1997 Pontiac Trans sport problems

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The Pontiac Trans Sport is a minivan marketed by the Pontiac division of General Motors over two generations for model years 1990-1999 along with GM badge engineered variants, the Chevrolet Lumina APV and Oldsmobile Silhouette.

Introduced a year before the second-generation Chrysler minivans, the Pontiac Trans Sport and its counterparts marked an industry shift in the minivan segment towards adopting the form factor used by Chrysler. The APV vans shared mechanical commonality with the W platform sedans, along with a unique front-wheel drive, transverse-engine chassis.

The Trans Sport was assembled at North Tarrytown Assembly (Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow, New York), shifting production to Doraville Assembly (Doraville, Georgia) for its second generation. For the 1998 model year, Pontiac renamed the Trans Sport the Pontiac Montana, after an exterior trim package introduced in 1997.

1997 Pontiac Trans sport

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Common 1997 Pontiac Trans sport problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport, several common problems have been identified:

  • Stalling After Running for a Long Time:
    Another common problem reported by owners is the vehicle stalling after running for an extended period. This issue can be frustrating and potentially dangerous, especially if it occurs while driving. Proper diagnosis and repair are essential to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety.
  • Electrical Issues - Flickering Lights:
    Owners have experienced problems with flickering headlights, dash lights, and console lights. Additionally, dimly lit blinker lights when applying brakes or shifting into reverse have been reported. These electrical issues can be indicative of underlying wiring or battery problems that need to be addressed to maintain the vehicle's safety and functionality.
  • Transmission Slipping:
    Some owners have reported that the transmission feels like it is slipping or that the entire car cuts out momentarily. Transmission issues can significantly impact the vehicle's drivability and safety. Proper diagnosis and repair of transmission problems are crucial to ensure the vehicle operates smoothly and reliably.

These common problems with the 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to address any issues promptly and ensure the vehicle's longevity and safety.

1997 Pontiac Trans sport engine

1997 Pontiac Trans sport car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Trans sport problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Steering problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Structure problems
  • Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Pontiac Trans sport vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1997 Pontiac Trans sport

The NHTSA has received 254 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Pontiac Trans sport. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Pontiac Trans sport vehicles.

2021-07-15

STRUCTURE,SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-04
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E9VD
  • Components: STRUCTURE,SEATS
  • Summary: Sliding door on passenger side locked up trapping passenger inside. Door cannot be opened manually or electronically. A loud buzzing noise then a thud was heard prior. Can't open door any way now scary.
2012-01-11

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-01-11
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E5VD
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THE FUEL GUAGE GIVES FALSE READING, THE NEEDLE WILL POSITION WAY PASS THE "FULL". AFTER PUTTING IN FUEL, IT WILL MOVE TO THE "FULL" MARK OR SHOW JUST ANY AMOUNT WITHOUT THE TANK BEING FULL. IT IS AVERY HARD ACT TO FOLLOW ESPECIALLY IN THESE TIMES WHEN I CANNOT AFFORD TO TOP OFF THE TANK. IN OTHER WORDS, THIS FUEL GUAGE IS VERY UNRULY AND HAS ITS OWN WAY IN REGISTERING WHAT IT FEELS LIKE SHOWJNG ME. IS THERE A RECALL?. HOW CAN I CORRECT THIS EMBARASSING SITUATION?. *TR
2011-04-26

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-04-25
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E8VD
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: DRIVING IN RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC, ON CONGESTED FREEWAY, AT 55 MPH THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE TRAFFIC IN FRONT OF ME WAS SLOWING DOWN AND I ALMOST REAR ENDED THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. DROPPED IT IN FIRST GEAR, APPLIED EMERGENCY BRAKE AND MADE AN EVASIVE LANE CHANGE TO GET TO THE SHOULDER AND LET IT SLOW DOWN BY ITSELF. PULLED OFF ON THE FREEWAY SHOULDER GOT OUT OF THE CAR AND I NOTICED THE BRAKE LINE RIGHT UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER SIDE LEAKING AT A HIGH RATE AND BRAKE FLUID PUDDLING UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. ONLY GOD'S GRACE THAT I DIDN'T REAR END ANYBODY OR GOTTEN INTO A CAR CRASH. DISAPPOINTED IS NOT A STRONG ENOUGH WORD TO USE FOR WHAT HAPPENED. I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED A BRAKE LINE BURST IN A VEHICLE. DOING SOME ONLINE SEARCHES ON GM BRAKE LINE FAILURES I FOUND A LOT OF REPORTED CASES OF GM VEHICLES HAVING SEVERELY RUSTED BRAKE LINES THAT HAD CATASTROPHIC FAILURE WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL GOING TO THE FLOOR. HOPE THAT YOU'LL OPEN AN INVESTIGATION INTO THESE CONCERNS IN ORDER TO AVOID ANY FUTURE INCIDENTS.
2008-11-07

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-11-10
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E9VD
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: IN NOV. OF 2007 I WAS HAVING A PROBLEM WITH MY VAN OVERHEATING AND WAS LOSING ENGINE COOLANT BUT COULD NOT SEE WHERE IT WAS GOING. I LATER FOUND OUT THAT I HAD A FAULTY INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET, WHICH COST ME OVER 800.00 TO REPAIR. NOT LONG AFTER THE GASKET WAS REPAIRED THE VAN STARTED OVERHEATING AGAIN AND I DISCOVERED THAT THE WATER PUMP WAS BLOWN, THAT WAS ANOTHER 174.00 TO REPAIR. NOW I AM STILL HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE VAN OVERHEATING AND COOLANT LEAKING AND I WAS JUST INFORMED THAT IT IS A HEAD GASKET WHICH IS GOING TO COST ME OVER 1700.00 TO FIX. THIS IS RIDICULOUS, I KNOW 3 OTHER PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL VAN AS I DO WITH THE SAME ENGINE AND THEY ARE ALL ALSO HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THEIR VANS. IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THIS IS TOO MUCH OF A COINCIDENCE AND THAT THEIR SHOULD HAVE BEEN A RECALL IN PLACE TO RECTIFY THE PROBLEMS WITH THESE FAULTY PARTS. THESE ARE EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE REPAIRS AND I PERSONALLY DO NOT HAVE AN EXTRA $1700.00 JUST LAYING AROUND, SO NOW I AM FACED WITH THE CHOICE OF JUNKING MY VAN AND TRYING TO GET A NEW ONE WHICH I CANNOT AFFORD OR FIXING IT WHICH I ALSO CANNOT AFFORD. *TR
2008-08-18

POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-07-15
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: I HAVE OWNED BOTH A '92 AND A '97 TRANSPORT AND BOTH HAD THE SAME PROBLEMS. THE POWER WINDOW CONTROLS POP LOOSE OF THE DRIVER'S DOOR AND THE WINDOWS FAIL TO OPERATE. THE REAR DOOR LOCK FAILS. THE BLINKER AND CRUISE CONTROL LEVER SNAPPED OFF THE STEERING COLUMN SO THE BLINKER DOESN'T WORK. THE WINDOW WIPER CONTROL MODULE FAILED. THE TRANSAXLE HOSES SPRUNG A LEAK AT THE METAL CONNECTIONS CAUSING THE TRANSAXLE TO LOOSE FLUID AND THE VEHICLE TO BE STRANDED. *TR
2008-07-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-02-09
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E9VD
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: OUR 1997 PONTIAC TRANSPORT HAS HAD 3 HEAD GASKET FAILURES. THE FIRST WAS AT 72000, SECOND AT 88,000 AND IS CURRENTLY DEAD IN FRONT DRIVE WITH WATER IN THE OIL AGAIN. HAD NEW HEADS PUT ON AT 72000. VEHICLE OVERHEATS AND DOES NOT SHOW ON GAUGES. YOU HEAR IT BUBBLING WHEN IT'S SHUT OFF. ALSO HAD TO REPLACE ALTERNATOR 3 TIMES AND VAN ONLY HAS 110,000 MILES ON IT. WE'VE HAD SINCE NEW. *TR
2008-02-13

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-01-13
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E1VD
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: MY WIFE'S 1997 PONTIAC TRANSPORT MINI-VAN HAS THE PLASTIC HEADLIGHT LENSES, THAT ARE NOW YELLOW AND CLOUDY, AND NIGHTTIME VISIBILITY IS SO POOR THAT SHE DOESN'T DRIVE AT NIGHT UNLESS SHE HAS TO. ALSO MY 2000 NISSAN FRONTIER TRUCK IS SUCCUMBING TO THE SAME PROBLEM, BUT IT IS NOT AS SEVERE YET. I HAVE TRIED HIGH-OUTPUT ZENON, BLUELIGHT, AND ULTRA WHITE BULBS BUT THE YELLOWING/CLOUDY PLASTIC LENSES GREATLY REDUCES THE PERFORMANCE QUALITIES OF THESE BULBS. I CANNOT SEE THE SAFETY BENEFITS OF HAVING PLASTIC HEADLIGHT LENSES THAT WON'T SHATTER LIKE GLASS IN AN ACCIDENT IF YOU CANNOT SEE MORE THAN 20 FEET IN FRONT OF YOUR VEHICLE AT NIGHT. I STILL BELIEVE GLASS IS THE BEST MATERIAL FOR HEADLIGHTS, I SEE CARS AND TRUCKS FROM THE 70'S, 80'S, AND EARLY 90'S THAT STILL HAVE GREAT WORKING HEADLIGHTS. *TR
2007-11-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-11-21
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E3VD
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: VAN STARTED ON FIRE, IN DRIVER'S DOOR ORIGINATING FROM POWER WINDOW CONTROLS. PARKED IN DRIVEWAY NEXT TO HOUSE,NOT RUNNING. VAN WAS A COMPLETE LOSS,ONLY VEHICLE WAS ONLY ONE FOR A FAMILY OF FOUR. *TR
2007-06-30

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-06-14
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E8VD
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: I HAVE HAD THIS VEHICLE FOR 7 YEARS AND HAVE ALWAYS HAD PROBLEMS WITH COOLING SYSTEM LOSING ANTIFREEZE. NOW I AM TOLD THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET HAS BEEN NEEDS REPLACED. *TR
2007-04-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-04-13
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1G2WP12K2VF
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I ARRIVED AT WORK, PARKED THE 1997 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX. 10 MINUTES LATER THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT WAS ON FIRE.*AK
2007-03-17

STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-02-15
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E1VD
  • Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: MY 97 PONTIAC TRANSPORTS HAS A SAFETY ISSUE. THE PASSENGER SLIDING DOOR IS INOPERABLE. THE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN AND APPERAS TO NOT BE CLOSED ALL THE WAY. THE DOOR IS TURNED OFF VIA THE SWITCH AND THE LOCK WILL NOT RELEASE VIA THE UNLOCK SWITCH OR THE MANUAL LOCK MECHANISM ON THE DOOR. IN THE EVEN OF AN ACCIDENT THIS DOOR COULD NOT BE USED AS AN EXIT. I ALSO HAVE CONCERNS OF THE DOOR POSSIBLE COMING OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION.
2007-02-05

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-02-01
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E1VD
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: REPLACED THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET IN 2006 . IN THE LAST 3 WEEKS, THE VAN WAS NOT PUTTING OUT MUCH HEAT AND THE TEMP GAUGE DID NOT RISE UP TO THE NORMAL LEVEL. I DROVE INTO TOWN 6 MILES AT 60 MILES AN HOUR AND THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE WENT ALL THE WAY UP. I LET IT COOL DOWN AND DROVE TO THE MECHANIC ( 1 MILE ) AND IT WAS GOING BACK UP AGAIN. THEY REPLACED THE WATER PUMP, RADIATOR CAP AND THERMOSTAT AND I PICKED UP THE VAN. WITHIN 1 MILE IT STARTED TO HEAT UP AGAIN. I RETURNED IT . THEY BELIEVE THE HEAD GASKETS ARE BLOWN. THE ESTIMATE THAT I GOT TO REPAIR IT IS 1200.00. I GOT 3 ESTIMATES WITH THE HIGH OF 1600.00. I ALREADY REPLACED ONE AND NOW HAVE TO RE REPLACE IT AND THE OTHER. I'M GETTING REALLY TIRED OF THIS BUT I HAVE TO FIX IT BECAUSE I CANNOT SELL IT IF IT DOESN'T RUN. HOPE THEY FIX THIS IN THE NEXT VEHICLES. I WOULDN'T RECOMMEND IT DUE TO THIS DEFECT. IT WAS ALSO VERY SCARY BECAUSE I WAS DEALING WITH TEMPERATURES OF -20 WITH WIND. *NM
2007-01-04

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-01-02
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E4VD
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: TL* - ON JANUARY 2, 2007 WHILE DRIVING THE BRAKES FAILED. THE CONTACT FOUND OUT THAT THEREWAS RECALL 98V072000, ON THIS VEHICLE , AND TOOK IT TO A DEALER, AND DEALER REFUSED TO DO RECALL REPAIRS. THEN, THE CONTACT CALLED PONTIAC AT 1800-762-2737, THE NUMBER SITED IN THE RECALL SUMMARY, AND WAS TOLD BY PONTIAC THAT THEY NEVER HEARD OF THE RECALL. *AK
2006-05-01

POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-02-08
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: MY TRANSMISSION HAS BEEN REPLACED ONCE AND I AM ALREADY HAVING PROBLEMS WITH IT AGAIN, IT'S ONLY BEEN A YEAR SINCE IT WAS REPLACED. BOTH OF MY FRONT WINDOWS ARE POWER WINDOWS AND I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE LITTLE MOTOR FOR THEM TO GO UP AND DOWN TWICE AND THE PASSENGER IS NOT WORKING AGAIN. MY LEFT FRONT SIGNAL LIGHT NEVER WORKS, IT GETS REPLACED AND A DAY LATER IS NOT WORKING AGAIN. I HAVE PROBLEMS WITH MY STEERING WHEEL, IT IS VERY HARD TO TURN RIGHT, THIS WAS ALREADY FIXED AND I'M HAVING PROBLEMS AGAIN. I NEED TO KNOW IF THERE ARE OR THERE WHERE ANY RECALLS RELATED TO MY PROBLEMS. I HAVE READ ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE HAVING TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. THANK YOU. *JB
2006-03-20

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-03-20
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E6VD
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE HEADLIGHT LENSES ARE FOGGED UP AND DO NOT ILLUMINATE THE ROAD PROPERLY. THE DEALERSHIP DETERMINED THE LENSES NEED TO BE REPLACED.
2006-03-09

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-03-08
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E4VD
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, IT WAS HIT ON THE DRIVER SIDE BEHIND THE DOOR. THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED BODY DAMAGE, THERE WERE NO INJURIES, AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP FOR REPAIRS. THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THERE WAS NO SAFETY SIDE BAR ON THE VEHICLE AND FEELS THIS IS A SAFETY DEFECT. THE BODY DAMAGE WAS REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.
2006-03-09

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-03-08
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E6VD
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH THE VEHICLE RAN HOT AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THE HEAD GASKET NEEDED TO BE REPLACED HOWEVER NO REPAIRS WERE MADE.
2005-12-30

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-12-21
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E5VD
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: I OWN A 1997 PONTIAC TRANSPORT THAT SHOULD HAVE A IMMEDIATE RECALL. THE POWER SLIDING DOOR IS OPENING WHEN EVER IT WANTS MOSTLY WHILE MAKING LEFT TURNS. THE DOOR OPENED TWICE WITHIN THE LAST WEEK. ONCE ALMOST LOSING MY SON. I TURNED A LEFT TURN AND IT POPPED OPEN LEAVING MY SON HANGING OUT THE DOOR IN HIS SEAT BELT. HE HAS SEAT BELT BURN MARKS ON HIS SHOULDER AND NECK. *JB
2005-12-08

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-05-14
  • VIN: 1GMDU06E5VD
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WHEN I WAS TRAVELING DOWN A RESIDENTIAL STREET AT LESSS THEN 25 AND HIT A BUMP THE SPARE TIRE BECAME DISENGAED FROM THE UNDERCARRIAGE OF MY VAN. THE CABLE THAT WAS CONNECTED TO THE CENTER CAP THAT WAS USED TO SECURE THE TIRE TO THE UNDERCARRIAGE OF MY VAN HAD RUSTED THROUGH. THE TIRE BOUNCED ON THE ROAD AND CAMME TO REST IN THE STREET AND BECAME AN OBSTACALE TO ON COMING TRAFFIC, ONE VEHICLE HAD TO MAKE AN ABRUPT STOP. IF THE SPARE HAD DISENGAGED ON THE EXPRESSWAY IT WOULD HAVE CREATED A SIGNIFICANT HAZARD WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF FATAL CONSEQUENCES. I CONTACTED THE PONTIAC CUSTOMER ASSITANCE CENTER ON TWO OCASSIONS AND WAS TOLD THAT SOMEOONE WOULD GET BACK TO ME BUT HAVE NOT HAD ANY REPONSE. THE DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED TO DATE. *NM
2005-11-29

STEERING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-10-30
  • VIN: 1GMDX06E2VD
  • Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATES WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS OF THE POWER STEERING RACK THE WELDS WHERE THE POWER STEERING RACK BOLTED TO THE FRAME CRACKED. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN REPAIRED AT THE CONTACTED EXPENSE. *AK
2005-09-15

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-02-01
  • VIN: 1GMDX06EXVD
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DT: THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE SIDING DOOR NOT STAYING CLOSED. THIS WILL OCCUR EVEN WHEN THE DOOR IS LOCKED. THE PROBLEM FIRST STARTED ON FEBRUARY 1, 2005. THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM. *AK
2005-08-08

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-07-13
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E2VD
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, THE HEADLIGHT COVER FELL OFF AND SHATTERED ON THE STREET. A NEW ONE IS ALMOST $200!*JB
2005-07-27

STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-07-12
  • VIN: 1GMDX03E5VD
  • Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I WAS TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT TO PARALLEL PARK NEXT TO THE CURB, THEN I HEARD A LOUD POP NOISE. WHEN I WENT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE RIGHT IT BEGAN VERY HARD TO TURN THE WHEEL. AFTER LEAVING THE STORE AND FROM THAT POINT ON EVERY ATTEMPT I MADE TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN, IT WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT. AFTER ARRIVING HOME I NOTICED LEAKING COMING FROM UNDER MY VAN. I CALLED THE LOCATION PONTIAC DEALERSHIP ABOUT THE MY STEERING PROBLEM AND THEY INDICATED THAT THE VAN HAD BEEN SERVICED FOR A RECALL IN FEBRUARY OF 2003 FOR THE RACK AND PINION RECALL SOMETHING RELATED TO THE STEERING. SO I CHECKED THE INTERNET FOR THE RECALL AND IT MENTIONED THE SAME EXACTLY PROBLEMS THAT I WAS HAVING NOW. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP BACK AND THEY SAID THAT THE RECALL WAS ALREADY DONE ONCE. I TOLD THEM IT IS DOING THE SAME EXACTLY THING, AND WHEN I WENT TO CHECK THE STEERING ONE MORE TIME I NOTICED A HUGE PUDDLE UNDER MY VAN OF REDDISH BROWN FLUID. COME TO FIND OUT IT WAS TRANSMISSION LEAKING AND WHEN I TURN THE ENGINE ON THE FLUID CAME POURING OUT LIKE A FAUCET. I CONTACTED A TRANSMISSION SHOP TO TAKE A LOOK AT MY VAN AND THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THE AXLE WAS PULLED OUT OF THE TRANSMISSION BY THE STEERING SYSTEM. THE MECHANIC ALSO MENTIONED THAT HE HAS DONE QUITE A FEW OF THESE SAME EXACTLY KIND OF MINI-VAN WITH THE SAME EXACTLY PROBLEM. HE SAID THAT HE KNEW EXACTLY HOW THE FIX THIS PROBLEM BECAUSE HE DOES IT QUITE OFTEN. THE REPAIR COSTED $1,800.00 DOLLARS AND THE MECHANIC TOLD ME NOW I NEED TO TAKE BACK TO THE DEALER TO HAVE THEM REPAIR THAT RACK AND PINION AGAIN. NOW THIS HAS ME VERY UPSET, I'M SO MAD ABOUT THIS BECAUSE THIS DEFINITELY SOUNDS LIKE A MANUFACTURE PROBLEM AND I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS. I SENT THE VAN TO KARCO TRANMISSIONS IN LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA WHERE I LIVE AND THE PHONE NUMBER IS 661-723-1164. THIS DOES NOT MAKE ANY SENSE TO ME, SO THIS IS WHY I AM FILING THIS COMPLAINT.
2005-07-25

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-07-24
  • VIN: 1GMDU06E7VD
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: DT: THE CONSUMER STATES THE RIGHT AND LEFT STEERING KNUCKLES WERE CRACKED, RIGHT WHERE THE TIE ROD KNUCKLE CONNECTS. THE CONSUMER WAS DOING AN OIL CHANGE WHEN HE NOTICED THE PROBLEM. THE DEALERSHIP WAS CALLED TO FIND OUT IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS. THE CONSUMER THINKS BECAUSE THEY ARE MADE OF ALUMINUM, IT HAS HAPPENED BECAUSE OF OLD AGE. *JB
2005-07-04

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-31
  • Number Of Injuries: 3
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WIFE MAKING LEFT TURN ONTO BUSY ROAD, VAN WOULD NOT RESPOND TO TO TURNING THE WHEEL. SIDE IMPACT AT 40 MILE + FROM SEMI. INJURIES SUSTAINED BY WIFE, BROKEN HIP CRUSHED LEFT ARM , FRACTURED TAIL BONE AND FRACTURED BASE OF SKULL. DAUGHTER AND FRIEND ALSO INJURED BUT RELEASED WITH MINOR INJURIES. WE DID NOT KNOW THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE VAN UNTIL AFTER THE ACCIDENT. THAT IS WHEN I RECIEVED THE RECALL NOTICE. NOTHING COULD BE DONE AT THIS POINT BECAUSE THE VAN HAD BEEN CRUSHED INTO A CUBE OF SCRAP METAL. I WAITED THIS LONG TO FILE A COMPLANT DUE TO LEGAL ADVICE, BUT AS YOU CAN SEE THE BIG GUY ALMOST ALWAYS WINS. WE RECIEVED NO COMPENSATION FROM GM.

1997 Pontiac Trans sport recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1997 Pontiac Trans sport.

2007-03-12
  • 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.
2004-12-22
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH SECOND-ROW BUCKET SEATS OR CAPTAIN'S CHAIRS AND A POWER SLIDING DOOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, A PASSENGER USING THE INTERIOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE POWER SLIDING DOOR COULD BE INJURED.
  • Consequence: IF A PASSENGER USES THE INTERIOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE POWER SLIDING DOOR AND HOLDS ONTO THE HANDLE WHILE IT IS BEING OPENED BY THE MOTOR, THE PASSENGER'S ARM MAY BE PUSHED INTO THE SEAT BACK OR ARMREST AND A WRIST OR LOWER ARM INJURY MAY RESULT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER SLIDING DOOR INTERIOR HANDLE ON THE PASSENGER-SIDE. IF THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER OR MANUAL SLIDING DOOR ON THE DRIVER-SIDE, THE INTERIOR HANDLE WILL ALSO BE REPLACED FOR APPEARANCE REASONS. NOTE: BEFORE THE VEHICLE IS SERVICED, GM ADVISES OWNERS TO NOT USE THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE DOOR. THE DRIVER CAN OPEN AND CLOSE THE DOOR FROM SWITCHES AT THE DRIVER'S POSITION OR BY USING THE REMOTE KEY FOB. THE DRIVER SHOULD TELL PASSENGERS TO USE THE SWITCH LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE DOOR TO OPEN OR CLOSE IT. THE DRIVER SHOULD USE THE OVERRIDE SWITCH TO PREVENT OPERATION OF THE POWER DOOR BY CHILDREN OR BY OTHERS WHO ARE NOT FAMILIAR WITH ITS USE. THE OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER MAILING WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASES WITH THE FIRST PHASE BEGINNING ON MAY 31, 2005. THE SECOND PHASE MAILING BEGAN ON JULY 18, 2005. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 31, 2005. PHASE 2 BEGAN ON JULY 18, 2005. PHASE 3 (FINAL PHASE) BEGAN ON AUGUST 24, 2005, TO ALL REMAINING CUSTOMERS. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668; OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
2002-11-04
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION
  • Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS HAVE LOWER PINION BEARINGS IN THE POWER RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE RETAINER TABS WERE NOT CRIMPED PROPERLY. THESE AND SOME OTHER RETAINERS USED IN VEHICLES ASSEMBLED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 1996 AND OCTOBER 31, 1997, COULD FAIL AND PERMIT THE BALL BEARINGS TO ESCAPE.
  • Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE PINION SHAFT CAN BE FORCED UPWARD DURING LEFT TURNS AND BACK DOWN AS THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED BACK AND TO THE RIGHT. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL NEED TO EXERT MORE EFFORT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL, SIMILAR TO A VEHICLE WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED STEERING. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES EVEN FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL REQUIRE MUCH HIGHER EFFORT TO TURN LEFT AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TURN THE WHEEL AS MUCH AS INTENDED. WITH THE MAXIMUM PINION SHAFT MOVEMENT, WHICH REQUIRES INTERNAL GEAR COMPONENT DAMAGE, THE DRIVER CAN ENCOUNTER HIGH RESISTANCE TO TURNING LEFT, FOLLOWED BY UNINTENDED POWER ASSIST TO THE RIGHT. IN ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW LOWER PINION BEARING UNLESS INSPECT OF THE EXISTING BEARING INDICATES THAT REPLACEMENT OF THE GEAR ASSEMBLY IS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JANUARY 24, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
2001-08-21
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 1997-2001 CHEVROLET VENTURE, PONTIAC MONTANA/TRANSPORT, AND OLDSMOBILE SILHOUETTE MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS THAT WERE SERVICED IN CAMPAIGN 01013 (01V-067) FROM APRIL TO AUGUST 2001. ALSO 2001 CHEVROLET VENTURE, PONTIAC MONTANA, AND OLDSMOBILE SILHOUETTE MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS ASSEMBLED IN JANUARY THROUGH APRIL 2001. THESE VEHICLES HAVE INADEQUATE FRONT WELDS. IF A FRONT WELD FAILS, THE ACTUATOR CAN JAM IN THE UNLATCHED POSITION AND, WHEN THE SLIDING DOOR CLOSES, IT WILL NOT BE LATCHED.
  • Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE POWER SLIDING DOOR CAN OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, PARTICULARLY WHEN THE VEHICLE ASCENDS A HILL, MAKES A TURN, OR TRAVELS OVER A ROUGH ROAD SURFACE. AN UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANT COULD FALL OUT OF THE VAN AND BE INJURED.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF REQUIRED, INSTALL A NEW POWER SLIDING DOOR UNLATCH ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 22, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
2001-03-08
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS. THE DOOR CLOSES BUT MAY NOT BE LATCHED. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE POWER SLIDING DOOR CAN OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, PARTICULARLY WHEN THE VEHICLE ASCENDS A HILL, MAKES A TURN, OR TRAVELS OVER A ROUGH ROAD SURFACE.
  • Consequence: AN UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANT COULD FALL OUT OF THE VAN AND BE INJURED.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW UN-LATCH ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY TO THE POWER SLIDING DOOR. THIS RECALL HAS BEEN CONTINUED UNDER SAFETY RECALL 01V-264. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
1998-04-07
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEMS. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE ARM CAN CONTACT A BRAKE LINE WHICH IS CONNECTED TO THE TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM MODULATOR VALVE. THIS CONTACT CAN CHAFE THE BRAKE LINE RESULTING IN A BRAKE FLUID LEAK.
  • Consequence: BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE CAN CAUSE REDUCED BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS AND INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A BRAKE LINE CLIP TO ENSURE PROPER CLEARANCE. ALSO THE BRAKE LINES WILL BE INSPECTED TO ANY DAMAGE CAUSED BY THIS CONDITION AND WILL REPLACE ANY DAMAGED LINES.
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