There are several loose interior pieces that create annoying rattles.
When adjusting the driver's seat, it does not always lock in place, so it 'shifts' while driving.
The 5 speed transmission whines loudly in 4th gear at 2000 RMP - a condition that Pontiac claims is 'normal' due to the way that the gears are cut. Very annoying, since no other manual cars I have driven have exhibited this 'feature'.
The car accelerates and brakes well.
The interior is rather tighter than would be expected, given the size of the car.
The lack of a rear wiper is a serious deficiency.
The car is adequate basic transportaion for first time new car buyers, but is otherwise unimpressive.
I thought that the 2004 sunfire was great with the transmission, maybe you have a bad transmission! That happens when you drive 2 hard! Well my only complaint would be the wind noise1 Thanks.
That and look what you paid for it. What do you expect from a Mexican made cheap car? ha ha ha .Mine is great, a 2004 with 150,944kilomters on it, pretty good I think.
It is not just 4th gear. I do a lot of low rev shifting (to keep mileage up 'cause of gas prices) and it does it on the all the lower revs, regardless of gear. Any where between 1500-3000 revs is where I find the most noise. It takes a bit to get used to, but there's nothing wrong with it. Hope this eases the pain.
My wife and I purchased the 2004 sunfire black on black Ecotec 5 speed new and now have 60000 kms on it, driven hard! Our only real problem is the speakers for the stereo the rest is just regular maintenance. I plan on keeping this car until it is a lawn ornament. For it has already paid for itself! Cheap and Fast.
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