1987 PONTIAC 6000

Typical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: delayed engagement into gear, slipping between 2nd and 3rd, whining or grinding noises, burnt transmission fluid smell, no reverse or intermittent reverse

Fix: These 3-speed automatics are notoriously weak, especially with the V6. Rebuild typically takes 8-12 hours including R&R, converter replacement, and band/clutch pack overhaul. Many shops recommend replacing the external oil cooler lines and adding an auxiliary cooler during the job.

Estimated cost: $1,800-2,800

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: coolant loss with no visible leak, white smoke at startup, rough idle when warm, coolant in oil (milky dipstick), overheating

Fix: The composite gaskets deteriorate and allow coolant into the intake ports or oil passages. Job requires manifold removal, new gaskets, thermostat, and often coolant hoses while you're in there. Plan 5-7 hours labor. Critical to check for head gasket damage if it's been overheated.

Estimated cost: $600-1,000

Typical onset: 90,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: persistent overheating, coolant mixing with oil, white exhaust smoke, loss of compression, external coolant leaks at head/block junction

Fix: Often a cascade failure starting with intake gaskets or a failed water pump. If ignored, leads to warped heads or cracked blocks. Head gasket job alone is 10-14 hours; if the block is damaged you're looking at a junkyard engine swap or rebuild. Pistons, rings, bearings all get replaced in a full rebuild.

Estimated cost: $1,500-4,500

Symptoms: no-start condition, cranks but won't fire, stalling when hot, restarts when cool, intermittent dying while driving, no spark at plugs

Fix: The ignition module (mounted on distributor or coil pack depending on year) fails when heat-soaked. Crank sensor can also cause identical symptoms. Diagnosis takes 1-2 hours if you're chasing intermittent faults. Parts are cheap but misdiagnosis wastes time and money.

Estimated cost: $200-500

Typical onset: 70,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: clunking when shifting into drive or reverse, excessive engine movement visible under hood, vibration at idle, difficulty shifting smoothly

Fix: Rubber mounts collapse over time, especially the front torque strut. Replacing all three mounts (engine, transmission, torque strut) takes about 3-4 hours. Not dangerous but accelerates wear on CV axles and exhaust hangers.

Estimated cost: $300-600

Typical onset: 100,000+ mi

Symptoms: hard starting, stumbling or hesitation under load, stalling, check engine light with lean codes

Fix: Steel fuel lines rust from the inside out, shedding debris into the filter and injectors. Filter should be changed every 30k but rarely is. Injector cleaning may help temporarily; corroded lines require replacement which involves lifting the car and tracing lines from tank to engine — 4-6 hours.

Estimated cost: $400-900