1997 Pontiac Sunrunner

Vehicle Introduction:

The 1997 Pontiac Sunrunner was a compact SUV offered in base and SE trims. Its only engine option was a 2.0L I4 that produced 120 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Despite its off-road appearance, the Sunrunner was primarily designed for on-road driving. It was praised for its sporty handling, but criticized for its lack of power and small interior.

Engine

• 2.0L I4
  • Oil Consumption:
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace piston rings, valve seals, or entire engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+
  • Head Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and a loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Timing Belt Failure (Manual Transmission Only):
    • Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine failure due to broken timing belt.
    • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800
  • Water Pump Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and a squealing noise.
    • Solution: Replace water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Difficulty Shifting Gears:
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard to shift gears, especially when cold.
    • Solution: Replace or adjust clutch and/or transmission components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000
  • Grinding Noises:
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or chattering noises when shifting gears.
    • Solution: Replace or repair synchronizers in transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Slipping Gears:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips or hesitates when shifting gears.
    • Solution: Replace or repair transmission internals, such as clutch packs or valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • TCC Lock-up Clutch Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, hesitation, or shuddering when accelerating.
    • Solution: Replace TCC lock-up clutch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200

Suspension

• Front Struts:
  • Strut Clunking:
    • Description/Symptoms: Noises or clunking sounds from the front suspension.
    • Solution: Replace front struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Strut Mounts:
    • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling sounds from the front suspension.
    • Solution: Replace strut mounts and/or bearings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical problems, and a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, even with a new battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system, such as faulty wiring or parasitic drains.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the interior through the sunroof.
  • Solution: Replace or repair sunroof seals or gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Interior

• Dashboard Cracks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits developing on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Air Conditioning Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or no air conditioning, even after recharging.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the air conditioning system, such as a faulty compressor or condenser.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary

The 1997 Pontiac Sunrunner presents a mix of potential issues and strengths. Engine and transmission problems can be serious and expensive to fix, with head gasket failure and transmission slippage being the most concerning. Suspension issues are common, but relatively minor. Electrical problems and exterior leaks can inconvenience owners but are often manageable. The interior issues are mostly cosmetic, but the dashboard cracks can be unsightly. Overall, the Sunrunner’s issues range from moderate to severe, and the cost of repairs can be substantial.