2008 Pontiac Matiz

Introduction

The 2008 Pontiac Matiz was a subcompact hatchback offered with one engine and transmission option. It was powered by a 0.8L SOHC 3-cylinder engine that produced 51 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Matiz was known for its affordability, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency, but criticized for its lack of power and cramped interior.

Engine

0.8L SOHC 3-Cylinder Engine

• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine performance, hesitation, or stalling at low RPMs.
  • Solution: Intake valve cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Head gasket replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchronizer Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Synchronizer replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, vibration, or instability while driving.
  • Solution: Strut mount replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of electrical power, dimming lights, or battery not charging properly.
  • Solution: Alternator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Harness Short Circuit
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical malfunctions, intermittent power, or blown fuses.
  • Solution: Repair or replace damaged harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible corrosion on metal components.
  • Solution: Rust removal and protection treatment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Covers Ripping
  • Description/Symptoms: Torn or ripped seat covers.
  • Solution: Seat cover replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Display issues, touch screen not responding, or audio problems.
  • Solution: Software updates or infotainment system replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or breaks in the dashboard.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Pontiac Matiz had a handful of issues that could be costly to fix, including engine problems such as intake valve carbon buildup and head gasket failure. Other issues were less severe and more budget-friendly, such as suspension problems and interior issues. Overall, the Matiz’s reliability was average, with some specific components being prone to issues.