2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Pontiac Bonneville
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2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville ▼
- Price Range: $3,300 - $14,100
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Cargo room
- Automatic-transmission performance
- Ride/handling
Cons
- Fuel economy (SSEi)
- Rear-seat comfort
Vehicle Highlights
Pontiac redesigned its front-drive full-size sedan for 2000, again similar to the Buick LeSabre, with fresh styling but carryover powertrains. Wheelbase and overall length increased by nearly two inches, but head room shrunk slightly and interior leg room was unchanged. Side-impact airbags for front seats were newly standard. GM's StabiliTrak antiskid system was installed in the top-line SSEi model, designed to selectively brake the front wheels to counteract skids in turns. The lineup also included SE and midrange SLE sedans. All Bonnevilles had standard front bucket seats, but the SE offers an optional bench for 6-passenger capacity. Only a 3.8-liter V6 was available, as before, in two ratings. For SE and SLE models, the V6 produced 205 horsepower. In the SSEi, a supercharged version delivered 240 bhp. Both engines were hooked to a four-speed automatic transmission. Traction control was standard on the SSEi and optional on others. Antilock all-disc brakes replaced the previous disc/drum setup, and a tire-inflation monitor became standard. GM's EyeCue head-up display, which projects primary instrument readings onto the windshield, was standard in the SSEi.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Pontiac Bonneville SE Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 53 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville.
Year to Year Changes
2001 Pontiac Bonneville:
After a season's absence, GM's OnStar assistance system became available again in Bonnevilles--standard for the SLE and SSEi, or an option for the SE. The SE sedan gained a tire-pressure monitor, and the SLE added standard traction control. Heated seats now were optional in all Bonnevilles.
2002 Pontiac Bonneville:
SE models got minor styling alterations for 2002. A CD player replaced a cassette as standard on the SE, and SLE/SSEi got revised alloy wheels.
2003 Pontiac Bonneville:
Front bucket seats were revised for '03. Side airbags became an option on all but the SSEi. XM Satellite radio was a new line-wide option.
2004 Pontiac Bonneville:
In order to make room for a new V8 later in the year, Pontiac's loses its supercharged V6 for 2004. Added midyear was a 275 hp 4.6-liter V8 available on the new GXP.
2005 Pontiac Bonneville:
Pontiac will drop its largest sedans after 2005, which carry on with few changes. The main news for '05 is that the SLE looks more like the GXP by virtue of revised nose and tail styling and a new lower-bodyside treatment.
Our road test for the 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Dynamically, at least, Bonneville matches the best front-drive full-size sedans. Despite a weight hike, acceleration is strong in SE and SLE sedans, with good throttle response. Performance is outstanding with the supercharged SSEi. With either engine, the transmission changes gears smoothly and downshifts come quickly for passing. An SE averaged 20.6 mpg, while the SSEi got just 15.7 mpg on premium gasoline. Engines are smooth, but wind rush and suspension/tire noises over coarse surfaces may appear. Softest-riding version is the SE, which floats more over high-speed dips, but all are comfortable over bumps and nearly devoid of the front-end bobbing that sometimes plagued previous Bonnevilles. A standard load-leveling rear suspension improves stability. Handling is impressive--balanced and composed--sharpest in the SLE and SSEi. Watch out for torque steer (pulling to one side in hard acceleration) in the SSEi. Though the SSEi's StabiliTrak can get confused during rapid sawing of the steering wheel, it should help the Bonneville stay on course in emergency maneuvers. Space is abundant for four adults, in an interior that has a more sporty flair than most full-size sedans. Still, the lost inch of rear head room won't help taller passengers. A protruding center section in the rear seatback discourages 3-across seating, on a cushion that's soft and poorly shaped. Leather-covered buckets in the SSEi have 12 settings but aren't all that supportive. Instruments sit close to the driver, though the dashboard looks cluttered. Some plastic panels feel low-budget. Audio and climates controls are easy to reach and decipher. Entry/exit is easy through large doors. The trunk is large, but hinges dip into the load area.
Value for the Money
Volume leader is the SE, which is a fine value. Supercharged power in the SSEi is satisfying, but at a far higher price--though Bonnevilles have not held their value especially well. Besides, a lot of cars on its level are more refined and promise more verve.
Volume leader is the SE, which is a fine value. Supercharged power in the SSEi is satisfying, but at a far higher price--though Bonnevilles have not held their value especially well. Besides, a lot of cars on its level are more refined and promise more verve.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Pontiac Bonneville SE Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 53 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Pontiac Bonneville includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Pontiac Bonneville .
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:
The column-mounted shift lever is hard to move out of park due to the interlock cable being too long. (2000)
Brake wear:
The original-equipment rear brake pads cause a humming or moaning noise, especially when the brakes are hot or warm. (2000)
Coolant leak:
Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (2000-04)
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. (2000-04)
Horn:
If the horn becomes difficult to operate or sounds by itself in cold temperatures, the airbag module will have to be replaced. (2000)
Steering noise:
A countermeasure high-pressure power-steering hose will reduce vibrations, shudders or moans from the steering wheel during slow-speed turns. (2000-01)
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 | $525 |
| Alternator | $275 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $895 |
| Brakes | $485 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $750 |
| Exhaust System | $565 |
| Radiator | $450 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $975 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $325 |
Our price chart for this generation Pontiac Bonneville details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| Bonneville | $9,000-12,800 | $8,100-11,500 | $4,700-6,700 |
| Bonneville GXP | $14,000-15,500 | $12,700-14,100 | $8,500-9,500 |
| 2004 | |||
| Bonneville | $7,600-10,800 | $6,800-9,700 | $3,800-5,400 |
| Bonneville GXP | $12,000-13,500 | $10,800-12,200 | $6,700-7,600 |
| 2003 | |||
| Bonneville SE, SLE | $6,400-8,500 | $5,600-7,500 | $2,800-3,700 |
| Bonneville SSEi | $9,000-10,000 | $8,100-9,000 | $4,700-5,200 |
| 2002 | |||
| Bonneville SE, SLE | $5,300-7,200 | $4,600-6,200 | $2,200-3,000 |
| Bonneville SSEi | $7,300-8,300 | $6,600-7,500 | $3,600-4,100 |
| 2001 | |||
| Bonneville SE, SLE | $4,500-6,000 | $3,700-5,000 | $1,600-2,200 |
| Bonneville SSEi | $5,800-6,700 | $5,000-5,800 | $2,400-2,800 |
| 2000 | |||
| Bonneville SE, SLE | $4,000-5,300 | $3,300-4,300 | $1,300-1,700 |
| Bonneville SSEi | $5,000-5,800 | $4,300-4,900 | $2,000-2,300 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Pontiac Bonneville include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.2 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 202.6 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 74.2 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.6 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3590 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 18.0 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.3 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.0 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Basic Bonnevilles used a 3.8-liter, overhead-valve V6 engine that produced 205 horsepower, driving a 4-speed automatic transmission. A supercharged version of that V6, developing 240 bhp, went into the SSEi sedan. In 2004, the supercharged V6 was dropped to make way for the 4.6-liter 275 hp V8, available on the new-for-'04 GXP.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V8 | 4.6 / 278 | 275 | 300 | 4-speed automatic: 17/24 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V6 | 3.8 / 231 | 205 | 230 | 4-speed automatic: 19/30 | 4-speed automatic: 20.6 |
| Supercharged ohv V6 | 3.8 / 231 | 240 | 280 | 4-speed automatic: 17/28 | 4-speed automatic: 15.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Pontiac Bonneville include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2000 Bonneville |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2000:
Some cars have internal fluid leaks in brake hydraulic-control unit; when rear-brake proportioning, antilock braking, traction control, or stability-control feature is activated in some driving situations, feature may not perform as designed.
2002:
When shifting from 5th gear into reverse, a shift inhibitor causes the transmission to be in 4th gear, even though the lever indicates reverse gear.
2002-03 SSEi- supercharged V6:
Faulty fuel-tank sensors may have been installed in certain vehicles, leading to fuel leakage. Dealer will inspect and replace all affected parts.
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