1997 Pontiac Sunfire SE Convertible review from North America
"If you want a convertible, spend more and get a Sebring!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
On purchase, key-less remote control didn't work.
On purchase, driver-side speaker blown.
On purchase, power windows didn't work consistently.
On purchase, rear-window defroster didn't work.
On purchase, three recalls were unresolved.
Car interior was totally soaked after the first rain. Dealer completely replaced the weatherstripping, and during the next storm, the car was completely soaked again.
We are now in the process of trying to trade out of the car, but the dealer is attempting to lowball the trade-in value after only three months.
General comments?
My wife was very excited when we first bought the car, as she'd always wanted a convertible. I was suspicious as the car already had 50000 miles on it, but it seemed to run fine.
The 2.7l engine has a lot of pop and the interior is very comfortable.
Problems began to appear immediately and are still unresolved, with the exception of those we paid for out of our own pockets (new remote control was $75)
Leaking is merciless - after a rain the entire carpet and drivers seat are soaked, even after a complete seal replacement.
I can understand why there are so few of these on the road.
Recommended reviews
| Great economy car with style |
|
| Do not buy!! worst car ever! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.7L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 0 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 49000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 52000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Cavalier |
| Date of Entry | 23rd November, 2003 |