2009 Pontiac G8
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Pontiac › G8 › 2009
These records cover every 2009 Pontiac G8. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2009 Pontiac G8. Newest first.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Caprice vehicles manufactured October 15, 2010, to October 22, 2013, and 2008-2009 Pontiac G8 vehicles manufactured July 25, 2007, to February 18, 2009. In the affected vehicles, the flexible steel cables that connect the seat belts to the vehicle at the outside of the driver seat…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the cable breaks, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat belt tensioner assembly which includes the steel cable, free of charge. These replacement parts reposition the tensioner cable out of the path of entry into the vehicle and uses a more flexible cable, set at a more upright angle. The recall began on July 5, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 15206.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Caprice vehicles manufactured October 15, 2010, to December 6, 2013, and 2008-2009 Pontiac G8 vehicles manufactured July 25, 2007, to February 18, 2009. In the affected vehicles, the driver may accidentally hit the ignition key with their knee, unintentionally knocking the key out…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, a key knocked out of the run position could cause loss of engine power, power steering, and power braking, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will remove the key blade from the original flip key/RKE transmitter assemblies, and cut and fit a revised key blade and housing assembly, in which the blade has been indexed by 90 degrees, to the original RKE transmitter assembly. GM issued an interim notification to owners on December 31, 2014. The recall began on February 4, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14445. Note: Until the recall has been performed, it is very important that drivers adjust their seat and steering column to allow clearance between their knee and the ignition key.
General motors (gm) IS recalling certain model year 2008-2009 pontiac G8 vehicles manufactured from november 2, 2007 through january 22, 2009. a 5TH percentile female anthropomorphic test device (atd) in a 30 mph frontal barrier test exceeded the head injury criteria (hic) requirements of the standard. with the front passenger seat positioned full…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash, this delay may result in increased head injury to certain front seat occupants.
Remedy
Gm dealers will reprogram the sensing and diagnostic module free of charge. the safety recall began on november 30, 2011. owners may contact pontiac at 1-800-620-7668.
Gm IS recalling 35,038 my 2008-2009 pontiac G8 vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment" and federal motor vehicles safety standard no. 138, "tire pressure monitoring systems". the brake pedal position switch may have been incorrectly…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Inappropriate, non-standard lights could increase the risk of a crash or driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Remedy
Dealers will reprogram the brake position sensor and the remote control door lock receiver with the correct values free of charge. the recall IS expected to begin on or before june 5, 2009. owners may contact gm pontiac at 1-800-620-7668.
Owner complaints
144 complaints6 involved a crash1 involved a fire8 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Visibility/wiper
7/17/21 (about 94500 miles) - While driving in heavy rain on a congested highway, with my windshield wipers turned on (of course), the wipers suddenly stopped working. This could have easily killed me and my family. The wipers would not turn back on, no matter what I did. At a rest stop that…
7/17/21 (about 94500 miles) - While driving in heavy rain on a congested highway, with my windshield wipers turned on (of course), the wipers suddenly stopped working. This could have easily killed me and my family. The wipers would not turn back on, no matter what I did. At a rest stop that afternoon, and then later during extensive testing, I found that turning the wipers on would never actually make the wipers activate--but it would cause the engine to shut off and caused the car to issue numerous, varying error codes related to numerous vehicle systems (including ABS). Through much difficulty, I was able to find that this was caused by a faulty electrical ground at what's known on the Pontiac G8 as ground point G102. The electrical ground was restored via ground connection elsewhere, and the wipers resumed functioning. Roughly 2 years later (July/August 2023, about 104,000 miles), my low-beam headlights didn't function at ignition one day. Obviously, lacking headlights is a core safety issue. I learned that the low-beams also use ground point G102. Once again, with the electrical ground restored via a connection elsewhere, the low-beams started working again. Two different service stations were unable to figure out the windshield wiper issue. I only solved it by reading what others wrote on a Pontiac G8 enthusiast message board. On those message board threads, you can see that many people have had these same exact issues with the Pontiac G8--all related to the G102 ground point. Obviously, having the windshield wipers and/or headlights fail suddenly and without warning (neither failure gave any warning in advance) in a situation where the wipers or lights are needed could have catastrophic consequences. Since I'm unaware of any other ground point failing on the Pontiac G8, I am wondering if G102, in particular, needs a recall and a repair, to address this. (I am the original owner. The car has been stored outside, in the Northeast.)
- Air bags
The contact owns a 2009 Pontiac G8. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, he noticed that the airbag warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the airbag warning light remained illuminated. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.
- Structure › Body
Was leaving for a road trip and the rear passenger door would not latch when closed. We were an hour from home, so I had to use a bungee cord to hold the door closed for the drive back. My son had to sit in the middle seat. That door is rarely used. I have ordered the part and it should be here…
Was leaving for a road trip and the rear passenger door would not latch when closed. We were an hour from home, so I had to use a bungee cord to hold the door closed for the drive back. My son had to sit in the middle seat. That door is rarely used. I have ordered the part and it should be here soon. The drivers door has become difficult to open and close but I am unable to locate the part as it is backordered from GM. I understand the the vehicle is 12 years old but I maintain it very well; it is in great shape and runs well. It's scary to think that these door latches can fail so easily. Other body parts for this vehicle are becoming increasingly difficult to locate.
- Air bags
The contact owns a 2009 PONTIAC G8. The contact stated that at start-up, the airbag default warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact proceeded to drive and noticed that the light was no longer on the instrument panel. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.
- Air bags
The contact owns a 2009 Pontiac G8. The contact stated that the airbag warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer and was informed that the front passenger’s side airbag sensor was defective and needed to be replaced. Upon investigation, the…
The contact owns a 2009 Pontiac G8. The contact stated that the airbag warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer and was informed that the front passenger’s side airbag sensor was defective and needed to be replaced. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V534000 (Air Bags) however, the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000.
- Air bags · Electrical system
A month ago my passenger air bag light came on indicating there is an issue with the Passenger Air Bag system. This occurs even when there is no one in the passenger seat. This completely disables the airbag system in my car for my passengers and I can no longer reliably transport other passengers…
A month ago my passenger air bag light came on indicating there is an issue with the Passenger Air Bag system. This occurs even when there is no one in the passenger seat. This completely disables the airbag system in my car for my passengers and I can no longer reliably transport other passengers for fear of getting into an accident and the air bag not deploying. These parts are not normal mechanical pieces that wear and tear over the course of the cars life, and with a quote from the dealership of almost $1000.00 it is unreasonable for me to pay as this is a HUGE SAFETY ISSUE, not only to passengers but to myself as I am unsure if this will effect the Drivers Air Bag System. I dont think its fair that with the car only being 12 years old that I should have to pay and replace a faulty air bag system, when this is a common issue with the 2009 Pontiac G8. This needs to be a recall as it is unfair to ask anyone to replace a VITAL and IMPORTANT safety feature of the vehicle. This should not be something Pontiac G8 owners should have to pay for out of pocket, and the Manufacturer needs to realize that this is not a one off issue, but a common issue with owners of the 2009 Pontiac G8. It is the responsibility of the Manufacturer (GM) to fix this issue as it is a basic safety issue. The car would not be legally sold with this issue from the manufacturer, so why is it the owners responsibility to pay for GM (Pontiacs) mistake? Either with $1000.00 or their lives?
- Air bags › Sensor › Occupant classification
TL* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac G8. The contact stated that the air bags warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the front passenger's occupant classification system was defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 37,000.
- Air bags
While driving car on highway it started showing air bag fault warning on the center console screen and corresponding light came on. Consulted with local gm dealership and diagnosis indicated need to replace the "passenger presence module". The cost quoted by gm dealership IS $855 (total), for parts…
While driving car on highway it started showing air bag fault warning on the center console screen and corresponding light came on. Consulted with local gm dealership and diagnosis indicated need to replace the "passenger presence module". The cost quoted by gm dealership IS $855 (total), for parts and labor. This fault disables the air bag system (passenger air bags for sure, I am not sure about driver air bag system) this IS a safety critical component that should not fail as it disables the air bag system which could be life threatening in an accident. It IS my request to the nhtsa that this air bag fault and passenger presence module failure should be considered for a recall, as this IS a costly repair and IS not a mechanical component which wears and tears over the life of the vehicle, additionally it IS absolutely required for the safety of the vehicle occupants.
- Service brakes
ABS lights. *tr
- Electrical system · Service brakes
Brake lights will illuminated - when the brake paddle IS pushed up the brake lights will turn off for a short time and than illuminate again. this happens when the vehicle IS stationary, in motion, on a city street and on the highway. *tr
- Air bags
Today I woke up and starting receiving the air bag fault error. Contacted my local gm dealership and was told it's the passenger side module that need to be replaced. They quoted me $1200 for parts and labor. this IS a safety critical component that should not fail as it disables the air bag…
Today I woke up and starting receiving the air bag fault error. Contacted my local gm dealership and was told it's the passenger side module that need to be replaced. They quoted me $1200 for parts and labor. this IS a safety critical component that should not fail as it disables the air bag system which could be life threatening in an accident. it IS my request to the nhtsa that this air bag fault and passenger presence module failure should be considered for a recall, as this IS a costly repair and IS not a mechanical component which wears and tears over the life of the vehicle, additionally it IS absolutely required for the safety of the vehicle occupants.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac G8. The contact stated that shortly after starting the vehicle, the air bag failure warning light illuminated. The contact reached out to the manufacturer and was informed that vin was not subjected to a recall. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer to be diagnosed nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 153,000.
- Air bags
Air bag fault warning on my hud, along with the corresponding light, comes on when it gets cold out. Every time it gets below about 35 degrees this light will come on and disable all of my air bags. This has happened ever since I have owned this car. I have consulted with my local gm dealership and…
Air bag fault warning on my hud, along with the corresponding light, comes on when it gets cold out. Every time it gets below about 35 degrees this light will come on and disable all of my air bags. This has happened ever since I have owned this car. I have consulted with my local gm dealership and the diagnosis indicated to replace the "passenger presence module". This fault disables the entire air bag system which IS a safety critical component that should not fail as it disables the air bag system which could/would be life threatening in an accident. The air bag fault/passenger presence module failure should be considered for a recall, as this IS not a mechanical component which IS considered wear and tear over the life of the vehicle. This IS absolutely required for the safety of all vehicle occupants.
- Structure › Body
Door latches goes out on vehicles and the door don't stay shut. The door will flap open will driving, have to use a seat belt around the inside handle and then connect to the seat buckle to keep door close. I have 2 G8S that these have failed on. I think this IS a major safety concern that someone can fall out of the vehicle .
- Air bags
While driving car on highway it started showing air bag fault warning on the center console screen and corresponding light came on. Consulted with local gm dealership and diagnosis indicated need to replace the "passenger presence module". The cost quoted by gm dealership IS $855 (total), for parts…
While driving car on highway it started showing air bag fault warning on the center console screen and corresponding light came on. Consulted with local gm dealership and diagnosis indicated need to replace the "passenger presence module". The cost quoted by gm dealership IS $855 (total), for parts and labor. This fault disables the air bag system (passenger air bags for sure, I am not sure about driver air bag system) this IS a safety critical component that should not fail as it disables the air bag system which could be life threatening in an accident. it IS my request to the nhtsa that this air bag fault and passenger presence module failure should be considered for a recall, as this IS a costly repair and IS not a mechanical component which wears and tears over the life of the vehicle, additionally it IS absolutely required for the safety of the vehicle occupants.
- Air bags
Typically on colder mornings when I start my car I get an airbag fault. about 30 to 45 minutes into my drive, the fault disappears. I have been reading that my airbags will not work properly while the system IS in fault. this happened to me most recently this past thursday and also happened the…
Typically on colder mornings when I start my car I get an airbag fault. about 30 to 45 minutes into my drive, the fault disappears. I have been reading that my airbags will not work properly while the system IS in fault. this happened to me most recently this past thursday and also happened the two previous days. I have noticed again that it seems to happen during colder mornings. it has happened prior to this week on a number of occasions. the first 30 minutes of my commute IS on rural roads but within the first 15 minutes, turns to stop and go driving.
- Exterior lighting › Brake lights
TL* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac G8. The contact stated that the rear brake lights remained illuminated. Buick, GMC, cadillac donovan auto & truck center (5800 w kellogg dr, wichita, ks 67209, (316) 768-4891) was notified of the failure, but had not diagnosed the vehicle. The vehicle was…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac G8. The contact stated that the rear brake lights remained illuminated. Buick, GMC, cadillac donovan auto & truck center (5800 w kellogg dr, wichita, ks 67209, (316) 768-4891) was notified of the failure, but had not diagnosed the vehicle. The vehicle was excluded from nhtsa campaign number: 09v172000 (service brakes, air, tires) and manufacturer recall numbers: 09101 and 09046. The contact planned to have the vehicle inspected and diagnosed by a dealer and an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and did not assist. The failure mileage was 32,000.
- Air bags
The srs system IS throwing dtc b0012 0D: driver steering wheel air bag deployment loop stage 1 high resistance dtc. This IS a known issue with this car and IS not a covered repair. Owners of the vehicle should not have to pay to have functioning airbags in their vehicle. While this code IS on, the entire airbag system will not function in the car.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owned a 2009 pontiac G8. While driving 52 mph, the contact crashed into the rear passenger side bumper of a vehicle that failed to yield. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained injuries to the spine, ankles, neck, and right shoulder, which required medical attention. A…
TL* the contact owned a 2009 pontiac G8. While driving 52 mph, the contact crashed into the rear passenger side bumper of a vehicle that failed to yield. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained injuries to the spine, ankles, neck, and right shoulder, which required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed and towed. The dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 70,000.
- Exterior lighting › Brake lights
TL* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac G8. The contact stated that the brake lights were constantly illuminated. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the vehicle was excluded from nhtsa campaign number: 09v172000 (service brakes, air, tires). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.
- Air bags
Started my G8 today and received air-bag fault warning light and alarm. my car has less than 75K miles and has never been in an accident. I have noticed within the past few months that the passenger side airbag indicator on the rear-view mirror seems to go off during system checkout even when…
Started my G8 today and received air-bag fault warning light and alarm. my car has less than 75K miles and has never been in an accident. I have noticed within the past few months that the passenger side airbag indicator on the rear-view mirror seems to go off during system checkout even when there IS a passenger present. but now, with the alarm and warning light I am not sure it IS safe to drive. many internet blogs indicate this problem IS widespread. the repair indicated costs over $1000, including parts. it seems a recall should have been issued long ago for such a critical system on a vehicle with relatively low mileage.
- Engine
Right side oil leak from the valve cover, leaking onto the exhaust manifold @20000 miles. Fire concern.
- Air bags
While driving normally on highway, airbag system failure light activated at 68000 miles, which disabled airbag system on the car. Gm dealer read airbag fault code which indicated clockspring fault. (P/n 92184056) dealer reported this IS a common issue for this vehicle. They replaced with a new…
While driving normally on highway, airbag system failure light activated at 68000 miles, which disabled airbag system on the car. Gm dealer read airbag fault code which indicated clockspring fault. (P/n 92184056) dealer reported this IS a common issue for this vehicle. They replaced with a new clockspring, (with a new p/n 92234063). Cost $800, and any affinity I had for gm. Airbags components should not be wear items on vehicles.
- Suspension
Front end knocking noise over bumps
- Air bags
Took 2009 pontiac G8 GT in for airbag recall to reprogram airbag timing. Two days later the airbag light came on, contacted service department as it cant be a coincidence that they just worked on the airbag system and now the car has a airbag issue. They wanted $149 to re-diagnose a problem that…
Took 2009 pontiac G8 GT in for airbag recall to reprogram airbag timing. Two days later the airbag light came on, contacted service department as it cant be a coincidence that they just worked on the airbag system and now the car has a airbag issue. They wanted $149 to re-diagnose a problem that they created in my opinion. Doing a quick internet search of the problem, several others have run into the same scenario of the light coming on after having the recall performed. I refuse to pay the diagnostic fee and still have not had the issue resolved. Gm needs to step up to the plate and issue another recall for this issue.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009531This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009088This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
- 11008956This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
- 11008906This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 11007936This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007935This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11007116This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
- 11007095This bulletin provides information on the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Licensed Brands and the TOP TIER Diesel Fuel Licensed Brands that are recommended for use in all GM vehicles and the TOP TIER FUELS website URL.
- 11007091This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11006849This service bulletin provides information on regular inspection of the Seat Belt Lap Anchor.
- 11006682This service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11004727This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11001325This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information to cover GMs policy on performing GM covered vehicle services and maintenance on vehicles originating/sold in Canada.
- 11001321This bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 11000162The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
- 11000160This service bulletin provides information on proper use of floor mats.
- 11000158This service bulletin includes information on Interior Cleaning - Instrument Panel (IP), Hard or Plastic Surfaces, Seats, Carpet, Leather, Vinyl, Fabric Cleaner, Stain Remover, Restorer - Product Availability.
- 11000119This service bulletin provides technicians with information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
- 10254240Information on COAX Repair Kit Availability.
- 10253770This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Tire Radial Force Variation (RFV).
- 10253632Rear and Side Tempered Glass Spots.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251888This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10250244This preliminary informational (PI) bulletin provides information to dealership personnel which may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers.
- 10250013High Voltage Safety ? High Voltage Disabling
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249535This preliminary information (PI) provides information om Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes (E4398, E4399, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491 or E6961).
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248794Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10248721This bulletin advises the technician that the 6L50 (MYB), 6L80 (MYC) and 6L90 (MYD) Transmission Oil Filter and Seal Kit part number 24236933 is currently transitioning from a kit to the filter (24236517) and seal (24225347) being sold individually.
- 10248493Bluetooth Stays Connected After RAP Is Canceled.
- 10248492Bluetooth Stays Connected After RAP Is Canceled.
Every Pontiac G8 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.