2001 Pontiac Sunfire SE 2.4 from North America
Summary:
A really good first car
Faults:
This car was under warranty when I experienced these problems, so I don't know what the cost would or should have been.
The brake pedal has a distinct "click" when it is depressed. This drives me crazy! The dealer said "this is supposed to function like that."
Sunroof started leaking immediately after the car was delivered. The problem was the seal around the windshield. They resealed the windshield, but did not finish it properly. After they fixed it, there were dents on the trim, wind and snow actually came through too! I had to get this fixed again.
After driving for over an hour, there would be a loud squeal coming from under the hood. It sounded like it was coming from the lower front right area. The dealer could never figure this one out.
My air conditioning could not be turned off when the climate control was in "windshield defrost" position or "flow through" position.
Bumpers were really delicate. Someone just bumped me from behind in a parking lot and it left $645 damage.
Also, the dealer lost my antenna at their car wash. What a pain.
General Comments:
My Sunfire had 150 hp and the 5 speed getrag transmission. It handled very well, and had good performance for the value.
Interior controls were good except one thing: the fan off position should be with the fan speed selection. It was with the other control for windshield defrost, bi-level, floor etc. What were they thinking? Also, the cup holders were great, but they blocked some controls if you had a beverage in there.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 18th June, 2002
12th Apr 2003, 09:43
My Sunfire had a terrible squeeking noise from the front, turned out to be the strut mounts were worn, they now have an updated 'hockey puck' that replaces the old ones. Also had a growling noise from the front wheel, heard mostly while in curves, turned out to be a bearing had worn out. Also had a clunk in the steering wheel, turned out to be a lack of grease in the steering wheel shaft universal joint. All problems were fixed under warranty. I really like my Sunfire.