1984 Pontiac Phoenix problems
The Pontiac Phoenix was a compact car that was sold from 1977 to 1984 by Pontiac. There were two generations of the Phoenix, both based on popular Chevrolet models, and both using the GM X platform designation. It was named for the mythological Phoenix, which would die in a self-inflicted fire and be reborn from the ashes. The Phoenix was replaced by the Grand Am in 1985.
First generation (1977–1979)
The rear-wheel drive Phoenix was introduced for 1977 as an upscale version of the Pontiac Ventura, and replaced the Ventura entirely for 1978. The Phoenix differed from the Ventura in only minor details such as the grille and its square headlights and yellow rear turn signals. The Phoenix was available as a 2-door coupe or a 4-door sedan, with a 3-door hatchback available beginning in 1978. There were two trim levels available, the base and LJ, with a performance-oriented SJ package as an option.
Available engines included Pontiac's then-new 151 cu in (2.5 L) Iron Duke I4, a 110 hp (82 kW) 231 cu in (3.8 L) Buick V6, a 140 hp (104 kW) 305 cu in (5.0 L) Chevrolet LG3 V8, and a 350 cu in (5.7 L) Chevrolet V8. Transmission choices included a 3-speed manual (available with either column or floor shift), 4-speed manual, or a 3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic.
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Common 1984 Pontiac Phoenix problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1984 Pontiac Phoenix, several common problems were reported:
- Reliability Issues: Owners frequently complained about the overall reliability of the Pontiac Phoenix. The car suffered from various quality control issues, leading to concerns about its dependability and longevity. This lack of reliability was a significant drawback for many owners, impacting their trust in the vehicle for daily use.
- Braking System Defects: One of the most serious problems reported by owners was related to the braking system of the Pontiac Phoenix. The engineering of the braking system, with rear-wheel braking percentages similar to rear-wheel-drive cars, caused a dangerous tendency for the front-wheel-drive Phoenix to lose control and swap ends under moderate-to-heavy braking, especially on slick roads. This issue posed a significant safety risk for drivers and passengers.
- Mechanical Maintenance Challenges: Owners highlighted the mechanical challenges associated with maintaining the Pontiac Phoenix. The car was expensive to maintain, requiring frequent repairs and replacements of various components such as the automatic transmission, floorboards, motor mounts, steering column gear, heater core, rack and pinion, and cooling system fan. These maintenance issues added to the overall cost of ownership and made the car less desirable for long-term use.
- Poor Fuel Economy: Despite being a compact car, the Pontiac Phoenix did not offer impressive fuel efficiency. With an EPA estimated combined MPG of 23, the Phoenix lagged behind competitors like the Dodge Omni, which achieved a higher combined rating of 30 MPG. The subpar fuel economy of the Phoenix was a disappointment for owners looking for a more economical daily driver.
- Build Quality Concerns: Owners expressed dissatisfaction with the build quality of the Pontiac Phoenix. The car was criticized for its low-quality construction, leading to performance issues and a lack of durability over time. The subpar build quality affected various aspects of the vehicle, from the engine and transmission to the interior components, contributing to a negative ownership experience.
These common problems reported by owners of the 1984 Pontiac Phoenix underscored the challenges and shortcomings of this model, highlighting issues related to reliability, safety, maintenance, fuel economy, and build quality.
What kind of car is a Phoenix?
The Pontiac Phoenix was a compact car that was sold from 1977 to 1984 by Pontiac. There were two generations of the Phoenix, both based on popular Chevrolet models, and both using the GM X platform designation.
How much is a Pontiac Phoenix?
The average Pontiac Phoenix costs about $7,999.00. The average price has increased by 14.4% since last year. The 1 for sale on CarGurus range from $19,995 to $19,995 in price.
Why did Pontiac go out of business?
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.
What company owns Pontiac?
General Motors
The Pontiac nameplate takes its name from the town Pontiac, Michigan, where the Pontiac Buggy Company rose in the 19th century. With a focus on cars, the company became Oakland Motor Car Company before General Motors acquired the small auto builder and rolled out the first true Pontiac car in 1926.
What kind of car is a Phoenix?
The Pontiac Phoenix was a compact car that was sold from 1977 to 1984 by Pontiac. There were two generations of the Phoenix, both based on popular Chevrolet models, and both using the GM X platform designation.
What happened to Pontiac cars?
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.
How much is a Pontiac Phoenix?
The average Pontiac Phoenix costs about $7,999.00. The average price has increased by 14.4% since last year. The 1 for sale on CarGurus range from $19,995 to $19,995 in price.
What company owns Pontiac?
General Motors
The Pontiac nameplate takes its name from the town Pontiac, Michigan, where the Pontiac Buggy Company rose in the 19th century. With a focus on cars, the company became Oakland Motor Car Company before General Motors acquired the small auto builder and rolled out the first true Pontiac car in 1926.
1984 Pontiac Phoenix car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Phoenix problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1984 Pontiac Phoenix vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1984 Pontiac Phoenix complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1984 Pontiac Phoenix.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-01
- VIN: 1G2AZ37X3ET
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE PVC CARBURETOR CONNECTOR FAILED. *ET
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-01
- VIN: 1G2AZ37X3ET
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE PROPORTIONAL VALVE HAS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES.*ET
1984 Pontiac Phoenix recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1984 Pontiac Phoenix.
- 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).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FUEL SYSTEM MAY LEAK AT THE THROTTLE BODY INJECTION FUEL FEED PIPE CONNECTION. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS LEAKAGE COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE WHICH COULD SPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND CAUSE BURN INJURIES TO OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL FEED PIPE.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: SOME VEHICLES HAVE BUCKET SEAT BACK LOCKS THAT DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 207, ANCHORAGE OF SEATS. IN EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK LOCK MAY NOT FUNCTION.
- Remedy: INSPECTION OF SEAT BACK LOCKS WILL BE PERFORMED. LOCKS THAT HAVE BENT, BROKEN OR MISSING HOOKS WILL BE REPLACED.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1984 Pontiac Phoenix problems:
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