2000+ Common Problems & Solutions (updated 5.11.11)

[J Wikoff]

Hi. Please start a new thread with your car's issues. If they are common issues, we can get this thread updated.

[731Loadmaster]

We are having new problems with the a/c blowing different Temps for driver and passenger. The driver's side is blowing get warm and the passengers side is ice cold. Could this be a fuse or a vacuum line issue.
Btw...my a/c compressor was just changed 300 miles ago...a link?

[harofreak00]

You are low on freon. The system calls for 2lbs, but it performs much better with 2.5lbs. Top off the system and you should be good.

[svmcgover]

This is great information. Thanks!

[WayneKC01]

Easily the best post I've seen thus far. Every problem I have had so far is on here haha.
So, Thanks.

Also my first post. So make room people.

[hottoddy1987]

Let me say this post saved me at least $1500 off the purchase of my SSEi.

The 3 doors were not working and the rear carpet was damp/wet.
I bought the otherwise super clean SSEi and immediately fixed the corroded splice under the Driver's seat.
I can't thank you guys enough for this post, Love my car.

HT.

[redfury]

http://www.gmpartscenter.net/auto-parts ... front-scat
For the time being, if you need a new bumper cover for your SSEi/SLE, this seems to be the best bet that I've found recently.

[harofreak00]

http://www.gmpartscenter.net/auto-parts/2000/pontiac/bonneville/sle-trim/3-8l-v6-gas-engine/body-cat/bumper-and-components-front-scat
For the time being, if you need a new bumper cover for your SSEi/SLE, this seems to be the best bet that I've found recently.

Except after shipping costs, it will be more than just walking into the dealer.

Dealer: $369.35
GMPD: $405.70

[redfury]

Ah, good point. I wasn't aware that you could even GET the SLE/SSEi bumper covers anymore. It's really odd though that you can get those, headlights and tail lights, but that darn center reflector is MIA. Of course, it's a bad design. I think I figured out that it's the steaming of the seam that opens them up, or at the very least, it's the water that gets into them and then steams the inside up that causes the expansion and delamination ultimately, even though it has the two breathable plugs on the ends. I'm kind of surprised that they didn't just stick with the GXP style tail lights/center reflector for all future repairs...

[harofreak00]

I'm kind of surprised that they didn't just stick with the GXP style tail lights/center reflector for all future repairs...

The GXP tails and center also delaminate over time.

[klw]

Hey guys my first post. My 2003 SE seems to have an occasional hard start issue. Usually fires right up, but lately it has taken 2-3 attempts to start and not every time in other words it may be fine for several tries and then I have to crank on it. Any ideas?? Also noticed coolant seems to disappear mysteriously. Don't see any puddles or any in the oil. Thanks:)

[spoiledred94]

Quick guess, did you bleed the coolant zystem?

[klw]

Quick guess, did you bleed the coolant zystem?

No I haven't done anything yet, they both just started.

[pontiac4ever]

Have you done a rear main seal and rear crank case cover gasket?

[klw]

Well it seems that coolant loss was self inflicted. While getting the oil changed I had them give a look at the coolant issue and they found nothing after pressure testing the system but I did notice the cap is on with the arrow pointing at the tube. No problems since. Didn't think that arrow direction was that important, apparently it is. The occasional starting problems have not been an issue lately. I am trying to find the applique that goes on the trunk between the lights. So far all the one's that I have found are part of a whole deck lid for $300. Think I will do a little investigating on my own. Thanks you guys

[sizzam]

i just happened to think isnt it a decently common issue for the ssei or 3800 motors in general to have water pump failings i know 3 people who own these and all had bad water pumps in a ssei and grand prix.

[sseilmnop]

Just replaced the fuel tank level sensor but it didn’t fix the problem. I found that autozone has complete wiring diagrams for most cars just have to create an account and look it up. Turns out that the fuel level sensor is driven by 5volts coming from the instrument cluster. I didnt have 5 volts. Plugged in tech 2 and said 200% fuel level. Actually ohmed out the level sensor and had the 40 ohms and the 250 ohms. Pulled instrument cluster and reinstalled and level sensor started working again. Pretty sure the problem was a bad connection where instrument cluster gets plugged in.



https://www.autozone.com/repairinfo/rep ... 3f80cb346e

[Godking Faith]

Looking to replace my water pump. Don't have tensioner tool money. How do I deal with the tensioner loosening aspect with a socket wrench? Link to a thread appreciated. Tried a t50 didnt fit.

[harofreak00]

You need a T47, not T50. Any standard ratchet will work just fine.

[hurstmuscle]

Just purchased a 2003 SLE and this post was very helpful!