1989 Pontiac Sunbird problems
The Pontiac Sunbird (also known as the Pontiac J2000 and Pontiac 2000) is a model line that was manufactured and marketed by Pontiac from the 1976 to the 1994 model years. Loosely deriving its name from the Pontiac Firebird, the Sunbird was introduced as the eventual replacement for the Pontiac Astre, replacing it entirely in 1978 as the smallest Pontiac (the later T1000 was slotted below it in size).
The first generation of the Sunbird used the subcompact GM H platform. Serving as the Pontiac counterpart of the Chevrolet Monza, the Sunbird was offered as a two-door notchback coupé and three-door hatchback and station wagon. The model was manufactured alongside the Monza, Buick Skyhawk, and Oldsmobile Starfire at Lordstown Assembly (Lordstown, Ohio), South Gate Assembly (South Gate, California) and Sainte-Thérèse Assembly (Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec), Canada.
The second generation of the Sunbird used the compact GM J platform. Serving as the Pontiac counterpart of the Chevrolet Cavalier, the Sunbird was marketed at various times as a two-door notchback coupé or convertible, three-door hatchback, four-door sedan, and five-door station wagon. The model line was manufactured alongside the Cavalier at Lordstown Assembly (Lordstown, Ohio), Ramos Arizpe Assembly (Ramos Arizpe, Mexico), and alongside the Buick Skyhawk and Oldsmobile Firenza at Leeds Assembly (Kansas City, Missouri) in 1982 only.
While not as long-running as the Bonneville, Grand Prix, and Firebird nameplates, Pontiac would use the Sunbird nameplate for 17 model years. After the Sunbird skipped the 1981 model year entirely, it was released as an early 1982 and renamed the J2000; the Sunbird name was returned for 1984. For 1995, the Sunbird underwent a substantial model update and was renamed the Pontiac Sunfire.
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Common 1989 Pontiac Sunbird problems
The Pontiac Sunbird, introduced in 1989, was a front-wheel-drive commuter car designed to be inexpensive and fuel-efficient. While it offered little to attract enthusiast buyers, the turbocharged engine option provided a reasonable amount of performance for the dollar. However, like any car, the Pontiac Sunbird 1989 had its share of common problems.
- Engine Issues: The 2.0-liter, single-overhead-cam straight-four engine, originally developed for the Opel Kadett D, was prone to issues. It was rated at 96 horsepower when new, but owners reported various problems, including engine failure, rod knocking, and power steering leaks. Some engines even required replacement within the first 50,000 miles.
- Transmission Failures: The automatic transmission in the Sunbird was notorious for failing prematurely. This led to a less enjoyable driving experience and high repair costs. Owners reported that the transmission would often fail to shift properly or would fail entirely, requiring expensive repairs or replacement.
- Electrical Problems: The Sunbird's electrical system was also prone to issues. Owners reported various problems, including malfunctioning gauges, faulty wiring, and blown fuses. These issues often resulted in reduced vehicle functionality and high repair costs.
- Rust Issues: The Sunbird was particularly susceptible to rust, especially in regions with harsh winter conditions. Rust would often form on the car's body panels, leading to a decrease in structural integrity and an unattractive appearance. This issue was exacerbated by the fact that the Sunbird was often driven in snowy conditions, where salt and other chemicals used to melt ice could accelerate rust formation.
- Interior Quality: The interior of the Sunbird was often criticized for its low-quality materials and poor design. Owners reported issues with cheap plastics, broken seat adjusters, and uncomfortable seating positions. These issues often resulted in a less enjoyable driving experience and reduced vehicle longevity.
In conclusion, while the Pontiac Sunbird 1989 offered a reasonable amount of performance for the dollar, it was not without its share of problems. Engine issues, transmission failures, electrical problems, rust issues, and poor interior quality were all common complaints from owners of this car. These issues often resulted in high repair costs and reduced vehicle longevity, making the Sunbird a less desirable choice for some buyers.
Are Pontiac Sunbirds reliable?
Sunbird owners have made 24 complaints over 5 model years. It ranks 1st in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system.
Are Pontiac sunbirds rare?
Today, finding a 1980 Pontiac Sunbird can be somewhat rare due to age and attrition; however, they are out there for enthusiasts who seek them.
How much horsepower does a 1989 Pontiac Sunbird Turbo have?
165
For 1989, the Sunbird Turbo had genuine power: 165 Garrett-blown horsepower out of a 2.0-liter SOHC Opel four. That gave the Sunbird Turbo pilot plenty of torque-steering, tire-squealing fun in a car that weighed just 2,422 pounds.
What happened to the Pontiac Sunbird?
After the Sunbird skipped the 1981 model year entirely, it was released as an early 1982 and renamed the J2000; the Sunbird name was returned for 1984. For 1995, the Sunbird underwent a substantial model update and was renamed the Pontiac Sunfire.
Are Pontiac Sunbirds reliable?
Sunbird owners have made 24 complaints over 5 model years. It ranks 1st in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system.
What happened to the Pontiac Sunbird?
After the Sunbird skipped the 1981 model year entirely, it was released as an early 1982 and renamed the J2000; the Sunbird name was returned for 1984. For 1995, the Sunbird underwent a substantial model update and was renamed the Pontiac Sunfire.
How much horsepower does a 1989 Pontiac Sunbird Turbo have?
165
For 1989, the Sunbird Turbo had genuine power: 165 Garrett-blown horsepower out of a 2.0-liter SOHC Opel four. That gave the Sunbird Turbo pilot plenty of torque-steering, tire-squealing fun in a car that weighed just 2,422 pounds.
Who makes Sunbird cars?
Pontiac says, "We Build Excitement," and the '88 Sunbird GT Turbo holds up its end of the bargain with all the performance and styling you could ask for in a sporty, front-wheel-drive, small car.
1989 Pontiac Sunbird car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Sunbird problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Pontiac Sunbird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1989 Pontiac Sunbird complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Pontiac Sunbird.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-15
- VIN: 1G2JB11K0K7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK DEVELOPED CRACKS AND THERE WERE SIGN OF LEAKAGE AT THE SEAMS. RECALL 88V189000 WAS ISSUED, HOWEVER THE CONSUMER VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2JB11K4KK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY ANOTHER VEHICLE VEERED INTO CONSUMER'S VEHICLE ANDDUAL AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-12
- VIN: 1G2JB51K7K7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I WAS PROMICED ALL THESE THINGS BUT HE IGNORED ME AND I HAVE BEEN ENDED UP WITH A PIECE OF JUNK THAT I PAID $800 AND HAVE PUT OVER $500 INTO IT I WANT TO KEEP THE CAR BUT THERE ARE MAJOR THINGS THAT NEED TO BE FIXED AND I EVEN HAVE A WRITTEN CONTRACT I CALLED MY LOCAL DMV AND EVEN WENT DOWN THERE BUT THEY HAVE HAD TOO MANY COMPAINTS ON THIS GUY AND THEY CANT HANDLE MY CASE AT THIS TIME I WOULD JUST LIKE HIM TOO EITHER SEND ME TOO A PLACE OR SEND ME THE MONEY AFTER I GET QOUTES ON THE PROBLEMS I THINK THE COST WOULD BE A TOTAL OF AROUND $1000 OR JUST GIVE ME WHAT I PUT INTO THE CAR PLUS WHAT I PAYED FOR IT AND I WOULD BE HAPPY THAT WOULD BE AROUND $1500. *NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2JB11K9K7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK FAILURE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-01-04
- VIN: 1G2JB51K6K7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING BELT FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-03
- VIN: 1G2JB51K6K7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE HARD TO START IN MORNING. *DH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-03
- VIN: 1G2JB51K6K7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MUFFLER REPLACED THREE TIMES.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-03
- VIN: 1G2JB51K6K7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: LOOSE WIRE ON DASH PANEL, CAUSES SPEEDOMETER TO FUNCTION INTERMITTENTLY.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-03
- VIN: 1G2JB51K6K7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TAIL PIPE REPLACED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-12-18
- VIN: 1G2JD11K3K7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT FAILURE, SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE. TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2JB51K4K7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE: WHILE DRIVING FREEWAY, HEARD BANG; NOTICED SMOKE; PULLED OVER; ENGINE ENGULFED WITH FIRE; NO WARNING. TT
1989 Pontiac Sunbird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1989 Pontiac Sunbird.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- 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:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: A FUEL TANK LEAK COULD OCCUR DUE TO SMALL CREASES ON THE TANK UNDERSIDE CRACKING DURING PRESSURE CYCLING WHICH OCCURS DURING NORMAL OPERATION.
- Consequence: IN PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, THIS CONDITION COULDRESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE FUEL TANK.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Pontiac Sunbird problems:
Pontiac Sunbird Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
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How Reliable is the Pontiac Sunbird? | Pontiac Complaints
The Sunbird ranks 1st in reliability out of 17 Pontiac models. Owners have made 24 complaints complaints over 5 model years, mostly about engine issues.
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Jan 11, 2003 ... 1989-93 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS SUPREME 1989-91 PONTIAC 6000 1989-93 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX 1990-92 PONTIAC FIREBIRD 1991-94 PONTIAC SUNBIRD WITH 3.1 ...
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Other years of Pontiac Sunbird
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