1995 Pontiac Sunfire
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Pontiac › Sunfire › 1995
These records cover every 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
7 recalls name the 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. Newest first.
Dorman products IS recalling 3,900 intermediate steering shafts dorman part nos. 425-151, 425-152, and 425-153, (sold under dorman's "oe solutions" brand name), balkamp #'s 7-3057, 7-3058, 7-3059 (sold under the "napa" brand name), and platinum parts #'s 2425151, 2425152, and 2425153 manufactured during the month of september 2007. these replacement…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the weld fails, loss of steering could result, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dorman will notify owners and replace the steering shafts free of charge. the recall began on october 16, 2008. owners may contact dorman toll free at 1-800-523-2492.
Certain pro-a motors corner lamps, turn signals, and headlights sold as replacement lamps for use on certain passenger vehicles listed above. some combination lamps that are not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy
Pro-a motors will notify owners and offer to repurchase the lamps. the recall began on april 3, 2006. owners may contact pro-a motors at 323-838-2988.
On certain passenger vehicles. If the engine fails to start and the driver holds the key in the "start" position for an extended period, high current flows through the ignition switch, and sometimes produces enough heat to melt internal switch parts.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the switch IS damaged, a fire could occur in the steering column, even with the engine off and the key removed.
Remedy
Dealers will install a relay kit in these vehicles to prevent high current from flowing through the ignition switch. owner notification began march 27, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, pontiac at 1-800-762-2737, buick at 1-800-521-7300, or oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537.
The front and/or rear hazard warning lamps (four-way flashers) do not flash when the hazard switch IS activated. this fails to comply with fmvss no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk and remedy
Risk
If these lamps were not flashing, other vehicles would not be aware that this vehicle was stopped increasing the risk of an accident.
Remedy
Dealers or vehicle owners will inspect for proper function of the hazard warning lamps. if necessary, dealers will replace the hazard lamp switch.
The instrument panel cluster trim plate/bezel can sag and cover the light emitting diode portion (lighted pointed above panel) of the transaxle shift indicator display. This does not comply with fmvss no. 101, "control location, identification, and illumination."
Risk and remedy
Risk
Consequence of non-compliance: the driver of the vehicle would not be able to see the actual position of the transaxle gear selector resulting in a driver either inadvertently leaving a parked or idling vehicle in drive, reverse, or neutral rather than park, or selecting an incorrect transaxle shift position while driving the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers are to install a new instrument panel cluster trim plate/bezel assembly which IS not subject to this condition.
Some welds were omitted from the body lock pillar, or "b" pillar. This does not comply with fmvss no.208, "occupant crash protection."
Risk and remedy
Risk
Consequence of non-compliance: if a vehicle crash should occur, occupant protection levels could be reduced.
Remedy
All vehicles in this recall campaign have been repurchased and replaced with a comparable vehicle.
These vehicles have been built with welds missing from the front suspension lower control arm assemblies causing excessive loads on the existing welds.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition can result in separation of the frontbushing sleeve subassembly from the control arm increasing the potential for a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect both left-hand and right-hand front suspension lower control arm assemblies and replace all control arm assemblies found with omitted welds.
Owner complaints
119 complaints11 involved a crash11 involved a fire10 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Vehicle speed control
Tl*the contact owns a 1995 pontiac sunfire. The contact was driving approximately 60 mph with the cruise control engaged; when she turned the cruise control off and attempted to slow down, the accelerator pedal suddenly stuck. After repeated pressure to the brake pedal, the accelerator pedal became dislodged. The vehicle had not been inspected or repaired. The current and failure mileages were approximately 115,000.
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
Tl*the contact owns a 1995 pontiac sunfire. the contact experienced difficulty starting her vehicle and turning the ignition switch. the following morning, she opened the door and noticed that the steering column melted and was lying on the floorboard. a police report was filed. the contact…
Tl*the contact owns a 1995 pontiac sunfire. the contact experienced difficulty starting her vehicle and turning the ignition switch. the following morning, she opened the door and noticed that the steering column melted and was lying on the floorboard. a police report was filed. the contact discovered nhtsa campaign ID number 02v070000 (electrical system:ignition:switch). pontiac stated that the vehicle had to be towed to the closest dealer. the dealer inspected the vehicle, but were unable to correct the failure. the purchase date was unknown. the current and failure mileages were 157,000.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system › Injectors
I smelled gas and loss of fuel. gas leaking out from injector onto hot engine could cause fire. had part replaced- fuel injectors #2 and 3. Now another IS leaking. have to take it in, but money IS an object. *nm
- Engine and engine cooling
The head gasket was leaking antifreeze which caused the vehicle to overheat. *Jb.
- Seat belts › Rear/other
Consumer noticed that the rear middle seat belt unlocked on its own. vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection. the cause had not been determined. *ak
- Electrical system
We have had this car for about 2 years, and have had problems since the beginning. first thing was the cooling fan. it quit working about 6 months after we bought the car. we had that fixed then started having other electrical problems. the brake lights would work here and there, the turn…
We have had this car for about 2 years, and have had problems since the beginning. first thing was the cooling fan. it quit working about 6 months after we bought the car. we had that fixed then started having other electrical problems. the brake lights would work here and there, the turn signals would work one day and not the next, now they don't work at all. the ABS light would flash off and on and the brake light would come on also. we know that filing this complaint will not fix the problems we are having with the car, we just wanted to make it known that we will never buy another pontiac due to the problems we are having with this one. thank you for your time. *jb
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
1995 sunfire, I bought this car in 1997. The brakes lock-up when I am driving and I have to stop a a corner or light. This usually only happens when or after it rains. It IS very scary I almost lose control over the car.my head gaskets have been replaced twice. The engine gage rises almost to over…
1995 sunfire, I bought this car in 1997. The brakes lock-up when I am driving and I have to stop a a corner or light. This usually only happens when or after it rains. It IS very scary I almost lose control over the car.my head gaskets have been replaced twice. The engine gage rises almost to over heating when it IS hotoutside, and the air does not work I have to get it charged every year. IS this car a lemon or what?*ak
- Latches/locks/linkages › Doors › Latch
Driver and passenger doors locked and unlocked for no apparent reason while driving. the door mechanism was the problem. Dealer was notified. *Ak
- Suspension › Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint
While making a left turn at a stop sign and without warning left front lower ball joint snapped in two. When this occurred, left wheel almost came completely off. *ak
- Electrical system · Electrical system › Starter assembly · Electrical system › Wiring › Interior/under dash · Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
Just found out about recall about starter. Had fire (smoke) in steering wheel and entire electrical system not working right. Windows stuck half way, blinking lights in dash and had motor replaced, but very bad, due to sudden loss of oil and motor froze. car IS in destruction mode.
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components
1995 pontiac sunfire rear of car squats when braking I've had the brakes checked / adjusted numerous times nhtsa already has this listed as service bulletin 735018 I would like to add our vehicle to this complaint. *jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Head gasket problem on a 1995 sunfire. seems that this IS a systemic problem on this engine. 2.2 liter. *nlm
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Head gasket failure on my 1995 pontiac sunfire. when I had it repaired after not really driving it for two years because of this problem I was informed that this was a common occurrence with the 1995 pontiac sunfire. *nlm
- Electrical system › Alternator/generator/regulator · Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Equipment · Power train › Automatic transmission
When driving and speed reached 40 mph the car vibrates, when speed reached 60 mph it vibrates again. When decelerating after driving for a little while, and speed reached 10 mph (while decelerating) the car vibrates violently, then shuts off. When I restart the engine it runs noisily while still in…
When driving and speed reached 40 mph the car vibrates, when speed reached 60 mph it vibrates again. When decelerating after driving for a little while, and speed reached 10 mph (while decelerating) the car vibrates violently, then shuts off. When I restart the engine it runs noisily while still in park, then shuts off again when put in gear. I have to wait a minute or two before I start the car and put it in gear and it runs, until I decelerate again and the cycle starts over. I have had my head gasket repaired/replace by jay pontiac in columbus georgia at my expense because I receive the recall notice on the head gasket leak several years after the recall campaign was over. I have had my alternator repaired/replaced, transmission problems, etc. the dealer never sees any problems when he diagnoses my car on his computer & everytime he suggests what the problem IS and I go broke paying to get it fixed, the problem remains. I am very fed up with pontiac & gm & their dealers/service people who seem to know nothing of their products' failure. I need to know what the problem IS with my car so I can get it fixed. I am also seeking to purchase a new vehicle and from the horrible experience I've been having with pontiac & gm I am staying away from their products and advising everyone I know to stay away from them. I am at the point where the only automobile product I am interested in IS foreign made. I understand you get what you pay for, but I don't understand a product having problems even the manufacturer can't figure out. *jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
The head gasket failed and antifreeze leaked onto the engine. *ak *jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Head gasket leaked coolant and was replaced at 44,941 miles. it started leaking again at 54,313 and had to be replaced. Pontiac won't cover it because the car IS more than 7 years old and dealer won't cover it because it was more than one year when it had to be replaced the second time. what's the problem with this head gasket anyway??
- Electrical system › Ignition · Electrical system › Starter assembly › Solenoid
In fulfillment of recall 02008-s, a gm dealership claims that replacement of the starter wiring harness will destroy the terminal on the solenoid, resulting in the required replacement of both the solenoid and starter motor. Both parts are in good working order but gm will not cover the cost of…
In fulfillment of recall 02008-s, a gm dealership claims that replacement of the starter wiring harness will destroy the terminal on the solenoid, resulting in the required replacement of both the solenoid and starter motor. Both parts are in good working order but gm will not cover the cost of this damage, approx $260. In short, a rusty terminal will probably break when removed. For this, gm wants to sell a new starter with solenoid at full price. I have confirmed the likelihood of the damage with an independent mechanic. Gm refused me directly upon appeal. This IS a very important recall, though relatively simple to implement. The car IS only 7 years old. Gm should be required to cover the full cost of implementation, without profiting on an otherwise unnecessary replacement of expensive components. Gm could replace just the solenoid or perhaps even just the terminal. The wire lead could be properly spliced without terminal removal. This possibility (or perhaps probability) was not mentioned in the recall notice or in converations with the dealer prior to the recall work. I am arranging to have the solenoid alone replaced for approx. $140. I suggest that gm be ordered to reimburse customers for this and other costs required to implement the recall fully and to cover them directly from this point forward. I would not be surprised to learn that gm has already installed a significant number of new starters at owners' expense.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Consumer complained about head gasketproblems. head gasket was leaking. Dealer was contacted, and stated that this was not a recall so there for they won't cover it . *Ts *tt *nlm.*ak
- Visibility › Defroster/defogger/hvac system
There IS a recall for the starter, dealer replaced starter and upon leaving station the consumer tried to turn on heat, heater fan stopped blowing. please provide any further information. mr the heater fan stopped working due to a ground wire that was not replaced once the recall repairs were completed. *jg
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
The antifreeze light illuminated, and the vehicle hesitated, consumer took the vehicle to the dealer and the problem was diagnosed as a bad head gasket. ts *jb
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
Dealer taking to long to perform recall. Recall#02v070000 igntion switch buick 2500 east harding sheridan, ar 72150 870-534-3020 ts
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
Thee vehicle was parked when it caught on fire due to a recall regarding the ignition switch and steering column number 02v070. consumer never recieved a recall notice. the vehicle has been deemed totaled. *jg
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
Consumer received recall notification (02v070000) however it took 2 days to get the part installed because the first day consumer went to the dealer he was told there were not enough parts, even though consumer called in advance and confirmed if there were parts, the same day the relay was…
Consumer received recall notification (02v070000) however it took 2 days to get the part installed because the first day consumer went to the dealer he was told there were not enough parts, even though consumer called in advance and confirmed if there were parts, the same day the relay was installed consumer had to get the vehicle towed to the dealership because it would not start, consumer was informed that the starter was bad and needed to be replaced.*jb
- Electrical system › Alternator/generator/regulator
Vehicle broke down while being driven. Owner had vehicle towed to dealership, and had alternator replaced. recall 02v070000 repairs failed because part was placed too close to fan which cut the wires. please describe details.*ak
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
When turning ignition switch smoke started to come from behind steering component, and seconds later vehicle caught on fire. Dealer notified.*ak
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Fire in steering column area
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.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10208027This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10171318This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10170494This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Procedures to Unlock Delco Radio with Theftlock.
- 10168979This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable. E version update is to add administrative details.
- 10166638This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10165876This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable.
- 10157018This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10154641This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10141381This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10138060This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information with the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10114947This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10114924This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10113443This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10023171ABS pump running when not needed.
- 10012745Information on error codes on radio display their cause and corrective action.
- 10009220Vehicles may set anyone or a combination of front-wheel speed sensor anti-lock brake system codes as intermittent or hard failures. Gm voicemail express.
- 10007816Anti-lock braking system (ABS) front wheel speed codes - jumper harness.
- 10007293ABS front wheel speed codes - jumper harness.
- 10006895Front suspension steer noise smooth road turns.
- 10005579Neutral flare and/or rpm flare while in drive, no 1-2 upshift, service engine soon (ses) light illuminated, diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) p1810, diagnostic trouble code p1815 set.
- 10005527Some customers may want to tow their vehicle behind another vehicle with all four tires ont he ground. This bulletin provides information regarding recreational (dinghy) towing for certain vehicles including 1988-2004 chevrolet and GMC light duty trucks.
- 10004339Mirror vibrates at highway speeds.
- 10004338Left outside breakaway mirror inoperative. Update.
- 10004278Some customers may want to tow their vehicle behind another vehicle with all four tires ont he ground. This bulletin provides information regarding recreational (dinghy) towing for certain vehicles including 1988-2004 chevrolet and GMC light duty trucks.
- 10002392Neutral flare and/or rpm flare while in drive, no 1-2 upshift, service engine soon (ses) light illuminated, diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) p1810, diagnostic trouble code p1815 set.
- 10000759Engineering changes to the valve body, pressure regulator valve, 2-3 accumulator valve and bore for 2002-2003 model year 4t45e transaxles and subsequent overhaul procedures which affect 1995-2001 model year transaxles.
- 6089996Some vehicles equipped with hydra-matic 3T40, 4T60 or 4t60-e transxales may comment on a grinding and / or growling noise that IS noticeable when in park on incline.
- 6088948On some convertible models, the door rattles when closing.
- 4051800Unknown
- 628053Customer concern of premature fog lamp failure.
- 622945Some customers may want to tow their vehicle behind another vehicle with all four tires ont he ground. This bulletin provides information regarding recreational (dinghy) towing for certain vehicles including the 1996 through 2000 toyota cavalier.
- 622716Subject regarding revised instrument panel cluster (ipc) replacement. Nlm
- 619370Owners of some vehicles equipped with hydra-matic 3T40, 4T60, 4t60-e or 4t65-e transaxles may comment on a grinding and / or growling noise that IS noticeable when standing in park on a hill or slope with the engine running and the parking brake not applied.
- 619039This message concerns vehicles exhibiting a clunk noise coming from the front of the vehicle. Customers may state that a clunk noise IS heard when turning the steering wheel.
- 615097General motors has determined that some vehicles equipped with 2.2 liter engines may develop a failure of the cylinder head gasket leading to external coolant leaks from the cylinder head gasket to engine block joint.
- 614379Exhibiting a rattle type noise from glove box door or key lock cylinder.
- 614376Experiencing a rattle / squeak in right side of instrument panel or right front door trim panel scratched or right side end of instrument panel contacting door trim panel.
- 613596Subject regarding addtional information for special policy 98054 - coolant loss, visible coolant leakage, or coolant odor. **Mr
- 613594Voluntary emission campaign involving vehicles exhibiting symptons resulting in the illumination of the check engine light or the engine running rough. **Mr
Every Pontiac Sunfire model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.