1993 Pontiac Sunbird problems

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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.

1993 Pontiac Sunbird

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Common 1993 Pontiac Sunbird problems

The 1993 Pontiac Sunbird has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the interior, drivetrain, and engine.

Interior Issues:

One of the most common issues reported by owners is a dinging or beeping noise while accelerating. This problem is not specific to the 1993 model and has been reported across various years of the Sunbird.

As the car ages, it may develop squeaking noises from the interior and front end.

Drivetrain Problems:

The Pontiac Sunbird has been reported to have issues with the torque converter clutch sticking after extended freeway driving. This problem is not exclusive to the 1993 model and has been reported across various years of the Sunbird.

Engine Issues:

The 1993 Pontiac Sunbird's engine has been reported to have several issues, primarily related to the ignition system and oil leaks. The ignition system in the 1993 Sunbird is a distributor-less system that requires no normal maintenance and remains trouble-free. However, the ignition system may cause issues if the crankshaft sensor fails, leading to problems with the spark plugs.

The engine may also leak oil from around the oil pan gasket after 70,000 miles. This problem is not exclusive to the 1993 model and has been reported across various years of the Sunbird.

In summary, the 1993 Pontiac Sunbird has several common problems related to the interior, drivetrain, and engine. These issues are not exclusive to the 1993 model and have been reported across various years of the Sunbird. It is essential to address these problems promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.

1993 Pontiac Sunbird engine

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.

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.

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.

How much does a 1993 Pontiac Sunbird weigh?

Dimensions, Weights & Capacities

Curb Weight2682 lbs.
Fuel Capacity15.2 gallons
Front Head Room37.8 inches
Front Leg Room42.2 inches
Max Seating Capacity5

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.

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.

What is the value of a 1990 Pontiac Sunbird?

The value of a used 1990 Pontiac Sunbird ranges from $812 to $4,400, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

What caused Pontiac to fail?

This put Pontiac in a fatal position given that GM was experiencing severe financial problems ahead of its bankruptcy in 2009. Pontiac was selling rebadged Chevrolet vehicles often at a lower price than Chevrolet, thereby not only earning a loss for itself, but also undercutting the Chevrolet brand altogether.

1993 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
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Pontiac Sunbird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1993 Pontiac Sunbird

The NHTSA has received 46 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Pontiac Sunbird. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1993 Pontiac Sunbird vehicles.

2004-01-15

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-09-15
  • VIN: 1G2JC54H7P7
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WATER LEAKS INSIDE CAR, RADIATOR LEAK, HEATER CORE, HEAD GASKET, THERMOSTAT, FREEZE OUT PLUGS, ENGINE WET WITH OIL, A/C CUTTING IN AND OUT, RUNS ROUGH WHEN A/C IS ON, SLOW PICK UP, DOOR LOCKS DON'T WORK, WINDOW WASHERS STOP BEFORE CYCLE IS DONE, BREAKS AND BREAK LINE BAD, WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR CRACKS TWICE NOW, OVER ALL REPAIRS TOTAL ABOUT $1600.00, AND WE HAVE TO REPLACE THE HEAD GASKET NEXT SO PLSU THIS AMOUNT, I HAVE BILLS KEPT OF ALL EXACT PAYMENTS OF PARTS AND LABOR
2004-01-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-09-10
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: I HAVE A 1993 PONTIAC SUBNBIRD, 2.2 L,AT,AC. I AHVE WENT THROUGH 3 BATTERIES IN THE LAST 6 MONTHS. I HAVE HAD THE ALTENATOR CHECKED AND IT CHECKED OUT GOOD. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT IS CAUSING THIS. *AK
2003-03-17

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-08-01
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AND THE BACK OF THE SEAT SLIDE AND TIPS FORWARD WHENEVER STOPPING. *NLM
2003-02-13

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-02-05
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1G2JC14T9P7
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION, WHICH RESULTED IN AN ACCIDENT, DRIVER AND PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES, CONSUMER BELIEVED INCIDENT WAS RELATED TO RECALL 93V190000, HOWEVER THE MANUFACTURER STATED THE TWO PROBLEMS WERE NOT RELATED.*JB
2002-08-20

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-08-02
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WHILE PARKED, THERE WAS A SHORT IN WIRING BEHIND THE GLOVE BOX AND A FIRE HAD STARTED. THE FIRE JUST BURNED THE WIRING AND SOME SMALL AREAS AROUND THE GLOVE BOX. *AK THE CONSUMER BELIEVES THAT THE RELAY SWITCH FOR THE AUTO LOCK SYSTEM WHICH IS LOCATED IN THE GLOVE BOX CAUSED THE FIRE. THE LOCK SYSTEM STARTED GIVING CONSUMER PROBLEMS A MONTH PRIOR TO FIRE, THEN STOPPED WORKING COMPLETELY ABOUT A WEEK AND A HALF BEFORE THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE GARAGE. THE CONSUMER HAD SEEN SMOKE COMING OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER THEN PULLED THE GLOVE BOX OUT AND SAW THE WIRES ON FIRE. *SCC
2001-12-04

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1G2JC14H0P7
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE PROBLEM ADDRESSED HERE IS A REPEATED, ERRATIC, SUDDEN LOSS OF SOME OR ALL BRAKE POWER IN THE CAR. MECHANICAL COMPONENTS HAVE BEEN REPLACED, PADS, ROTORS, ETC. BUT THE PROBLEM CONTINUES TO COME AND GO WITHOUT WARNING. RECALL WAS DENIED BY BOTH A PONTIAC DEALER AND THE CORPORATION.ATTEMPTS TO DETERMINE WHY MY VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL HAVE BEEN UNSUCCESSFUL..ATTEMPTS TO DETERMINE THE MANUFACTURER WERE DENIED...I NO LONGER CARE A GREAT DEAL ABOUT MY PERSONAL SATISFACTION, HOWEVER, THE DESCRIPTION OF THE PROBLEM IN NHTSA 93V-121 AND THE TROUBLES I'VE HAD ARE TOO SIMILAR TOO IGNORE SINCE THERE COULD BE ANY NUMBER OF SIMILARLY IGNORED VEHICLES ON THE ROAD...IF POSSIBLE, I'D LIKE TO FIND OUT WHY SOME CARS WERE LEFT OUT BEFORE I HAVE THE CAR FIXED...I CERTAINLY WON'T BE LETTING THE HOSES AND SUCH BE DISCARDED AFTER THE REPAIRS, BUT I WOULD LIKE SOME HELP COMPARING AND CONTRASTING THEM WITH THE ORIGINAL DISCREPANCIES...THANKS. *AK
2001-05-11

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-02-01
  • VIN: 1G2JC54H8P7
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 50 MPH THERE IS A VIBRATION IN STEERING WHEEL THAT CONSUMER FEELS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. HE HAS NOT TAKEN VEHICLE INTO A DEALERSHIP TO BE EXAMINED FOR A CAUSE OF THIS DEFECT. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS. *AK
2000-02-23

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-02-19
  • VIN: PLEASE FILL
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKING SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE WHICH MAY RESULT IN A CRASH DUE TO DEFECTIVE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER. OCCUPANT MUST PAY FOR REPAIRS. *AK *ML
2000-02-12

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-11-01
  • VIN: 1G2JC14HXP7
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MY CAR IS OVERHEATING, AND THERE ARE NO LEAKS. IT HAS A NEW THERMOSTAT, AND THE WATER PUMP IS FINE EVERYTHING SEEMS TO BE OK, BUT FOR SOME REASON IT IS STILL OVERHEATING *AK
1999-10-26

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE AND PASSENGER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT PROPERLY. SOMETIMES WHEN PULLING THEM OUT, THEY WILL GET JAMMED, AND DO NOT REACH THE BUCKLE RECEIVER. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN VEHICLE. *AK
1999-07-21

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-05-18
  • VIN: 2G2FS22SXP2
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: THE TAILLIGHT SOCKETS MELTED WHEN IN USE. THE SOCKETS ARE MADE OF PLASTIC AS ARE THE OUTER MOST SOCKETS. *AK
1999-05-03

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2JE54TXP7
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL TANK DESIGN IS WEAK, WHEN ROAD DEBRIS HIT TANK RESULTED IN HOLE AND LEAKAGE. MJS
1999-04-02

SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-12
  • VIN: 1G2JC14TXP7
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WHEN DRIVING VEHICLE HESITATES, AND THERE IS SOME GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR SHOCKS. CONSUMER HAD TO REPLACE THE CONTAINER WHERE THE WINDSHIELD FLUID GOES BECAUSE THE FLUID KEPT LEAKING OUT OF THE CONTAINER, AND THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE STATES THAT VEHICLE IS HOT. VEHICLE IS HOT, AND THEIR IS A BUZZING SOUND COMING FROM THE DEFOGGER. *AK
1999-02-13

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2JC54H8P7
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: SERPENTINE BELT FAILED/REPLACED.
1998-11-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-11-08
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1G2JB14H5P7
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: SHORT WITHIN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE.
1998-11-16

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-11-08
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1G2JB14H5P7
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CONSUMER CALLED AAA BECAUSE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START, AAA JUMPED THE BATTERY, SAID THAT SOMETHING IS DRAINING, THE BATTERY THEY DID NOT KNOW WHAT, BUT ASKED HER TO LET THE VEHICLE RUN ABOUT 20 MINUTES BEFORE SHUTTING OFF. APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES AFTER AAA LEFT, THE VEHICLE WAS IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME, THE FIRE WAS IN THE DASH AREA. AFTER PUTTING FIRE OUT, THEY DISCOVERD A BOX OF WIRES UNDER DASH BEHIND GLOVE BOX, THAT CAUGHT ON FIRE. *AK
1998-08-19

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-06-15
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: NOT AVAILAB
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING 25 MPH AND UPON MAKING A SUDDEN STOP THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD, RESULTING IN AN REAREND COLLISION. ALSO VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
1998-08-04

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-03-13
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: CONSUMER'S DAUGHTER WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION. SHOULDER HARNESS FAILED TO OPERATE PROPERLY AND DRIVE RHIT THE STEERING WHEEL.
1998-06-03

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-05-01
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 1G2JC54H5P7
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: PASSENGER SEAT BELT BROKE WHILE BUCKLED, STITCHES CAME OUT OF BELT.
1998-03-25

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-03-13
  • VIN: 1G2JC14H2P7
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: LEFT FRONT SEAT BELT MALFUNCTIONED. *AK
1997-12-10

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-12-10
  • VIN: 1G2JB54HOP7
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE 25 MPH THE HOOD LATCHES DID NOT WORK OR DID NOT SECURE HOOD, CAUSING HOOD TO BLOW UP, SLAMMING TO WINDSHIELD AND CRACKING WINDSHIELD GLASS. THIS MATTER DID NOT CAUSE AN ACCIDENT TO CONSUMER. THE CONSUMER HAD NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO DEALER OR SHOP TO BE REPAIRED. DEALER OR MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. *AK
1997-11-19

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-06-06
  • VIN: 1G2JB34T4P7
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: BODY WELDS FAILED.
1997-10-24

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 16MDU06DSPT
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: HYDRAULIC BAG LIFT FAILED.
1997-10-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G2NE54N3PM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE FAILED.
1997-07-25

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-02-12
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE RADIATOR CAP AND THE RADIATOR VALVE HAVE CORRODED AND RUSTED, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LOSE COOLANT. *AK

1993 Pontiac Sunbird recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1993 Pontiac Sunbird.

2009-04-07
  • 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.
1993-11-22
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. DURING VERY COLD WEATHER, WATER THATN ENTERS THE ACCELERATOR CONTROL CABLE CONDUIT FREEZES AND CAUSES THE ACCELERATOR CABLE TO DEVELOP A HIGH EFFORT OR BINDING CONDITION.
  • Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, LOSS OF NORMAL THROTTLE CONTROL CAN RESULT, OR THE THROTTLE WILL NOT RETURN TO IDLE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS RELEASED, CAUSING POSSIBLE LOSS OF CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR CONTROL ASSEMBLY.
1993-07-21
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: THE BRAKE HOSES WERE MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY, AND DO NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 106, "BRAKE HOSES."
  • Consequence: THE IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED BRAKE HOSES CAN CAUSEREDUCED BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS AND/OR UNEVEN BRAKING, WHICH COULD RESULT IN ANACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: REPLACE THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE HOSE ASSEMBLY ON CIERA AND CENTURY MODELS, AND BOTH REAR BRAKE HOSES ON CAVALIER AND SUNBIRD MODELS.

Negative 1993 Pontiac Sunbird car reviews

  1. Luigi Stoltenberg 2025-01-01

    My car has required some maintenance, such as replacing the battery and thermostat. Unfortunately, the roof has started to crack and rip, and the plastic molding on the outside of the car has started to pull away from the door. Additionally, one of the windows does not work. However, the heat works very well. Although the AC is not as cool as I would like, it is still functional. The plastic pieces inside the car are not of the highest quality, and the dash above the clock may start to pull away. Overall, it is a nice car, especially for smaller individuals.

  2. Reece McKenzie 2024-11-19

    Your car seems to be running well! I've had it since 10/2001 and haven't experienced any major issues with it.

  3. Elmo Nienow 2024-10-28

    I think you've got yourself a good beginner's car. It's very easy to control, although it may struggle a bit with speed when going uphill, but that's to be expected with an older 4cyl car. It's worth noting that there isn't much legroom for anyone but the driver, but all in all, I personally think it's a great car.

  4. Jensen Collier 2024-10-05

    This car is quite similar to my other vehicle, a 1992 Chevy Cavalier, but unfortunately, the Sunbird has proven to be less reliable. It has had a cracked cylinder head and several other fairly major problems. As someone who works in the automotive industry and speaks with many other Sunbird owners, I have yet to find anyone who really likes their car.

  5. Bernie Conroy 2024-09-10

    Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it when I was just 17 and looking back, it was a bit of a silly decision. On the day I drove it off the lot, the Check Engine light came on and I started to overheat. It was definitely a stressful start, but I'm happy to say that I've had this car for a while now. Over the years, I've had to replace a lot of parts, from the Pontiac to the headgaskets, and even the alternators. The transmission was the last thing to go, and it finally gave out a couple of days ago. Despite all of the costly repairs, I still have a soft spot for this car. In fact, I'm moving onto a 1996 Pontiac Grand Am now. Thanks for listening to my story!

Positive 1993 Pontiac Sunbird car reviews

  1. Noe Friesen 2024-11-21

    Hey there! I'm happy to hear that your experience with this car has been great! It's always a relief to have a reliable vehicle. It's great to know that you haven't had any problems with it since you bought it. Thanks for sharing!

  2. Christopher Wisozk 2024-11-03

    Hi there! I just had to share my experience with my car. I bought it brand new in 1993 in West Palm, Florida and it's still going strong in 2010 with 225,000 miles on it! It's been such a reliable car, with no major problems and it gets an impressive 32 mpg. The only issue I've had is with the interior lights not working, but that's a minor thing. It handles great in the snow and I absolutely love it. I live in upstate NY and plan to keep driving it until it dies, and who knows, maybe even try to revive it! I just make sure to change the oil, transmission fluid, and fuel filter every 30,000 miles and do regular service things. I even undercoated it with roofing tar! Here's to many more years with my trusty GM car!

  3. Steve Kozey 2024-10-04

    Your Sunbird sounds like a great car! It's impressive that it has lasted so long without any major repairs. It's true that regular maintenance can make a big difference in the longevity of a car. You've done a great job taking care of it. The only things you've had to replace are brakes, tires, and a couple of belts, which is pretty standard. Keep up the good work!

  4. Murphy Harris 2024-10-03

    My Sunbird has been my favorite car. I still kept it after I bought another vehicle. This car drives well with the right mods. I am a fan of noise, so my Sunbird is equipped with a Flowmaster Exhaust, K&N Air filter, Hyper White lights, self-built undercarriage air scoop, and Cobra Eyes. All in all, I absolutely LOVE my Sunbird!

  5. Solon Barton 2024-09-11

    I love my 2nd Sunbird! Although I didn't take good care of my first one and it didn't last, I've found these cars to be extremely reliable as long as you give them the attention they need. Regular maintenance on a consistent schedule is crucial. The 2.0 will need a head gasket job at about 100000M, and it's best to have an authorized GM dealer take care of it. I decided to replace the head as well, and I'm glad I did. Overall, it's a great car that just needs some finely tuned attention to detail. I plan to drive mine until the wheels fall off! It can be difficult to find parts, so if you come across one at a local junkyard, I recommend stocking up on as much as you can carry.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1993 Pontiac Sunbird problems:

Pontiac Sunbird Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Pontiac Sunbird Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/pontiac/sunbird

Top Pontiac Sunbird Problems · Torque Converter Clutch Can Stick After Extended Freeway Driving · Car Won't Start Due to Ignition Coil/Crankshaft Position Sensor ...

Q&A: 2000 Pontiac Sunfire SE - Troubleshooting Common Problems
Q&A: 2000 Pontiac Sunfire SE - Troubleshooting Common Problems
https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/7udwd-pontiac-sunfire-2000-pontiac-sunfire-sometimes-when.html

Jun 29, 2013 ... I have a 2000 Pontiac Sunfire. Sometimes when your driving, it just dies. I can pull over and restart the car and - Answered by a verified ...

Pontiac Sunfire Starting and Stalling Problems — Car Forums at ...
Pontiac Sunfire Starting and Stalling Problems — Car Forums at ...
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/15795/pontiac/sunfire/pontiac-sunfire-starting-and-stalling-problems

Mar 10, 2005 ... i've owned it for a couple of years, and have fixed most of the common problems with the 2.2, as in the head gasket, fuel pump, ignition module, ...

Common 3.1 V6 Engine Problems & Sunbird Troubleshooting ...
Common 3.1 V6 Engine Problems & Sunbird Troubleshooting ...
https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/33t0f-93-sunbird-120k-miles-3-1-v6-driving-along-engine-dies.html

Feb 5, 2010 ... The car had a previous issue with a timing belt tensioner loosening up. Is this sensor hard to get to? Pontiac Mechanic: Dave Nova.

How Reliable is the Pontiac Sunbird? | Pontiac Complaints
How Reliable is the Pontiac Sunbird? | Pontiac Complaints
http://www.pontiacproblems.com/models/sunbird/

The Sunbird ranks 1st in reliability out of 17 Pontiac models ... 1993 Sunbird overheating not ... Documenting the process of troubleshooting common problems.

Other years of Pontiac Sunbird

pontiac sunbird 1994 photo
Sunbird 1994
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46

2

20

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pontiac sunbird 1995 photo
Sunbird 1995
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1

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pontiac sunbird 1996 photo
Sunbird 1996
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pontiac sunbird 1997 photo
Sunbird 1997
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4

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pontiac sunbird 1998 photo
Sunbird 1998
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2

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pontiac sunbird 1999 photo
Sunbird 1999
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3

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