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1992 Pontiac Bonneville

Vehicle Introduction

The 1992 Pontiac Bonneville is a full-size sedan known for its comfort and spaciousness. It boasts a V6 base engine with a 3.8L displacement, generating 170 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. The Bonneville also offers a more powerful 3.8L supercharged V6 engine, generating 205 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Engine and transmission options include:

  • 3.8L V6 Engine
  • 3.8L Supercharged V6 Engine
  • 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive

Owners praise the Bonneville’s smooth ride, roomy interior, and abundant amenities. However, some have encountered issues in specific areas.

Engine

3.8L V6 Engine

  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cylinder head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace cylinder head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.8L Supercharged V6 Engine

  • Supercharger failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost, reduced engine power, whining or grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace supercharger
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive

  • Shift solenoid failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or erratic shifting, transmission slipping
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission fluid leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking onto the ground, low fluid levels
    • Solution: Replace transmission fluid pan gasket or other seals
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Strut failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Noise and vibration while driving, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace struts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per axle
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sway bar link failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises while turning
    • Solution: Replace sway bar links
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per link
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light illuminated, electrical components not functioning
    • Solution: Replace alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Starter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, no clicking or grinding noise
    • Solution: Replace starter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, especially around wheel wells and rocker panels
    • Solution: Rust removal and prevention measures
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity of rust
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Power window failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Windows not rolling up or down, burnt-out window motor
    • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Dashboard cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on dashboard due to sun exposure or temperature extremes
    • Solution: Replace dashboard or cover up cracks
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Pontiac Bonneville has a range of reported issues, but many of these are common to vehicles of its age and mileage. The more severe issues, such as engine and transmission failures, can be expensive to repair. However, the Bonneville remains a comfortable and spacious sedan with a loyal following among owners.

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