2004 Pontiac Sunfire
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 2 |
| 1991 | 1 |
| 1994 | 2 |
| 1995 | 119 |
| 1996 | 201 |
| 1997 | 190 |
| 1998 | 120 |
| 1999 | 93 |
| 2000 | 96 |
| 2001 | 66 |
| 2002 | 82 |
| 2003 | 72 |
| 2004 | 32 |
| 2005 | 68 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
22% of complaints: electrical system — 7 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
I WAS DRIVING MY NEW 2004 SUNFIRE THAT WAS JUST PURCHASED AT THE END OF AUGUST, WHEN I SAW A FLAME COME OUT FROM UNDER THE DASH NEAR MY FOOT. I SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES, THROUGH IT IN PARK AND JUMPED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED!*JB
NHTSA ODI report, 20050220
19% of complaints: electrical system — 6 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
THE RPM NEEDLE WENT TOTALLY ON THE RIGHT SIDE INTO THE NEEDLE OF THE SPEEDOMETER. CAN'T TELL HOW FAST I AM GOING. EXPENSIVE TO REPLACE. PAINT STARTING TO CHIP IN DIFFERENT PLACES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120710
9% of complaints: engine — 3 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 PONTIAC SUNFIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING.
NHTSA ODI report, 20131017
6% of complaints: structure — 2 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING MY 2004 PONTIAC SUNFIRE, I HAD TO HOLD THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT IN ORDER FOR IT TO GO STRAIGHT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200813
6% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 2 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 210, 'SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES.' THE PASSENGER-SIDE REAR SAFETY BELT MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED WITH AN INCO
Remedy: DEALERS ARE TO INSPECT THE SAFETY BELT ANCHORAGE AND INSTALL A NEW NUT AND BOLT, IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 23, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 AND PONTIAC AT 1
Campaign 04V300000 — check if this car was fixed
DORMAN PRODUCTS IS RECALLING 3,900 INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFTS DORMAN PART NOS. 425-151, 425-152, AND 425-153, (SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS" BRAND NAME), BALKAMP #'S 7-3057, 7-3058, 7-3059 (SOL
Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE STEERING SHAFTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 16, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN TOLL FREE AT 1-800-523-2492.
Campaign 08E063000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2004 Pontiac Sunfire — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 04V300000 (seat belts) has been completed.
- Verify recall 08E063000 (steering) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 22% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.