2009 Pontiac Solstice

The 2009 Pontiac Solstice is a sporty two-seat roadster known for its attractive styling and fun driving dynamics. Available engine options included a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4 producing 177 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec inline-4 delivering 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices were a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Solstice’s unique appearance and open-air experience, while common complaints include a small trunk, limited interior storage, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.4L Ecotec Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, rough idle, difficulty starting, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the purge solenoid valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Ecotec Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idle, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficulty Shifting/Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, grinding noise when shifting, especially into 2nd or 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Could be caused by worn synchronizers, damaged gears, or a worn clutch. Requires internal transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, transmission slipping out of gear, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Fluid change may alleviate minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the car sits lower than the front. Can cause excessive wear on the rear tires.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Weak Sway Bar End Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not functioning properly, intermittent locking/unlocking, or complete failure to lock/unlock.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Resealing the headlight housing. Replacement of the entire headlight assembly is another option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult or impossible to operate the convertible top, leaks, tears or damage to the canvas.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the convertible top components (motors, cables, fabric).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Lid Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch on the center console breaks, causing the lid to not stay closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the latch or the entire center console lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Pontiac Solstice can present owners with a range of issues, from relatively minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. Engine issues, such as timing chain failures (2.4L) or turbocharger/HPFP failures (2.0L Turbo), can be costly to address. Suspension components are also prone to wear, particularly the rear springs. Convertible top issues are also quite common. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can quickly escalate into more substantial repair bills.