1990-1996 Pontiac Trans Sport: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
1996 Pontiac Trans Sport
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1990-1996 Pontiac Trans Sport
- Price Range: $600 - $1,600
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Our reliability study for this generation Pontiac Montana includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Pontiac Montana .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
4T60E transmissions may drop out of drive while cruising, shift erratically, or have no second, third, or fourth gear because of a bad ground connection for the shift solenoids. (1992-94)
Automatic transmission:
TH-125 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1990-94)
Coolant leak:
Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1995-96)
Coolant leak:
The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (1993-96)
Engine noise:
A rattling noise from the engine when the car is started after sitting is often caused by automatic-transmission pump starvation or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. (1992-95)
Engine noise:
Bearing knock was common on 3.3- and 3.8-liter engines due to too much clearance on the number-one main bearing. (1992-94)
Oil consumption and engine knock:
3.8-liter engines are prone to excessive oil consumption often accompanied by spark knock due to failure of the valve-stem seals. (1993-95)
Steering noise:
The upper bearing mount in the steering column can get loose and cause a clicking, requiring a new bearing spring and turn-signal cancel cam. (1994-96)
Transaxle leak:
The right front-axle seal at the automatic transaxle is prone to leak. GM issued a revised seal to correct the problem. (1992-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $510 |
| Alternator | $240 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $980 |
| Brakes | $230 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $505 |
| Exhaust System | $415 |
| Radiator | $430 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $430 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $250 |
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