1999 Pontiac Trans sport problems
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.
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Common 1999 Pontiac Trans sport problems
The Pontiac Trans Sport, produced between 1990 and 2004, was a popular minivan known for its unique design and features. However, like any vehicle, it had its share of common problems, particularly in the 1997-1999 models.
One of the most prevalent issues was related to the transmission. Some owners reported problems with the transmission slipping or failing altogether, which could result in costly repairs or replacement. This issue was often caused by a faulty torque converter or worn transmission fluid, and could be resolved through routine maintenance and replacement of these parts.
Another common problem was related to the fuel system. Some owners reported problems with the fuel pump, which could cause the vehicle to stall or have difficulty starting. This issue was often caused by a faulty fuel pump or clogged fuel filter, and could be resolved through routine maintenance and replacement of these parts.
In addition, some owners reported problems with the vehicle's suspension system, which could manifest as issues with the vehicle's handling or uneven tire wear. This could be caused by worn or damaged suspension components, and could be resolved through replacement of these parts.
Electrical issues were also common, with some owners reporting problems with the power windows, locks, and other electrical components. These issues could be caused by a faulty fuse or wiring issue, and could be resolved through routine maintenance and replacement of these parts.
Engine problems, such as oil leaks and overheating, were also reported by some owners. These issues could be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged engine components, and could be resolved through routine maintenance and replacement of these parts.
It is important to note that many of these issues could be resolved through routine maintenance and replacement of worn or damaged parts. However, if left unaddressed, they could result in costly repairs or even replacement of the vehicle. Therefore, it is important for owners of the Pontiac Trans Sport to stay up-to-date with routine maintenance and to address any issues as soon as they arise.
1999 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seat belts problems
- Structure problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Pontiac Trans sport vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1999 Pontiac Trans sport complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Pontiac Trans sport.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-03
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GMDX03E7XD
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WENT OFF THE ROAD AND STRUCK A TREE. WHEN THIS OCCURRED, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEATBELT SHOULDER STRAP DID NOT LOCK. THE DRIVER HIT THE STEERING WHEEL CAUSING MINOR CHEST INJURIES, THEN THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. ALSO, THE MIDDLE ROW DRIVER SIDE SEATBELT CAME UNLOCKED. THIS CAUSED THE OCCUPANTS LEG TO BE CRUSHED, RESULTING IN SURGERY. THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT TAKEN AT THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD AND INSPECTED BY THE MANUFACTURER, BUT IT WAS DETERMINED NOT TO BE A DEFECT.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WITH RESPECT TO MY 1999 PONTIAC TRANSPORT VAN, OCTOBER OF 2003 THE ENGINE STARTED OVERHEATING AND WE DISCOVERED THAT THE COOLANT WAS LOW. WE ADDED COOLANT AND SOME TYPE OF SEAL INTO THE COOLANT BECAUSE WE WERE TOLD BY SEVERAL GM MECHANICS THAT IT WAS PROBABLY THE HEAD GASKET AND THIS SEAL WOULD HELP TO GET US BY UNTIL WE COULD HAVE IT FIXED. I CALLED THE COMPANY WHERE I PURCHASED THE VAN (2ND HAND) AND THE VAN WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY (OVER BY 4,000 MILES AT THE TIME). I DID PURCHASE THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. WE PRICED AROUND FOR THE COST TO HAVE THE HEAD GASKET REPAIRED/REPLACED AND FOUND THAT WE WOULD HAVE TO SPEND BETWEEN $800 AND $1,000 TO GET IT FIXED. OUR VAN IS NOW SITTING IN A GARAGE BEING TORN APART AND THE HEAD GASKET WAS THE PROBLEM. PRIOR TO OCTOBER 2003 WE HAD THE COILS CHANGED AND THE #5 PLUG WAS SHOWING A MALFUNCTIONING PROBLEM WHICH WAS SHOWING UP ON THE COMPUTER. WHEN WE BROUGHT IT TO THE GARAGE THEY REPLACED THE PLUGS. WE WERE TOLD BY THE MECHANIC WHO IS CURRENTLY WORKING ON THE GASKET THAT THE COOLANT WAS LEAKING OUT ON THE #5 GASKET AND THIS WAS THE PROBLEM PREVIOUSLY WHICH WAS NOT PICKED UP ON BY THE PAST MECHANIC. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM FOR US SINCE ABOUT JUNE OF 2003.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH THE SLIDING DOOR, HEADLAMP FELL OFF, AUTOMATIC LOCKS/WINDOW AND ETC. *PH THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE VEHICLE HAS A COOLANT LEAK. THE FUEL MODULATOR AND SPARK PLUGS WERE REPLACED. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-15
- VIN: 1GMDX03E9XD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKETS (UPPER & LOWER) NEED TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE IT IS LEAKING ENGINE COOLANT. ALSO NEED TO REPLACE THERMOSTAT AND GASKET. COST $900.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-10
- VIN: 1GMDX03E1XD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE CAUSED BY ANTIFREEZE IN TRANSMISSION. CORROSION OF RADIATOR CAUSING ANTIFREEZE TO MIX WITH TRANSMISSION FLUID. NOW IS OVERHEATING CAUSED BY INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET LEAKING ALLOWING ANTIFREEZE TO GET INTO CRANKCASE. POTENTIALLY FATAL FOR ENGINE. *NLM
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-03
- VIN: 1GMDX03E7XD
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RETRACTOR MOUNT NOT SECURED TO UPPER PANEL, TOP THREADS INTO PILLAR NOT DONE, INSTALLED MISSING BOLT IN SEAT BELT MOUNT.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-12
- VIN: 1GMDX03E3XD
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE EXITING A PARKING LOT, THE REAR SLIDING DOOR OPENED, THE DEALER FOUND THAT A BENT BRACKET IN THE DOOR MOUNTING WAS THE APPARENT CAUSE OF THE DOOR FAILING TO LATCH PROPERLY. NLM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-12
- VIN: 1GMDX03E3XD
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE EXITING A PARKING LOT, THE REAR SLIDING DOOR OPENED, THE DEALER FOUND THAT A BENT BRACKET IN THE DOOR MOUNTING WAS THE APPARENT CAUSE OF THE DOOR FAILING TO LATCH PROPERLY. NLM
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-05
- VIN: 1GMDXD3B7XD
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE IN DRIVEWAY WAS ADJUSTING FRONT SEAT AND VEHICLE STARTED SMELLING LIKE SMOKE. CONSUMER LOOKED UNDER SEAT, AND ONE OF THE WIRES WAS COMPLETELY BARE. CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER DID REPAIRS. BUT, WIRES WERE STILL HANGING FROM UNDER SEAT. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-13
- VIN: 1GMDX03E8WD
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE ENGINE HAS BEEN MAKING A CLICKING SOUND OR DRUMMING SOUND FOR QUITE A WHILE NOW. I HAVE TAKEN THE VAN INTO THE DEALER ON A NUMBER OF OCCASSIONS. I HAVE SINCE LEARNED THAT MY VAN IS NOT THE ONLY VAN TO MAKE THIS NOISE, AND THAT SOME VANS HAVE HAD THE ENGINE REPLACED BECAUSE OF IT. SOMETHING ABOUT THE PISTONS AND WALL CHAMBER. THE VAN HAS ALSO QUITE RUNNING WHILE I WAS DRIVING W/CHILDREN, AND WHEN BRAKING, AN AWFUL LOUD NOISE COMES, SOUNDS LIKE THE CAR IS FALLING APART. I REFUSE TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK, AND AM HAVING LOADS OF PROBLEMS DEALING WITH THIS. *AK
CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-03
- VIN: 1GMDX03E3XD
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: 8 PASSENGER VAN, TRIED TO GET 3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF CAR SEATS TO WORK IN THE SECOND ROW OF SEATS, BUT SEEM UNABLE TO DO SO. THE BUCKLE PART OF THE SEAT BELT SEEMS TO COME OUT TO FAR FROM THE SEAT ALLOWING A LARGE GAP SO THE CHILD SEAT CAN NOT FIT TIGHTLY INTO ANY OF THE 3 SEATS IN THE SECOND ROW. IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING A CARSEAT SHOULD NOT MOVE ANYMORE THEN AN INCH AFTER IT IS BUCKLED IN. AND WHEN THE CARSEATS ARE IN. THE BOTTOM CORNER WHERE IT BUCKLES IN, MOVES AROUND QUITE VIGOROUSLY. ALLOWING WAY MORE THE AN INCH OF SLACK.
1999 Pontiac Trans sport recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1999 Pontiac Trans sport.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS, THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG INFLATOR MODULES COULD PRODUCE EXCESSIVE INTERNAL PRESSURE. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH THAT WOULD TRIGGER A DRIVER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, THE INCREASED INTERNAL PRESSURE CAN CAUSE THE INFLATOR MODULE TO EXPLODE.
- Consequence: METAL AND PLASTIC DEBRIS COULD CAUSE SEVERE INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER AIR BAG MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 1, 2002. 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 PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737.
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