2006 Pontiac Montana

The 2006 Pontiac Montana is a minivan known for its spacious interior and versatility, appealing to families needing ample cargo and passenger room. Engine options included a 3.5L V6 producing 200 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque. While praised for its comfort and utility, common complaints revolve around reliability and electrical issues. Some found the handling lackluster and fuel economy unimpressive.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may run rough, have a vacuum leak, and trigger the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally or internally. May be found at the water pump, hoses, or head gaskets. Internal coolant leak may cause white smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, hard shifts, or slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Typically requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, stalling, or complete failure to move.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, compressor running constantly, or failure of the air suspension system.
  • Solution: Replace air springs, compressor, or both.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks not working, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow operation, or grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as interior lights not working, issues with the radio, or problems with the door locks.
  • Solution: Replace the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light is illuminated on the dash. ABS is not working properly.
  • Solution: Replace the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open or close, sticking, or motor failure (if power operated).
  • Solution: Repair or replace sliding door motor, rollers, or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Dash cover, or replace the entire dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50- $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seat not moving, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Repair or replace seat motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Pontiac Montana suffers from a range of issues, with electrical and transmission problems being the most prominent and potentially expensive. Engine issues such as intake manifold gasket leaks and coolant leaks can also contribute to repair costs. While some repairs may be relatively minor, transmission and air suspension repairs can quickly escalate into significant expenses. These issues can vary in severity, with some only causing minor inconveniences and others rendering the vehicle undriveable. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential repair costs.