1985 Pontiac Sunfire problems
The Pontiac Sunfire is a compact car by Pontiac that was introduced for the 1995 model year to replace the Sunbird. Not only was the name changed, but dramatic styling changes were included as well. The new styling was shared with the redesigned Chevrolet Cavalier. The J platform was updated structurally to meet more stringent safety standards for the 1996 model year.
The Pontiac Sunfire went through two facelifts in its 11-year run: a small redesign in 2000 featuring the heavy plastic cladding look that was prevalent with Pontiac at the time, and a more streamlined update in 2003. In the US, the coupe was the only model available from 2003 to 2005. The sedan continued to be sold in Canada and Mexico until the end of production on June 22, 2005. GM replaced the Sunfire with the G5 for the 2006 model year in Canada and the 2007 model year in the United States.
Technical
- 1995 – 2
- 1995–1997 – 2
- 1998–2002 – 2
- 1996–2002 – 2
- 2002–2005 – 2
The base model had the 2.2 L engine from 1994 until 2002. The GT trim level had an optional, more powerful 2.3 L Quad 4 engine from 1994 to 1995, which was replaced by the 2.4 L LD9 engine in 1995. The 2.3 and 2.4 litre engines were optional in the 2 and 4 door LS trim level. In 2003, both the 2.2 L and the 2.4 L engines were replaced by the 2.2 L Ecotec engine, and would be the only powertrain available for the remainder of production. The Ecotec engine was also an option for the 2002 model year.
At the time of introduction, the Sunfire was available with a three-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. General Motors had envisioned introducing a new four-speed automatic with the new car, but the company's cash shortage delayed this option until the next year.
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Common 1985 Pontiac Sunfire problems
The Pontiac Sunfire, produced from 1995 to 2005, is known for several common problems based on complaints from its owners. One of the most frequently reported issues is the failure of the turn signal switch, which can cause the signals to stop working. This problem can be caused by wear and tear on the switch, which can eventually lead to complete failure. Replacing the switch is the most common solution to this problem.
Another common issue with the Pontiac Sunfire is the frequent consumption of headlamp bulbs. This problem can be particularly frustrating for owners, as it can lead to frequent and unexpected replacements of the bulbs. The cause of this problem is not entirely clear, but it is thought to be related to the design of the car's electrical system.
The interior of the Pontiac Sunfire has also been a source of complaints from owners. The blob-like design of the interior has been criticized for its lack of style and modernity. Additionally, the lack of headroom in the car has been a problem for taller drivers, who may find their heads pressed against the ceiling in every Cavalier and Sunfire they ride in.
The Pontiac Sunfire has also been known to have issues with its torque converter clutch. This problem can occur after extended freeway driving and can cause the car to have difficulty shifting gears. The cause of this problem is thought to be related to the design of the car's transmission, which can become worn over time.
Finally, the Pontiac Sunfire has been known to have issues with its ignition lock cylinder. This problem can cause the car to have difficulty starting, even after the ignition has been turned on. The cause of this problem is thought to be related to the design of the ignition lock cylinder, which can become worn over time.
In conclusion, the Pontiac Sunfire has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These problems include the failure of the turn signal switch, frequent consumption of headlamp bulbs, a poorly designed interior, issues with the torque converter clutch, and problems with the ignition lock cylinder. While these problems can be frustrating for owners, many of them can be addressed with simple repairs or replacements.
Who makes Pontiac Sunfire?
The Pontiac Sunfire was a car produced by Pontiac from 1995 through 2005. The Sunfire succeeded the Pontiac Sunbird and was succeeded by the Pontiac G5 (a rebadged Chevrolet Cobalt).
What was Chevy's version of the Pontiac Sunbird?
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.
Is Pontiac Sunfire a good car?
This vehicle is a pretty decent and reliable car. Haven't had any major issues with this car since I have had it. I think this is a decent car for someone who is just starting out driving or who simply needs for commuting. It is an excellent gas saver, it doesn't take much to fill up the gas tank.
Who made Pontiac engines?
General Motors
| Pontiac V8 engine | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Pontiac (General Motors) |
| Also called | Strato Streak |
| Production | 1955–1981 Pontiac Assembly (engine block and heads) Saginaw Metal Casting Operations |
| Layout |
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 year did the Pontiac J2000 come out?
Second generation (1982–1987)
| Sunbird Series 2J | |
|---|---|
| Also called | J2000 (1982) 2000 (1983) 2000 Sunbird (1983–1984) |
| Production | 1981–1987 |
| Model years | 1982–1987 |
| Assembly | United States: Lordstown, Ohio (Lordstown Assembly) (1982-1987) Kansas City, Missouri (Leeds Assembly) (1982 only) |
Is Pontiac high maintenance?
Pontiac Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost. The annual maintenance cost of a Pontiac is $460. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
Is Pontiac Sunfire a good car?
This vehicle is a pretty decent and reliable car. Haven't had any major issues with this car since I have had it. I think this is a decent car for someone who is just starting out driving or who simply needs for commuting. It is an excellent gas saver, it doesn't take much to fill up the gas tank.
1985 Pontiac Sunfire car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Sunfire problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Pontiac Sunfire vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Pontiac Sunfire complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Pontiac Sunfire.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2JB1249S7
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO DEPLOYMENT OF PASSENGER'S AIR BAG DURING A COLLISION. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-01
- VIN: 1G2JB52A3T7
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BRAKE STOP LAMP LIGHT, WHEN BRAKE ARE APPLIED, CAUSING REFELECTION AND VISION PROBLEMS. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1985 Pontiac Sunfire problems:
Q&A: Causes of High Idle in 1990 Pontiac Sunbird Convertible
Mar 11, 2011 ... Another common cause would be the Idle Air Control motor. This is very common on older cars. The IAC motor gets lazy and cant keep up with the ...
Pontiac Sunbird Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Top Pontiac Sunbird Problems · Torque Converter Clutch Can Stick After Extended Freeway Driving · Car Won't Start Due to Ignition Coil/Crankshaft Position Sensor ...
Mystery of the 1988 Cavalier — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jan 8, 2003 ... This is a very common problem with the ... One had a base 1985 ... cutehumor Member Posts: 137. January 2003. I hear ya on the head gaskets. my g/f ...
Pontiac Sunfire Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
Top Pontiac Sunfire Problems · Turn Signal Switch May Fail and Cause Signals Not to Work · Power Window Motors May Fail From Overheating · Check Engine Light Due ...
Sunfire front end "clunk" — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
May 25, 2001 ... Home › Pontiac › Pontiac Sunfire. Edmunds ... Pontiac Sunfire · Sedans · Repairs ... known for strut problems, especially on the 95-97 models.
Other years of Pontiac Sunfire
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