2005 Pontiac Sunfire

The 2005 Pontiac Sunfire is a compact car that was offered as a coupe and sedan. Its 2.2L Ecotec inline-4 engine produces 140 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the Sunfire for its affordability and fuel efficiency. Common complaints include its outdated interior and somewhat unrefined driving experience.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec L61 I4

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket. Machine the head if warped.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, decreased fuel economy, failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic 4T40-E

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid. If that doesn’t resolve the problem, valve body replacement might be needed or a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs high without acceleration, delayed engagement of gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement can alleviate minor slipping. More severe cases often require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when going over bumps, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, clunking or squeaking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to operate, works intermittently, or moves slowly. Often a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor and/or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight/Taillight Bulb Burnout
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight or taillight bulb frequently burns out.
  • Solution: Replace the bulb. If the problem persists, check the wiring harness and ground connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Fuel Gauge
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge reads incorrectly or fluctuates erratically.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the fuel level sending unit inside the fuel tank or the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially on rocker panels, lower door edges, and wheel wells.
  • Solution: Remove rust and repair or replace the affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or install a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose or Broken Interior Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior trim pieces become loose, rattle, or break due to age and brittle plastic.
  • Solution: Replace the broken or loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2005 Pontiac Sunfire can be a decent choice for an affordable and fuel-efficient car, but prospective buyers should be aware of its common issues. Engine problems like cylinder head gasket failures and catalytic converter issues can be costly to repair. Transmission problems with the 4-speed automatic can also lead to expensive repairs if not addressed promptly. Suspension, electrical, and interior issues, while generally less expensive, contribute to the overall ownership cost.