Used 1999 Pontiac Sunfire Consumer Reviews
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3 engines! 2.4 L
My sunfire, while fun to drive, has had nothing but problems. It had a wiring issue that 12 "technicians" at RON TONKIN LIARS AUTO sales could not find. Pontiac said there wasn't any known issues or recalls. I bought this car with 60,000 miles. It had already had a motor replaced with another used one that the LIARS at R.T.K. didn't tell me about. Since I bought it I have had to replace the 2.4 engine at 80,000 and now I have a rod knocking at 100,000. The vehicle gets routine oil changes, has never been over-revved and has never overheated. But yet I am looking at yet another engine swap. I baby this 4 cylinder and it still went pear shaped. Where is the Pontiac of old?
Don't Buy One
Two blown head gaskets in under 30,000 miles, do I need to say any more? I forgot to mention that it had to be return after 4 miles for a loose wheel. There are too many small problems to list.
I like my car!
I have to say that I have enjoyed this vehicle and was pleased with its reliability. Do buy the extended warranty, though, as things can go amiss. Muffler still new however I've had to replace the big muffler brackets a couple of times. Bit of a gas guzzler. This past year leaves me with a problem with the driver's side door lock - any cold or condensation makes it virtually impossible to unlock. Apparently this is an ongoing issue with the Sunfire. After replacing the tumbler, then the hinges and lubing the door clasp, I am hoping this winter will be better and I won't have to climb in over the stick shift through the passenger side. I trust my car and it's been very good to me.
CRAP CAR
AT FIRST THE CAR WAS GREAT BUT ONCE I HIT THE FIRST YEAR MARK THINGS STARTED GOING WRONG AND FALLING APART. THE DASH WAS ORIGINALLY INSTALLED INCORRECT AND CANNOT BE FIXED, THE ROATERS ARE SHOT AND NEED REPLACED. NOW AT THREE YEARS I AM GETTING RID OF IT BECAUSE IT IS BURNING AND LEAKING EVERY FLUID UNDER THE HOOD. BECAUSE OF ALL THE PROBLEMS IT SUCKS GAS AND I AM SPENDING MORE ON GAS PER MONTH THAN MY CAR PAYMENT. ALL THE BURNING FLUIDS EMITS FUMES THAT ARE WORSE THAN DRIVING BEHIND A DESIL SEMITRUCK.. I WILL NEVER BUY PONTIAC AGAIN AND AM LOOKING TO SELL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!!!
Still getting in my Pontiac and DRIVING!
Not a bad little car for the price. The Sunfire's sporty look makes everyone think I have a V6 under the hood. I've driven it on long road trips and short trips and it's just a fun car to drive. I can haul more luggage than my boyfriend in his Mustang, and 9 out of 10 times we go somewhere we take my SUNFIRE. So far, I have few complaints. For someone who has always driven a car from the compact market, it comes in at the top of the pack. As long as this car stays on the road and out of the shop, I'll be pleased to call it mine for a long time!
Fun car, great car
This car has been a joy to own. Very few mechanical problems and a lot of fun to drive.
I really want a new car
As I try to trade my sunfire in, I am finding it very hard. This car does not hold its value. My sunfire is in perfect condition but the new car dealer only wants to give me 3000 and why I asked him and he responds its a Pontiac. So if you want a car that holds its value do not buy this car. I like my sunfire but its a 5 speed and I am just tired of driving it.
impressed
I have never been a Sunfire/Cavalier fan thinking people that owned them did not know style. I don't think they're the prettiest, however, I'm now impressed with the way this Sunfire handles. Would prefer manual, but the automatic trans has pretty nice pull for 150 horses. Engine's a little loud - especially compared to my GrandPrix, but turn up the 6- speaker stereo, take down the windows, throw back the sunroof and touring Europe - the perfect car for it. I'm glad I bought it while here in Europe.
Very Satisfied With my Pontiac
When I bought my Sunfire GT in Feb. 02, I was very excited to own a newer car. Now in July, I'm still just as excited to own this baby! I love this car. It's quick, manoevers great and loves the corners. I've heard lots of people knock this car, and I used to do it too...until I bought one. Now I tell people how great this car actually is. NOw, for those of you who have complaints about the Sunfires, (especially the convertibles) all I have to say is, "serves you right". The Sufire and Cavalier convertibles are probably the ugliest cars around and I have no Idea what would posess anyone to buy one. I went with the sunroof and that's good enough for me.
Love this car!
I bought this car when my other car of another brand started blowing smoke. This is the first Pontiac I've ever owned and have been very impressed with it. I have had problems with the instrument panel going on me, but the two times that has happened, I've been able to get it replaced under warranty. This car reminds me of my first car, which I loved, only the Sunfire handles so much tighter on curves. It has a fast, smooth acceleration; very impressive for a 4 cyl. automatic. At the same time, because it has a small engine, the gas mileage is great. My car looks flirty and fun, but the four doors are also practical for loading luggage and cats.
Been nothing but a headache
I love the exterior design. I have had a lot of complements. What a cute car it is. Nice looking car. I agree. I am not happy at all with the problems I have had. It started 9 months after I bought the car. The sun roof leaked. It had to be completely replaced. The battery post broke. The radio system has been replaced twice because it kept shorting out. The brakes were worn out long before they should have. At the same time the front struts had to be replaced. All of this happened within the first three years. The problems have just kept coming. I expect these things to happen as the car gets older not when the car is brand new! I think this car was made on a Monday or Friday!
Pontiac Sunfire
The pontiac sunfire is a great car and lots of fun to drive. I traded in my minivan for it and have loved it ever since
Great Car!
Best car I ever owned, VERY reliable.
Reliable for being an american Car
Only trouble I had was the side view mirro connectors are cheaply made and the light went out in the stereo clock. I have only had to perform routine maintainence which is nice. This is a much better pontiac in comparison to previous brands from previous years.
1999 Sunfire with 2.4L engine
In the ten years I've had the car, I had not not have any major problems. It has 135kMi In fact, so far it has all been maintenance items (oil, brakes etc).Very impressed with the reliability of this car.
'99 Sunfire se
Nice little car for work/travel. Had to replace tires & Rotors/calipers at 63,000 miles which cost me about $800.
MIne
i have seen better, much better. needs more room
Fun and Reliable
I've had my Sunfire Convertibel for 4 years and have loved it every minute. It has alot of pep for a 2.4 ltr engine. It looks like a much more expensive sports car...definitely doesn't look like any other compact car I've ever seen. I'd definitely recommend it!
Lemon from Pontiac
Purchased car 9/1/01 with 12,000 mi. Now June (9 mo. later) and car only has 24,000 mi. Leaks water into speakers and dumps on leg when getting into/out of car. Car top is improperly designed and Pontiac Cust. Service said, tough luck. Replaced stero/cd twice so far, gasketing around all windows, adjusted trunk door and gas door so would close properly, now driver window is having electrical problems. Feel like am always in the shop. LOVE having a convertible and adore the car...when there are no problems and it is not raining.
another pontiac failure
I bought a used 99 sunfire pontiac, expecting to get a great american vehicle. I have had major problems with the accessories, whereas the machine and the transmission are great. Mostly I expected a better Fuel Economy, and a better heat endurance from the vehicle. This car made me think of an european vehicle for next purchase.
Amazing
This is an amazing car. I would totally recommend it!
193,000 and still going -- BulletProof
We bought almost new. Has been a great bullet proof car! been in several accidents, #1-t-boned a Mercedes and destroyed it, barely hurt front bumper, small split but under bra, #2-rear ended by a honda accord, literally destroyed the honda, front of honda was accordionned, barely a scratch on rear bumper of SunFire, no kidding, #3-hit a deer, put a half basketball size dent in front fender, popped most of dent out, rest is under bra. Mechanical repairs made: starter and head gasket, that is it besides regular maintenance items, brakes, plugs, whatnot. Fast in the summer, great on snow and ice in the winter.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Sunfire
Not the most comfortable car, and steering is a bit tricky. The car seems to jerk slightly going into a curve, and always has. Very reliable, ok power.
Awful mistake
So I bought this car used. Had it 3 days the frame broke. After that its been all down hill. The frame then the alternator then the battery then the radio. 3 months and I have to get rid of it! It started out great ended awful!
Sunfire rules
I love this car. I've had it for 3 years now, and no problems. I have driven it across the United States, and had absolutly no problems.
Great Car for the Money
I purchased my car after crashing my brand new truck. It has proven to be a very reliable car. Aside from the usual wear and tear, this car has not given me any major problems like my other cars. Its great. Its affordable and nice sporty/family look to it. Nice. I would recommend it for a small family.
A really nice ride
Bought this car new. It is a great ride on the highway. It is also very comfortable, looks good and handles like a sports car. It never fails to get me to and from the job and has a nice sporty profile for pleasure use. It has logged over 84,000 miles requiring only regular scheduled maintenance. Good cargo space for a compact.
Very Reliable Car
I purchased my Sunfire 3 years used, and have had no serious problems, even in our cold Canadian winters. I had the rotors turned because of a knob of rust that was making noise but not affecting performance. The interior is slightly under-par, but what can I expect for a cheap car. Also, I find that the ABS and the traction control really helps me keep a tight grip on our icy Canadian roads. If you can find it, I would suggest that you get the four gear, as opposed to the three gear - drives smoother at highway speeds. I would recommend this car for anyone looking for a good economical car.
I like my wheels..............
I have owned my car for 2.8 years and it has been an awesome vehicle. As a single mother with 3 kids it was what I could afford at the time. No major complaints, just wish it was a little more roomier in the back as the kids get bigger. It's great on gas, looks great and handles awesome.
Sunfire Lover
Love the car. The dealership was the worst part. Extremely RUDE People working there including the owner. I haven't have to replace anything other than the brakes the entire time that I have owned the car!
fine little car
Best buy I ever got in a car. Paid about $11,000 and never had a problem with the car. Gets 36 mpg on the highway. easy to drive and handle.
Not a bad car...
The car has served me well for the last 3 years. Any major problems were covered under warranty. Aside from being on the loud side and typical GM build quality, it's not a bad buy for your money.
Cute, sporty, and a geat little snow car
An under rated little car that goes all winter up here in Alaska- never failing to start, even at 20 below zero.Seats 5 if the 3 in back are under 5'8. Pluses: nibble little snow car that can traverse unplowed roads with 6 inches of fresh snow falling. The front wheel drive and steering combo make control flat out awesome. I do have abs and a manual transmission. Negatory power- there is no vroooom but I get 33 mpg in town. I would buy this car again in a heart beat. It reminds me of a cross between my favorite car ever, the 1978 Saab 900 and the old diesel rabbit. Back seats fold flat practicality in a feature packed low low cost ride. Great comuter ski bunny car. Get the sunroof!
love it!
Overall a great car... loves the cold weather, fun to drive, handles great, looks great. Sometime starts funny in hot weather. The ABS kicks in at weird, inappropriate times.
Good Car for the Money
This car is a good value. The interior is comfy and it gets great gas mileage. Best of all I have only had minor problems with it and they have been really cheap to fix.
good
good handling. good engine and good all around car for anyone. kick ass car
I got good value for my $$
I got my 99 red Sunfire 2 door 2.2 auto for $11000 in 2001. I LOVED my little red coupe. It has really served me well. I've had almost no mechanical problems for the first 4 years I owned it. I just did regular maintenance and oil changes, brakes replaced at about 70,000 km, etc.. My only major problems with it have been in the past year. I blew out my head gasket at 100,000 km. Paid nearly $1000 to get a new head gasket & water pump. I've been told by many mechanics that the Sunfires are notorious for head gasket problems! So watch your anti freeze levels and dont let it over heat as that gasket has very low tolerance. I also got the wiring recall work done at a GM dealership for free
99 Sunfire GT
I bought this car at an auction, after a serious accident. This only thing this car smokes, is other cars. Racing grand am GT's I win, Grand Prix GT's I win, Z24, base mustangs,comaro's and firebids. Runs great, only probelm so far with it were the rotors. I had to replace them twice. Other than that this car is defenetely worth every cent.
I love my car
I have had this car for two and a half years and not once has it let me sit. I have never even had a problem starting, even in the dead of winter. It gets me plenty of looks and the pep that it has is just perfect for the daily driver that wants some speed! This is my 4th car and my favorite, I would definately recommend this car to anyone!
Nice looking car but engineering is weak
We paid about $13000 new. The only option was a CD player. The main problems were that the A/C fan went out twice and an A/C duct kept coming apart when we ran the fan on high. Also, the paint job started pitting in 2001. The hood looks like it has white dots all over it. It also lost its original shine. To be honest, we live in Florida and the sun is brutal on paint. But we kept it waxed a couple of times a year and paint should last longer than that. It is the dark green color. No major problems with the motor or transmission. The car rattles and is very noisy.
It's a good car
I've got a 1999 GT Coupe with all the options. It's running great. I haven't had any problems with it at all and I drive it everyday. It's important to do your regular maintenance.
Fun Car
This has been a very reliable car. NO problems at all. Not one. It is fun to drive. The convertable top operates smoothly and has never leaked! When the top is up there is no wind noise. You feel as if you are in a hard top. It does have a stiff ride, but I like that in a small sporty car.
Pontiac Sunfire
The only thing I would complain about is that as soon as the warranty expired (5 years), the car started having multiple problems. Nothing that can't be fixed pretty cheaply, but still. Otherwise I've loved my car. It has NEVER broken down on me, and the mileage per gallon is awesome, especially now!
Mini Hotrod
I bought my baby at the end of January. A beautiful 2 dr 5spd 2.2L coupe for $4900 However my car is no longer what it was, I put eibach springs on it, new struts/shocks, cd player, speakers, alarm, 17"white sokudo rims, IAT sensor, blue lights, red light up pedals, red shift knob, And white dash interior. This car is a chick magnet and was dirt cheap for the style it has. overall my car is worth $7,200 now and was worth every penny. I wish I had a GT but newer models only come in auto.
Sunfire SE 2dr 2.4L
Car has served it's purpose in the almost 10 years of ownership. The car has a pretty strong rust problem I don't notice on other Sunfires. Our body ground from the battery cable rusted out and that caused some wacky problems with dashboard lights. That was the only time it left me stranded and wouldn't start. The back speakers are an issue on all 99 Sunfires. Apparently the wiring breaks and then the rear speakers work when they make contact. Instead of finding the break, I ran new wires. We also have an oil consumption issue nobody can figure out without taking the heads off. It's been burning oil for at least 50,000 miles, about 1 qt for every 2000 miles.
My little red convertible
I love my little red Pontiac.I get great gas mileage, and with gas prices on the rise, i am glad I've got her. Nothing beats putting my top down and going home after a hard day at work. I think this car is HOT.
The Best
This car was perfect for my teenage driver, encouraging safe driving, since it has a not-so-extreme power supply. it also handles very well, perfect for the inexperienced driver.
Homer Simpson comes to mind DOH!
Overall not a bad vehicle, 99 with 2.4L twin cam. 138,000mi fun to drive on the highway with moonroof open - the ladies seem to like it to. however its currently being serviced for a new water pump in intake gasket
Fun little chick car
This car gives a lot of bang for your buck.. I purchased my 99 Sunfire GT because I was offered a sponsorship from RKSport. It came stock with a 2.4L interference motor, 5 speed manual transmission. With the 150/150 ratio, this car hauls for a 4 cylinder. It also handles the mods I added really well without any major internal modifications to the engine. Now, my engine pushes out close to 310 HP and it's wonderful. If you're looking for a great little car to mod up.. you gotta get a Sunfire GT.
Sunfire
I owned my Sunfire for almost five years without any serious problems. I was content with the car. I recently was in an accident. From the looks of the damage, I didn't think it was too bad but it turned out to be a "total loss". Took a turn too fast for there being snow, and slid into a tree. Not even a knick in that tree and it wasn't anything that big. I guess I shouldn't be suprised since my passenger side door had almost a dozen dings because of the poor body quality. I'm just glad it was a tree at 5-10 mph rather than getting in a more serious accident, who knows how badly torn to shreds that car could've been, not to mention me.