2008 Pontiac G3

2008 Pontiac G3

The Pontiac G3 was a compact coupe that was produced from 2006 to 2009. It was available with a 2.2L Ecotec I4 engine mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The G3 was praised for its fuel efficiency and affordability, but it was criticized for its lack of power and poor handling.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec I4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, reduced engine power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, burning oil smell
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed shifting, transmission slipping or jerking, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, reduced ride quality
  • Solution: Replace front strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
• Sway Bar End Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, reduced stability
  • Solution: Replace sway bar end links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical issues, battery discharge
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Battery Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, slow engine cranking
  • Solution: Replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking sound when turning the key
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Exterior

• Hood Latch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hood won’t open or stay closed
  • Solution: Replace hood latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Trunk Latch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Trunk won’t open or stay closed
  • Solution: Replace trunk latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks on dashboard surface
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Steering Wheel Button Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel buttons don’t work
  • Solution: Replace steering wheel buttons
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary

The 2008 Pontiac G3 is a budget-friendly coupe that suffers from several common issues. While the engine is generally reliable, the intake manifold gasket and timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to costly repairs. The 4-speed automatic transmission is also prone to TCM failure, which can cause delayed shifting and transmission slipping. The suspension, electrical system, and interior can also experience various problems. Overall, the G3 is a vehicle that requires regular maintenance and repairs, which can increase its overall operating costs.