2006 Pontiac Solstice

The 2006 Pontiac Solstice is a stylish two-seat roadster that marked Pontiac’s return to the sports car market. The base model comes equipped with a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4 engine producing 177 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, while the GXP trim features a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Solstice’s sleek design and sporty handling. Common complaints include limited storage space, a cramped interior, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.4L Ecotec Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine noise, check engine light illumination, potential engine misfire.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Actuator Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft actuator solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (GXP)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, hesitation, lack of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Aisin Manual Transmission

• Shifter Cable Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loose or sloppy shifter feel, inability to select certain gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shifter cable bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay when shifting gears, harsh or jerky shifts, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Sway Bar End Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Passlock Security System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle not starting, security light illuminated on the dashboard, potential for being stranded.
  • Solution: Resetting the Passlock system, replacement of the ignition switch, or reprogramming the vehicle’s computer.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Grounding Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, gauges not working properly, or the car not starting.
  • Solution: Cleaning and tightening ground connections throughout the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow or non-functioning convertible top operation, fluid leaks near the pump.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver Information Center (DIC) Pixelation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or distorted pixels on the DIC display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacement of the DIC unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Pontiac Solstice, while stylish and fun to drive, suffers from a range of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the turbocharger on the GXP model, and electrical gremlins can be costly to repair. The Passlock system and convertible top issues are also common. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing a used Solstice. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.