1991 Pontiac Trans Sport 3.1 from North America

Summary:

Competent and durable

Faults:

Starter, alternator, windshield wiper motor, heater core, radiator, front brake pads and calipers all needed replacement within first couple of months after I bought it -- in fairness the vehicle had sat for quite a while and received questionable upkeep. Fortunately, most parts are quite cheap and readily available new or used (mechanical parts are mostly a hodgepodge of pieces shared with the mid-80s Chevy Celebrity, the early 90s Lumina sedan, and the S10 pickup). TCC solenoid was also shot, but I just unplugged it. Engine and transmission work like new.

General Comments:

Quiet, smooth, predictable on the highway for a van. The nose is weird, but you get used to it, and the driving position is very comfortable. I bought the van to help my parents move, and renovate a smaller house after their retirement, but found myself having to use it on a long trip in an emergency (800 miles each way, plus some city driving for three days). Although I expected problems I had none. The 3.1 isn't very quick off the line, but if you're not running the A/C it's tolerable at highway speeds (the lack of overdrive helps). Gas mileage is about 22 highway with or without the lockup torque converter.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th August, 2007

1991 Pontiac Trans Sport 3.1 Liter from North America

Summary:

A dependable family workhorse

Faults:

Not one thing truly has ever gone bad on the car, but the cup holders broke, and the air conditioning system only works temporarily.

General Comments:

This is one of the best automobiles I have ever owned. It has great handling and a smooth ride. When I first bought it in 1991, it was only because of its cheap sticker price. I never thought I'd get as many miles out of it as I have!! It's very dependable and looks great because of the plastic body.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st December, 2001

1991 Pontiac Trans Sport 3.1L from North America

Summary:

Dependable... but please read on

Faults:

Alternator replaced 3 times.

Many plastic interior parts, such as hood, brake release and turn signal arm have broken. But who needs them anyway?

Door handles have broken or come apart on the driver, passenger and sliding door.

Gas gauge is a crap shoot, better use the trip odometer or enjoy the walk to the next gas station.

General Comments:

I purchased this van knowing it had been in a minor collision. It has held up fairly well except for the poor design of the handles which break easily.

The 3.1 engine is a dog. I give myself plenty of time when pulling out in traffic.

Like a good marriage I have learned to live with its faults and appreciate its dependability.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 15th February, 2001

8th Dec 2008, 19:53

Oh yes... The wipers problem... I own also a 1991 Trans Sport and I believe it is a wiper motor problem.

The door handles in my van were re-manufactured in a machine-shop and was made of steel, never cracks again.

Good family vehicle, I have 3 children and my van resists their vandalism!

1991 Pontiac Trans Sport SE 3.1 V6 from North America

Summary:

Very reliable high performance vehicle before 1993 models and up

Faults:

Cup holders break easily.

Middle air vent has to be held with a toothpick.

Replaced alternator 6 times.

Water pump 4 times.

Radiator at 220,000 miles.

2 front seats due to manufacturer's bad decision to use these seats at 60,000 miles.

Rack & pinion and power steering pump at 180,000 miles and needed to change again.

Window power buttons often don't work.

Fuel gauge shows 1/4 tank when empty.

Tach works off and on.

Windshield wiper motor needs replacing at 255,000 miles.

General Comments:

This has been a really good vehicle despite the normal wear and tear. Considering replacing all bad components rather than trading in for a new vehicle.

Held up very well towing a moving trailer from Oregon to Florida even though it does not have a towing package.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th August, 2000