2001 Pontiac Bonneville SE review from North America
"The ride in this car makes up for its minor inconveniences"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
When the car hit 25,000 miles a turning signal bulb went out causing the entire electrical system to short. The cab lost all electrical functions - no radio, no air, no lights. It started intermittently and got steadily worse in the course of 3 days. By accident I discovered opening the glove compartment would complete the circuit and everything would come back on. Fixed easily when the blown bulb was found by the dealer.
The door seals blew out at 40,000 miles, water drains into the floor of the back seat when it rains or when the car is being washed. The truck lid seal also leaks.
New tires brought on a new issue. The tire pressure mechanism kicks on every time the car starts - the pressure is fine and the tires are balanced. I can live with it.
General comments?
This car is generally a joy to drive. It handles great at significant speeds, but wieldy at low speed making parking a challenge in close quarters. I haven't parked square in 3 years.
I was going to buy a 2003 Nissan Altima (4 cylinder) until I did a side by side comparison - the Bonneville gets better highway mileage, even with its significantly higher horsepower!
Recommended reviews
| 2001 - Bonneville SE 3.8L 3.8 Series I like the car in general, but question the quality |
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| 2000 - Bonneville SLE 3.8 liter A beautiful, unreliable, poorly built, money pit |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 2001 |
| Year of manufacture | 2000 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 12500 miles |
| Most recent distance | 53000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 2nd October, 2004 |