2006 Pontiac Pursuit

The 2006 Pontiac Pursuit was a compact car offered in sedan and coupe body styles, known for its sporty styling and affordability. Engine options included a 2.2L Ecotec inline-4 producing 145 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4 producing 170 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Pursuit’s fuel efficiency and responsive handling, while common complaints include interior build quality, reliability issues, and some reported issues with the electrical system.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec Inline-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may run rough, exhibit a loss of power, or trigger the check engine light. A whistling sound may be heard from the engine bay.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls intermittently, hesitates upon acceleration, or fails to start. The check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Ecotec Inline-4

• Camshaft Actuator Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced fuel economy, and a check engine light indicating issues with variable valve timing (VVT).
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft actuator solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle, especially upon startup. Potential for complete engine failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears, transmission slipping or failing to engage gears.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change may temporarily alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can lead to uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, especially noticeable when loaded. Clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the broken coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car stalls unexpectedly, difficulty starting the vehicle, or loss of electrical power.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust bubbling or perforation on the lower body panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels, followed by painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500+ per panel, depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Pontiac Pursuit, while offering sporty styling and affordability, is prone to a range of mechanical and electrical issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.4L Ecotec, and transmission issues can be costly to address. Suspension and electrical faults are also common. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, like timing chain problems or transmission failures, can be quite severe and result in significant repair bills. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common problems and factor in the potential cost of repairs.