2008 Pontiac Torrent

The 2008 Pontiac Torrent is a compact SUV that was produced from 2006 to 2009. It was offered with two engine options: a 3.4L V6 producing 185 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque and a 3.6L V6 producing 264 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the Torrent for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive. Common complaints included bland styling, mediocre fuel economy, and some reliability issues.

Engine

3.4L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, coolant leaks, overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Stretching
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, rough idle, reduced power.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, stalling, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, hard shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission service (fluid and filter change), or in severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (service) - $3000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension when going over bumps, excessive bouncing.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Sagging/Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, uneven tire wear, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working or moving slowly, grinding noises when operating the windows.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, doors not locking or unlocking with the remote or power door lock switch.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster, gauges not working properly.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Level Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate fuel level readings, low fuel light illuminated when fuel tank is full, or vice versa.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel level sensor (often integrated with the fuel pump assembly).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate not staying open, falling closed unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, malfunctioning, not opening, or closing properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace sunroof motor, tracks or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: A/C blowing warm air, compressor failing.
  • Solution: Repair or replace A/C compressor, refrigerant leak repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Pontiac Torrent has several common issues, ranging from moderate to severe. Engine issues, particularly with the 3.6L V6 timing chain, can be costly. Transmission problems are also prevalent. Electrical issues, while less severe, can be annoying. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of repairs when considering purchasing a used Torrent.