Pontiac Sunfire blown head gasket issue possibly caused by overheating on Pontiac Sunfire

Submitted by KayMae12 · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Pontiac Sunfire owners report experiencing issues related to blown head gaskets, often caused by overheating. Overheating is frequently cited as a common cause, with symptoms including smoke from under the hood and a pegged temperature gauge. Owners have noted that common culprits for overheating include a malfunctioning radiator fan, coolant leaks, and faulty thermostats that hinder proper coolant circulation. When the head gasket fails, it can lead to coolant leaks both internally and externally, reducing the coolant's ability to absorb and dissipate heat, which further exacerbates overheating. Additionally, a blown head gasket can result in engine misfires, rough idling, and decreased performance due to compromised compression in the engine cylinders. It is crucial for owners to address overheating issues promptly to prevent more severe damage to their vehicles.

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Pontiac Sunfire vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected
Average mileage: 186,000 miles
(186,000 - 186,000)

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