1995 Pontiac Bonneville SE 3.8 Series II from North America

Summary:

Worth every penny

Faults:

Replaced an air conditioning hose at 72,000.

Replaced the front struts at 99,000.

Replaced the original Goodyear tires at 82,000.

Traction control and radio controls in the steering pod went out at 69,000. Estimated cost was 400.00. Elected to do without.

Replaced a right side tie rod at 103,000.

General Comments:

Considering the cost of repairs and mileage, I would buy this car again in a heart beat. It's rock solid, and built to last. I never have to worry about merging into traffic, it always goes.

I changed the oil every 3,000. I just got back from having the radiator flushed for the first time. It's like the energizer bunny.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th November, 2001

16th Sep 2004, 07:12

I bought my bonneville in june 2004, and I got to tell you this one of the most reliable cars driving on the road. the 3800 engine just gets up and go, and only with 170hp. The car actually fills like a v8 without the gas consumption of one. The only minor problem I had was the relay switch, and it needed some freight.

1995 Pontiac Bonneville SE 3.8 Series II from North America

Summary:

An excellent combination of sportiness and luxury yet is still a relatively economical car

Faults:

Low pressure valve on the AC failed at about 90,000. $65.

Master cylinder replaced at about 92,000. $300.

General Comments:

I replaced the ORIGINAL Michelin X-One tires at 89,000 with the same. New struts also. This Bonneville has the optional 16" wheels and 60 Series tires.

Struts and tires: $1000.

The 3800 has a remarkable combination of power/speed and economy. The factory EPA rating is 28 mpg highway and I have squeaked 30 mpg out of it on a trip by myself (very little weight in the car). On a recent trip with the family I got 28 mpg.

I don't know what it would take to make this car slide... I can't do it... it just grips.

The interior is dark gray with factory tinted windows. The seats are very comfortable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th August, 2001

1995 Pontiac Bonneville SE 3.8 from North America

Summary:

Trade it in before 50K

Faults:

Coolant leaked into fuel intake system. Upper and Lower manifolds replaced, gaskets, valve covers, plugs, etc. ($1,335.00)

Transmission failed ($2,500)

Computer failed, reports all error codes, will not clear.

Replaced Serpentine Belt.

Replaced Spark Plug Wires.

Replaced thermostat, twice.

General Comments:

I really liked the way this car handled and drove. It appeared well-maintained when I purchased it and I have had it serviced regularly.

I can't believe how many expensive repairs have been required in the last two weeks.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 21st June, 2001

2nd Jul 2001, 13:06

This is a P.S. from the original author. Guess what, now the engine has seized. In less than 3 weeks I have had three major, unrelated failures on this car. What a mess. Has anybody else had a similar experience. I just don't know what I'm going to do except give the car an indecent burial.

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