2008 Pontiac G5

The 2008 Pontiac G5 is a compact car that was available as a coupe. It was praised for its sporty styling and fuel efficiency. However, some owners have reported issues with reliability. Engine options included a 2.2L Ecotec inline-4 producing 148 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque and a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4 producing 173 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners typically dislike the lower quality interior components and some of the reliability issues.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec Inline-4

• Engine Misfires/Rough Running
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, hesitation upon acceleration, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by worn or faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s), spark plugs, or fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the number of parts that need replacing and the mechanic’s labor rate.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks originating from the water pump, thermostat housing, or radiator. Low coolant levels, overheating, and visible leaks are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component (water pump, thermostat housing, or radiator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the source of the leak and labor rate.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Ecotec Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, accompanied by a check engine light. This indicates a stretched or worn timing chain or faulty timing chain tensioner.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil levels between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a burning oil smell. This may be due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Solution: More frequent oil changes and monitoring of oil levels. Ultimately, engine repair (piston rings) or cylinder head work (valve stem seals) may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or a complete failure to shift. Often related to low transmission fluid, worn valve body components, or internal damage to the transmission.
  • Solution: Checking and topping off the transmission fluid. If the issue persists, a transmission flush, valve body repair, or complete transmission replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Often caused by worn strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sags in the rear, particularly when loaded. Caused by worn rear coil springs or shocks.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear coil springs and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, working intermittently, or making unusual noises. Often caused by a faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to lock or unlock properly, or making a clicking noise. This is due to a failing door lock actuator.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight assembly, drying the inside, and resealing any gaps or cracks in the housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on if you do it yourself or pay a shop.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose or Broken Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior trim pieces becoming loose, detaching, or breaking.
  • Solution: Replacing or reattaching the trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+ depending on the piece and the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Pontiac G5 can be an affordable and stylish choice, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. Engine problems, particularly with timing chains and oil consumption on the 2.4L, can be costly. Transmission issues are also relatively prevalent and may lead to expensive repairs. Other common problems like suspension noise and electrical failures are less severe but should still be considered. While the initial purchase price might be attractive, it’s important to budget for potential maintenance and repairs.