2006 Pontiac G6

The 2006 Pontiac G6 was a mid-size car offering a blend of sporty styling and affordability. It was available with several engine and transmission options. Popular engine choices include the 2.4L Inline-4 engine that produced roughly 170 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L V6 that produced roughly 200 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.9L V6 that produced roughly 240 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual (depending on the engine). Owners often praised its exterior design and comfortable ride, while common complaints include electrical issues and some reliability concerns.

Body

• Water Leaks into Trunk
  • Description/Symptoms: Water accumulates in the trunk, often after rain or car washes. This can lead to mildew and damage to items stored in the trunk. The leak often originates from the taillight seals.
  • Solution: Replace the taillight seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently drains, even when the car is not in use, requiring frequent jump starts or battery replacements.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace any faulty components such as the alternator or any parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Panel Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument panel, including gauges and displays.
  • Solution: Replacement of the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlights will work occasionally but may go out for extended periods of time.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to poor performance and eventually engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9L V6

• Valve Lifter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from the engine, especially at idle. Can lead to reduced performance and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and potentially valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of drive or inability to shift gears.
  • Solution: Transmission replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1800 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sun Visor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors become loose and will not stay in the upright position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seatbelt Recall
  • Description/Symptoms: The front seat belts may not properly restrain occupants during a crash.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front seatbelts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free (Recall Work)
  • Recalls: #09V044000

Summary The 2006 Pontiac G6 has several common issues, ranging from electrical problems to engine and transmission concerns. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some being relatively inexpensive fixes (like taillight seals) while others can be quite costly (like transmission rebuilds or engine work). Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.