A Pontiac Solstice equipped with a manual transmission may exhibit a clunk noise when shifting gears at low speeds. The noise may be present during low speed driving maneuvers, such as driving in stop-and-go traffic or in parking lots, which require declutching and shifting.
Some amount of driveline clunk is normal due to the design characteristics of the driveline system. While some owners may find the clunk noise objectionable, it will not adversely affect durability or performance.
Whenever there are two or more gears interacting with one another, there must be a certain amount of clearance between those gears in order for the gears to operate properly. This clearance can translate into a clunk noise whenever the gears are loaded and unloaded quickly. Comments of driveline clunk are usually not the result of one individual component, but the result of clearance present in all of the driveline components.
Because all components in the driveline have a certain amount of clearance by design, changing driveline components may not result in a satisfactory noise reduction.
__________________ 2006 VIN #30, first 1000 series, black exterior, sand/steel interior
Index of useful threads: General, Tech
Additional information has shown that if you have LSD you should also ask that one 4 oz. bottle of GM #1052358 Limited Slip Axle Lubricant Additive be added to fluid.
The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.
Condition/Concern:
The rear axle pinion seal may experience a fluid leak condition. During seal replacement, the new seal may still leak as work on the vehicle is being completed. It is possible that when replacing the seal, the rear axle lube is seeping through the pinion bearings. The lube then gets past the rubber seal and gets trapped behind the metal "dust shield" before the pinion yoke is installed. When the dealer installs the pinion yoke, the trapped fluid is squeezed out and gives the illusion of a continued leak.
Recommendation/Instructions:
Inspect the new seal for the presence of the internal "garter" spring and make sure it is there. If not, use a seal that does have it. Also inspect the new seal for metal contamination in the grease used to lube the seal lip. If there is any contamination, discard the seal and use only a debris free seal that is supplied with grease. Prior to replacement of the pinion seal, on vehicles built in October 2005 and later, mark the 12 o'clock position of the seal before it is removed. Clean the residual lube from the old seal and use a permanent marker to mark it. Engineering is looking at all returned seals from this time period and this will help their investigation.
When replacing the pinion seal, first drain the rear axle fluid. This also helps remove metal contaminants that may be present and may have caused the initial leak condition. Next, remove the leaking seal. Install the new seal and yoke. Lastly, refill the rear axle. This should prevent the lube from being trapped behind the dust shield.
Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
While the bulletin doesn't go into why it is happening, it does have important information on proper repair procedure. It also points out a possible "illusion of a continued leak" that can appear to be happening after replacement.
The October date also gives the idea that changes have been made.
Hope the information helps.
__________________ 2006 VIN #30, first 1000 series, black exterior, sand/steel interior
Index of useful threads: General, Tech
Originally Posted by GM TSB (editied by Small Dealer)
Subject: ASI Resolution - radio Audio Pop Noise, Distrotion, or Bleed (Reprogram Radio)(03/31/2006)
Models:
2006 Pontiac Solstice with US8 or US9 Radio
Condition
Some customers may comment on any of the following conditions:
• Audio pop, ONLY heard when starting (cranking) the vehicle.
• Distorted audio heard after the vehicle and radio are off.
• Audio bleeding through the turn signals, hazard lamps, or door ajar chime when the vehicle and radio are off.
Cause
This condition may be caused by a software issue.
Correction
DO NOT REPLACE THE RADIO.
Reprogram the radio with the latest available calibrations. These calibrations will be available on TIS 2 Web on April 3, 2006. These calibrations will also be available on the TIS 4.0 2006 CD and satellite broadcast later in April.
Important: Chevrolet and Pontiac dealers -- DO NOT use pass-thru programming from the CD or satellite broadcast.
Refer to Radio Setup in SI for more information on reprogramming the radio.
After reprogramming, use the Tech 2® to confirm the correct VIN is in the radio. If the correct VIN is not in the radio, XM will be disabled.
Dealer Action
• Please contact all customers that were told they would be called when a repair became available.
• Distribute this information to all dealership technicians and service advisors.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
__________________ I don't suffer from insanity, I enjoy every minute of it!
#139640 '07 NA Sly Fully Loaded 12/1/07
#106614 12/15/05 NA Sly Traded @ 35k Miles
It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one Else.
Location: Under an invisibility cloak, somewhere in the Northeast
There was a technical service bulletin issued to dealerships early last fall about this condition. There has also been an update to factory build to install a retainer to keep the liner back away from the tire. (Of course this assumes that your car doesn't have an alignment issue, just the clearance issue.) Here is the latest version, with fix and picture:
Quote:
Originally Posted by GM TSB(edited by Small Dealer)
Subject: Rubbing Noise From Rear of Vehicle (Install Retainers to Wheel Liner)
Condition
Some customers may comment on a rubbing noise from the rear of the vehicle.
Cause
This condition may be caused by the inner wheel liner making contact with the tire .
Correction
Install new retainers in the left and right inner wheel liner following the procedure below.
1) Remove the rear tire and wheel.
2) Make a measurement from the corner 90 mm (3 ˝ in). The second measurement will be to measure up 40 mm (1 ˝ in). Refer to the illustration.
3) Drill a hole through the plastic wheel liner and the sheet metal using a 6 mm (15/64 in) drill bit.
4) Drill the hole larger in the plastic liner using a 8 mm (19/64 in) drill bit to eliminate contact with the retainer.
5) Apply SuperLube® with PTFE to the end of the retainer and install the new retainer. You must push firmly on the retainer to fully seat it.
6) Install the wheel and tire.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
__________________
INFORMATION POSTED ON SITE
Any GM Solstice Service Manual and Service Bulletin information found here on site, or Sales and Product information should be thought of as correct and accurate as of the date posted. After that any information or procedure should be confirmed as still correct with your dealership.
I was driving the car today and noticed that the rear window was not as sturdy as when I first got the car. (sturdy as in not attached to the ragtop all the way around the window ) Used to have trouble shutting the door due to interior pressure, but not anymore! I checked the seam around the window and found that the entire top of the window where it should be glued onto the ragtop is loose. (not attached) I can't even find a trace of glue and was wondering if this is normal. I've posted some pictures. It's not just one section, it's the entire top of the window. Doesn't seem right. Anyone have this problem?
GM just released a bulletin that states dealers are to inspect, and if necessary replace the automatic transmission on cars in inventory. The problem is water intrusion that will degrade tranny performance. Vehicles affected are certain 2006 Solstices, and the 2007 Sky. Buyers may want to inquire with the dealer if their vehicle is involved, and was inspected prior to purchase.
This PI is being updated to include 2007 Saturn Sky and also update the Part number for the axle fluid and include part number disclaimer. Please discard PIP3152F
The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.
Condition/Concern:
Service Information: Customer may comment of a shudder or bind from the rear of vehicle on low speed turns such as parking lot maneuvers on vehicles equipped with G80 limited slip rear axle. This condition may be more noticeable with the vehicle at operating temperatures.
Recommendation/Instructions:
Drive the vehicle to warm the rear axle and then drain the axle fluid. Refill with just the 89021677 (in Canada, use 89021678) axle lube and drive the vehicle about 10 minutes performing mostly parking lot turning maneuvers. Drain the rear axle again and mix 1200 ml of 89021677 (in Canada, use 89021678) and 74-89 ml of 1052358 (Canadian P/N 992694) additive outside of the axle and then fill the rear axle with this mixture and re-evaluate.
Part numbers are subject to change. Use any superseded part numbers if the part numbers in this document become discontinued.
Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION
Location: Under an invisibility cloak, somewhere in the Northeast
The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.
Condition/Concern:
Perceived gear noise or whine from the rear differential that may change with throttle input i.e.coasting or accelerating.
Recommendation/Instructions:
Any gear driven unit, especially an automotive drive axle where the engine torque multiplication occurs at a 90 degree turn in the driveline, produces a certain amount of noise. Therefore, an interpretation must be made for each vehicle in order to determine if the noise is normal or if a concern actually exists. A certain amount of noise must be expected and cannot be eliminated by conventional repairs or adjustment.
Normal axle noise can be described as a slight noise heard only at a certain speed or under unusual or remote conditions. For example, the noise tends to reach a peak at speeds from 40-60 mph (60-100 km/h) depending on road and load conditions, or on gear ratio and tire size. This slight noise is in no way indicative of trouble in the axle assembly.
A comparison should be made to a duplicate vehicle with similar mileage prior to attempting any repairs.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
__________________
INFORMATION POSTED ON SITE
Any GM Solstice Service Manual and Service Bulletin information found here on site, or Sales and Product information should be thought of as correct and accurate as of the date posted. After that any information or procedure should be confirmed as still correct with your dealership.
Location: Under an invisibility cloak, somewhere in the Northeast
Quote:
Originally Posted by FieroChuck
I have been having a problem with my instument cluster lights. I cannot turn them on with the light switch. The only way they come on is with the auto headlights. Never seen this happen before. Even when I turn the headlights on manualy, they do not come on.
This is a common design function of some recent GM new models. Dash lights do not work in parade mode (manual lights on-day time). If you want dash lights in the rain and the auto lights do not turn on, just cover the light sensor with something. That is how we check function in shop.
Here is the actual answer from Pontiac from the new model prep guide:
Quote:
Automatic Headlamp Control
The Solstice is equipped with an Automatic Lamp Control system which automatically turns the headlamps and other exterior lamps on at dusk or when necessary. The exterior lamps can also be operated manually. The I/P backlight is not integrated in the headlamp switch. The automatic lamp control system must determine if it's dark enough to turn I/P backlights on.
The Automatic Lamp Control system's light sensor is located on the top of the instrument panel. It is important to avoid placing any objects on or near the sensor, or covering up the sensor.
Important: In rainy weather, etc., the customer may comment that they manually turned on the headlamps; however, the I/P lights did not come one. It is important to note that the I/P backlight will only turn on when indicated by the Automatic Lamp Control's light sensor. This condition is not related to the headlamp switch function, BCM or I/P function. This is considered a normal condition and no parts should be replaced.
There is an available "software" update to change the operation if desired.
Quote:
Originally Posted by GM Service Bulletin (slightly edited by Small Dealer)
Models: 2004-2006 Chevrolet Malibu, Malibu Maxx
2005-2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
2006 Chevrolet HHR
2005-2006 Pontiac G6, Pursuit (Canada Only)
2006 Pontiac Solstice
Condition
Some customers may comment that the backlighting on the IPC does not illuminate in the daylight hours. They may further state that the backlighting does function at night, but not in the day time.
Cause
On these vehicles, backlighting for the IPC is not enabled unless the vehicle's lighting photocell determines that there is a nighttime ambient condition. Backlighting is not controlled through the use of the park lamp or headlamp switch. The conditions under which the photocell activates the backlighting may not satisfy each particular customer’s personal expectations, or the customer may simply prefer to have the backlighting always illuminated on the IPC.
Correction
For customers who wish to have the IPC backlighting always illuminated, a new service calibration is now available that will activate the backlighting to full intensity during daytime hours. Reprogram the BCM using SPS.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
__________________
INFORMATION POSTED ON SITE
Any GM Solstice Service Manual and Service Bulletin information found here on site, or Sales and Product information should be thought of as correct and accurate as of the date posted. After that any information or procedure should be confirmed as still correct with your dealership.
Location: Under an invisibility cloak, somewhere in the Northeast
It has been posted that some have used the "disconnect battery" method to clear codes or reset the ECM.
This bulletin is out today that talks about a no start condition that could occur in these cases. It may be key specific, also.
Quote:
Subject: Engine Wont Crank After Battery Disconnect, Dead Battery Condition or After A Reprogramming Event, Theft Deterrent Light Illuminated, DTC Stored, (Reprogram Keys into Theft Deterrent Module)
Models: 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR
2006 Pontiac Pursuit (Canada Only), Solstice
2007 Saturn SKY Built Prior to June 30, 2006
Condition
Some customers may comment on the following conditions after experiencing a loss of battery power in their vehicle. Technicians may encounter a vehicle with the following conditions after disconnecting a battery during a service procedure or after reprogramming any module on the vehicle.
• The engine will not crank using the key the customer currently has in their possession.
• If the customer has both keys, one key starts the vehicle but the vehicle will not crank using the second key.
• The Theft Deterrent Light may be illuminated during the no crank condition.
Technicians may find Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for "Unprogrammed Transponder Identification Code Received" stored as a current or a history code.
Cause
This condition may be caused by the failure of the key programming information for both keys to be permanently stored in the Theft Deterrent Module (TDM). The information for one key is stored permanently while the information for the other key will be lost if the vehicle's battery voltage drops below 7.8 volts.
The failure condition will also occur when the key programming information for one of the vehicle's keys is lost after a battery disconnect during a service procedure, a dead battery condition or after a reprogramming event for any module and the key that has lost its programming is used to start the vehicle. The vehicle's other key programming information will not be lost due to the loss of battery voltage or a reprogramming event and that key will still start the vehicle. It may also be possible to unknowingly render the customer's second key inoperative after a battery disconnect or a reprogramming event performed during other service procedures on the vehicle.
It is recommended that the customer be asked for both keys to their vehicle when their vehicle is brought in for any service requests in which a battery disconnect or reprogramming event will occur. Technicians should verify that both keys work before returning the vehicle to the customer.
Correction
Reprogram the keys into the Theft Deterrent Module.
Important: In order to prevent the technician from possibly having to perform a very long diagnostic procedure, every effort should be made to obtain both keys to the vehicle before any repairs are attempted on the vehicle. If the customer only brings in one key, their second key will no longer start the vehicle after these repairs are completed unless the second key is programmed into the TDM at a later date using the Adding Keys procedure. Having both keys available will also prevent the possible situation where the second key cannot be programmed into the TDM and the vehicle would have to be returned to the dealership again.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition.
So another tip would be to always have all keys available if the car is going in for service under these conditions.
Yes, I know a car will not start with a dead battery anyways. Lets assume that "after a dead battery event" means that the battery has been charged back up to the proper levels.
__________________
INFORMATION POSTED ON SITE
Any GM Solstice Service Manual and Service Bulletin information found here on site, or Sales and Product information should be thought of as correct and accurate as of the date posted. After that any information or procedure should be confirmed as still correct with your dealership.
) Used to have trouble shutting the door due to interior pressure, but not anymore! 
I checked the seam around the window and found that the entire top of the window where it should be glued onto the ragtop is loose. (not attached) I can't even find a trace of glue and was wondering if this is normal. I've posted some pictures. It's not just one section, it's the entire top of the window. Doesn't seem right. Anyone have this problem?
