Pontiac Bonneville 1996

• Recall 83221 [USA]: Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
  Sabersport is recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. These headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain the required amber side reflectors.
  sabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. The safety recall began on may 11, 2009. Owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.
  this recall only pertains to aftermarket replacement equipment and has no relation to any original equipment installed on vehicles produced by the vehicle manufacturer.In order to determine if your aftermarket lamp assembly is affected by this noncompliance, please review the list of model numbers provided to us by sabersport.The list can be found under "document search" located at the bottom of your screen.Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov .

• Recall 18503 [USA]: This condition can cause a no-start condition and possibly an engine compartment fire.
  A backfire during engine starting can cause breakage of the upper intake manifold.
  dealers will update the powertrain control module programming. Until the campaign repair is made, the vehicle hood should be shut whenever starting the vehicle to reduce the chance of personal injury.
  vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with 3.8l v6 engine. Owner notification: owner notifications began during july 1996. Note: owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact buick at 1-800-521-7300; pontiac at 1-800-762-2737; or oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.

• Recall 18560 [USA]: Consequence of non-compliance; the driver may not be aware that the key was left in the ignition or that the safety belt was not buckled.
  These vehicles were assembled with a malfunction alarm, lighting and locking (mall) module that can contain a damaged capacitor. If the capacitor is damaged, the "key in the ignition" warning chime and the driver seat belt unbuckled warning chime and indicator lamp may not work. This does not meet the requirements of fmvss no. 114, "theft protection" and fmvss no. 208, "occupant crash protection." in addition, other chime reminder functions, interior lighting controls, and power door locking features are also affected.
  dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the mall module.
  system: electrical; ignition; anti-theft; fmvss no. 114 and no. 208.Vehicle description: passenger vehicles.Note: owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact buick at 1-800-521-7300; oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537; or pontiac at 1-800-762-2737. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.

• Recall 1996099 [Canada]: Engine
  These vehicles may exhibit a backfire during engine starting that can cause breakage of the upper intake manifold. This can cause a no-start condition and possibly an engine compartment fire. Also, if a person was in the vicinity of the intake manifold when the hood was open, and this backfire condition occurred, it could result in personal injury. Correction: the pcm (powertrain control module) will be reflashed with new programming software.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

• Engine compartment fires investigation as of 20021022

  Ea02-030 is closed with gmea02-030 is closed with gm¿s actions in 03v-473 and 04v-090 recalling approximately 529,000 my 1998-99 c- and h-body vehicles equipped with defective fuel pressure regulators.These vehicles were equipped with plastic intake manifolds that are unable to contain pressures that occur in some backfire events and defective fuel pressure regulators with leaking diaphragms that can provide a source of fuel to produce a combustible air-fuel mixture in the manifold.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by odi that no safety defect exists in the vehicles that are not included in gm¿s recalls.Odi will continue to monitor the incidence of manifold ruptures and related fires in other my 1995-2002 gm passenger cars equipped with the subject intake manifold.For additional information, see the attached closing report.
  

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Tl* the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. While driving 35 mph, the driver and passenger side air bags deployed inadvertently without warning. The vehicle was not involved in a crash. Due to the failure, the windshield shattered. A police report was not filed and no injuries were reported. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 151,474.

Tl* the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. The contact stated that while parked, the anti-theft and an unknown security warning lights illuminated and the vehicle required multiple attempts to start. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the ignition lock cylinder was replaced and a new key made but the failure recurred. The contact mentioned that the horn and chime sounded uncontrollably. In addition, the radio failed to function. The interior lighting controls and the power door locking features failed intermittently. The vehicle was not repaired. The vin was not included in the nhtsa campaign number: 95v204000 (electrical system). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 125,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. When the contact started the vehicle, the driver and passenger side air bags deployed inadvertently. The impact of the passenger side air bag caused the windshield to shatter. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000. Updated 1/28/15*cn updated 9/6/2017*cn

Interior lighting system malfunction. Light's staying on when car is running and senors chimming for doors. *tr

I left my house & stopped for gas. After getting gas i noticed my airbag light was on. I did not pull over thinking it was a sensor problem. I proceeded to the highway & when i reached 57mph i put on my cruise control. In about 2 minutes my airbags deployed & my ability to see was 0%. The entire incident took about 15 minutes from house to deployment. The powder/smoke engulfed my car. If i had not had both my front windows down i think i could have suffocated. I am currently on breathing meds for copd. The vehicle is old in years but not in mileage. I bought it from someone that only used the car for special occasions, 4 yrs ago, it had 58,000 miles on it. It runs great but now i am afraid to drive it. *tr

I left my house on 9/10/2011 and went to gas station. After fueling up i noticed that my airbag light was on. I did not pull over because i thought it was just a sensor problem and i had never heard of anyone having to pull over for the airbag light. I proceeded to the highway and when i reached 57 mph i put on my cruise control. In about 2 minutes both of my airbags deployed and my visibility was 0%. If i had not had both of my front windows down, the powder that engulfed my car could have suffocated me. I am on breathing medicine for copd. Although my car is up there in years it is not up there in mileage. I purchased the car from someone 4 years ago, who only used the car on special occasions. When i purchased the car it had 58,000 miles on it and only has 91,500 today. This whole process took about 15 minutes from start to finish.

Tl* the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. The contact stated that the vehicle was being driven 15 mph when the front air bags deployed involuntarily. One of the vehicle occupants suffered minor injuries as a result of the deployment. The manufacturer sent an inspector to examine the vehicle and the contact was informed that water had entered the air bag module and caused the failure. Due to the water damage, the air bag module was corroded and caused the air bag to deploy. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 130,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle chimed before stalling. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic for inspection or repairs. The manufacture was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000 and the current mileage was 118,000. The vin was unavailable.

96 pontiac bonneville.While parked at residence vehicle went into security lock mode and wont allow vehicle to start. All advice from individuals to "reset" security failed. Only option left is to tow to local dealer for service. *tr

My son was at a stop sign in his 1996 pontiac bonneville, just as his was getting ready to proceed, both the driver side and passenger side airbags deployed, he hadn't even put his foot on the gas, insurance appraiser, appraised the damage in excess of $2000 and come to find out they won't cover it due to the fact that the car wasn't in an accident, they say it's a manufacturers issue, he received a minor burn on his arm from the airbag deploying. *ln

This car belongs to my elderly mother which she bought used and has been an on going problem! Occasionally when starting the car, the engine will backfire, after starting it would run ok. The car now does not run as the intake manifold is broken from the backfiring and almost caught on fire the last time it was attempted to start the motor! According to pontiac there is no recall on this car by the vin number!! *js

Tl* the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. While driving at speeds of at least 10 mph or while sitting idle, the vehicle would stall without warning. The power windows, seats and fuel pump would become inoperable as well. The contact would recharge the battery and once fully charged, the vehicle would operate normally for a short period of time before stalling again. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but they could not duplicate the failure. The failure persisted. The contact also stated that it would take several attempts to remove the key from the ignition when shutting off the engine. The vehicle was taken to a different mechanic where they could not duplicate the additional failures. The mechanic suggested that the ignition anti-theft controller was faulty and caused the vehicle to stall. Although there was a recall for the failure, (nhtsa campaign id number: 95v204000: electrical system: ignition: anti-theft controller), his vin was not included. The failure mileage was 97,000 and the current was 98,000.

No incidents but there is damage done to the fuel , emission and brake line the fuel and emission lines from the fuel tank use a plastic quick connect coupling just underneath near the rear passenger side tire . The coupling becomes lose and sprays the fuel lines and brake hoses with fuel this washes off the protective layer of the hoses which then corrode and leak fuel and brake fluid , this happened on my 1996 bonneville can anyone email me if there are any recalls on this car for that reason or if i am entitled to repairs by the manufacturer. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. While the vehicle was parked, the contact heard a loud noise. The air bag exploded and shattered the windshield. The insurance company was called and they declared that the vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer stated that they were not responsible for the repair. The failure mileage was 200,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. The contact stated that several attempts had to be made before succeeding in starting vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a mechanic where the failure was located at the intake manifold and oxygen sensor. The intake manifold cap was melting and causing oil to spill. In addition, the failure was producing white smoke from the tailpipe exhaust. The vehicle was repaired but the contact was unsure as to the exact repairs made to the vehicle. The contact also stated that the anti-theft system failed and would alert the contact that the doors were opened, and the seat belts were not secured erroneously. The fuel injection system was also defective and was repaired by replacing the fuel injector, and adding fuel cleaner. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign id numbers: 96v116000 (fuel system, gasoline: fuel injection system) and 95v204000 (electrical system: ignition: anti-theft controller) however, the contact was advised that the vehicle was not included in either recall campaign. The current mileage was 158,000. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.

I put gas into my 1996 pontiac bonneville went to start it and it backfired and started running ragged and check engine light came on. *tr

When i purchased my 1996 pontiac bonneville sse used i searched for any recalls on it i found 2 one for the intake breaking and one for the anti theft system i took it to local dealer they said it was not applicable to my vehicle now i have had issues with backfiring constantly and have even called pontiac help line where i was informed that my vin number was not valid and there were no recalls on my vehicle fast forward a few months and my wife this morning went to the store where the car backfired and the intake exploded into several pieces and large amounts of smoke issued from under the hood now this will undoubtedly cost me a small fortune to repair what am i to do now? *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. When the contact started the vehicle, the engine backfired severely. He opened the hood and noticed that the engine plastic cover was shattered. He removed the cover and found that the upper intake manifold failed. The manifold was replaced, but the failure recurred when the vehicle was started. The contact discovered nhtsa campaign id number 96v116000 (fuel system, gasoline:fuel injection system) pertaining to the same failure. He notified the dealer, but they could not locate the recall. The dealer referred him to the manufacturer, but they could not find any failures because the vehicle was older than ten years. The vehicle is currently at the dealer. The current and failure mileages were 93,495. Updated 1/26/09 *cn updated 01/26/09. *jb

1996 pontiac bonneville plastic manifold in engine from manufacture broke causing dex coolant to leak into engine destroying seals/head gaskets. Replace at dealer gasket,gasket kit,valve,valve kit,upper manifold, lower manifold reseal,coolant. Dealer does not honor recall. *tr

I was driving home one night and my airbag light came on, and about ten seconds later the passenger side air bag deployed. I had hit nothing, and was driving on a newly paved road. The airbag deployed and in the process broke the windshield and the dash. Pontiac has been called and they said they would get back to me in two days. *tr

Around jan 2008 while driving a plastic water hose burst. I replaced it and had no other problem until around aug 2008. This time the water pump started leaking. I replaced that and the thermostat and radiator cap, but i still kept loosing coolant. Then i found a crack in the radiator which i replace around the end of aug 2008. I still kept having to top off the coolant reservoir ever two days. About june 2008 i started having trouble with the veh starting, it would seem like it wasn't getting enough gas or flooding. It would be running but barley and it would not accelerate when you press the gas pedal. Finally it would start. It doesn't do it all the time but it's doing it more often now. I've fuel system and injection cleaners with no change. Then i went to nhtsa and found a recall 96v-116 that seems to be the cause of my problem. I went to the local pontiac dealers and they said that my vin was not part of the recall and that there was nothing they do. I told them that i would bring back to get a diagnostic test. *tr

The airbag light came on and about an hour later we were driving about 10 miles an hour and the driver airbag deployed for no reason, no impact of any kind. The driver broke 2 of her teeth, driver and passenger got out of the car to let the smoke from the airbag clear and assess the damage of the teeth and about 5 minutes later the passenger airbag deployed while the car was in park and nobody was in even in the car, that deployment destroyed the dash and windshield. We called pontiac on monday oct. 22 they said someone would call back within a day or two and they did call back this morning oct. 24th but she just asked all the same questions they asked on monday and said it would take 7-10 days to get back to us. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. While driving 20 mph, the drivers side air bag deployed without warning. The contact sustained a burn on her forearm. The mechanic was unable to determine the cause of failure. Approximately an hour and a half later, the passenger side air bag deployed without warning. The vehicle was towed to a pontiac dealer who stated that the air bag sensors corroded. The dealer has not repaired the vehicle. The manufacturer made an offer to repurchase the vehicle. The current and failure mileages were 118,000.

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. The vehicle backfired when the ignition was started, and the check engine indicator light illuminated. The intake manifold was damaged. This failure occurred twice before and the manifold was replaced. A local mechanic stated that this vehicle was included in recall # 96v116000. However, the manufacturer stated that the vehicle was excluded from the recall. The contact possessed the repair invoices. The current and failure mileages were 150,000. *ak

Dt*: the contact stated while driving 65mph on the interstate in rainy weather, the front passenger airbag deployed. The passenger sustained minor injuries. The airbag warning light was illuminated and the vehicle was not inspected prior to the deployment. After the incident, the vehicle was inspected by a dealer who determined the airbag sensor underneath the seat was corroded which caused the airbag deployment. The manufacturer was contacted.

Windshield seems watery! Seems as though the plastic inside is defective. *jb

Dt*: the contact stated the airbag warning light illuminated. An hour later, the passenger side airbag deployed. The vehicle was traveling at a speed of 15-20 mph. This occurred without an impact to the vehicle. The deployment broke the windshield. The vehicle has not been seen by a mechanic.

Dt*: the contact stated a leak in the brake line was discovered and resulted in the vehicle being taken to an independent mechanic. After further inspection it was determined the brake and fuel lines were rusted and required replacement. *nm updated 02/21/06. *jb

On the evening this happen i was traveling home from work. About one minute before the drivers airbag deployed the airbag light came on for about 10 seconds. Then went out ... Then the airbag deployed in my face as i was driving on the highway at about 60 mph. I was able to slow the car down and pull off to the side of the road ... After clearing the smoke from the deployment i checked the car and all seemed ok. I started again for home which at this time was about 5 miles. The airbag light did the same thing again and before i could stop the car the passenger side deployed .. Smashing the windshield and dash. At this time i have to replace the windshield and dash at my own expense ..Which will have to be done over a little time .. I researched this on the internet and found at least 10 others having the same problem. *nm

Electrical system problem. Windows quit working, directly related to engine not firing up. Also affects door chimes, security, seat controls, interior lighting. Multiple attempts of trying to fix problem, battery cables, battery, replacing ignition wires to no avail. Problem continues to worsen. Had to have towed to dealer, since local mechanics could not find initial problems. Car does not run at this time. I even put on a fuel pump(which didn't need replacing) due to shut off of motor. When windows quit working it also affects the fuel and spark. We think its in the computer and/or security system. *nm

Dt: consumer owns a 1996 pontiac bonneville. He states that there was recall 96v116000 concerning intake manifold. He spoke with the manufacturer, and they stated his vehicle was not included in the recall due to vin. The consumer was told that there was a technical service bulletin. He brought it to dealer for service on june 28, 2005, and had the upper manifold intake replaced. The consumer has a print out from the repair shop that he would like to mail in.*ak jb

While in park drivers side air bag deployed, causing broken windshield and electrical failure of some systems. *ak

While in park position ignition key turned on and passenger side air bag deployed with cause. Windshield had to be replaced immediately. General motors has now had the car in testing for two days without being able to conduct the actual test. They have transferred out file to their legal department. Cost of the air bag is approximately $850.00. Controls $870.00 plus damage to the dashboard. Cost to emergency replacement the windshield was approximately $400.00. We apparently should hear from the legal department in two days. Time to order the airbag is 3-5 days. No established time to actually do the repairs.*ak

Purchased a 1996 pontiac bonneville new from dealer. The vehicle had the 16: chrome rim package. The rims are aluminum construction with chrome plating. 2 year ago, the rims began to have a chronic leaking problem. On multiple rims corrosion was developing on the inside bead, resulting in a loss of seal and pressure loss. Took to gm dealership, at gm request and they stated that they could not find the leak. Took it to ntb and they were familiar with problem and cleaned rim to last approximately 9-12 months, but then the corrosion resurfaces. Should a chrome plated aluminum rim have corrosion internally? I don't think so.

Brake lines on 1996 pontiac bonniville are rusted through and allowed the fluid to leak out causing catastrofic loss of braking of automobile.*ak

While driving 55 mph with the cruise control on the front passenger air bag inadvertently deployed. Consumer pulled over, and had the vehicle towed. The dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak

Both frontal air bags inadvertently deployed while coming to a stop and rolling down the power window on driver's side. Dealer not notified.*ak

Passenger side airbag deployed for no reason while traveling 25 to 30 mph. Damage to windshield (broken glass) and near injury to passenger. Vehicle make 1996 pontiac bonneville vin = [xxx]. Contacted insurance company and advise not covered by policy, contacted pontiac consumer complaint dept. In dallas tx. Via phone. Awaiting disposition.*ak information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.S.C. 552(b)(6). *tr

When turning vehicle towards the right and when entering into a parking lot steering wheel locked. Consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealership, and mechanic determined that the steering pump failed. *ak

Coolant from upper intake plenum found to cause mis-fire cylinder. Replaced upper intake plenum twice once at 54,820 miles and again at 107,181 miles. *jb

An independent dealer replaced the manifold gasket and upper plenum on 01/16/04, 03/15/04 the gasket and egr valve was replaced, and the plenum gasket was replaced on 02/27/03. Coolant leaked from the intake manifold. *ak *sc *jb

1)coolant loss from plastic upper intake. 2)egr pipe burn through failure, upper and lower gasket failure. 3)replace upper plastic intake, upper and lower gaskets, coolant elbow oil and filter change. (5 hrs labor). *nm

After starting vehicle intake manifold failed, and vehicle became inoperative. *ak

While driving at 35 mph vehicle overheated. Vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop, and mechanic determined that intake manifold cracked, spilling fluid into the engine. *ak *mr

While cranking my 1996 pontiac bonneville i heard a big explosion. I look under the hood and found the plastic cover over my intake with a hole blown fron the engine. I further removed the intake cover and tha intake had a ripping hole in it also, as if the top of my engine blew up.*ak

Last weekend when i was driving my pontiac bonneville registration tag [xxx], nj license plate has a [xxx] back door pops open accidentally. Surprisingly i call the gm dealer and found this vehicle is not equipped with door open warning. This feature is very common in very cheap basic cars, where as large big car is missing. Being a full size family sedan, i was expecting to see this type of basic safety warning system when this car has sunroof, antilock brakes, leather seats, traction control and climate control etc. It was good that my eleven-year kid had a safety belt on at time it had occurred. I do not want to same thing happen to other drivers and live in fear weather or not car is really locked or not. I am really not feeling comfortable to drive this vehicle with whole family. I appreciate your immediate help. Thanks, [xxx] updated 07/27/2012 *js information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.S.C. 552(b)(6)

This car was purchased in jun of 1996 and recall was issued jun 1996. So why weren't we told of this problem before the purchase. Dealership greed . When starting my 1996 pontiac bonneville, 3.8l v6, it backfired and lots of white smoke came from the muffler. I called a tow truck to pick up the car and take it to the pontiac dealer where they proceeded to inform me a few hours later that it had a cracked intake manifold which allowed water to get into the motor. I was told that we had already taken the car in for the recall, but i didn't recall doing that. And dealership has not provided me with proof that the recall was done and done with the redesigned parts recommended by gm. Gm knew of this on going problem, they installed the same faulty parts again and the problem reared its ugly head again. The dealership advised us that we would need to spend $1000.00 to repair the car. But they could not garantee that the car would not blow the motor or crack another intake manifold. There are 275,811 bonnevilles with this problem and gm still does nothing to fix the problem. Maybe making the part out of something else other than plastic might help. Meanwhile people like myself and other middle class amercians are paying through the nose to fix their cars with the problem only going to happen again. I can't see why there isn't a class action suit agaist gm it has been 8 years and the problem still exist. I have seen where they have replaced some motors for some customers, so why not take responsibility and replace the manifold or motor where it is warrented for all people that are having problems. This expense should be on gm. And for those that have been railroaded into paying for the repairs, refund them the money they have spent to fix the car. I have been quoted a price of $5000.00 for a new motor untop of the $1000.00 repair to see if that will work. *ak

Inadvertent airbag deployment. *cb

Air intake plenum on the bonneville 3.8 liter engine failed allowing coolant to enter the engine. The engine immediately locked up when the water entered the piston area. This failure caused damage to the pistons and the valves. Engine is damaged beyond repair and must be replaced. *nlm

The plastic air intake plenum failed on my car. This allowed water from the cooling system to enter the combustion chamber. The engine hydraulically locked up. This damaged the pistons and valves. Engine is damaged beyond repair. Salvage or replacement is the only option. *jb

Vehicle stalled intermittently without warning while driving. Vehicle was taken to the dealer, and they found that the intake manifold was cracked, and caused coolant to leak inside the engine. *ak

My 1996 bonneville was towed to a repair facility on monday morning, sept. 22, 2003. I was informed that my engine had gone into hydraulic lock. The plastic intake had cracked and filled the cylinders with coolant. I had to have the head removed and surfaced, the head gasket replaced and several other related items. The repairs totaled to over $2000. This was very frustrating because i am very careful to have all of my maintenace done on time and all of the fluids changed every 30,000 miles. If you can help with this, it will be most appreciated. I have discovered that there is a continuing problem with this design of intake. *la

Replaced plenum on 1996 pontiac bonneville three times. Last time was approximately at 87,000 miles. Faulty (plastic) part allowed antifreeze and oil to mix in the engine causing stalling (in the middle of a busy state road intersection, a safety hazard). The mixing of the fluids allows the engine to burn the antifreeze and by the time you realize anything you are overheated. This was the third time i had the same problem.*ak

1st the plenum was melted by the egr valve, which caused me to be stranded. When that was fixed, i began hearing a high pitched whine once the engine is heated up. We have replacedthe harmonic balancer power steering pump, water pump, all belts, checked the timimg chain, and everything else we could think might be causing it, but i still have the whine. Cause is unknown still.*ak

While driving, the vehicle air bags deployed without impact. *nlm then 20 feet down the road the passenger air bag deployed, tearing apart the dashboard and windshield. Gm didn't seem to be concerned about what happened and their inspector suggested that there were pine needles on the windshield that caused water not to flow properly. The service dealer found the passenger side floor full of water from front to back. The sdm module had corrosion and water damage which possibly caused the air bag deployment. *scc *jb

The paint is flaking off the body of the car every time i wash it. This started about three months age, there are now large sections of the car without paint. The car has about 74,000 miles on it. *la

When the key was placed in the ignition, it did not turn over. *jb

Ref: nhtsa recall #96v116000, fuel system, gasoline: fuel injection system. Previously i attempted to crank the 1996 bonneville and it made a loud noise like a shotgun being fired. My wife and daughter came out of the house and asked what made that sound. Today i was informed that the car had a cracked plenum,intake and it was going to cost over $600 to repair it. The car is at easley pontiac in easley, sc. I asked them wasn't this a typical problem with the 3.8l v-6 engine and the service manager said yes. I asked him about any recalls and he said no. I then went to the internet and checked your web page and found there was a recall, as referenced above. I then called gm pontiac service and spoke with ms. Tonya bristle and inquired about this specific recall. She called the dealership while i stayed on the telephone. She came back and stated that gm would not cover this repair because there were no recalls for the 1996 bonneville. She also said they would not cover it the repairs because they did not have maintenance records on the car and it was almost 7 years old. I do not agree with gm and think they should be responsible for the repairs due to the history of the same problem with nearly all of their 3.8l v-6 engines. Also, a couple of weeks ago i carried the same car to the same dealership because the car would cut off going down the interstate for no apparent reason. I called pontiac service and asked them about this. Neither one of them had a clue why this was happening. The service manager said he would replace the fuel pump but he would not guarantee the car would not cut off again. I wonder if these two incidents are related. *nlm

Cooling system leakage-the black plastic cover on the intake manifold leaks coolant/water. It leaks when the weather is cold, it does this when ever parked and the car is allowed to sit and get cold. There is clear evidence it is leaking around the base of the plastic cover where it seals against the aluminum intake manifold. It has done this every winter for the past four winters. It is getting worse, and from the complaints i have read it is common to the 3.8 l engine. It does not leak at all in the summer or fall, only in the winter below 35 degree's. What is the real problem and is there a solid fix for this, or are all repairs just temporary until the new gaskets start leaking again? Is there any type of recourse or recall? The colder it gets, the bigger the leak and the puddle under the car. It also stinks when you drive it while the coolant cooks on the motor. *jb

The engine on this car failed. It has 115,000 miles. It was maintained from the start. We purchased it new. The intake manifold failed and leaked antifreeze throughout the motor. We had the manifolds, oxygen sensors, and catalytic converter replaced. We found out there was a tsb issued on this vehicle regarding the manifold problem. Pontiac and the dealership were contacted. They both told us it's a common problem, but they'll do nothing. I'd understand given the mileage that this is not a new car, however, knowing there's a tsb issued on it, it seems they are failing to provide a good product to their customers.

I bought this car in december of 1999, i beleive that the car was in an accident before i bought it, because the driver side door does not have the labels on the door for the weight or tire pressure, all it has is a parts number sticker a white lable. I have asked the pontiac dealer about it and they said that some come with just that label. I payed $16.000 for the car and beleive that the car was in an accident prior to purchased date. I have had the paint peel off the hood shortly after buying it and now peeling on the roof over windsheild. But with the sticker off the door i belive that i was taken. I still owe $9.000 in payments. I also think that it was a lemon, because on the winsheild is a sticker that says sunset pontiac satisfaction, a round sticker on the driver side of windsheild. I have never seen another sticker like this on any other vechicle.

The vehicles plastic intake manifold cracked which caused antifreeze to leak into the engine. The consumer had to pay for a new engine. *mr *cb *nlm

The engine experienced a coolant leak. *ak *jb

1996 pontiac bonneville 3800 k engine . Upper intake manifold failed at 63000 miles causing coolant to leak.

The engine leaked coolant.*ts *jb

Failure of intake manifold and gasket on my automobile. Allowed engine coolant to leak into the cylinders of the engine. Car: 1996 pontiac bonneville with 3.8l v-6 engine, using the dex-cool gm coolant. Repairs required a complete replacement of intake manifold and all engine gaskets. Repairs costs exceed $1400.

The engine failed.*dt *jb

11/01/2002 i had my car serviced. The mechanic told me that the manifold had coolant on it. 11//02//2002 i went to the part department at the pontiac dealer and asked if there had been any notices about the intake manifold. They told me on 11/05/2002 the car would not start. Finally i got it started and had white smoke filling the area. I got it to the mechanic because i was not sure what had happened and also because pontiac had said they had no information on the manifold. 11/07/2002 i picked up the car with the replaced manifold. They also gave me a copy of bulletin no. 01-06-01-007 dated feb. 2001. The bulleting identifies the problem and the redesigned parts that are the replacements. It is a design problem in many engines in many cars that are listed in the bulletin. The mechanic said i was lucky i did not lose the engine. It seems pontiac has identified the problem, has designed a solution but will not acknowledge they created the problem and do a voluntary recall. Your help is appreciated. Dt

Consumer states the motor "locked up" while driving at highway speeds. Mechanic diagnosed that antifreeze is leaking into engine cylinders. Ts

This is a fuel leak directly onto the exhaust system from atop. The gas tank rusted through lines from fuel pump to gas lines to the engine. Gas leaks directly onto the top of exhaust. Fire hazard. -----dims 11 ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis----------------769751. *ak

Car was at aproximately 87000. Turned the car on, there was a loud explosion and smoke came out from under the hood, didnt see any flames, popped open the hood, and smoke just continued to pile out. Engine light came on, and the mechanic found the engine was on its last breath. Had engine relaced for a used engine with 4500 miles on it for $1500. Soon after the engine the alternator started to die, where just by standing next to the car you can hear metal to metal grinding noise coming from it. Paid $100 to get new alternator. Right after alternator the eg r valve died, had it replaced, another $300 spent. Now come spedometer saying 99000 but the second engine only having 60000 the serpentine belt cracked and worn out beyong believe. Another $75 spend. While having that replaced the mechanic pointed out puddles of oil on the engine, thus the manifolds/gasket on engine#2 will soon need to have work done.Should i contact the local dealer about the gaskets leaking...Does it relate to the recall that was made on the manifolds. *ak

While driving at aprx 40mph the car lost all power, and the steering wheel locked up. This happened twice within 3 weeks. The brakes still worked ,and it was a straight road so was able to stop the car without causing any accidents or injury.*ak stearing wheel and pedals shake between 65 and 75mph. Mechanic found that smaller bracket of the drive wheel has become loose. Replaced the bracket. Worked fine for about 2 weeks...Then shaking started to come back...Will be taking it to the mechanic again..

Passenger air bag deployed involuntarily while vehicle was going 55mph. Airbag warning light did not illuminate on dashboard. Dealer was notified. *ak *mj

Abs light came on, when applying brakes vehicle did not stop on wet pavement. Took vehicle to dealer who indicated that abs computer malfunctioned.*aksensor failed also. *jg

While driving, engine light illuminated. Checked under hood, and realized there was no coolant in tank. Took vehicle to dealership, mechanic had to replace the plenum. Also, would have to replace it again at 90000 miles.*ak *yd

On 02/18/2002, 04:20 am, my wife went to start the car to let it warm up before going to work. Upon start up, there was an explosion and there was a fire instantly. I ran out and rolled the car out of the carport and into the back yard. The neighbor came running with a fire extingusher and put out the fire just before the fire department arrived. There was a recall (your number 96v116000). The upper intake manafold did fracture from one end to the other...Gapping open about two and a half inches.. My car was repaired for this recall on 01/19/1998. I guess that this was not a fix for the problem. The gm investigater looked at the car and told me "that there was nothing that we had done to cause this problem". He would not say anymore. On 02/18/2002, the prrson for gm called and said that they would not accept any liability for the problem. If the recall was not a fix for the problem, there are (accourding to your figures),275,811 vehicles out there that this could still happen to. Lord, help the person that is looking over the engine when it is being started. It will take their head off. Thank you, [xxx]*ak referenced in ea02-030 parts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.S.C. 552(b)(6).

When starting vehicle it backfired and caught fire in engine. Vehicle was repaired under nhtsa recall 96v116000/ manufacturer's recall 97c02. Dealer was notified. *akconsumers car backfired, causing the manifold to fracture allowing water into the engine. The engine has been replaced and warrantied. *jg

While starting vehicle, it exploded and caught on fire. Had a recall done on jan 1998 for engine backfire, dealer contacted . *ak original recall nhtsa campaign #96v116000. Kentucky basic fire incident report stated that fire possibly started around the injector area of the engine. Consumer states that gm would not accept responsibility for fire and that there was nothing they could do. *tt

While driving and without warning, vehicle all of a sudden lost all power, consumer coasted to the side of the road and stopped, however consumer could not get out of the vehicle, the doors would not open, she could slide the door latch, but the lock would release, none of the power windows worked, consumer was informed that the doors were reprogrammed so they all open manually from the inside. Dealer found battery cables dirty and corroded. *jb

The check engine light had come on. The intake manifold had to be replaced and there were problems with the electrical system. *sc the electrical problems the consumer had were with the doors, the battery, seat belt warning light and the interior lights and the fuel pressure regulator was bad. *jb

Vehicle failed to start, and would blow white smoke out of tail pipe. A private mechanic diagnosed vehicle as having a cracked manifold. Dealership informed consumer that vehicle was repaired under recall 96v116000 in august of 1996, prior to her ownership. Please provide any additional information / attachments.*ak referenced in ea02-030

Fuel consumption of vehicle has gone up, fuel is spraying out of tailpipe. Dealer found fuel sending unit needs to be replaced. *ak

Automatic door locks failed to unlock door when engine was turned off. Only way to exit vehicle was with assistance from someone outside of vehicle or turning engine on. Dealership has not examined vehicle. Please provide any additional information/attachments.*ak

Hood is up, and when theres a strong wind hood will slam down on someone's head. Also, trunk is very heavy, and consumer is afraid of childrens hands being injured. *ak *jb

Fuel sender lines corroded and rusted severly causing a large leak under the vehicle, consumer believes this is an inherent design problem and/or the part was made with inferior materials. Nlm

Oil had been leaking frequently from the engine rear seal. Technician could not find out what caused the problem. *ak

Gas pedal locked up as consumer was driving. She said when driving there was a hesitation in the car . Also, rear door will not open intermittently. Vehicle has electrical doors and locks . Alarm system goes off all the time. *ak

Battery leaked acid, and positive terminal fell off from side of battery, battery acid covered battery case, covered distributor and possible brake lines. Opened file with pontiac #00775631*ak

Consumer states that due to the design of the upper intake manifold, it is constantly coming into contact with the heat of the engine causing the seal to warp, and cause a coolant leak, consumer replaced water pump, upper intake manifold, and the heater hose fitting at engine block. *tt

Improperly installed vacuum hose to the fuel tank lead to flexing of the fuel tank. Over time the flexing weaked the metal and cause the tank to crack wherein it developed a fuel leak.

Transmission failed completely while driving. Car made loud whining/grinding noises, jerked and was difficult to control. Other cars swerved to avoid hitting me. Once stopped and in park i tried to proceed. The dash showed the car in gear, the engine would rev but car would not engage any drive or reverse gears. Had car brought home and towed to dealer the next day. It has twice previously gone into neutral briefly while driving but there was never a "check engine" light.

Trunk lid opens on its own and system monitor does not indicate it is open, or if doors are ajar. *ak

2 front wheel studs broke off while trying to replace brake pads see nhtsa id#: 99v072000. *ak

The security system which came with vehicle prevented driver from starting or restarting vehicle after being parked for some time. Would finally start vehicle. Took vehicle to dealership twice for security problems. Mechanic could not duplicate the problem. *ak

Engine:gaskets:oil pan replaced, vehicle has a repeated engine oil pan leak. Engine leaks oil at other locations. Concerned about engine fire.*ak

There is a "drum" inside of this transmission that was originally made from a poor quality steel (soft)that started to disintegrate and sent small particles of metal throughout the transmission, that in turn, locked the 2,3 solenoids, resulting in transmission failure. Gm has since changed the drum material to a case hardened one to eliminate the problems this is causing.However, at this present time both gm and the dealership refuse to even assist in the expense of this repair, even though the transmission was serviced at the authorized dealership and 800 miles before required.

The engine light came on the dash. I took the car for a diagnostic computer check which showed it was a transmission problem. I took it to multistate transmission - 3850 hemphill st. - fort worth, tx 76110 phone #(817)921-6155. They did a computer check on it which showed it was slipping at about 35/40 mph. They took off the pan, saw sludge looking stuff in it and burned transmission fluid. They had to go into the transmission to find the problem. They had to rebuild the torque converter, replace a large number of parts, including a sprag kit, chain rocker joint, band reverse maji, sprocket stuff, etc.

When starting the engine, the fuel line leaks fuel without a reason, and consumer is concerned about this problem. Dealer and manufacturer had been contacted. *ak

The windshield wipers are made to stop when there is heavy snow on the vehicle, but they stop when there is heavy rain. Dealer cant do anything because it is a built-in safety feature. *ak consumer notified gm who stated they could not modify under warranty. *slc

Automatic transmission malfunctioned, causing the transmission to slip and the vehicle to die, almost causing an accident. Dealer replaced transmission 4 times. Dealer cannot determine pborlem. *ak

Improperly installed transmission cable tore through the brake line causing loss of fluid.

Coming down a hill at approx 5 mph , started to apply pressure on brakes, smelled gas fumes and noticed smoke. Tire were also extremely hot. *ak

The consumer has been experiencing problems with air conditioner compressor. Air will not circulate in vehicle unless the air conditioner is on. Also, air conditioner compressor has gone out once before. The manufacturer has been contacted. *ak *ml

When starting up vehicle, vehicle rolled forward for no apparent reason; had not taken out of gear yet; took to dealership, was informed it was a normal occurrence, still at dealer. *ak

Abs brake system , applied the brakes and the pedal went the floor, impact 12:00 position, speed 35 mph, applied the brakes on wet surface, complete loss of brakes. Hit one vehicle and knocked into another one. *ak

Upon starting ehicle and applying the brakes, vehicle suddenly accelerates out of control. *ak

When vehicle was involved in a low impact crash ( less than 25 mph), the deployment of the driver's side air bag caused driver to become legally blinded in the right eye. The vehicle has been totalled. *ak

While vehicle was in motion at 65 mph overdrive went into neutral twice.

Transmission failed.

Antilock brakes failed 6 times.

Power window motor failed.

When depressing the center horn pad, the pad became very difficult to depress and also locate. Consumer also stated the volume is too low. Consumer has contacted the dealer. *ak there is no sound when depressed at horn symbols. *yd

Drivers side rear seat belt inoperative.

There's a vibration at all times and at high speed, it gets worse and the car is hard to control. Please describe in detail. *ak

The consumer was in a head-on collision and the driver side air bag did not deploy. *ak

Problems regarding 1996 pontiac bonneville.*mr the overhead hand strap broke while an elderly passenger was using it to exit the vehicle. The consumer indicated that the strap was secure to the roof of the vehicle with plastic not metal. *nm

Gasoline is leaking from the gas tank due to defective fuel tank sending unit. Yh

Dealer says intake manifold cracked & needs replaced. Will this be recalled? I read a news bulletin saying you are investigating this. Dt

Steering column shaft is defective and in cold weather the wheel will not turn towards the left. *ak

While pulling into a parking space inner tie rod broke, causing loss of steering control cause unknown. Please give any further details. *ak

While driving 40-45 mph there was a strong smell of anti freeze leaking, vehicle started to vibrate constantly unable to maintain steering wheel. Consumer reported to mechanic, and mechanic stated it was a throttle leak. *ak

While driving 30 mph vehicle was involved in a head on collision , and seat belts did not restrain driver or passenger, both parties suffered major body injuries.*ak

Water in tail light fixture, bulb was dismantled and fixture was rusted. *mr one of the back up lights were inoperative. The consumer found the compartment full of water, the bulb was dismantled, and the fixture rusted. (the same condition was in the other compartment) *scc *jb

While driving on the highway windshield wipers abruptly stopped working. Also, hazard lights failed. Consumer had to pull over to avoid an accident. The cause of both failures was undetermined.*ak

Steering wheel locked when turning left. Consumer stated that rack and pinion was defective. *ak

The front passenger side air bag deployed while the vehicle was parked and idling. *nm

The plastic intake manifold melted causing coolant to leak into the engine. *ph egr valve is stuck at 67% open position at idle, which in turn heated the egr pipe connection at the plastic air plenum and led to the leaking of coolant into the engine. Dealer replaced plastic air plenum which has much thicker walls at the egr entrance. Vehicle also doesn't run well at highway speeds and gas mileage dropped. In addition, consumer also noticed loss of oil pressure, no one knows when the leak on the motor started. *la

The egr valve stuck 67% in the open position at idle which caused coolant to leak into the engine. *ph plastic air plenum was replaced.*mr

There is no door ajar warning system on the vehicle, but it is on manufacturer's manual.

Poor visibility due to design of seat.

Torque converter misses and hesitates.

Engine backfires at start up, resulting in an engine fire. Referenced in ea02-030

Good year tire blew out.

The windshield wiper blades disconnected from the motor and stopped working. Dealer has no parts. *ak

Consumer was invovled in a 35 mph frontal collision in which the driver's or passenger's air bags did not deploy. Also, after the vehicle was inspected by the dealer the computer system indicated the air bags had deployed. Please give any further details. *ak

Consumer was involved in a 15 mph low impact collision in which the air bags deployed, causing damages to the windshield and the dash area. Please give any further details. *ak

Engine knocks. Dealer has put two engines in vehicle, and problem stills exists. Manufacturer has been notified. *ak