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Pontiac Lemans Problems

The Pontiac LeMans name was revived in 1988-1993 for a subcompact car built by Daewoo in South Korea and sold through Pontiac dealers. With 344 complaints and zero deaths on record, this LeMans was unrelated to the classic muscle car and represented GM's attempt to compete with Japanese imports. The car was inexpensive but build quality and reliability were lacking, and it has mostly disappeared from roads.

344
Total Complaints
0
Total Recalls
7
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1977

Common Problem Categories

Seat Belts 112
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 64
Power Train 30
Electrical System 26
Engine And Engine Cooling 22

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
1993 64 0 6 4 Average
1992 56 0 4 0 Average
1991 70 0 6 8 Average
1990 62 0 10 0 Average
1989 40 0 2 0 Average
1988 48 0 4 0 Average
1977 4 0 0 0 Good

Pontiac Lemans Years to Avoid

The 1991 LeMans had the most complaints, with engine problems, electrical failures, and transmission issues being common. The 1.6L engine was underpowered and the automatic transmission was particularly troublesome. Build quality was inconsistent and rust was a problem.

Best Pontiac Lemans Years

The 1977 LeMans refers to the classic A-body, which was a substantially different and more desirable car. If considering any Daewoo-built LeMans (1988-1993), none can be recommended due to age and reliability concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 1988-1993 LeMans the same as the classic LeMans?

No. The Daewoo-built LeMans was a completely different subcompact car that only shared the name with the classic muscle car. It was designed by Opel and built in Korea.

Why was the Daewoo LeMans unreliable?

The LeMans reflected Daewoo early manufacturing quality with inconsistent build quality, underpowered engines, and components sourced to hit a low price point rather than for durability.

Is the Daewoo LeMans worth buying today?

No. Few survive and those that do have extensive wear. Parts are difficult to find and the cars lack modern safety features. Any remaining value is sentimental only.

What engine did the Daewoo LeMans have?

The LeMans used a 1.6L four-cylinder engine producing about 74 horsepower. It was adequate for the light car but not refined or durable.

What replaced the Daewoo LeMans?

The LeMans was discontinued after 1993 as Pontiac phased out the Daewoo partnership. The Sunfire eventually filled the subcompact role in Pontiac lineup.