2003 Pontiac Aztek Consumer Discussions

Pontiac Aztek Electrical Problems

• Re: 2003 Aztek.... that has a few issues [shelleyann]

  Written by: neopostman on Jan 26, 2012 7:00:12 PM

  Lets start with the mileage issue first. If you're not having other strange electrical problems you may need an guage cluster. You can get one on ebay but keep in mind there are two different clusters so order the right one for your car. The gas guage problem may be caused by water getting in connector c305 which is under the car just to the rear of the drivers seat. Water ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Maintenance and Repair

• Key Will Not Come Out

  Written by: kcfoison on Nov 27, 2011 1:38:04 PM

  Pontiac Aztek-2003-FWD-2WD The key is locked in the ignition. All the wires under at the shifter are ok, fuses are ok, and we tried wiggling the wheel and rocking the car. The key realease button does not release the key. We took the column apart and cannot find any other reason except that either the tumblers are jammed or the elctromagnetic key release is broken. Today is Sunday and have to ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Electrical Problems

• Dashboard Lights

  Written by: marquez8 on Sep 19, 2011 8:18:11 PM

  I am having trouble with my dashboard lights since they wont start up, neither will the odometer read on my 2003 pontiac aztek. I allready checked the fuses and they all seem good. Could anyone help me determine the problem

Pontiac Aztek Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2001 Aztek overheats at high rpms, 1st trip of day only [2001aztek]

  Written by: david128 on May 6, 2011 8:14:28 AM

  The problem may not be overheating. My 2003 Aztec, purchased new, was exhibiting the same symptoms. However, the problem was a faulty instrument cluster. I figured this out after other gauges began showing strange readings. Anyway, the cluster was replaced $$$$ and that fixed the problem for a few months. Then, it failed again. The dealer replaced it again (under warranty this time) and it has been working properly for over ... Read More

• Re: Aztek transmission problems [blueeyes198422]

  Written by: swfloridacoast on Apr 16, 2011 2:45:36 PM

  I have had a 2003 Pontiac Aztec since it was new. The problems were 1. manifold had to be rewelded because the engine failed a compression test, 2. transmission had to be rebuilt because coolant got in it, 3. radiator had to be replaced because transmission fluid got into the coolant. Apparently from what I find on the web these three items were problems caused by something called Dex-Cool coolant although ... Read More

Pontiac Aztec Stuck in park

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek stuck in park [susan683]

  Written by: ray80 on Mar 3, 2011 4:23:23 AM

  That could be quite annoying :) First (because you didn't mention it), I believe there is an override that will allow you to get it out of park. I think in the front cupholder there is a little plastic piece that can be removed and small screwdriver or pen can be inserted to push a switch or something and allow shift lever to be moved. As to the problem itself there ... Read More

• 2003 Pontiac Aztek stuck in park

  Written by: susan683 on Mar 2, 2011 11:01:00 AM

  This happened once before and we went through a series of steps and it came out of park. We've tried all the common sense tricks. HELP! We tried rocking it - no good. The steering wheel turns and it starts. The button will just not go in. When we try to there is a noise on the left hand side of the steering column, but it's not engaging. Can anyone help ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Electrical Problems

• Re: 2003 Aztek [jh33194]

  Written by: alchemy315 on Nov 2, 2010 7:06:03 PM

  Hi. I have been having alot of same problems with my Pontiac Aztek and wanted to know if you've found out how to fix the problems like the Brake light coming on and continuously ringing. and the other problems you had in you column.

Pontiac Aztek Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2001 Pontiac Aztek - A/C [sannagui]

  Written by: tmyers1112 on Jun 26, 2010 1:20:35 PM

  this may help you I have a 2003 aztek the blower complete quit on us after doing some more research after fuses it led me to try a blower motor resistor replacement. Now it works brand new. Hope this helps. also its located under the pasenger front directly below the glove compartment and behind the actual blower costs me around 30 bucks.

2003 Aztek problems

• 2003 pontiac aztek- high pitched dinging with no lights on dash

  Written by: babiesweets17 on Jun 6, 2010 8:43:18 PM

  I have a 2003 aztek and just the other day it started making an odd dinging noise when started. This is a very high-pitched ding that lasts for about 5-10 seconds when the car is started. We hooked a computer to it and it returned no problems. There are no warning lights lit up on my dash. Everything is running the same as it has been the whole time we have ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Aztek problems [jh33194]

  Written by: tidester on Aug 31, 2009 4:45:59 PM

  You may want to check out Pontiac Aztek Electrical Problems. tidester, host SUVs and Smart Shopper

Pontiac Aztek Maintenance and Repair

• Azteks suck

  Written by: aztekssuck on Jul 6, 2009 6:27:43 AM

  I have a 2003 Aztek. My wife was driving it yesterday and the transmission started acting strange. I went down to check it out. The transmission will shift into reverse and neutral. But when I shift it into drive, it starts to shutter badly. I then went to the local dealership this morning to see if it was covered under warranty. (The owners manual says 8 years/80,000 miles) I mentioned this ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek

• Re: Service Engine Light [aaspivey]

  Written by: jaydog69 on Mar 24, 2009 3:01:36 PM

  not sure about the engine oil, I kno when I change my oil I have to reset the counter and that is in the manual. $1400 for brakes and tires are they high. I just did my brakes front ones with new rotors and pads for about $125.00 and spent $15.00 dollars on oil change that I did. Check your manual that came with the car. I have 2003 pontiac aztek ... Read More

• Re: windows fogging/ frosting on the inside. [brent13]

  Written by: James1966 on Dec 7, 2008 1:56:17 PM

  I have a 2003 Pontiac Aztek and I have an interior window fogging problem.I have been keeping the defrost on full blast all the time to the point where I am cooking - it doesn't help. The problem is severe - visibility is severely limited and we have to keep scraping the window on the inside as we drive. This never happened in the previous 5 winters, I live in Chicago. ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Electrical Problems

• 2003 aztek batteries galore

  Written by: belloli on Dec 6, 2008 1:20:04 PM

  I need some help! I have a 2003 pontiac aztek with 75k miles on it. the first two years were great. since then, it eats batteries. about 3 years ago, it needed a jump. I tried jumping it by attaching the cables to the fuse box jump connection (I don't know what that's called properly) and grounding the other cable. it made a loud pop when I tried to start it. ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Noises and Sounds

• Noises coming from my tire area

  Written by: dustke on Aug 19, 2008 2:58:17 PM

  I have a 2003 pontiac aztek with 72000 miles about 2 months ago I started hearing a noise almost like a sqweak/sqweel noise coming from my tires so I had my brakes changed and it still continues to make the noise and I dont even have to be pushing the brake the noise only occurs when I am driving straight or turning the wheel to the right. I dont believe it ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Air Conditioner Problems

• how hard is it to replace a/c head switch

  Written by: sissyandjd on Jul 10, 2008 5:24:51 PM

  My 2003 pontiac aztek's a/c and heater fan control switch stopped working.I took it to shop and they said it was the a/c head switch, and it would cost $400 for part and around $100 for labor. I'm low on funds right now and was thinking about getting one from a junkyard. how hard is it to replace myself.

Pontiac Aztek Start Problems

• Aztek Has Trouble Starting

  Written by: kenneymbmrj on Jun 5, 2008 6:09:53 PM

  I have a 2003 Aztek, 76K miles. Sometimes I have trouble getting it started. When this happens the engine usually begins to turn over, but conks out quickly--sounds like its flooded--the car shakes a good bit and then it dies. Today, it was a little different: the car turned over, but quickly died (showing the same symptoms)--even after I was able to run the RPMs to about 3K for a few ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Electrical Problems

• Help!!!

  Written by: batch28 on Mar 7, 2008 4:04:31 PM

  I have a 2003 pontiac aztek electrical problems, Driven just fine one day I was running errands put in park turn it off, and it hasn't started back since. It was dead and locked in park. A backyard mech was able to by-pass something to get it to start, So we know it runs We just have to figure out what is keeping from starting. He replace the whole shifter thinking ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Noises and Sounds

• Multiple Problems

  Written by: simpleaztek on Feb 27, 2008 7:16:22 AM

  It appears that 60k miles was a bad omen. Heard a very loud grinding noise - so I paid $350 to get the passenger wheel bearing replaced. Now, less than a 1,000 miles later, I notice the coolant level is low. Just diagnosed as a bad head gasket. Dealer wants $1,600 to fix it. I called Pontiac customer service and they are going to get back to me tomorrow, but I ... Read More

• rear noise

  Written by: richardgraham on Dec 8, 2007 9:47:30 AM

  Hello, I have a 2003 Pontiac Aztek all wheel drive. Currrently, I am experincing a loud noise from the rear. It gets louder, the faster I drive. I have rotated the tires, new brakes all around and changed the wheel bearings....still the noise. Help!

• Re: 2002 Pontiac Aztek Coolant loss [nparsons]

  Written by: ray80 on Nov 28, 2007 11:20:07 AM

  No recall, its not a safety issue. They did come out with a replacement part (one that doesn't crack and leak) in early 2003 I believe.

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [ray80]

  Written by: mjonesinthenw on Mar 11, 2007 12:26:14 PM

  I just sent you an email...mjonesinthenw@carspace.com

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [mjonesinthenw]

  Written by: ray80 on Mar 11, 2007 10:35:25 AM

  I may be able to help you find it via carspace e-mail

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [mjonesinthenw]

  Written by: caliberchic on Mar 11, 2007 8:10:46 AM

  You can get one Here It's $27.50

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [ray80]

  Written by: mjonesinthenw on Mar 11, 2007 8:07:06 AM

  I worked on older cars and i know that the intake manifold is, I can't see where this one is and i can't find a repair book. Can you help me out on that? I can't find a repair book for the 03 Aztek, do you know where I might be able to snag one?

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [mjonesinthenw]

  Written by: ray80 on Mar 11, 2007 7:37:04 AM

  Noise that goew away after adding coolant doesn't sound good to me at all. If you are lucky, it may just be bearings in water pump complaining. If your 03 was built early in model year, it is most likely the intake manifold gaskets that are casuing coolant loss. The dealer can confirn where the coolnat is going, and I would get it fixed right away as it seems your adding ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [ray80]

  Written by: mjonesinthenw on Mar 10, 2007 6:18:07 PM

  I don't know if it is the same issue. I keep putting water into the reserve container at least once a week. After I put the water in, the noise goes away. Now my change oil light is on. I checked my oil and it is fine. The noise sounds like an engine is out of oil ( someone told me that). A long time ago after I first got the ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [draw1]

  Written by: ray80 on Mar 8, 2007 11:05:19 AM

  Actually I think the noise is different, intake gasket troubles shouldn't cause any noise unless it goes way way to long and engine is failing. Noise at startup (perhaps more so in cold temps) that goes away after warmup I think is common (it may be 'piston slap') and while I have heard of complaints, supposedly it doesn't indicate a real problem.

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [ray80]

  Written by: draw1 on Mar 8, 2007 10:51:09 AM

  I have this problem with a 2003 pontiac grand am do you know if changing the intake gasket will fix the noise or is that another problem

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [mjonesinthenw]

  Written by: ray80 on Feb 12, 2007 10:22:15 AM

  If it is the lower intake gasket issue, they tend to leak externaly initialy. You may be able to see it if it is. You can look at the engine from drivers side front. Just a little higher and beyond pivot point for engine you should be able to see the gasket (line between parts could be black or blue). If you see dark oily looking wet spot there it is ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [jpf]

  Written by: mjonesinthenw on Feb 11, 2007 11:05:34 PM

  There doesn't appear to be any water in the oil as of this evening. But, the water does evaporate quickly with no signs of leaking anywhere and no signs of moisture out the exhaust.

• Re: 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine [mjonesinthenw]

  Written by: jpf on Feb 11, 2007 10:38:12 PM

  The fact that you're losing coolant may indicate that you have the infamous leaking intake manifold gasket. A common problem with the 3.4 liter engine. You need to get it checked out right of way, especially if the coolant is getting into your oil. Good luck.

• 2003 Pontiac Aztek Pinging Noise in Engine

  Written by: mjonesinthenw on Feb 11, 2007 8:45:37 PM

  I have 84555 miles on my Aztek and I have noticed I have to keep putting water in the radiator. No lights or warning instruments have come on. I just got my oil changed about 2500 miles ago. The engine started making a pinging noise when I start it up. It last for just a little while, until it warms up, then goes away. I added some more water to the ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek

• New to Aztek

  Written by: rob_azteka on May 24, 2006 5:38:51 PM

  Hi all! I bought a royal blue used 2003 Aztek from a dealer today; it's totally sweet! Have to take it back tomorrow afternoon for some work (the rubber seal at the top of the windshield is lifted and flaps when you go over 35 mph). Big concern though is this: there's no cooler/console. Dealer said it was stolen, and that Pontiac didn't make them anymore, and suggested I check out ... Read More

• 2003 Pontiac Ultimate Aztek with 665 HP

  Written by: nextmoon on Sep 26, 2003 12:57:06 PM

  GM's 665 HP Aztek, I don't think this one will make production. http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat- _code=reviews&loc_code=index&content_code=01386060

• Love it But Hate It

  Written by: gobryan on Oct 1, 2002 7:40:32 AM

  I was able to convince my husband to buy me a Pontiac Aztek AWD with the full package 2001. Needless to say we should have kept our Honda CRV. I love the Aztek, I put over 1000 miles a month, not to mention another 4000 when we go home. Well I got my first flat, though the dealership (FOX Chevrolet in Laurel) said something about the air being let out. And ... Read More

• WOW Saw my 1st 03' today!

  Written by: tekwarrior on Jul 15, 2002 12:02:40 AM

  I saw a 2003 Aztek today, at the new Ewing Pontiac near me. They had 8 base model 02's and one base model 03', when I say base I mean base. The 03' was Yellow and the only difference I could see between it and the 02's was cruise control as standard equipment. That and it now has different wheels, but that's all I could see.

• DGRPK and Greg Easton

  Written by: noastar on Feb 21, 2002 5:35:16 PM

  DgrPk, I personally wouldn't recommend either of the base models. Actually, I wouldn't recommend an SUV if you live out in Arizona. The Tek is a bit lacking in ground clearance and probably won't get you through deep rain any better than a sedan would, not to mention you shouldn't be driving through water that deep to begin with. I see you currently own a Maxima. If I were you, and ... Read More

• Dealer stories (again...)

  Written by: greg_easton on Feb 21, 2002 2:57:51 PM

  And here is a biggie!! I was told that the aztek would not be made next year and that the person, or persons, who designed it was fired. Anyone heard anything about this or was this just another ploy of a dealer trying to steer me away from buying a pontiac? Dealers say so many things (The Vibe is the replacement for the Aztek. Remember that one?) most of them crap. ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek Owners Meet the Members

• aztek or santa fe

  Written by: dgrpk on Feb 20, 2002 1:14:08 PM

  I love the aztek and have been looking at suvs now for awhile. My husband and I have it narrowed down to an aztek or manual 4 cylinder hyndai. Its not apples to apples but in price it is. I heard a rumor that the aztek will not be make for 2003, I'm looking at a 2002. Heard the person who designed it was fired. Am concerned about this and the ... Read More

Pontiac Aztek

• Uh, I don't know a good title...

  Written by: noastar on Jan 23, 2002 8:37:35 PM

  I'd like to comment on the 2003 idea. I'm pretty indifferent to the lift/tail gate design. I'm not saying I love it, but it does do some good things. I like being able to sit on it! My brothers and I go target/skeet shooting all the time and I can sit on the tailgate between rounds and sometimes shoot from it (just don't aim too hight:). If you don't have the ... Read More

• malibu99

  Written by: gregeaston on Dec 18, 2001 10:32:15 AM

  Nope. I'm just a really rabid fan of the Aztek and I met most of the development team during the Northeast Aztek Owners Rally last July and they were really great about giving us some insights into the 2002 and a glimmer of the 2003. They also keep us owners updated on another site that shall remain nameless so that the board monitor doesn't nuke my post so that we get ... Read More

• any info on 2003 end of prod?

  Written by: tigerb on May 8, 2001 9:21:16 PM

  Searching for any info on rumored end of mfg in 2003 for the Aztek if anyone has news. leased mine -- barring any horrendous mechanical problems I'd like to buy one -- it's working out very well. in case anyone's interested in owner perspective -- got my Aztek in Jan. 3800 miles to date - no complaints except for touchy rear door latch. drove it through major blizzards (NYC area) no ... Read More

• About Ford...

  Written by: jmatero on Apr 10, 2001 7:38:01 AM

  As for the Taurus, it is moving a bit upscale by 2003-2004 and will share the Volvo S80 chasis. The prices will go up and production will be far less than it is today. What car companies are finding is that there are CERTAIN reasons folks are buying so many SUVs/Trucks today. At first, they thought it was the off-road ability and 4wd but that turned out to be wrong for ... Read More

• Oh no, this is it!

  Written by: teo on Mar 29, 2001 6:29:09 PM

  Okay, first the detractors in this room have criticized Kissfan for buying a Pontiac Aztek....now thathe will be buying a more *Politically correct* car (Toyota Corolla) now he is critized because he doesn't buy the *vastly improved* 2003 Toyota model? UNBELIEVABLE! The 2003 Corolla is not even in the market yet and it will be probably another 7 to 9 months or may be longer before it does. Likely, he needs ... Read More

• Aztek

  Written by: skidmarks on Feb 11, 2001 1:20:32 PM

  As a decendent of Aztec ancestry. I am highly perturbed over Pontiac naming their no-framed,no-frills, no taste model car after my proud ancient warrior predicesors. I will be petitioning GM to rename this model something more politically correct,like "Chiepton" or "Ventura"{sorry Jessie} I am hoping that this name change will come with the 2003 major face lift that it deserves!

• Pontiac next?

  Written by: teo on Jan 29, 2001 8:04:56 AM

  I seriously doubt it. Actually Pontiac is due to receive at least 3 new models that will be aimed at improving the division's image and a welcome departure from the excessive plastic cladding, The Batmobile theme and the Aztek failure... * The 2002 Pontiac Vibe Sports wagon * The 2003 Opel Speedster (Set to replace the Firebird and TransAM F-body coupes). See it here: www.opel.com * The all new 2003 Pontiac ... Read More

• Business Week article

  Written by: rkuehn on Sep 25, 2000 9:37:14 PM

  Found some comments in BW, have posted relevent excepts... Concerning a new Pontiac sport wagon due in 2003 to be called the Vibe, it "will have a cleaner look, ditching the garish outside plastic cladding other Pontiacs often have." "Pontiac has gotten out of the gate slowly with its current youth-oriented vehicle, the Aztek sport-ute, which missed its August sales target." According to one dealer, "Its a good vehicle, its just ... Read More