2002 Pontiac Montana

2002 Pontiac Montana

The 2002 Pontiac Montana was a popular minivan that offered a spacious interior, comfortable seating, and a variety of convenience features. It was available with two engine options: a 3.4L V6 and a 3.8L V6. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 2002 Pontiac Montana have reported a number of issues with the vehicle, including:

Engine

3.4L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak and a loss of power. Symptoms include a rough idle, reduced fuel efficiency, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $600
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak: The valve cover gaskets can leak oil, causing a loss of oil and a burning oil smell. Symptoms include oil under the vehicle, a low oil level, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the valve cover gaskets. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $300

3.8L V6

• Timing Chain Failure: The timing chain can fail, causing the engine to lose power or fail completely. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the timing chain. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure: The intake manifold runner control can fail, causing a loss of power and a rough idle. Symptoms include a rough idle, reduced fuel efficiency, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the intake manifold runner control. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $600

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Failure: The 4-speed automatic transmission can fail, causing the vehicle to lose power or fail to move. Symptoms include a slipping transmission, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500

Suspension

• Front Suspension Noise: The front suspension can make a noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Symptoms include a clunking or rattling noise from the front of the vehicle. The solution is to inspect the suspension components and replace any worn or damaged parts. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400
• Rear Suspension Sag: The rear suspension can sag, causing the vehicle to sit lower in the rear and handle poorly. Symptoms include a sagging rear end, a loss of handling, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the rear suspension springs or shocks. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $600

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge and the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include a dead battery, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $600
• Starter Failure: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the engine, a loss of power, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels: The body panels can rust, especially in areas where there is a lot of salt or moisture. Symptoms include rust spots on the body panels. The solution is to remove the rust and repaint the affected areas. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Door Handle Failure: The door handles can fail, making it difficult to open the doors. Symptoms include a broken or loose door handle. The solution is to replace the door handle. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400

Interior

• Seat Belt Buckle Failure: The seat belt buckle can fail, preventing the seat belt from being fastened. Symptoms include a broken or loose seat belt buckle. The solution is to replace the seat belt buckle. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400
• Climate Control Failure: The climate control system can fail, causing the air conditioning or heater to not work. Symptoms include a lack of air conditioning or heat, a malfunctioning fan, or an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to inspect the climate control system and replace any worn or damaged parts. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $600

Summary

The 2002 Pontiac Montana has a number of potential issues, including engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior problems. The severity of these issues varies, but some can be costly to repair. Overall, the 2002 Pontiac Montana is a reliable vehicle, but potential owners should be aware of these potential issues before purchasing one.