1989 Pontiac Bonneville SE review from North America
"America can build an outstanding car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I have gone through approx 4 alternators, but I bought with a lifetime guarantee. It only takes 10 minutes to change out the alternator on this car.
I have gone through 3 water pumps.
I replaced one power steering hose at around 50,000 miles.
The transmission fluid was leaking into the coolant in the radiator. Had that fixed at around 150,000.
I replaced the timing chain at about 165,000.
I replaced the headliner at about 170,000.
I had the car repainted because of the clear coat falling off around 180,000.
Also front and rear struts at 130,000 and 185,000 respectively.
I had to replace the dash "light" switch at 215,000.
General comments?
This car is unbelievable. I do take extremely good care of it, but most every one I know since I bought my car has traded their car off because of problems, many of them foreign cars. It runs as good as the day I bought it. I still get 20+mpg commuting to work and 28+ @75mph interstate.
It has the original transmission (I believe the transmission cooler I had installed helped), original exhaust system, ball joints and front end and air conditioning, just one re-charge!
Everything still works on this car!! Power windows, windshield washer, gages, etc.
Also, it only burns roughly 1/2 quart of oil every 3,000 miles. I added a bigger sway-bar on the rear and installed 17" rims and performance tires and this car handles extremely well. I autocross it occasionally and have a blast.
Also, I still have an original headlight bulb I have yet to replace.
Recommended reviews
| Overall, this is the best car I have owned and I plan to keep it |
| This car just keeps going and going.. |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 1991 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 litre V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 40000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 221000 miles |
| Previous car | Mitsubishi Tredia |
| Date of Entry | 30th May, 2003 |