Vehicle Segment:
Compact, rear-wheel drive sports roadster.
Key Competitors 2007:
Mazda MX-5 Miata, Honda S2000 (though S2000 is higher performance), BMW Z4, Audi TT.
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, stylish, and fun-to-drive roadster with a focus on driving dynamics and open-air motoring.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Opel GT and Saturn Sky, part of GM's Kappa platform.
Powertrain Systems:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Chassis Systems:
Brake system, steering system, suspension system, wheel and tire information.
Electrical Systems:
Lighting systems, instrument cluster, driver information center, audio system, power features, fuses and relays.
Body And Interior:
Seats, seat belts, airbags, climate control, convertible top operation (if applicable), interior controls, locks, windows.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement procedures.
Operation Procedures:
Starting and operating the vehicle, proper use of controls and indicators, convertible top operation, parking procedures.
Safety Features Operation:
Explanation of airbags, ABS, traction control, seat belt usage, child restraint system installation.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Information on dashboard warning lights, minor operational issues, recommended actions.
Depth Of Coverage:
Owner-level understanding of vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety features. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in service manuals.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Compatibility:
Readable and printable on Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
Print Capability:
High-resolution digital copy suitable for printing high-quality pages.
Binding Type:
N/A (Electronic/PDF format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Electronic/PDF format)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
4 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good
Traction Control:
Standard (Traction Control System - TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (StabiliTrak)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (4-wheel ABS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Standard side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and pop-up rollover bars
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial 150,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles (Dex-Cool coolant specified).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (with filter) for 2.4L, 5.0 quarts (with filter) for 2.0L Turbo
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Common Problems Powertrain:
Some reports of supercharger belt issues or failure on early LSJ engines. Clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving.
Common Problems Chassis:
Potential for suspension component wear due to sporty tuning. Some convertible top mechanism issues reported.
Common Problems Electrical:
Intermittent electrical gremlins can occur, often related to grounds or sensors. Infotainment system glitches are possible.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was known for performance-oriented vehicles with a youthful image, often featuring bold styling and powerful engines.
Solstice Introduction:
The Solstice was introduced for the 2006 model year as a concept car at the 2002 North American International Auto Show and later put into production.
2007 Updates:
For 2007, the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine (LSJ) became available, significantly enhancing performance and marking the Solstice GXP model.
Production Plant:
General Motors Wilmington, Delaware Assembly Plant
Production Years:
2006-2010
Car And Driver 5 Best Driving Cars:
Was not a recipient of this specific award, but praised for its driving dynamics in reviews.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for the Solstice varied, often below average in early years.
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg City:
17 mpg (Manual), 18 mpg (Automatic)
Epa Fuel Economy Mpg Highway:
25 mpg (Manual), 27 mpg (Automatic)
