The 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models are known for having a lot of reliability problems. These years are especially bad for issues with the steering system, electrical problems, and power steering failures.
These problems can be expensive to fix and might even be dangerous. If you’re thinking about buying a used Pontiac G6, it’s important to know about the years to avoid.
Being aware of the common issues and how much repairs might cost can help you avoid future troubles.
So, why should you avoid these models, and what are some better options?
Key Takeaways
- Don’t buy the 2006 Pontiac G6 because it has lots of steering problems and costs a lot to fix.
- The 2007 Pontiac G6 has major electrical and power steering problems, making it unsafe.
- The brake lights often fail in 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 models, which can cause accidents.
- The 2005 and 2006 Pontiac G6 models have significant power steering issues that affect handling and safety.
- Poor safety ratings and many recalls make the 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models unreliable.
Overview of Pontiac G6
The Pontiac G6, a mid-size car made by General Motors, was launched in 2004 to replace the Grand Am. It comes in different styles like sedan, coupe, and convertible.
When looking at different Pontiac G6 years, it’s important to know about common engine issues. Early models, especially those from 2006 and 2007, often need more maintenance. These years saw a lot of complaints about engine problems like overheating and coolant leaks.
Worst Years for Pontiac G6
If you’re thinking about buying a used Pontiac G6, be careful with the 2006 and 2007 models. These years are known for having a lot of problems and needing frequent repairs.
To avoid high maintenance costs and headaches, it’s best to stay away from these specific years. Doing some research on the issues reported with the 2006 and 2007 G6 models can help you make a smart choice.
Talking to mechanics or car experts can also give you useful advice and confirm that it’s wise to avoid these particular years.
Common Problems in 2006
In 2006, many Pontiac G6 owners had trouble with their steering systems, especially losing power steering assist. This made the car hard to handle and unsafe, particularly when driving at low speeds. There were also frequent engine problems, raising concerns about the car’s reliability. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and numerous driver complaints back up these issues, showing they were widespread.
Fixing these problems was often expensive, adding to the car’s maintenance challenges. So, if you’re thinking about getting a Pontiac G6, it’s smart to avoid the 2006 model to steer clear of these common steering and engine problems. The downsides of the 2006 G6 definitely outweigh any benefits.
Issues With 2007 Models
The 2007 Pontiac G6 has some serious problems with its steering and electrical systems, which make it unreliable. Many owners have reported that the power steering can suddenly stop working, which makes driving dangerous. This steering issue is particularly alarming because it can make it hard to control the car, posing a safety risk.
Additionally, the 2007 G6 has electrical problems that can cause the car to behave unpredictably, raising more reliability concerns. These problems often lead to frequent and costly repairs, making the 2007 model a less appealing option.
If you’re thinking about getting a Pontiac G6, it’s best to avoid the 2007 model to steer clear of potential safety risks and expensive repairs.
Brake Light Malfunctions
If you own a 2005-2008 Pontiac G6, you should know about common brake light problems caused by wiring issues.
Many people complained, leading the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to look into it and find serious safety concerns.
General Motors recalled these cars to fix the problems, showing how important it’s to address any brake light issues right away.
Common Wiring Issues
Owners of Pontiac G6 models from 2005-2008 often run into problems with their brake lights due to common wiring issues. These problems can make the brake lights work incorrectly, which can be dangerous.
If you have one of these cars, watch out for these signs:
- Brake lights that work on and off
- Brake lights that stay on all the time
- Brake lights that don’t light up when you press the pedal
- Brake lights that flicker or act unpredictably
- Dashboard warning lights about brake system issues
These wiring problems usually come from bad connections or damaged wires. Fixing these issues early can help prevent accidents and keep your car safe on the road.
NHTSA Investigation Findings
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that problems with the brake lights in the Pontiac G6 were caused by widespread wiring issues. These wiring problems didn’t just affect the brake lights; they also impacted other systems in the car. Because of these issues, GM recalled millions of cars, including the G6, to fix the wiring problems. Reports from car owners about brake light issues led the NHTSA to investigate, which uncovered the full extent of the wiring problems.
| Problem | Impact |
|---|---|
| Brake Light Failure | Higher risk of accidents |
| Wiring Issues | Affected multiple car systems |
| GM Recall | Millions of cars involved |
Power Steering Failures
Power steering problems in the 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models have become a big safety issue, leading to lots of recalls and complaints. These issues can cause you to suddenly lose control of the steering, posing a serious danger to drivers.
GM got a lot of criticism for downplaying how serious these problems were at first. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been keeping a close eye on these issues.
Key points to consider:
- Sudden loss of steering control
- Recalls and numerous complaints
- Major safety risk for drivers
- GM’s initial downplaying of the problem
- NHTSA’s investigation and monitoring
It’s important to know about these issues if you’re thinking about getting a Pontiac G6, especially from these problematic years.
Electrical System Issues
When thinking about a Pontiac G6, it’s important to watch out for electrical issues, especially in the 2006 and 2007 models. These years are well-known for problems with interior features and key electrical parts.
Issues like broken dashboards, flickering lights, and windows that don’t work properly can really affect how the car runs and how reliable it is. Fixing these electrical problems can be costly, so it’s best to avoid these years if you want a reliable car.
Choosing a newer G6 model can help you avoid these common electrical troubles. By keeping these issues in mind, you can make a smarter choice and possibly save money on repairs.
Make a wise choice for a better driving experience.
Transmission Concerns
Besides electrical issues, the 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models often have transmission problems like rough shifting and slipping. This has led to more frequent repairs and maintenance for many owners. Knowing these specific transmission issues can help you decide better.
Choosing newer models might lower your chances of these problems.
- Rough shifting: Hard to change gears smoothly.
- Slipping: Transmission changes gears unexpectedly.
- Frequent repairs: Higher maintenance costs over time.
Expert advice can be valuable. Talk to mechanics about possible issues.
Considering newer G6 models is a good idea for encountering fewer problems.
Looking at these points can help you avoid future hassles.
Owner Complaints Summary
Owners often report a variety of problems with the 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models, showing they are not satisfied and need to keep fixing these cars. These Pontiac G6s are known for needing a lot of maintenance, which can cost you both money and time. The most common issues include electrical problems, brake troubles, and steering issues. Here’s a quick look at the most reported problems:
| Problem | 2006 Model | 2007 Model |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical | Common | Common |
| Brakes | Frequent | Frequent |
| Steering | Frequent | Occasional |
| Transmission | Occasional | Frequent |
| Suspension | Common | Common |
To avoid these problems, you might want to look at newer G6 models or talk to a mechanic to understand the potential issues with these years.
NHTSA Investigations
You should know that the NHTSA has looked into problems with brake lights and power steering in some Pontiac G6 models. These problems were serious enough to cause recalls and ongoing checks.
It’s important to be aware of these issues when deciding which G6 years to stay away from.
Brake Light Malfunctions
Brake Light Problems
When the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) looked into brake light problems with the Pontiac G6, they found serious wiring issues that could be dangerous. These wiring problems didn’t just affect the brake lights but also caused trouble with other parts of the car.
If you own a G6, here are some important things you should know:
- Brake Light Issues: The brake lights might turn on randomly or not work at all.
- Other Car Problems: The wiring issues could mess with other controls in the car.
- Safety Risks: Bad brake lights can lead to accidents.
- Big Recalls: General Motors had to recall millions of cars to fix these problems.
- Ongoing Checks: The NHTSA is still keeping an eye on the situation to see how bad it is.
Knowing about these issues can help you make better choices about your Pontiac G6.
Power Steering Issues
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has found major power steering issues with the Pontiac G6, especially in the 2005 and 2006 models. Many owners reported suddenly losing power steering, which is a serious safety issue.
GM recalled 1.3 million vehicles, including the 2005 G6, to fix these problems. However, the 2006 models still had power steering issues due to electric power assist motor failures.
Even though there were many complaints, GM initially didn’t admit there were problems with the 2006 G6 models. These steering issues made the car harder to control and increased the risk of accidents.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Pontiac G6, you should know about these power steering problems, especially in the 2005 and 2006 models.
Recall Campaigns
Due to serious safety concerns, recall campaigns for the 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models focused on fixing problems with the power steering assist system. These recalls aimed to prevent sudden loss of power steering, which could lead to accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) kept a close eye on these recalls to make sure owners were informed and repairs were done quickly.
Main issues addressed in these recalls:
- Power steering assist failure
- Electrical system problems
- Steering wheel could come off
- Possible lighting system issues
- Faulty ignition switch
If you own a 2006 or 2007 G6, check to see if your car was affected by these recalls and ensure any needed repairs were made.
Repair Costs Analysis
When looking at the repair costs for the Pontiac G6, you should especially look at the common repair expenses for the 2006 and 2007 models. These years often have higher maintenance costs because they frequently have issues that need fixing.
Common Repair Expenses
Looking at repair costs for the 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6, you’ll see that problems with power steering, electrical parts, and the transmission are common and expensive. These issues make these models less attractive because fixing them can be both time-consuming and costly.
Here are some typical repair expenses you might face:
- Power Steering Failures: Replacing the power steering system can cost between $500 and $1,200.
- Electrical Problems: Fixing electrical issues, especially with the car’s computer, can run you $300 to $800.
- Transmission Repairs: Overhauling or replacing the transmission often costs between $1,000 and $3,500.
- Brake System Issues: You might spend around $300 to $700 on brake repairs.
- Suspension Repairs: Fixing suspension issues can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000.
Maintenance Cost Breakdown
Owning a 2006 or 2007 Pontiac G6 can be pricey because of frequent maintenance issues. These models often have problems with the transmission, brakes, and electrical systems, which can lead to high repair bills. Mechanics also often find issues with the suspension system, which is expensive to fix.
These repair costs can quickly add up, making any savings from buying an older car disappear. To get a clear picture of the costs, it’s a good idea to talk to car experts or look up common problems with these models.
Choosing a newer Pontiac G6 might save you money on maintenance and help you avoid unexpected repairs.
Safety Ratings Overview
To decide which Pontiac G6 models to steer clear of, you should look at the safety ratings for the 2006 and 2007 models. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives out important safety ratings that show potential problems.
Both the 2006 and 2007 G6 models have lower safety ratings, which could mean more risks for drivers and passengers.
Here are some key points:
- NHTSA Safety Ratings: Both years got low safety scores.
- Crash Test Results: Poor performance in frontal and side-impact tests.
- Reported Issues: Many safety-related complaints from owners.
- Recalls: Several recalls affecting key safety parts.
- Accident Risk: Higher chance of safety-related incidents.
Checking these safety ratings can help you make a better decision.
Impact on Market Value
The 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models are known for having problems and lower safety ratings, which hurt their market value.
When looking for used cars, these years might seem less appealing because they could cost more to fix and maintain.
Concerns about their reliability make them cheaper to buy at first, but they might end up costing more over time due to constant issues.
Shoppers often do their homework and talk to mechanics to steer clear of these years, which pushes their value down even more.
This trend highlights the need to know about the specific problems with these models, as it can really affect how much you spend and how happy you’re with your used Pontiac G6.
Alternatives to Pontiac G6
When looking for alternatives to the Pontiac G6, check out reliable mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord.
You might also want to consider the Chevrolet Malibu or Ford Fusion.
Comparing the Nissan Altima or Hyundai Sonata can give you an idea of similar features and reliability.
Grand Am Reliability Comparison
Looking at other options besides the Pontiac G6, the 2004-2005 Grand Am models are known for being more reliable and having lower maintenance costs. If you compare these models to the Pontiac G6, you’ll see that the Grand Am generally has fewer problems and cheaper repairs. Reviews and maintenance records show that the Grand Am is a more dependable car.
To help you decide, think about these points:
- Cheaper to maintain than the Pontiac G6
- Fewer problems reported by owners
- Good reviews for overall reliability
- Low repair costs and easy-to-find parts
- Feedback from Grand Am owner forums
Considering these factors can help you pick a reliable car.
Mid-Size Sedan Alternatives
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Pontiac G6, there are plenty of reliable and cost-effective options. The Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Fusion are great choices.
The Chevrolet Malibu is known for its reliability and comfortable ride. The Nissan Altima is fuel-efficient and smooth to drive. The Hyundai Sonata comes with a great warranty and modern design.
The Mazda 6 offers a sporty feel without losing practicality. The Subaru Legacy has standard all-wheel drive, and the Volkswagen Passat is spacious inside. The Buick Regal gives you a premium feel without breaking the bank.
All these cars are more reliable, perform better, and offer more value than the G6.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Pontiac Vibe. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
It’s a good idea to avoid the 2006 and 2007 Pontiac G6 models if you want to avoid major problems and high repair costs.
For example, Jane bought a 2007 G6 and kept having issues with the power steering and brake lights, which ended up costing her a lot of money.
By staying away from these years, you can avoid similar problems and have a safer, more reliable car.
Choose newer models or different cars for peace of mind.
