Target Audience:
Consumers seeking comfortable, spacious, and stylish transportation with a focus on V6 power and a refined ride.
Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300M (earlier versions), Buick Park Avenue.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on American luxury, comfort, and V6 performance.
Value Proposition:
Provides a blend of spaciousness, a comfortable ride, and available V6 power at a competitive price point for its class.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, starting and charging, fuel system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, fluid level checks, basic maintenance.
Chassis:
Braking system (ABS), steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument panel and indicators, audio system, climate control, power accessories, fuses and fusible links, battery.
Body:
Doors, windows, seats, mirrors, exterior lighting, interior trim, locks, security system.
Operation:
Starting and driving, parking, fuel economy, climate control operation, use of convenience features (power seats, windows, locks), audio system operation.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement, basic cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting for common issues.
Depth:
Designed for the vehicle owner, covering safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle functions. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
3.8L V6 (Series II Supercharged available on GTP)
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (231 cubic inches)
Horsepower Est:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm (non-supercharged)
Torque Est:
230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (non-supercharged)
Supercharged Engine Code:
L67 (GTP model)
Supercharged Horsepower Est:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm
Supercharged Torque Est:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type Recommended:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (E.D.I.)
NHTSA Front Driver Est:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Passenger Est:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Driver Est:
4-Star
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Est:
4-Star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (Traction Control System - TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger; optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats; three-point seatbelts for rear seats.
Audio System Options:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player, and premium sound systems (e.g., Bose).
Climate Control:
Manual or optional dual-zone automatic climate control.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry and remote start.
Onstar:
Optional OnStar telematics system available on most trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (initial fill, then as specified)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles, or as indicated by maintenance minder/severe service schedule.
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 5W-30, 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter change
Coolant Type Capacity:
GM P/N 12346175 (Orange Long-Life) or equivalent Dex-Cool, 12.2 quarts (11.5 L)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM P/N 1050017 or equivalent Dexron-VI
Head Gasket Leaks:
While not as prevalent as some other GM V6 engines, the 3800 Series II can develop head gasket leaks over time, particularly if maintenance is neglected.
Transmission Solenoids:
The 4T65-E transmission can sometimes experience issues with shift solenoids, leading to rough shifting or failure to engage gears.
Power Steering Pump Noise:
The power steering pump can sometimes become noisy, often due to low fluid levels or the pump itself nearing the end of its service life.
Window Regulator Failure:
Power window regulators can wear out, causing windows to become inoperable or slow to move.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was known for its performance-oriented vehicles and American muscle car heritage, evolving into a brand that also offered comfortable and stylish sedans.
Bonneville Legacy:
The Bonneville nameplate has a long history, dating back to the late 1950s, representing Pontiac's flagship full-size luxury coupe and sedan offerings.
2000-2005 Generation:
This generation (introduced for 2000) was based on the GM G platform, sharing components with the Oldsmobile Aurora and Buick Riviera. It focused on comfort, a refined ride, and updated styling.
Production Years:
1999-2005 (for this specific generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA
