7.6
pretty bad- Typical Repair Cost:
- $920
- Average Mileage:
- 82,800 miles
- Total Complaints:
- 5 complaints
Most common solutions:
- pay to have the intake manifold replaced, should be a recall (4 reports)
- intake manifold replaced (1 reports)
Definitely a design flaw to have to replace both head gaskets and the intake manifold gasket at 64,000 miles. GM refused to stand behind their product. The last 6 cars that I have bought have been new Pontiacs -- I'll never buy another GM car.
- Dennis H., Westampton, NJ, US
Known GM defect, dealer never replied to complaint reported in writing. Repair at local shop, good since but not the only problem with this overpriced van. If you shop for a used one, ASK about the intake manifold gasket issue -- and have the engine inspected if the seller says no known issues (particularly if over 50k miles on odo).
Update from Nov 17, 2018: No further gasket problems, just multiple electrical system problems that made van unreliable. Traded it, far too soon; a very poor overall value. [GM is still an Avoid per Consumers Union, for most models, even in 2018.]
- Otto R., Small Balls, AR, US
Just had to get the intake gasket replaced on my pontiac montana. This is happening after getting the head gaskets replaces 2 years and 26k miles ago. This is ridiculous how many problems I've had with this van. That's over $2,200 in repairs in two years.
- Jeff E., Zeeland, MI, US
First time I bought a car without reading the repairs and recalls. Bad choice. Lemon. Intake gasket leaking coolant is only one of $3K worth of repairs per dealer estimates. Seeking another opinion on cost. Never again will I buy a Pontiac.
- Tammy C., Madison, AL, US
After finally selling my 2001 Buick a few months ago, having spent thousands in repairs on brakes, tie rods, new head gasket...all which really upset me that car companies can sell such crap to us all the time...I am using my husband's 2001 Pontiac Montana, only to find a few months into driving it, my manifold has lost it's integrity and leaking coolant every day. Does this NEVER END....am I to expect such massive problems with every American car I buy? I am so frustrated as to whether to get this fixed, as I love the room in the Montana, and it would be very costly to replace with a new vehicle. On the scale of stress, it ranks right up there, knowing I have to deal with my least favorite ppl in the world... CAR SALESMEN!!!! Hoping I can keep topping up the coolant with no problems occurring till I decide what to do.
- lindaontario, Bobcaygeon, Ontario, Canada