2009 Pontiac G5

The 2009 Pontiac G5 was a compact car available as a coupe. It was generally liked for its sporty styling, fuel efficiency, and affordability. However, some owners disliked the interior quality and somewhat unrefined driving experience. The base engine was a 2.2L Ecotec inline-4 producing 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec L61 Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report the 2.2L engine consuming excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-offs. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels indicated by the oil pressure light.
  • Solution: Depending on the cause (worn valve stem seals, piston rings), the fix can range from replacing the seals to a complete engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail, leading to a check engine light and potential failure to pass emissions tests.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T45E 4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between gears. This can feel like a “clunk” or a noticeable jerk during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can alleviate the issue. However, more severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $1500+ (valve body replacement/rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Coil Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear coil springs can be prone to corrosion and eventual breakage, leading to a sagging rear end and compromised handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs. Replacing both springs is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working intermittently or completely, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The ignition switch can experience issues, leading to difficulty starting the car, stalling, or electrical malfunctions. This issue was subject to a GM recall in many vehicles of this era, but verify if the G5 is included by VIN.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: Check VIN for recalls regarding Ignition Switch
• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument panel cluster can experience issues such as flickering lights, inaccurate readings, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on the lower panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair involves sanding, treating, and repainting affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner can sag or detach from the roof, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Pontiac G5 can suffer from a range of issues, with engine problems such as excessive oil consumption being potentially costly. Other common problems include transmission issues, suspension problems, and electrical faults, all of which can contribute to overall ownership expenses. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and thoroughly inspect any used G5 before purchasing.