1990 Pontiac Tempest

1990 Pontiac Tempest

The 1990 Pontiac Tempest is a mid-size sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 3.1L V6 that produced 140 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine was a 3.8L V6 that produced 170 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission.

People like the Pontiac Tempest for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s reliability.

Engine

3.1L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve covers
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks from the transmission
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid pan gasket or other leaking component
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise while driving, uneven tire wear, loss of control
  • Solution: Replace the front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical system not charging, flickering lights, battery not holding a charge
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, clicking noise when starting
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail light bulb burns out, no brake lights
  • Solution: Replace the tail light bulb
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, lights not illuminating
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat from the vents, coolant leaks inside the vehicle
  • Solution: Replace the heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Pontiac Tempest has a number of potential issues, including engine gasket failures, transmission fluid leaks, suspension problems, and electrical issues. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem. Overall, the Tempest is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of its potential problems before purchasing one.