2002 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 2002 Pontiac Sunfire problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Pontiac Sunfire 2002, several common problems have been identified:
- Air Conditioning and Transmission Problems:
- Owners have reported issues with the air conditioning compressor failing at relatively low mileage, around 48,000 miles, and the transmission needing replacement at 50,000 miles. These problems can result in discomfort for the driver and passengers due to lack of cooling and potential transmission failure, impacting the vehicle's drivability.
- Electrical System Malfunctions:
- Complaints include various electrical system issues such as problems with the radio, wiring, and ignition switch. Electrical malfunctions can lead to issues with starting the vehicle, entertainment system failures, and overall electrical system reliability concerns.
- Braking System Concerns:
- Some owners have reported brake slippage issues with the 1998 Pontiac Sunfire model. Brake problems can compromise the safety of the vehicle, affecting its ability to stop efficiently and potentially leading to accidents.
- Window Mechanism Failures:
- A common complaint among Pontiac Sunfire owners is the failure of the power window mechanism, particularly due to cheap plastic parts in the power window pulley assembly. This issue can result in inconvenience for drivers and passengers, affecting the overall functionality of the vehicle.
- General Build Quality:
- Owners have expressed dissatisfaction with the overall build quality of the Pontiac Sunfire 2002, citing issues like seat backing springs breaking, control arm bushings wearing out prematurely, and various interior components failing. These quality concerns can lead to frequent repairs, reduced reliability, and potential safety hazards for occupants.
By addressing these common problems reported by owners of the Pontiac Sunfire 2002, potential buyers and current owners can be better informed about the specific issues they may encounter with this vehicle model. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections can help mitigate these problems and ensure a safer and more reliable driving experience.
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.
What is the mileage on a 2002 Sunfire?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Regular Gasoline |
| 24 MPG 21 30 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 4.2 gal/100mi | |
| MPG estimates for 2016 and older vehicles may have been revised Learn more | View Original EPA MPG |
What is the difference between a 2002 Pontiac Sunfire GT and SE?
Sunfire SE comes equipped with standard air conditioning, an AM/FM cassette stereo, antilock brakes and 24-hour roadside assistance. GT models add the upgraded 2.4-liter engine, 16-inch performance wheels and tires, a six-speaker CD stereo, leather-wrapped steering wheel and upgraded leather/cloth interior.
Why won t my 2002 Pontiac Sunfire start?
The most common reasons a Pontiac Sunfire won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
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.
What is the mileage on a 2002 Sunfire?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Regular Gasoline |
| 24 MPG 21 30 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 4.2 gal/100mi | |
| MPG estimates for 2016 and older vehicles may have been revised Learn more | View Original EPA MPG |
Why won t my 2002 Pontiac Sunfire start?
The most common reasons a Pontiac Sunfire won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What is the top speed of a Pontiac Sunfire?
PONTIAC Sunfire 2.2L 4AT FWD (140 HP)
| PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
|---|---|
| Top Speed: | 118 mph (190 km/h) |
2002 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Pontiac Sunfire vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
The NHTSA has received 91 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Pontiac Sunfire vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-24
- VIN: 1JG2JB52482
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY TILT STEERING WHEEL COLUMN WOBBLES FROM SIDE TO SIDE, IT WOULD NEVER STAY LOCKED IN ONE POSITION AND WITH TIME IT STARTED TO MOVE WHILE DRIVING, PEOPLE HAVE ATTEMPTED TO FIX IT, BUT IT DOESN'T LAST AND I CAN'T GET A SAFETY INSPECTION BECAUSE OF IT, THE INSPECTOR SAYS IT IS TOO DANGEROUS. IT HAS NEVER BEEN WRECKED OR DAMAGED AND WAS BOUGHT BRAND NEW, IT ABOUT 123,000 MILES ON IT. WHEN I TURN TO THE LEFT ESPECIALLY, THE STEERING WHEEL FLOPS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-14
- VIN: 1G2JB524127
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE GEAR LEVER WAS SHIFTED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE HAD FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,080. ...UPDATED 01/20/16 *BF UPDATED 1/12/16 *9CN... UPDATED 04/20/18*JB *CN
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-28
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE, GOT MY FUSES AND RELAY'S ALL CHECKED AND TURNED THE CAR ON THE NEXT MORNING, NOTHING ON MY DASH PANEL IS WORKING. NO MILEAGE, NONE OF THE GAUGES WORK, FUSES AND RELAYS ARE ALL GOOD.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-27
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED AND THE TRACK OFF WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS AND WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-11
- VIN: 1G2JB124327
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE BEEN THE ONLY OWNER OF MY 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE; WELL BACK IN 2011 IT JUST WOULD NOT START; TOOK IT TO A TRUSTY MECHANIC WHO TOLD ME I HAD TO GO TO THE DEALERSHIP CAUSE MOST LIKELY I NEEDED AN IGNITION SWITCH; SO I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER IN TOWN; BEING THEY ARE A GM DEALER; I MENTIONED WHAT IT NEEDED; THEY LOOKED AT IT FOR SEVERAL DAYS AND TOLD ME I NEEDED A NEW COMPUTER SYSTEM; AND IT WAS 703.00 FOR LABOR AND EVERYTHING; OKAY SO WE DECIDE TO FIX IT; GET IT BACK AND GUESS WHAT SEVERAL WEEKS LATER IT DIES ON THE INTERSTATE WHILE MY HUSBAND WAS GOING 70MPH; HE HAD TO THROW IT INTO NEUTRAL AND PULL OVER; CAUSE IT ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT!!! TAKE IT BACK TO SAME DEALERSHIP; THEY CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT; THEY HAVE ME COME PICK IT UP AND IT WONT EVEN START!!! SO I LEAVE IT THERE; THEN THEY CALL ME THAT MONDAY; YOU NEED AN IGNITION SWITCH AND WE WILL REPLACE THIS FOR FREE; DID I EVEN NEED A NEW COMPUTER??? GM THIS CAR IS DANGEROUS AND NEEDS TO BE ON THAT RECALL LIST; CAUSE ITS NEXT; ALSO; I HAVE HAD A BROKEN TRUNK; A BROKEN MOON ROOF; AND IN THE WINTER WHEN ITS REALLY COLD OUT; GOOD LUCK GETTING INSIDE THE CAR; THESE DOORS FREEZE LIKE NO OTHER; ITS NOT MEANT TO SIT OUTSIDE; I HAVE HAD OVERHEATING ISSUES; GOT THAT FIXED FINALLY; NOW THE AC COMPRESSOR IS SHOT AND THE AC WON'T WORK; THAT IS 800.00 TO FIX; BUT BEFORE WITH TRYING TO RUN THE AC THE CAR WOULD REV UP REALLY BAD WHEN SITTING IDLE AND SOMETIMES IT JUST SHUTS OFF; ALWAYS STARTS BACK UP; THANK GOODNESS; BUT THE COMPUTER AND COMPRESSOR COULD NOT KEEP UP WITH EACH OTHER IS WHAT I WAS TOLD; THE BODY ON THIS CAR IS HORRIBLE; EXPECT RUST UNLESS YOU KEEP IT IN A GARAGE AND THE PAINT PEELS LIKE NO OTHER; IF THERE IS AN IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEM; WHY IS THIS CAR NOT ON THE RECALL??? THIS CAR ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT; MY HUSBAND KNEW WHAT TO DO; ALSO SOMETIMES THE SEAT BELTS ALMOST CHOKE YOU, BE CAREFUL! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-23
- VIN: 1G2JB124227
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY TOOK THIRTY MINUTES TO EJECT FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH AFTER REPEATED ATTEMPTS. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION, THE IGNITION KEY FAILED TO TURN IN ANY POSITION OR RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC REPLACED THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-26
- VIN: 1G2JB124527
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED, THE KEY BECAME STUCK IN THE IGNITION AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE PLACED IN DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND PROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-01
- VIN: 1G2JB124427
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN TRYING TO PUT CAR INTO PARK, SHIFT CABLE BROKE AND IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO GET INTO PARK. HAD TO USE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO KEEP CAR FROM ROLLING. THEN, BECAUSE CAR WASN'T FULLY IN PARK, IGNITION WOULDN'T RESTART. HAD TO REPLACE CABLE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-15
- VIN: 1G2JB524527
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION SEIZED IN THE "ON" POSITION AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO TURN OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 151,000.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2JB124527
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STEERING COLUMN BEGAN TO SMOKE AND CAR ENGINE STOPPED. DEALERSHIP DETERMINED THE CAUSE TO BE A SHORT IN THE IGNITION SWITCH WIRING HARNESS DUE TO RUBBING ON THE STEERING COLUMN. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-04
- VIN: 1G2JB124827
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHENEVER STARTING THE IGNITION, THE ABS AND ENGINE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE CANISTER VAMP SOLENOID AND EVAP CANISTER WERE BOTH REPLACED. THE FAILURE PERSISTED AFTER THE REPAIR WAS PERFORMED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-01
- VIN: 1G2JD12F627
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS IS NOT THE FIRST ISSUE WE HAVE HAD WITH THIS VEHICLE AND ELECTRICAL ISSUES. IT SPENT 6 WEEKS IN THE SHOP THE FIRST TIME BACK IN LATE 2011 BECAUSE THE WIPERS, LIGHTS, POWER ANYTHING IN CAR WENT ON THE FRITZ AND LOCKS FAILED. NOW THE DRL LIGHTS QUIT AND THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON WHEN THEY FAIL WHEN YOU PUT THE CAR INTO GEAR, HIGH BEAMS QUIT, REAR LIGHT CONNECTORS ARE ROTTED AND SHORTED OUT AND THE IGNITION SWITCH IS SCREWED UP AND THAT IS ONLY THE BEGINNING. IT HAS GONE INTO WEEK 7 NOW WITH NO RESULTS. I FEEL GENERAL MOTORS OWES US SOME SOLUTION TO THESE PROBLEMS ESPECIALLY SINCE I AM FINDING OUT I AM NOT THE ONLY OWNER OF THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE THAT HAS HAD THE EXACT SAME ELECTRICAL ISSUES. THESE ARE SAFETY ISSUES NOT TO MENTION VERY COSTLY REPAIRS AND BEING WITHOUT OUR VEHICLE TO GO BACK AND FORTH TO WORK. OUT OF THE 70 COMPLAINTS I READ THERE ARE 20 PLUS ISSUES WITH THE SAME ELECTRICAL ISSUES I AM HAVING. WHY HAS GENERAL MOTORS NOT DONE ANYTHING TO ADDRESS THESE ISSUES OR AT LEAST HELP WITH THE REPAIR COSTS?? IN THE LAST YEAR AND A HALF MY CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP 13 WEEKS AND COUNTING FOR THESE ELECTRICAL ISSUES. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-15
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO DETECTED THAT THE ENTIRE FRAME WAS COMPLETELY CORRODED AND THAT THE DAMAGE WAS BEYOND REPAIR. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,690. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-20
- VIN: 1G2JB124327
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE DRL LIGHTS ON MY DAUGHTERS PONTIAC SUNFIRE MALFUNCTIONED AND QUIT WORKING. THE PROBLEM WITH THE DRL'S IS THAT THEY ARE WIRED INTO THE HEADLIGHTS, AND WHEN THE DRL"S SHORT OUT THEY DISABLE THE LEFT HEADLIGHT. I HAVE TRYING T TO GET IT REPAIRED BUT HAVEN'T FOUND THE PROBLEM YET. I HAVE REPLACED THE DRL RELAY, THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH, THE BULBS, WITH NO LUCK. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: 1G2JB12F627
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FIRE HAZARD, REAR LIGHT SOCKETS MELTING AND SMOKING. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-01
- VIN: 1G2JB12F327
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE STEERING WHEEL. OUTER COVER AND FOAM SEPARATED FROM INNER STEEL FRAME. IN AN EMERGENCY MANEUVER WITH RAPID STEERING (OR IF POWER STEERING FAILS) OUTER COVER AND FOAM CAN TEAR CAUSING LOSS OF ABILITY TO STEER CAR. FIRST FAILURE ON THIS CAR WAS IN AUGUST 13, 2004, CAR HAD 32,437 MI. AND DEALER REPLACED STEERING WHEEL UNDER WARRANTY. TECH WHO INSPECTED CAR SAID "SAFETY ISSUE". SECOND FAILURE WAS IN JULY 2010 AT 83,000 MI. DEALER AND GM WOULD NOT ADMIT TO THIS BEING A SAFETY ISSUE AS WELL AS A DEFECTIVE DESIGN AND ESTIMATED REPAIR COST OF $450. GM WOULD NOT COVER THE COST OF THE REPAIR. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-27
- VIN: 1G2JB524X27
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING WHEEL WAS SO LOOSE IT HAD RADIAL AND AXIAL PLAY. THE CAR WAS HARD TO STEER BECAUSE OF THE COLLAPSED STEERING WHEEL. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE THEIR FINDING WAS A "WORN PART" WITHIN THE STEERING COLUMN. IT WAS A PIN TYPE OF COMPONENT THAT WAS USED TO PIVOT AND MOVE THE STEERING WHEEL ACCORDING TO THE MECHANIC. THE CHARGE TO FIX THE PROBLEM WAS ESTIMATED AT $729 TO REPLACE THE WHOLE STEERING COLUMN. THE CAR WAS DRIVEN HOME AND PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY WHERE A COMPLAINT IS BEING FILED. HOW CAN A COMPONENT BE WORN FROM ONE OF THE MOST CRITICAL PARTS OF A CAR AND NOT BE CONSIDERED A DEFECT? THE FUNNIEST THING WAS WHEN THE SERVICE PERSONNEL GAVE THE KEYS TO THE MECHANIC HE SAID, "BE CAREFUL DRIVING THAT THING, IT'S DANGEROUS". DRIVING 65MPH ON AN INTERSTATE AND YOUR STEERING WHEEL COLLAPSING IS NOT ANYTHING I WOULD LIKE MY WORST ENEMY TO EXPERIENCE. I DON'T WANT TO BE THE FIRST PERSON TO BE INJURED OR DIE IN A CAR CRASH FOR THIS TO FINALLY BE A RECALL. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-02
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THIS CAR WAS BOUGHT BRAND NEW. SINCE IT'S PURCHASE WE HAVE HAD MANY ISSUES. WE HAD TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION AT LESS THAN 20,000 (IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY THOUGH). MY POWER WINDOWS HAVE ALL STOPPED WORKING AND HAVE BEEN REPLACED (I'VE HAD TO BUY 7 DIFFERENT ONES), MY CIGARETTE LIGHTER FUSE HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE, I HAVE ALSO HAD THE PROBLEMS WITH MY HEADLIGHTS AND THEY HAVE HAD SHORTS AND THE WIRING HAS NEEDED REPLACED ON BOTH SIDES, AND LAST FINALLY MY SWITCH ON MY DRIVER DOOR THAT TURNS THE DOME LIGHT ON AND THE RADIO OFF HAS NEEDED CHANGED 3 TIMES NOW! WE HAVE HAD MANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR AND I WOULD NEVER RECOMMEND THIS CAR TO ANYONE!! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-20
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE GAUGES STOPPED WORKING WHEN THE LIGHTS AND HEATER WAS TURNED ON THUS CAUSING ME TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED HOME WHERE I WAS ABLE TO IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM AS THE WIRING HARNESS FOR THE VEHICLE. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-15
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDOW MOTORS ARE SUSCEPTIBLE TO WATER INTRUSION CAUSING PREMATURE FAILURE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2JB124727
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ON NOVEMBER 12, 2008 I WAS IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT. I WAS DRIVING MY 2002 PONTIAC SUNFIRE THAT I HAD PURCHASED ON OCTOBER 28, 2008. AS THE CAR AHEAD OF ME BEGAN TO BRAKE I BEGAN TO BRAKE AS WELL. HOWEVER, IT DID NOT FEEL AS THOUGHT THE BRAKES "GRABBED" CAUSING ME TO COLLIDE INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I HAVE A BROKEN FOOT CAUSED FROM PUSHING ON THE BRAKES. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-15
- VIN: 1G2JB124X27
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW MOTOR STOPPED WORKING. DRIVER SIDE WINDOW MOTOR WORKING SLOWLY. UPON REPLACING THE BAD MOTOR I NOTICED THERE WAS NO ASSIST SPRING ON THE WINDOW LIFTING ASSEMBLY ON EITHER DOOR. ALTHOUGH THERE IS A SPOT FOR ONE ON BOTH ASSEMBLIES. ASSEMBLIES THAT I HAD WORKED ON IN THE PAST INCLUDED THESE SPRINGS. I HAD THOUGHT THAT THE ASSIST SPRINGS WERE THERE TO HELP THE MOTOR IN LIFTING THE WINDOW. ESPECIALLY IN A TWO DOOR WITH LARGER WINDOWS. *TR
VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-29
- Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MY WINDOW MOTORS STARTED GOING OUT OR LOSING POWER THE SHOP COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG WITH THEM THE FINALLY STOPPED WORKING IN OCT OF 2007 A FRIEND HAS THE SAME CAR AND HER DID THE SAME THING AFTER REPLACING THE MOTORS IN THE WINDOWS 8 MONTHS LATER ONE OF THE MOTORS STARTED ACTING THE SAME WAY AGAIN MY FRIEND HAD TO REPLACE HER S ALSO IS THERE A DEFECT WITH THE MOTORS. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON HIGHWAY 270-STATE ROUTE 3, AND WAS DRIVING WITH THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC! WENT TO CHANGE LANES FROM LEFT TO RIGHT! STARTED MERGING INTO MY CHANGING LANE WHEN I NOTICED A CAR SPEEDING INTO MY CHANGING LANE! I PULLED BACK INTO MY PREVIOUS LANE QUICKLY SO AS NOT TOO BE HIT. SOON AFTER MY CAR STARTED TOO SPIN. DID A 360 IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY, WENT INTO THE DIVIDING CEMENT WALL, HIT THAT AND DID ANOTHER 360 ON TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FREEWAY! AFTER CHECKING OUT MY TIRES I NOTICED A FLAT TIRE ON MY FRONT LEFT! LATER IN THE NIGHT NOTICED A ROUND INDENT IN THE SIDEWAY OF THE TIRE BUT LOOKED LIKE A BRAND NEW TIRE! I'VE HAD THESE TIRES A LITTLE MORE THEN A MONTH AND THEY WERE BALANCED AND HAD BEEN PUT ON STRAIGHT FROM THE TIRE DISCOUNT S STORE! THESE ARE YOKOHAMA, YK520 TIRES!! ONLY PUT A COUPLE THOUSAND MILES, NEVER DAMAGED THE TIRES AND NEVER TOUCHED THEM!! NOW MY CAR IS COMPLETELY TOTALED AND SOME DAMAGE TOO THE ENGINE! I VERY UN-HAPPY AND WILL BE TAKING THIS TO COURT WITH MY LAWYER!!! *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-23
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: PURCHASED 4 TIRES ON 1/24/2007 FROM SEARS ROEBUCK ON CONCORD PIKE WILMINGTON DELAWARE AND HAD 4 VALVE STEMS REPLACED AT THAT TIME, ON JUNE 11TH 2008 AFTER GOING ONLY 8,000 MILES ON THE TIRES WE HAD THE TIRE GO FLAT FROM A DEFECTIVE VALVE STEM. TODAY WE HAD ANOTHER FLAT ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY FROM ANOTHER DEFECTIVE VALVE STEM. IN CHECKING THE REMAINING TWO TIRES THEY ALSO HAVE A SERIOUS CRACK IN THE SAME LOCATION. I FEEL THIS IS DEFECTIVE PRODUCT TO HAVE ALL 4 VALVE STEMS GO BAD AFTER 1 YEAR AND IN THE SAME LOCATION. *TR
2002 Pontiac Sunfire recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2002 Pontiac Sunfire.
- Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DORMAN PRODUCTS IS RECALLING 3,900 INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFTS DORMAN PART NOS. 425-151, 425-152, AND 425-153, (SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS" BRAND NAME), BALKAMP #'S 7-3057, 7-3058, 7-3059 (SOLD UNDER THE "NAPA" BRAND NAME), AND PLATINUM PARTS #'S 2425151, 2425152, AND 2425153 MANUFACTURED DURING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2007. THESE REPLACEMENT STEERING SHAFTS CAN BE USED ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE WELD CONNECTING THE INNER TUBE TO THE OUTER TUBE MAY BE DEFECTIVE.
- Consequence: IF THE WELD FAILS, LOSS OF STEERING COULD RESULT, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE STEERING SHAFTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 16, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN TOLL FREE AT 1-800-523-2492.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
Negative 2002 Pontiac Sunfire car reviews
Positive 2002 Pontiac Sunfire car reviews
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This car is not only nice looking, but also comfortable, reliable, and affordable. Plus, it gets great gas mileage!
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The sporty look of this car is really nice and you can accessorize it to make it your own. Additionally, the 2.2 Ecotec engine is both fast and fuel-efficient.
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I recently got my '02 Sunfire in the summer of this year and I must say, I haven't been disappointed so far. While the fuel economy may not be as good as some imports, it's still good enough. The engine power stacks up well for a 4-cylinder engine and it accelerates quickly. Interior space is abundant - I have plenty of headroom (although I'm only 5'10
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Thanks for considering our transportation services! We strive to provide reliable and efficient transportation for all our customers.
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This is my second Sunfire, the first was a 2.2 engine, while this is a 2.4. I've added some enhancements to customize the body and even pinstriped it! It's been great for trips and even the kids compliment me on it. I'm really excited about the 190hp turbo in 04'!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Pontiac Sunfire problems:
2002 Pontiac Sunfire Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Pontiac Sunfire? Our list of 12 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Pontiac Sunfire.
Q&A: Pontiac Sunfire GT 2002 - Common Issues & Solutions
Feb 10, 2014 ... 2002 Pontiac Sunfire GT....just started skipping and running rough....getting up to speed no problem, but it is not - Answered by a verified ...
Check engine light issues on 2002 Pontiac Sunfire - Maintenance ...
Nov 25, 2011 ... However, when 2000, 2001, and 2002 Sunfires were built some of them had their EVAP solenoid wiring harness misrouted around the rear ABS ( ...
Q&A: 2002 Pontiac Sunfire GT - Common Issues & Solutions
Mar 4, 2010 ... This sounds like the air flow sensor is bad and is causing the engine to run to rich and is fouling the spark plugs and causing the misfire.I ...
2002 Pontiac Sunfire Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2002 Pontiac Sunfire? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Other years of Pontiac Sunfire
Are you having problems with your 2002 Pontiac Sunfire?
Vern Ward 2024-08-28
I have a 1996 Pontiac Sunfire and I really like it. However, I am now interested in finding a good used Sunfire GT. They have a lot more power than the regular model. Ideally, I would love to find one that is a standard with a sunroof and fully loaded.
Carleton Bartell 2024-08-12
The Sunfire has been a disappointment since I got it. The headlights do not provide enough light on high beam, and the car has a lot of interior problems, including a seat that cannot be adjusted without breaking and controls that stick. Additionally, the car has had issues with paint peeling and starting. On uneven or bad roads, the car bounces excessively. A previous owner of a 1996 Sunfire advised me against buying one, and I regret not taking their advice. They had received five major safety recall notices for their car. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved with proper maintenance and care.
Reed Hills 2024-07-03
I really enjoyed cruising on the freeway and driving around the city in this car. The sound system was excellent, which made the experience even better. However, there were a few things that needed to be addressed. The exterior paint could have been better, and the handling was not as tight as I expected. At high speeds, I received unpredictable feedback, and at low speeds, there was some body roll. Although the engine made the car quick and fun to drive, the handling almost got me in trouble. For instance, I was driving at high speeds around an overpass when I hit a bump in the road that sent the rear end of the car out to the side, causing me to lose control. Fortunately, my passenger and I survived the accident, but it was clear that the car's handling could have been better.
Sylvester Brekke 2024-06-29
I bought this car brand new without even taking it for a test drive. It's cheap and has good gas mileage, and the price was affordable. I drive around 290k round trip every day on Hwy 401, going around 120 to 140 kmh daily, but I never go over 3000 rpm. I change the oil every 26 days, and have only had to replace the brakes, plugs, and wires once. In 5 years, I haven't had any problems with it and it runs like a top. It even passed emissions last week with flying colors!
Ricky Predovic 2024-06-09
I am thrilled to have a new 'Flame Yellow' 2.2l Ecotec! I highly recommend the sun and sound package, which includes a sunroof and an excellent sound system. Rolling down the windows and opening the roof while turning up the volume make for an amazing driving experience. The engine is also quite peppy and accelerates quickly. Additionally, the import fighting world is producing many new aftermarket parts for the new ecotec. If you're looking for a unique car that stands out from the crowd and offers great value for money, this is the perfect choice!