Model year

2003 Pontiac Sunfire

Coupe, gasoline, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Jul 3, 2003 to Sep 3, 2014.

Recall campaigns covering this model year2260k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints726.3 times the median 2003 coupe
Severity index8.32003 coupes average 11.8
First 24 months20Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire peaked in 2004, with 17 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

0510152020031720052007200920112013201520172019202120232026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

35% of complaints about the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire name lighting

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Lighting
25
Electrical system
23
Engine and cooling
10
Brakes
8
Fuel system
7
Airbags
6
Powertrain
4
Visibility and wipers
4
Equipment
3
Structure
3
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

2 recall campaigns cover the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
08E-063Oct 17, 2008These replacement steering shafts can be used on the vehicles listed aboveSteering3,855Part replacement
04V-524Nov 1, 2004On certain passenger vehicles, the rear lamps that provide stop and turn signals and tail lamp functions stop working because of inadequate…Lighting256,025Part replacement
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

72 complaints on file, page 1 of 4.

  1. Filed Sep 3, 2014Failure Jul 3, 2014180,000 milesANN Arbor, MIAir bags, Electrical system, Engine

    EVERY TIME I LET MY CAR SIT FOR 2 HOURS OR MORE, I START IT UP AND THE BELT ON THE TENSIONER SQUEAK FOR 15 SECONDS. ALSO THE BATTERY LIGHT COMES ON AND THE RIM FLUCTUATE BETWEEN 1,000 AND 2,000. WHEN I DRIVE IT THE BATTERY LIGHT WILL CONTINUE TO STAY ON BUT EVERY TIME THE AIR BAG LIGHT TURNS ON AND I'M ACCELERATING THE ENGINE WILL NOT SHIFT, THE RPMS WILL REV UP TO RED LINE IF PUSHED THAT FAR, EVENTUALLY THE LIGHT FOR AIRBAG AND BATTERY WILL SHUT OFF AND IT WILL SHIFT. SOMETIMES WHEN I HIT THE GAS PEDAL WHILE THIS IS DOING THIS AT NIGHT, MY DASHBOARD AS WELL AS RADIO LIGHTS WILL SHUT OFF UNTIL RPMS GO DOWN TO 2,000. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10630444
  2. Filed Aug 19, 2014Failure Aug 1, 201098,000 milesMansfield, OHEngine

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE CONTACT HEARD A RATTLING NOISE FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN SEPARATED AND CAUSED THE TENSIONER AND VALVE TO FAIL. THE TIMING CHAIN VALVE AND TENSIONER WERE REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10626382
  3. Filed Jul 7, 2014Failure Jul 3, 201412,760 milesFrankfort, NYElectrical system, Steering

    I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM VERNON DOWN'S CASINO AND WAS MAKING A RIGHT AND WAS ABOUT TO SWITCH INTO THIRD GEAR THE RPM'S WHERE 3000 AND THE ENGINE JUST DIED ........ MAUGERI''S AUTO ON ALBANY AND BLEEKER ST. TOWED MY CAR TO HIS SHOP FIXED THE STEERING COLUMN AS A RESULT OF THE ENGINE DIEING THE WINDOW'S WONT ROLL UP AND THE INTERIOR JUST GOT SOAKED IN WET IN THE RAIN AFTER ON THE DATE OF 7/714 PAID ALMOST A GRAND FOR TOWING AND STEERING COLUMN IN THE VEHICLE . I AM A RECIPIENT OF THE TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY PROGRAM AND USE THE VEHICLE TO AND FROM MY STRUCTURED DAY AS WELL AS MY NEUROLOGIST AS WELL AS MY HEMATOLOGIST WHO'S OFFICES ARE 57 MILES AWAY FROM MY HOUSE IT IS GOING TO BE VERY UNCOMFORTABLE TO DRIVE TO MY DR. APPT. IN THE MORNING... I AM ON SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY AND A FIXED INCOME RECEIVER LESS THEN 700 DOLLARS A MONTH... *TR UPDATED 2/6/2015 *JS

    NHTSA complaint 10608743
  4. Filed Jun 15, 2014Failure Jun 9, 2014123,000 milesImperial, MOService brakes, SteeringCrash

    BOUGHT A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE FROM A DEALERSHIP 5 MONTHS AGO. I TOLD THE OWNER/SALESMAN I WANTED A SAFE 1ST CAR FOR MY KID. MY KID AND SOME FRIENDS WERE DRIVING,IT WAS RAINING AND THE BACK TIRES STARTED TO SLIDE,MY KID REGAINED CONTROL OF THE CAR BRIEFLY AND SAID AFTER A FEW MINUTES THE STEERING LOCKED UP AND THEY ENDED UP IN A SPIN. THE CAR HIT AN OBJECT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE,SPUN AROUND AND HIT ANOTHER ON THE DRIVERS SIDE,THEN BOUNCED OFF THAT AND LANDED ACROSS A DEEP DITCH WHERE IT WAS HIT AGAIN IN THE REAR WHEN STOPPING. NO STEERING. NO BRAKES. THE ENGINE WAS STILL GOING EVEN THOUGH THE FRONT END OF THE CAR WAS WEDGED INTO THE EDGE OF THE PAVEMENT AND THE EMBANKMENT OF THE DITCH. BY THE GRACE OF GOD NO ONE WAS PHYSICALLY INJURED. WE HAD THE CAR TOWED TO OUR HOME. MY KID SAID THAT BEFORE THE ACCIDENT THE STEERING WHEEL FELT " WIGGLEY". WE LOOKED AT THAT AREA 1ST. THE STEERING COLUMN WAS LOOSE. THE PIVOT PIN FOR THE COLUMN WAS GONE. I SAW THERE WAS A RECALL IN OCTOBER OF 2008. I CALLED GM TO REQUEST THE RECORDS TO FIND OUT IF THE REPAIR WAS EVER DONE. THE GM REP REFUSED TO GIVE ME THE INFORMATION IN THE DATA BASE. HE SAID I COULD GET IT FROM A "CERTIFIED" GM DEALER! HE ALSO SAID THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE STEERING, BUT THERE WAS OTHERS. I ASKED WHAT THEY WERE AND AGAIN HE SAID HE COULDN'T GIVE ME THAT INFORMATION. I ALSO OWN A PONTIAC G5 THAT'S BEEN WAITING FOR PARTS ON THE IGNITION RECALL. I HAVE BEEN ON A LIST AT MY DEALERSHIP. I AM MAD AS HELL! ALL MY KID HAS NOW IS THE COMFORT OF KNOWING THE FRIENDS WEREN'T HURT OR KILLED. SOME 1ST CAR, HUH? SPENT 5000.00 OF 401K MONEY FOR A DEATH TRAP THAT GM REFUSES TO GIVE ME THE DATABASE HISTORY ON. CAN'T DRIVE IT, CAN'T SELL IT, AND WITH NO HISTORY, CAN'T FIX IT. LIABILITY AND COMP, THAT'S ALL WE COULD AFFORD, INSURANCE IS TOO EXPENSIVE FOR YOUNG DRIVERS. THERE IS NO MIDDLE CLASS AND THIS KIND OF THING IS WHY. *JS

    NHTSA complaint 10598342
  5. Filed Mar 3, 2014Failure Feb 3, 2014120,000 milesDoty, WAFuel/propulsion system

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL FILTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT DID NOT RECTIFY THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10566774
  6. Filed Jun 16, 2013Failure Jun 12, 2013ST. Charles, MOAir bags, Seat beltsCrash1 injured

    I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AROUND 5:00PM, PERFECT ROAD CONDITIONS. I STARTED CHOKING & SWERVED INTO ANOTHER LANE, OTHER DRIVER BLASTED HIS HORN & SCARED ME. I OVER COMPENSATED & LOST CONTROL OF MY CAR & ENDED UP HITTING THE MEDIAN. MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, THE PASSENGER SIDE WAS FINE, BUT THE DRIVERS SIDE DIDN'T DEPLOY CORRECTLY. THE AIR BAG CAME OUT OF THE SIDE & NOT DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF ME. THE AIRBAG BLEW MY REAR VIEW MIRROR OFF OF THE WIND SHIELD & ENDED UP BREAKING MY RIGHT HAND IN MULTIPLE PLACES. MY SEAT BELT ALSO CAME UNDONE. I AM ONLY 5 FEET TALL & IF THE AIRBAG HAD GONE OFF LIKE IT SHOULD'VE, I KNOW I WOULD HAVE HAD NUMEROUS INJURIES TO MY FACE & CHEST. THE REASON I AM MAKING A COMPLAINT IS DUE TO THE FACT THAT HAD I HIT THIS WALL HEAD ON, I MOST LIKELY WOULD'VE BEEN KILLED. AT THIS TIME I DO NOT KNOW THE VIN OR CORRECT MILES, MY CAR AS TOTALED & IT'S STILL WITH THE TOW COMPANY. I BELIEVE THIS, ALONG WITH THE SEAT BELT UNLOCKING ON IT'S OWN AFTER A SERIOUS ACCIDENT, TO BE TREMENDOUSLY DANGEROUS. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10519995
  7. Filed Jan 31, 2013Failure Sep 8, 2012100,000 milesIndianapolis, INElectrical system, Electronic stability control (esc), Vehicle speed control

    I HAVE BEEN DRIVING A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE SINCE 2008. MY FAMILY BOUGHT IT BRAND NEW WITH ONLY 27 MILES ON IT. EVERY WINTER WHEN IT IS REALLY COLD, THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE WOULD NOT ALWAYS RESET ITSELF AFTER THE CAR WAS TURNED OFF. THIS WOULD RESULT IN THE FUEL GAUGE GOING ALL OVER THE PLACE BUT EVENTUALLY IT WOULD RESET ITSELF. HOWEVER, IN SEPTEMBER OF 2012, ALL OF MY GAUGES ON MY DASH WENT ALL OVER THE PLACE. MY TEMPERATURE GAUGE HAS SINCE SPUN COMPLETELY AROUND AND IS STUCK ON THE PLASTIC FROM THE DASH. ALSO, MY SPEEDOMETER IS NOW NOT RESETTING ITSELF. IT HAS SAID THAT I WAS AT 40 MPH WHILE SITTING AT A STOP LIGHT. I DO KNOW THAT THE TEMPERATURE HAS DROPPED WHICH COULD BE EFFECTING THINGS BUT THIS ISSUE IS JUST PLAIN ANNOYING ANYMORE. I CAN DEAL WITH THE FUEL GAUGE NOT WORKING, I CAN USE MY MILEAGE TO FIGURE THAT OUT. BUT THE SPEEDOMETER NOT WORKING IS A REAL ISSUE FOR ME. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10495323
  8. Filed Jul 6, 2010Failure Jul 5, 201090,000 milesWarren, OHTread/belt

    TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE, WITH COOPER, TREND SETTER SE, SIZE P195/15/R15 REPLACEMENT TIRES. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH THE PASSENGER FRONT TIRE SEPARATED AND THE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE STEEL BELT. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE SAFELY ONTO THE EMERGENCY LANE. THE CONTACT SATED THE TIRE DID NOT DEFLATE; HOWEVER, THE WHEEL WELL AND THE REAR TIRE WERE DAMAGED. THE TIRE WAS REPLACED AT A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP. THE LOCAL MECHANIC STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE WAS ALSO CRACKED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WERE 90,000. UPDATED 12/30/10

    NHTSA complaint 10341693
  9. Filed Jun 2, 2010Failure May 28, 201070,000 milesEagle Brigde, NYInstrument cluster/panel

    TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL OF THE GAUGES ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL STOPPED FUNCTIONING WHILE SHE WAS DRIVING 50 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER MALFUNCTIONED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 70,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10334335
  10. Filed Mar 10, 2010Failure Jan 1, 201018,000 milesDeschambault-Grondine, 00Electrical system, Exterior lighting

    FAILURE TO THE HEADLIGHT HARNESS, WITH TIME, CORROSION ATTACK THE HEADLIGHT HARNESS. WHICH WILL CAUSE THE HEADLIGHT INTENSITY TO LOWER OR WORST, TOTAL HEADLIGHT FAILURE. THAT MEAN THAT YOU CAN BE DRIVING AT NIGHT AND TOTALLY LOSE YOUR HEADLIGHT. THIS DEFECT HAS BEEN REPAIRED 4 TIMES NOW, AND I NEED TO HAVE IT REPAIRED A 5TH TIME APRIL 2004. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10318397
  11. Filed Mar 1, 2010Failure Feb 28, 2009Anytown, MIElectrical system, Exterior lighting

    2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. HEADLAMPS DO NOT WORK. FOUND OUT THRU INTERNET SEARCH THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM ON THIS VEHICLE. THERE ARE MULTIPLE WIRING PROBLEMS WITH THIS VEHICLE THAT GM SHOULD FIX (FOG LAMPS AS WELL). THE LAMPS ALREADY WENT OUT A COUPLE OF TIMES BEFORE. IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE IF THIS HAPPENS AT NIGHT YOU HAVE NO LIGHTS. GM KEEPS SKIRTING AROUND THE ISSUE UNTIL YOUR WARRANTY RUNS OUT THEN IT COSTS YOU MORE MONEY THAN YOU HAVE TO GET IT FIXED. VERY, VERY, VERY FRUSTRATING. JUST DO A INTERNET SEARCH FOR SUNFIRE HEADLIGHT PROBLEMS/DO NOT WORK/ ETC. AND YOU'LL SEE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10315166
  12. Filed Dec 8, 2009Failure Nov 27, 200980,000 milesLexington Park, MDEngine and engine cooling

    I PURCHASED THE CAR IN 2006 WITH EVERYTHING ON IT STOCK. IN 2009 THE COIL PACK STARTED MISFIRING CAUSING THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER TO GO BAD AND ALSO CAUSING THE RODS BEARINGS TO SPIN. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10295015
  13. Filed Sep 7, 2009Failure Jul 1, 200993,400 milesHonolulu, HIAutomatic transmission

    1. HIGH USE OF TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE LEADS TO SEPARATION AT THE TRANSMISSION END LINK. 2. ONCE THE SHIFT CABLE LINK WEARS OUT IT FALLS DOWN AND THE TRANSMISSION CAN NO LONGER BE SHIFTED THROUGH GEAR POSITIONS FROM WITHIN THE VEHICLE. A VEHICLE CAN BE LEFT STRANDED IN ANY GEAR, DRIVE, REVERSE, NEUTRAL, OR ANY OTHER POSITION. 3. A TEMPORARY FIX IS POSSIBLE WITH A ZIP TIE, BUT IS ONLY TEMPORARY DUE TO HEAT AND WEAR ON THE ZIP TIE. AN OE REPLACEMENT FOR THE SHIFT CABLE NEEDS TO BE INSTALLED. THIS IS A HIGH FAILURE ITEM LEADING TO STRANDED VEHICLES IN MANY DANGEROUS LOCATIONS AND NEEDS TO BE UPGRADED WITH A FAIL SAFE CONNECTION AT THE TRANSMISSION END. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10283087
  14. Filed May 27, 2009Failure Apr 14, 20043,000 milesBensalem, PAHeadlights

    TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH AT NIGHT, THE HEADLIGHTS SUDDENLY BECAME EXTREMELY DIM. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND REPAIRED ACCORDING TO A SAFETY RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS FOR IDENTICAL FAILURES, BUT THE REPAIRS DID NOT CORRECT THE ISSUE. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

    NHTSA complaint 10270065
  15. Filed Feb 20, 2009Failure Feb 18, 200920,000 milesSheboygan, WIExterior lighting

    HEAD LIGHTS FAIL FOR NO REASON AND AT ANY TIME. THIS CAN INCLUDE BOTH HIGH AND LOW BEAM AND FOG LIGHTS. HAS BEEN REPAIRED NOW FOR THE 5TH TIME AT A GM DEALER SHIP. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10259473
  16. Filed Feb 19, 2009Failure Feb 6, 20098,700 milesTallmadge, OHExterior lighting

    TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT WAS NOT WORKING ON THE VEHICLE. THE FORWARD ELECTRIC HARNESS ALLOWED WATER TO ENTER INTO THE LIGHT AND CAUSED IT TO FAIL. SOON AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE IN 2003, THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED. THE DEALER INFORMED HIM THAT THERE WAS A RECALL (GM RECALL NUMBER 03029) ON THE LIGHTS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BECAUSE IT AFFECTED THE SIGNAL LIGHTS AND DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT. THE CONTACT RECENTLY TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR, BUT THEY STATED THAT IT WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED AND WOULD NOT BE REPAIRED A SECOND TIME. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,700. UPDATED 03/23/09. *LJ UPDATED 03/24/09.*JB

    NHTSA complaint 10259327
  17. Filed Feb 8, 2009Failure Jan 18, 200930,918 milesRockwood Ontario Canada, 00Exterior lighting

    THE FRONT WIRING HARNESS ON MY 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE 2 DOOR HAS FAILED FOR THE 4TH TIME DUE TO CORROSION OF THE OBVIOUSLY-TOO-SMALL GAUGE WIRING AND INAPPROPRIATE PLACEMENT AND WATER-PROOFING OF THE WIRING HARNESS AND CONNECTORS. HEADLIGHT(S) OR FOGLIGHT(S) TYPICALLY EITHER FAIL OUTRIGHT, OR DIM TO ABOUT 10% INTENSITY, CAUSED BY CORROSION IN THE WIRES AND CONNECTORS. PREVIOUS FAILURES OF THIS WIRING HARNESS AFFECTING BOTH HEADLIGHTS AND/OR FOGLIGHTS OCCURRED IN JAN 2005, JAN 2006, AND JAN 2007, AND WERE REPAIRED BY REMOVAL OF CORRODED WIRE SECTIONS AND RE-SPLICING OF WIRES. DISCUSSIONS WITH BOTH GM AND INDEPENDENT MECHANICS CONFIRM MY SUSPICIONS OF SIMILAR FAILURES IN MANY OTHER SUNFIRES AND CAVALIERS. I AGREE WITH A LIFELONG MECHANIC WHO SAYS THE ONLY PROPER SOLUTION IS A COMPLETE REWIRING JOB. THIS IS AN EXTREME HAZARD AS COMPLETE HEADLIGHT FAILURE OR DIMMING CAN HAPPEN ANY TIME WITHOUT WARNING. A DEAD OF NIGHT FAILURE ANYWHERE, IN THE CITY, NEAR A SCHOOL, OR ON A COUNTRY ROAD AS HAPPENED TO MY DAUGHTER'S FRIEND IN HER SUNFIRE, CANNOT BE CONSTRUED AS ANYTHING OTHER THAN LIFE-THREATENING; FOG LIGHT AND HEADLIGHT FAILURE AT ANY OTHER TIME IS DANGEROUS. IF THE FAILURE OF SUNFIRE/CAVALIER REAR BRAKE AND TURN LIGHTS WARRANTED A 2004 RECALL, THEN SURELY THIS EQUALLY OR MORE THREATENING CHRONIC PROBLEM DESERVES ONE. WHY THIS HAS NOT BEEN ADDRESSED ALREADY IS BEYOND ME. GM HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THE PROBLEM BY ISSUING A SERIES OF TSBS OVER THE YEARS ON THIS PROBLEM: #03018, #0309, #030842002, #021903, AND THE NHTSA HAS BEEN APPRISED OF THEM. I AM A HOBBY MECHANIC WHO HAS SPENT 45 YEARS BUILDING AND RACING POWERBOATS AND WORKING ON AND RESTORING CARS. I KNOW A DESIGN FAULT WHEN I SEE ONE. THIS ISSUE MUST BE ADDRESSED BEFORE SOMEONE IS KILLED OR SERIOUSLY INJURED. THE SUSPECT WIRING HARNESSES SHOULD BE RECALLED AND REPLACED, RATHER THAN WAITING FOR THEM TO FAIL (TIME AND TIME AGAIN) AND THEN MAKING SPLICES TO THE WIRING AND CLEANING UP THE CONNECTORS. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10257966
  18. Filed Jan 10, 2009Failure Jan 10, 2009Three Rirvers, MIElectrical system

    I HAVE HAD ALOT OF SHORTAGES ON MY 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. I HAVE BEEN RESEARCHING ON LINE AND THERE HAVE BEEN ALOT OF SIMILAR ISSUES. SUCH AS POWER WINDOW SHORTAGES, HIGH BEAM AND LOW BEAM SHORTAGES, THE LOCKS, AND ISSUES WITH THE DASHBOARD GAUGES NOT WORKING. I FEEL THAT THIS IS TO MANY ISSUES WITH SHORTAGES AND IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10254471
  19. Filed Sep 5, 2008Failure Jul 15, 20031,000 milesNEW Whiteland, INElectrical system, Structure

    THE 2003 PONTIAC SUNFIRE IS AN INFERIOR CAR. MINE CURRENTLY HAS APPROX 57,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THE DAY AFTER I PURCHASED IT BRAND NEW, IT WOULD NOT START. THE DEALER CAME OUT AND REPLACED THE BATTERY. THE CAR HAD WHITE PAINT OVERSPRAY ON IT. THE DEALER REPAINTED IT. THE SUNROOF MALFUNCTIONED AND THE DEALER FIXED IT. THE TURN SIGNALS KEPT GOING OUT & IT WAS FIXED DUE TO THE RECALL. THE DASH HAD TO BE TAKEN OUT DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE AIR WAS NOT COMING OUT OF THE VENTS PROPERLY. THE POWER WINDOW DRIVER'S SIDE FAILED COMPLETELY AROUND 38,000 MILES & PASSENGER INTERMITTENTLY WOULD NOT WORK. THIS WAS FIXED AT MY EXPENSE. THE CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR BRAKE PROBLEMS NUMEROUS TIMES. I HAD THE DEALER CHECK THEM SEVERAL TIMES WHILE STILL UNDER WARRANTY AND THEY FINALLY REPLACED THEM AT THEIR COST BECAUSE THEY SAID IT SHOULD NOT BE NECESSARY GIVEN THE MILEAGE ON THE CAR. I'VE HAD BRAKES REPLACED TWO OTHER TIMES AT MY EXPENSE AND THEY ARE STILL SQUEAKING AND CREAKING VERY LOUDLY AND I'M TOLD THE BRAKE PADS ARE "CRACKED" BUT THAT IT WON'T HURT ANYTHING. NOW, THE NEW PROBLEM IS, THE RADIO QUIT PLAYING FOR 15 MINUTES AFTER THE CAR IS TURNED OFF AND YOU'RE IN IT. WHEN I COME TO A COMPLETE STOP, MY DOME LIGHT AND MAP LIGHTS COME ON AND STAY ON UNTIL I LET OFF THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATE. ALSO, THE HORN NO LONGER HONKS WHEN I LOCK THE CAR WITH THE REMOTE. I'VE HAD IT UP TO HERE WITH THIS CAR BUT CANNOT AFFORD TO GET RID OF IT SINCE I JUST PAID IT OFF IN JULY 2008. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER PONTIAC! *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10241013
  20. Filed Jul 23, 2008Failure Jul 22, 200818,000 milesWarren, MAElectrical system

    2005 HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT - PONTIAC DEALER WRAPPED HARNESS WITH ELECTRICAL TAPE. STATED IT WAS FROM WASHER FLUID LEAKING. APPROX 12 MONTHS LATER INCIDENT OCCUR AGAIN. TAKEN TO ANOTHER DEALER ON REQUEST OF PONTIAC. RE-WRAP HARNESS DIFFERENT AREA. SERVICE LIGHT ON 2 WEEKS AGO. DEALER WRAPPED ENTIRE HARNESS. PONTIAC SERVICE NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES COMPLAINT NUMBERS OBTAINED. SAFETY ISSUE AS LIGHTS GO OUT. WIRING HARNESS DETERIORATED. BANDAIDED 3X. CONCERN RE: LIGHTS GOING OUT AGAIN AT NIGHT. FEEL THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10235515
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

2 NHTSA investigations on file

  • EA04028 Engineering analysis, Lighting
    TURN SIGNAL MALFUNCTION
    Opened Sep 14, 2004, closed Nov 22, 2004 · led to a recall
  • PE04043 Preliminary evaluation, Lighting
    TURN SIGNAL MALFUNCTION
    Opened May 14, 2004, closed Sep 14, 2004
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

458 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • PIP5601C Jul 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
  • 23-NA-001 Mar 28, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on OnStar Module 2G Sunset Information.
  • PIP5358D Feb 20, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessm…
  • PIP4723J Oct 25, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester  and Vehicle Data Rec…
  • PIT5099H Sep 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressu…
  • PIT5099H Sep 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressu…
  • PIT3271P Sep 6, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in …
  • General Communication Aug 26, 2024 · Service Campaign
    Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some …
  • 18-NA-099 Jun 17, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
  • 24-NA-098 Jun 6, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
  • 09-00-89-008G May 7, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
  • 10-08-45-001H Mar 28, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
  • PIT5353 Nov 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
  • 16-NA-383 Mar 13, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to red…
  • 22-NA-074 Feb 22, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
  • PIP5601B Jan 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to e…
  • PI1394B Jan 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
  • 02-08-42-001J Jan 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
  • Recalls Jun 30, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicle Recalls
  • PIT5099G Sep 26, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressu…
  • PIT4864F Mar 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
  • PIC5588B Jun 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
  • PIC5588A Oct 1, 2012 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
  • 130089009 Sep 1, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
  • PIT5264B Nov 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
  • PIT5264 Mar 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
  • 17-NA-170 Oct 6, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
  • 07-08-49-020R Sep 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
  • 10-00-89-006J Sep 26, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
  • PIP5628G Aug 10, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
  • 18-NA-073 Aug 24, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
  • PIP5358C Jul 18, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessm…
  • PIP5628F Apr 24, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
  • 19-NA-219 Apr 24, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
  • 17-NA-170 Apr 27, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
  • 22-NA-009 Mar 17, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • PIP5628E Feb 10, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
  • 17-NA-073 Feb 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
  • 23-NA-001 Feb 15, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on OnStar Module 2G Sunset Information.
  • 01-08-42-001O Feb 15, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
  • PIP5540J Dec 15, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary information communicates to the technician the need to inspect the induction system for potential icing issues in very cold ambient temperatures. To allow the ice to melt so that it can be drained from the related components. That any of th…
  • 23-NA-001 Jan 6, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on OnStar Module 2G Sunset Information.
  • 09-00-89-008F Dec 21, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
  • PIT3271N Nov 29, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in …
  • 22-NA-074 Nov 9, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
  • 10-00-89-006I Oct 7, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
  • PIC5453D Sep 30, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician that General Motors and General Motors of Canada Company do not support cross border sales. The General Motors of Canada Customer Care Centre is the sole authorized provider o…
  • PIP5640A Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician to not remove the torque converter bolts and start the engine as this may cause damage to the torque converter of the crankshaft on vehicles equipped with an automatic transmi…
  • 22-NA-009 Sep 14, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • 06-00-89-031H Sep 16, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification.
  • PIT5099F Jun 13, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressu…
  • 22-NA-009 Jun 15, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • PIP5358B May 31, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessm…
  • 22NA009 Jan 11, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • 12-00-89-003B May 2, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides policy information on warranty administration guidelines for multiple repairs with independent causes (GM Canada Dealers Only).
  • PIT3271M Mar 7, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in …
  • 22-NA-074 Mar 31, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
  • 22-NA-009 Mar 22, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • PIT3271L Feb 3, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in …
  • PIP4723F Jan 14, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester  and Vehicle Data Rec…
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.