1998 Pontiac Trans Sport Engine cooling Problems

“Prob #1 - intake leaking - needs intake manifold gastket replacement. Local dealer will not pay for. Prob #2 - I have lost two headlamp lense covers in the past year - dealer said this happens "a lot!, and that it was probably a problem with the adhesive" I had to replace two complete headlamp assemblies totalling over $200.00”

“My wife was driving home from work. The temp gauge went up and the engine had no power. She pulled overhand parked. After the car cooled down I tried starting it and the temp stayed down so I drove the car to the dealership. I felt all that was wrong was the thermostat stuck. Then I get a call that the head gaskets had failed and that the damage was going to cost me $2400 at least that because of the gasket failure all kinds of damage was done.”

“Where do I start? Same complaints as all other Pontiac minivan owners. Since original purchase in 1998, headlight assembly faulty, ABS warning light malfunction, air bag warning light malfunction, and malfunctioning (still) passenger automatic sliding door. Recently had head gasket replaced due to antifreeze leak, as well as front left wheel hub. This is the worst (and most costly) vehicle I have owned with respect to maintenance.”

“On 12/26/05 I smelled coolant when exiting my vehicle. After investigating, I found that coolant was leaking. I took it to a mechanic, and had the internal gasket replaced for $575. The next day I saw that it was still leaking coolant. I took it back, and had the water pump replaced for $166. The next day I saw it was still leaking, and I had no heat. I took it back to the mechanic, who told me that it is leaking at the timing cover, and the lack of heat could be due to an air bubble, or I may need my heater core replaced. …”

“Total engine failure occurred while driving on highway on vacation with wife and three kids. 71000 miles on very well maintained van. We bought it with 8,000 miles on it. No warnings, no noises, no smoke, no overheating. Engine just quit running and we coasted to a stop on very busy interstate. This could have caused a major accident. Dealer promised at least 50% warranty then retracted offer two days later pending tear down and diagnosis. Diagnosis spun crank bearings/ bent rods due to coolant in oil. Cost $2050 after 50% warranty. …”