2007 Pontiac G5

2007 Pontiac G5

Overview

The 2007 Pontiac G5, a compact coupe based on the Chevrolet Cobalt platform, offered a sporty aesthetic and decent fuel economy for its class. While generally considered a budget-friendly option, like many vehicles of its era, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. Understanding these potential problems can help prospective buyers and current owners manage maintenance and repair costs effectively. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical concerns, excluding routine maintenance and standard wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of the G5’s reliability.

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Engine

2.2L Ecotec (L61)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Timing Chain Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

2.4L Ecotec (LE5)

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, requiring frequent top-offs; blue smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Can be related to piston ring wear or PCV system issues; may require engine rebuild or component replacement.
• Cost: $800 - $2000+

Transmission

5-Speed Manual (M86)

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of clutch kit (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $500 - $900

4-Speed Automatic (4T45-E)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $1500+

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of front and/or rear struts/shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Sway Bar Links

• Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise over bumps, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar links.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, door locks malfunctioning, interior lights acting erratically.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Ignition Switch

Failure to Start / Stalling

• Symptoms: Car won’t start, engine stalls while driving, intermittent power loss.
• Solution: Replacement of the ignition switch.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Exterior

Body Panels & Paint

Rust Formation

• Symptoms: Visible rust bubbles or corrosion, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or replacement of affected panels.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility, hazy or yellowed plastic lenses.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $100 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Seat Fabric

Premature Wear

• Symptoms: Tearing or excessive wear on seat bolsters and cushions.
• Solution: Seat cover installation or professional upholstery repair.
• Cost: $100 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Pontiac G5 presents a mixed reliability profile. Common issues tend to revolve around the Ecotec engines, particularly oil leaks and potential timing chain problems, as well as automatic transmission concerns like harsh shifting. Suspension components, especially struts and sway bar links, can wear out, leading to ride quality issues. Electrical gremlins, often linked to the BCM or ignition switch, are also reported. Exterior rust and interior wear are factors to consider, especially on older models. While not plagued by catastrophic failures across the board, potential buyers should be aware of these specific areas and factor in potential repair costs for a vehicle of this age.