2008 Pontiac Solstice problems
The Pontiac Solstice is a sports car that was produced by Pontiac. Introduced at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, the Solstice roadster began production in Wilmington, Delaware, starting in mid-2005 for the 2006 model year. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.4 L I4 engine, producing 177 hp (132 kW) and 166 lb⋅ft (225 N⋅m) of torque. The exterior styling of the production Solstice is similar to that of the 2002 Solstice concept that preceded it. Production of the Solstice was to be running before summer 2005, but delays at the Wilmington plant pushed volume production to the fourth quarter. The new hardtop targa top 2009 model was announced in mid-2008. The Solstice uses the GM Kappa platform, which also underpins the Saturn Sky, Opel GT, and Daewoo G2X. It was the brand's first two-seater since the Pontiac Fiero was discontinued in 1988.
The Solstice was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award and Design of the Year award from the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) for 2006. It was a runaway hit for Pontiac, with 7,000 orders in the first 10 days of availability and 6,000 more orders before winter. Although first-year production was planned at 7,000, GM apologized to customers for delays and increased production, delivering 10,000 by March 1.
Following the 2008 economic recession, GM discontinued the Pontiac division. Production ended with the closure of the Wilmington Assembly plant in July 2009.
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Common 2008 Pontiac Solstice problems
The Pontiac Solstice, produced from 2006 to 2010, is known for its unique styling and respectable performance. However, there are several common problems reported by owners that can affect the overall ownership experience.
- Seat belts and airbags: The most reported problem with the Pontiac Solstice is related to seat belts and airbags. The 2007 model year has the highest number of complaints in this category, with the most common issue being the passenger airbag disabled. This problem can cost around $900 to fix, on average, and typically occurs at an average mileage of 29,000 miles.
- Engine performance: Owners have reported issues with the engine's performance, specifically related to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. This problem can cause the check engine light to illuminate, and in some cases, can lead to a reduced boost level and put the vehicle into a "limp" mode, affecting performance.
- Lack of storage space: The Pontiac Solstice has limited storage space, both inside the cabin and in the trunk. The small glove compartment, thin pockets on the back of the seats, and minimal storage space in the trunk can make it challenging to store personal belongings or groceries.
- Cupholder design: Some trim levels of the Solstice have poorly designed cupholders that can become brittle and break over time. This can make it difficult to securely hold drinks while driving, especially on long trips.
- Battery placement: Replacing the battery in the Solstice can be a challenging task, as the battery is located in a difficult-to-reach area. This can make routine battery replacements more time-consuming and inconvenient compared to other vehicles.
- Build quality: Due to the rushed production process, build quality suffered in some instances, leading to various issues with different iterations of the Solstice.
- Reliability: The Pontiac Solstice has had five recalls to date, ranging from electrical system problems to airbag safety concerns, which can affect its overall reliability.
In summary, the Pontiac Solstice offers unique styling and respectable performance, but owners have reported several common problems related to seat belts and airbags, engine performance, storage space, cupholder design, battery placement, build quality, and reliability. These issues can affect the overall ownership experience and should be considered when purchasing a used Solstice.
What was the biggest problem with the Pontiac Solstice?
Rushed into production, the Pontiac Solstice was a stylish two-seat roadster that never quite lived up to its looks. It was powered by a 2.4-liter, 177-hp four-cylinder engine that sounds and feels harsh when revved. Wide spacing between the gear ratios in the five-speed manual is a major flaw.
Is a Solstice a reliable car?
The Solstice (or Sky) is as reliable as any other GM vehicle mechanically, because that is really what it is. I will tell you from experience with an '03 Saab that it will be more reliable than what you are used to. The GXP's turbo 2.0 was GM's first direct-injection gasoline engine.
How many miles will a Pontiac Solstice last?
may need to be replaced but again the motor if taken care of should be fine . There have been many examples of NAs going strong at 250,000 miles. It appears that a well maintained 2.4 that is not abused can last nearly forever.
Is the Pontiac Solstice a rare car?
The Pontiac Solstice Coupes are considered to be quite rare: There were a total of 1,266 Solstice Coupes that were able to be manufactured before the production line in Wilmington, Delaware was shut down: 102 pre-production 2009 models, 1,152 sequentially vin'd regular production 2009 models, and 12 pre-production 2010 ...
What is the biggest problem with the Pontiac Solstice?
Wide spacing between the gear ratios in the five-speed manual is a major flaw. The turbocharged GXP model is considerably more enjoyable to drive. Handling is fairly nimble and the ride is tolerable, but wind noise is apparent even at modest speeds. Antilock brakes were optional.
Is The Pontiac Solstice A Good car?
Still, there are some complaints endemic to both Solstice models, including a heavy-handed feel to the steering and gearshifter, a pitiful amount of interior storage, a fussy top operation and a barely usable trunk.
Why did Pontiac stop making the Solstice?
Although first-year production was planned at 7,000, GM apologized to customers for delays and increased production, delivering 10,000 by March 1. Following the 2008 economic recession, GM discontinued the Pontiac division. Production ended with the closure of the Wilmington Assembly plant in July 2009.
What is the gas mileage on a 2008 Pontiac Solstice?
2008 Pontiac Solstice MPG
Based on data from 17 vehicles, 1,532 fuel-ups and 409,881 miles of driving, the 2008 Pontiac Solstice gets a combined Avg MPG of 24.44 with a 0.21 MPG margin of error.
2008 Pontiac Solstice car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Solstice problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Pontiac Solstice vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Pontiac Solstice
The NHTSA has received 158 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Pontiac Solstice. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Pontiac Solstice vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-23
- VIN: 1G2MC35B88Y
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Random failure of brake lights to either illuminate when the pedal is pressed or turn off when the pedal is released. On two separate occasions, a couple of months apart. I was notified by other drivers my brake lights appear to be working in reverse. When I come to a stop, they turn off when I pull away they turn on and stay on. After the first incident I had the vehicle serviced. They could not duplicate the problem. Apparently they were now working correctly. To be proactive. I asked them to replace the brake light switch with a genuine GM part. They did and they calibrated the switch to the car. This service was performed on 11/14/2023 - 144,621 miles. It appeared to have solved the problem initially. But re-surfaced this morning 12/29/2023. I was notified by another driver of the opposite on -off function again. I continued to work. Visual inspection indicated normal function again. Brake pedal released, lights off. Brake pedal depressed, lights on. Random malfunctions like this at some point will cause an accident, either at an intersection or on the highway. Especially in this age of "Distracted driving". Several similar instances have been reported by owners on the public forums. The consumer stated that they took the vehicle to their local GMC repair facility and the brake light switch was supposedly replaced. The issue still exists.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- VIN: 1G2MB35B58Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The passenger seat air bag sensor is inoperative after having the recall completed April of 2022. When the vehicle was in for the recall, the sensor was fine, so the reinforcement strip was added. According to the recall reference N162080281, there is a 12 month warranty on the repair. Below is the wording from the recall. “Dealers are to inspect the PPS sensor mat for damage. If the mat is undamaged and functioning correctly, dealers will add a reinforcement strip to the sensor mat. If the mat is damaged, dealers will install a new PPS mat with the reinforcement strip. Please note that GM’s standard 1 year/12,000 mile service part warranty applies to both the sensor mat and the reinforcement strip, regardless of which repair procedure is used. If only the reinforcement strip is installed, and the sensor mat fails during the 1 year/12,000 mile warranty period, the sensor mat and the reinforcement strip should be replaced free of charge” I’ve contacted the dealer and GM, but neither will assist with the warranty, and my vehicle is without airbags. I was told that it may not apply to me, that the recall for my vehicle expired in 2017. I explained that it was replaced with an updated February 2018 to include the warranty. I believe the original recall was 17036, and the updated is 17036-02. If the recall expired 2017, why was I contacted in 2022 stating there was an open recall? If they added the warranty in 2018, why would it apply to some vehicles and not others?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-04
- VIN: 1g2mb35b48y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The passenger presence pad was not repaired.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-21
- VIN: 1G2MC35B78y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: There is an issue with all Saturn Sky’s and Pontiac Solstice’s that cause the wiring harness for the A/C FAN to melt, or even ignite. This is the same harness that was used on 2006-2010 Hummer H3 vehicles manufactured February 5, 2005, to May 24, 2010, and 2009-2010 Hummer H3T vehicles manufactured May 21, 2008, to May 24, 2010. This recall was never extended to Pontiac or Saturn. - If the blower motor connector module overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire. I’ve seen several reports of other owners dealing with this melted harness, and even a recently reported fire.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-02
- VIN: 1G2MC35B78Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE HAD RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SHE CALLED THE NUMBER PROVIDED IN THE RECALL NOTICE AND A REPRESENTATIVE INFORMED HER THAT HER AIR BAGS WERE FINE DUE TO THE FACT THAT HER AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT HAD NOT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS THEN INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO NEED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE SERVICED. SHORTLY AFTER RECEIVING THE LETTER, THE CONTACT THEN STATED THAT HER PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF AND SERVICE AIR BAG WARNING MESSAGES HAD ILLUMINATED ON HER INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT CALLED THE SAME NUMBER BACK FOR A SECOND TIME AND WAS THEN INFORMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON HER VEHICLE DESPITE RECEIVING THE RECALL NOTICE FOR HER VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-06
- VIN: 1G2MC35B58Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DUE TO RECALL HAD PPS MAT WORK PERFORMED (WITHOUT AIR BAG LIGHT EVER COMING ON), ONLY TO HAVE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT COME ON TWO YEARS AFTER RECALL WORK. AIRBAG LIGHT NOW COMES ON UPON STARTUP. DEALER SAYS TOTAL SENSOR REPLACEMENT REQUIRED. PPS MAT FAILED - RECALL DID NOT WORK. USE VEHICLE ONLY IN SUMMERS PUTTING LIMITED MILEAGE ON
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-16
- VIN: 1G2MG35X28Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE SERVICE AIRBAG LIGHT REMAINS ON ALL THE TIME NOW. IT WAS INTERMITTENT FOR A COUPLE WEEKS NOW IT IS ON ALL THE TIME.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-08
- VIN: 1G2MB35B58Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED LIT. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY TAKEN TO ROGER DABB CHEVROLET (LOCATED AT 1501 W GOVERNMENT ST, BRANDON, MS) WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AGAIN DUE TO THE DIAGNOSTIC FEE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 62,000. *TT CONSUMER STATED LIGHT CAME ON FEW MONTHS LATER AFTER IT WAS REPAIRED. UPDATED 11/27/18*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-01
- VIN: 1G2MG35X88Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY COMPLAINT IS THAT THE PART IS NOT AVAILABLE TO FIX THE RECALL. I WAS INFORMED IT MAYBE 6 MONTHS OR MORE UNTIL IT IS AVAILABLE. THIS BEING AN AIRBAG I FEEL THAT IS UNACCEPTABLE AND A SAFETY ISSUE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-02
- VIN: 1G2MG35X38Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I RECEIVED THE ORIGINAL RECALL NOTICE IN MARCH 2017. IN JANUARY 2018 I RECEIVED A NOTICE THAT THE PART WAS FINALLY AVAILABLE. I STILL AM CONTINUALLY BEING TOLD BY THE DEALER, DEVAN CHEVROLET/BUICK WILTON CT, THAT THE PART IS NOT AVAILABLE, AND THAT THERE IN NO ETA FOR WHEN IT WILL BE. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DOES NOT FUNCTION AS A RESULT OF THIS ISSUE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-16
- VIN: 1G2MF35X98Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED, WHICH WAS A SAFETY CONCERN. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS) AT ROBERT WOODALL CHEVROLET BUICK GMC (1063 RIVERSIDE DR., DANVILLE, VA 24543, (434) 797-1411), BUT THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED AFTER THE RECALL REPAIRTHE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000. *TT
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-26
- VIN: 1G2MB35B68Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. HUBERT CHEVROLET IN WILSON, NORTH CAROLINA WAS MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-20
- VIN: 1G2MB35B18Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER (ROYAL BUICK GMC, 3010 COLUMBIANA RD, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35216) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-20
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CHECK AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON FOR 5 YEARS NOW. I CONTACTED GENERAL MOTORS WHEN IT HAPPENED BUT THEY SAID IT WAS NOT THEIR PROBLEM, TAKE IT TO A DEALER. THIS JUST CAME ON WITHOUT ANY INCIDENT AT ALL. OTHERWISE EVERYTHING ELSE IS OKAY. GMC REFUSES TO HELP IN ANY WAY.
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-21
- VIN: 1G2MC35B18Y
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: FROM THE BEGINNING UPON PURCHASING THIS VEHICLE WE FOUND THE PASSENGER SENSOR NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY, DUPLESSIS GMC IN GONZALES, LA COULD NOT LOCATE THE PROBLEM SO AFTER MANY EFFORTS WITH THEM WE GOT A LOCAL SHOP TO INSTALL THE NEW SENSOR THAT WE PURCHASED FROM DUPLESSIS. WE ARE LOOKING FOR COMPENSATION FOR THAT DEVICE AND THE LABOR TO INSTALL IT. THIS WAS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM BUT NEVER WENT AWAY UNTIL WE HAD THIS WORK DONE. I HAVE RECORDS TO PROVE THIS WAS DONE
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-26
- VIN: 1G2MF35X68Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE/PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-25
- VIN: 1G2MC35B48Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AT ALL TIMES WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CHARLES CLARK CHEVROLET (801 U.S. BUSINESS, MCALLEN, TX 78501, PHONE: (956) 307-6557) AND BERT OGDEN BUICK GMC (4216 US-281, TX 78539, PHONE: (956) 348-1113). THE PARTS FOR THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE SO THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,635. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-08
- VIN: 1G2MC35B08Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. IN ADDITION, THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE REMEDY FOR THE RECALL WAS STILL UNDER DEVELOPMENT MONTHS LATER. THE DEALER WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED (JEFF WYLER EASTGATE AUTO MALL, 1117 OH-32, BATAVIA, OH 45103, (513) 752-3447) AND (MARK SWEENEY BUICK GMC, 3365 HIGHLAND AVE, CINCINNATI, OH 45213, (513) 621-4888) DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. FOR WEEKS, THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE NEAR THE AIR BAGS. ALSO, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *BF CONSUMER STATED SERVICE AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON. AIR BAG MAY NOT WORK IN A CRASH. TWO RECALLS FROM GENERAL MOTORS ON THIS. TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER AND ALSO ANOTHER DEALER AND THEY DON 'T WANT TO FIX IT. VEHICLE PURCHASE DATED SHOULD BE ON OR BEFORE INCIDENT DATED UPDATED 8/20/18*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2MB35B58Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: REAR ENDED A VEHICLE, TOTALED CAR, AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY, BROKE ANKLE AND HEEL.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-22
- VIN: 1G2MG35X48Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL I DID RECEIVE NOTICE ON THIS RECALL AND TOOK IT TO GMC DEALER AND THAT PERSON TOLD ME I COULDN'T DO ANYTHING UNTIL I RECEIVE NOTICE TO BRING THE CAR BACK FOR REPAIR AND NEVER RECEIVED THAT NOTICE
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-04
- VIN: 1G2MB35B08Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-11
- VIN: 1G2MG35X58Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. WHILE DRIVING, THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AT TIMES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER (BILL CRAMER CHEVROLET CADILLAC BUICK GMC, 2251 W 23RD ST PANAMA CITY, FL 32405) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-14
- VIN: 1G2MC35B08Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2008 PONTIAC SOLTICE. CONSUMER WRITES REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR PASSENGER AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL REPAIRS. *LD UPDATED 10/10/2017*JS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-01
- VIN: 1G2MB35B88Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THERE HAS BEEN AN OPEN RECALL SINCE AT LEAST JAN. 2017. PASSENGER AIRBAG. IF AN ACTIVE FAULT EXISTS IN THE PPS SYSTEM AND A CRASH OCCURS, THE SDM WILL NOT DEPLOY THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG. IF AN ADULT IS OCCUPYING THE PASSENGER SEAT, THE SUPPRESSION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER.MANUFACTURER RECALL NUMBER N162080281. NO REMEDY HAS BEEN DEVELOPED YET! REMEDY PLANS ARE CURRENTLY UNDER REVIEW. GM WILL SUPPLEMENT THIS INFORMATION WHEN REMEDY PLANS ARE FINALIZED. HOW MUCH LONGER ???? EVERY DAY IT GETS MORE DANGEROUS!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-25
- VIN: 1G2MB35B68Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE YEAR. THE CONTACT CALLED JC HARRIS CADILLAC (4030 WARD BLVD, WILSON, NC 27893; 252-237-1111) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE REMEDY WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
2008 Pontiac Solstice recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2008 Pontiac Solstice.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. The Passenger Air Bag Suppression System (PPS) sensor may become bent or damaged within the front passenger seat, possibly disabling the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the front passenger air bag does not deploy as intended, the front passenger has an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: The remedy for this recall is still under development. A permanent remedy is currently under development. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 17036.
- Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
- Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.
- Consequence: If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.
- Remedy: General Motors will notify owners, and for vehicles that were built with the defective ignition cylinder and have not previously had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. For vehicles that were built with the redesigned ignition cylinder or had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Chevrolet owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac owners at 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn owners at 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' number for this recall is 14113 for the ignition lock cylinder and key replacement, and 14133 for only key replacements. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on February 10, 2014 that they are recalling 619,122 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 vehicles. On February 25, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 748,024 model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion vehicles and 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine. On March 27, 2014, GM notified the agency that the defective ignition switches may have been used as service replacement parts on other vehicles, and as a result GM will be recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR vehicles. The part numbers for the service parts are 10392423 (a/k/a ACDelco D1461F), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This expansion represents an additional 823,788 vehicles.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. An interim notification was issued to owners of 2007 and earlier models on March 10, 2014, informing them of the safety defect. Owners of 2008 and later vehicles will be mailed an interim letter on April 21, 2014. All affected owners will receive another letter once parts are available. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for the initial recall is 13454 and 14063 for the expansion. GMs recall number for the vehicles that may have received the replacement parts is 14092. Note: Until the recall repairs have been performed, it is very important that customers remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the vehicle key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Always wear your seatbelt.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS." AND STANDARD NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES." THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE ONE TO FOUR INBOARD SEAT STUD FASTENERS THAT DO NOT MEET SPECIFICATION FOR STRENGTH.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT AND SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY MAY NOT RESTRAIN THE OCCUPANT AS INTENDED AND COULD RESULT IN INJURY TO THE OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE INBOARD SEAT STUDS AND, IF NECESSARY, REMOVE THE STUD AND INSTALL A BOLT FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 10, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 AND SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.
Negative 2008 Pontiac Solstice car reviews
Positive 2008 Pontiac Solstice car reviews
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I've been in love with this car for months before the first '06 ever hit the road. It was the day before I was to pick up a pre-owned 2008 G6 GT I had just purchased when I was told I just received a pretty substantial pay raise. That was great news, it was finally my time!! Four days later, I was driving home my Brazen colored Solstice. I absolutely love this car. It's incredibly sexy and, in my opinion, blows the Sky away in the looks department. It's an absolute blast to drive and never fails to turn heads. My only regret is that I purchased it with only a couple of months of driving days left before it gets put up for the winter. That's okay though - between employee pricing and end of season blowout, they knocked $5k off the MSRP - what a steal!
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I bought my new 08 Solstice(base) 5 weeks ago and I'm absolutely loving every minute of it! While some reviews mention a few negatives such as storage issues, lack of a spare tire, fussy top operation, plasticky interior and ridiculous cupholders, I personally wouldn't want any of these items improved if it meant compromising the beautiful looks or low price of the car. As for performance, my base model is more than adequate. Despite being 6' and 215 lbs, I find the car plenty comfortable. The only thing I wish I had opted for is power windows, as the window crank can be a bit uncomfortable where my left leg rests. But overall, I can't express enough how much I love this car!
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I am so happy with my purchase of this little jewel! While there are a few quirks that can be aggravating, I will address them. The placement of the radio power knob in the center of the radio where your hand hits it every time you shift into third gear is a bit inconvenient, and the same goes for the mute/power button radio controls on the steering wheel. Additionally, the side mirrors are a bit small. However, this car is a real head-turner that always catches people's attention. They are always trying to figure out what the colored streak is that just went zooming by! LOL
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I drive a lake road to and from work every day. It's like a road course. This car is so much fun! You won't be disappointed.
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What a fun car to drive! I completely agree with you that the Sky and the Solstice are virtually the same car. As a roadster, it's not meant to be roomy, but that's part of its charm. While a powered top would be convenient, it's not difficult to put up and down manually, and I would stop the car to do so anyway.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Pontiac Solstice problems:
A bunch of problems... | Pontiac Solstice Forum
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Are you having problems with your 2008 Pontiac Solstice?
Jaylan Konopelski 2024-01-07
Hey there! Congrats on your new ride! I noticed that you mentioned a few things that could be improved, like the interior materials not being up to par with the MX-5 and the clunky manual gearbox. But despite those minor drawbacks, it sounds like you're having a blast driving it! Plus, it's definitely turning heads and getting a lot of attention from admirers. Enjoy the ride!