SUGGESTED THAT THERE MIGHT NOT BE A NATIONAL RECALL ON THE ITEMS, BUT WE STRONGLY FEEL THAT THIS PARTICULAR VAN HAS A DEFECT. WE ARE ASKING YOU TO PLEASE HELP US TO RESOLVE OUR CONCERNS.
2004-01-06
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-29
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ON OUR MONTANA FAILED WITHOUT WARNING AND NOW NEEDS TO BE REPLACED TO THE TUNE OF $2500. I WAS DIRECTED TO THIS SITE AND SEE NUMEROUS TRANSMISSION FAILURES ON VARIOUS MODEL YEAR MONTANA/TRANSSPORTS. WHY IS THERE NO RECALL ON THESE? THIS VEHICLE WAS NEVER USED FOR TOWING, ON HILLY AREAS, ETC. ESSENTIALLY A TYPICAL USAGE OF SOME CITY, SOME HIGHWAY. ONLY 68,000 MILES AND NOW THIS?*AK
2003-11-26
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-18
- VIN: 1GMDX03E3WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON JULY 18, 2003 WE TOOK OUR 1998 PONTIAC MONTANA (58,000 MILES) TO DOMAILLE BUICK-MAZDA-MITSUBISHI IN ROCHESTER, MINNESOTA FOR A 3,000-MILE OIL CHANGE PRIOR TO LEAVING FOR OUR SUMMER VACATION. ON THAT DAY THE MECHANIC INFORMED US ABOUT EVIDENCE OF A LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET LEAK AND THE NEED FOR IMMEDIATE REPAIR. GM HAS A VEHICLE OWNER SATISFACTION PROGRAM INITIATED IN RESPONSE TO THE PROBLEMS NOTED WITH THEIR INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET. GM REDESIGNED THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET AND REPLACED THE GASKET AT NO COST TO THE OWNERS OF 1999-2003 MODEL CARS. THIS REPAIR WAS NEITHER COVERED UNDER THE ORIGINAL WARRANTY OR THE SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED TO THE DEALER IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM. GM HAS BEEN UNRESPONSIVE TO MY COMPLAINT. I BELIEVE THAT I SHOULD BE REIMBURSED FOR THE COST OF THIS REPAIR, WHICH EXCEEDED $800.00. *LA
2003-11-24
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GMDX03E9WD
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC SLIDING DOOR CONTINUES TO OPEN AND CLOSE. WHEN STARTING UP THE VEHICLE AND PUTTING IT INTO GEAR, THE DOORS STOP OPENING AND CLOSING. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED A RECALL REPAIR WAS PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. IN FOR THE DOORS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, THE OVERRIDE BUTTON HAD TO BE ENGAGED. *JB *NM
2003-07-22
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-12
- VIN: 1GMDU06E8WD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAR STALLING AT ANY SPEED. CAR STALLED,ENGINE DESTROYED.*AK
2003-05-15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-08
- VIN: 1GMDX03E8WD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1998 MONTANA VAN WOULDN'T CRANK AT WORK, THEN WAITED AND IT CRANKED. SECOND TIME IT STOPPED IN ROAD, THEN CRANKED UP. LATER TRIED TO CRANK AND IT WOULDN'T. HAD TO TOW VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP, WHO STATED THAT WIRES WERE CORRODED THAT AFFECTED SENSORS. *JB
2003-02-05
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-15
- VIN: FULLFILL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE ENGINE LOCKED UP. DEALER NOTIFIED. PH
2003-01-20
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-18
- VIN: 1GMDX03E6WD
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BOTH HEADLAMP LENS FELL OFF THE REFLECTORS, THEN BULBS BURNT OUT DUE TO SNOW CONTACTING BULBS.DEALER SAYS ITS A COMON PROPLEM BUT PONTIAC WILL NOT ADDRESS THE ISSUE.
2002-10-10
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-05
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE BRAKE ROTORS ARE WEARING AND WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE VEHICLE WILL HAVE A HEAVY VIBRATION AND EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. DEALER NOTIFIED. MR
1998 Pontiac Montana recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1998 Pontiac Montana.
2004-12-22
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH SECOND-ROW BUCKET SEATS OR CAPTAIN'S CHAIRS AND A POWER SLIDING DOOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, A PASSENGER USING THE INTERIOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE POWER SLIDING DOOR COULD BE INJURED.
- Consequence: IF A PASSENGER USES THE INTERIOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE POWER SLIDING DOOR AND HOLDS ONTO THE HANDLE WHILE IT IS BEING OPENED BY THE MOTOR, THE PASSENGER'S ARM MAY BE PUSHED INTO THE SEAT BACK OR ARMREST AND A WRIST OR LOWER ARM INJURY MAY RESULT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER SLIDING DOOR INTERIOR HANDLE ON THE PASSENGER-SIDE. IF THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER OR MANUAL SLIDING DOOR ON THE DRIVER-SIDE, THE INTERIOR HANDLE WILL ALSO BE REPLACED FOR APPEARANCE REASONS. NOTE: BEFORE THE VEHICLE IS SERVICED, GM ADVISES OWNERS TO NOT USE THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE DOOR. THE DRIVER CAN OPEN AND CLOSE THE DOOR FROM SWITCHES AT THE DRIVER'S POSITION OR BY USING THE REMOTE KEY FOB. THE DRIVER SHOULD TELL PASSENGERS TO USE THE SWITCH LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE DOOR TO OPEN OR CLOSE IT. THE DRIVER SHOULD USE THE OVERRIDE SWITCH TO PREVENT OPERATION OF THE POWER DOOR BY CHILDREN OR BY OTHERS WHO ARE NOT FAMILIAR WITH ITS USE. THE OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER MAILING WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASES WITH THE FIRST PHASE BEGINNING ON MAY 31, 2005. THE SECOND PHASE MAILING BEGAN ON JULY 18, 2005. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 31, 2005. PHASE 2 BEGAN ON JULY 18, 2005. PHASE 3 (FINAL PHASE) BEGAN ON AUGUST 24, 2005, TO ALL REMAINING CUSTOMERS. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668; OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
2001-08-21
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 1997-2001 CHEVROLET VENTURE, PONTIAC MONTANA/TRANSPORT, AND OLDSMOBILE SILHOUETTE MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS THAT WERE SERVICED IN CAMPAIGN 01013 (01V-067) FROM APRIL TO AUGUST 2001. ALSO 2001 CHEVROLET VENTURE, PONTIAC MONTANA, AND OLDSMOBILE SILHOUETTE MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS ASSEMBLED IN JANUARY THROUGH APRIL 2001. THESE VEHICLES HAVE INADEQUATE FRONT WELDS. IF A FRONT WELD FAILS, THE ACTUATOR CAN JAM IN THE UNLATCHED POSITION AND, WHEN THE SLIDING DOOR CLOSES, IT WILL NOT BE LATCHED.
- Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE POWER SLIDING DOOR CAN OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, PARTICULARLY WHEN THE VEHICLE ASCENDS A HILL, MAKES A TURN, OR TRAVELS OVER A ROUGH ROAD SURFACE. AN UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANT COULD FALL OUT OF THE VAN AND BE INJURED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF REQUIRED, INSTALL A NEW POWER SLIDING DOOR UNLATCH ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 22, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
2001-03-08
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS. THE DOOR CLOSES BUT MAY NOT BE LATCHED. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE POWER SLIDING DOOR CAN OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, PARTICULARLY WHEN THE VEHICLE ASCENDS A HILL, MAKES A TURN, OR TRAVELS OVER A ROUGH ROAD SURFACE.
- Consequence: AN UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANT COULD FALL OUT OF THE VAN AND BE INJURED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW UN-LATCH ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY TO THE POWER SLIDING DOOR. THIS RECALL HAS BEEN CONTINUED UNDER SAFETY RECALL 01V-264. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Pontiac Montana problems:
Pontiac Montana Engine Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/6530/pontiac/montana-sv6/pontiac-montana-engine-problems
Nov 25, 2006 ... In my research, it is a common problem on the 3.4 liter engines used in many GM makes. Blg1, my Montana has been in and out of the shop since we ...
Q&A: Pontiac Montana 2006 Problems - Common Issues & Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/60bb1-2006-pontiac-montana-3-5-threw-0496-evap.html
Dec 26, 2011 ... I have a 2006 Pontiac Montana (3.5) that threw a p0496 (Evap system flow during non-purge) and 0455 (Evap system large - Answered by a ...
Pontiac Montana Heating / Cooling Problems — Car Forums at ...
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/6174/pontiac/montana/pontiac-montana-heating-cooling-problems
Oct 25, 2006 ... It usually is caused by a slow leaking lower intake manifold. Common in GM 3.1 and 3.4 V6's Just keep a check on the coolant level.
Q&A: 2003 Pontiac Montana Van Overheating - Radiator Flush ...
https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/44lf2-2003-pontiac-montana-van-overheats-radiator-flushed.html
Oct 20, 2010 ... One common problem that can cause this is a cylinder head gasket failure on this engine,I have seen this problem quite a few times before. The ...
Pontiac Montana V6 has major issues | GM Inside News Forum
https://www.gminsidenews.com/threads/pontiac-montana-v6-has-major-issues.61394/
Feb 28, 2008 ... As far as the other stuff, sounds like it got handled, correct? "Contrary to common belief, planning is complicated and is not run by complete ...
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