2005 Pontiac Wave

The 2005 Pontiac Wave was a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. It came with a 1.6L inline-4 engine producing around 103 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. People often appreciated its low price point and good gas mileage, but some disliked its basic interior and somewhat unrefined driving experience. A 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission were the available options.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires / Check Engine Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and the check engine light illuminating are common. This can be caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the number of coils or spark plugs needing replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from various points in the cooling system, including hoses, the radiator, or the water pump. Overheating can result if the coolant level drops too low.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the leak, such as replacing hoses, the radiator, or the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the part needing replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket onto the exhaust manifold. Burning oil smell is common.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift are all common symptoms.
  • Solution: The potential solutions are a transmission flush, sensor replacement, or a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+ (depending on the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Hard to Shift
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into gears or grinding noises during gear changes. Often experienced with age and wear.
  • Solution: Check and replace the shifter cable. Clutch replacement may also be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ (depending on the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll during turns. Noise coming from suspension while hitting bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly. Clunking noises when turning and hitting bumps.
  • Solution: Replace broken coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Failing Window Motor
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to go up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ depending on part quality and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on part quality and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the body panels, especially in areas prone to salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the rust and the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Cup Holders
  • Description/Symptoms: Cup holders breaking easily
  • Solution: Replace cup holders
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20-100+ depending on parts and labor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2005 Pontiac Wave, while affordable and fuel-efficient, can suffer from various issues typical of older subcompact cars. Engine misfires, coolant leaks, and transmission problems are common and can range from relatively inexpensive fixes to more costly repairs. Suspension and electrical issues are also noted. The severity of these issues can vary depending on the vehicle’s maintenance history and mileage. The estimated repair costs reflect the potential expense of addressing these problems.