The Pontiac Aztek spans 1995–2026 with 18 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2001, 2003, 2002 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1995, 1996, 1997. It delivers up to 20 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
Is the Pontiac Aztek a good car?
Short answer: yes, with the usual caveat about model years. Our score for the Pontiac Aztek is 4.0 out of 5, built from NHTSA crash-test results, how often it gets recalled and what owners actually complain about — not from reviews.
The complaint that comes up most is the electrical system — 113 of the 603 reports owners filed with NHTSA. If you're choosing a year, 1995, 1996, 1997 score best in our data, and 2001, 2003 worst.
This page describes the model. It can't tell you whether that car has an open recall, a rolled-back odometer or a branded title — for that, run its number through our free VIN check.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Pontiac Aztek is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1995 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Pontiac Aztek VIN — every digit explained
Every Pontiac Aztek carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Pontiac and the country it was built in.
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Aztek.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. You can decode any VIN for free and get the year-code table, the country codes and the exact spots where the number is stamped.
How many recalls does the Pontiac Aztek have?
The Pontiac Aztek has 18 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1995–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2005 Pontiac Aztek recalls 1
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
What's wrong. CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
Risk. FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Fix. DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
2004 Pontiac Aztek recalls 4
Electrical System:ignition
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, CONTAMINATION ON IGNITION RELAY CONTACTS CAN CAUSE HIGH RESISTANCE. THIS CAN AFFECT SIGNALS TO THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE AND, COULD CAUSE INTERMITTENT VEHICLE STALLS AT ANY TIME.
Risk. THE VEHICLE CANNOT BE RESTARTED IMMEDIATELY. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, IT COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION RELAY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 4, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 AND BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, VARIATIONS IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OR EXPOSURE TO HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES MAY LEAD TO FRACTURE OF THE FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV).
Risk. A FRACTURE MAY ALLOW FUEL VAPORS TO PASS THROUGH AND ALLOW DROPLETS OF FUEL TO ACCUMULATE ON THE SIDE OF THE FUEL TANK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK. THE RECALL WILL BE MAILED IN TWO PHASES WITH THE FIRST PHASE BEGINNING ON DECEMBER 4, 2007. THE SECOND PHASE WILL BE MAILED ON DECEMBER 13, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668. THE VEHICLE POPULATION INCLUDES BUICK RENDEZVOUS AND PONTIAC AZTEK VEHICLE BUILT IN MAY 2003; CHEVROLET VENTURE AND PONTIAC MONTANA VEHICLES BUILT FROM JUNE THROUGH AUGUST 2002; AND ALL VEHICLES REGISTERED IN NEVADA, ARIZONA, VIRGIN ISLANDS, PUERTO RICO, AND HAWAII.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
What's wrong. CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
Risk. FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Fix. DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, A WELD BETWEEN THE FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE AND THE FUEL TANK CAN FAIL.
Risk. IF THESE PARTS SEPARATE, THE DRIVER MAY NOTICE AN ODOR OF FUEL, THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON OR CHECK ENGINE LIGHT MAY ILLUMINATE, AND/OR FUEL MAY LEAK ONTO THE GROUND. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SERIAL NUMBER OF THE FUEL TANK TO SEE IF IT IS ON THE LIST OF AFFECTED TANKS. IF THE SERIAL NUMBER MATCHES, THE FUEL TANK WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 4, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080 OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
2003 Pontiac Aztek recalls 4
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, VARIATIONS IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OR EXPOSURE TO HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES MAY LEAD TO FRACTURE OF THE FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV).
Risk. A FRACTURE MAY ALLOW FUEL VAPORS TO PASS THROUGH AND ALLOW DROPLETS OF FUEL TO ACCUMULATE ON THE SIDE OF THE FUEL TANK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK. THE RECALL WILL BE MAILED IN TWO PHASES WITH THE FIRST PHASE BEGINNING ON DECEMBER 4, 2007. THE SECOND PHASE WILL BE MAILED ON DECEMBER 13, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668. THE VEHICLE POPULATION INCLUDES BUICK RENDEZVOUS AND PONTIAC AZTEK VEHICLE BUILT IN MAY 2003; CHEVROLET VENTURE AND PONTIAC MONTANA VEHICLES BUILT FROM JUNE THROUGH AUGUST 2002; AND ALL VEHICLES REGISTERED IN NEVADA, ARIZONA, VIRGIN ISLANDS, PUERTO RICO, AND HAWAII.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
What's wrong. CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
Risk. FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Fix. DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
Equipment:other:owners/service/other Manual
What's wrong. CERTAIN MINIVANS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER UNIVERSAL ANCHORAGE SYSTEM.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
Fix. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS SUPPLEMENT DESCRIBES AND SHOWS THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE VEHICLE AND ON THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER CUSHION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Steering
What's wrong. IN SOME OF THESE SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE DIAMETER OF THE STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT IS TOO SMALL.
Risk. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT TO SPIN INSIDE THE STEERING COLUMN COUPLING, RESULTING IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING, A CRASH COULD RESULTING WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT, AND REPLACE IF NECESSARY, THE STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT. OWNERS WERE NOTIFIED BY TELEPHONE ON FEBRUARY 7, 2003, WITH A FOLLOW-UP LETTER ON FEBRUARY 11, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300 OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737.
2002 Pontiac Aztek recalls 3
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, VARIATIONS IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OR EXPOSURE TO HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES MAY LEAD TO FRACTURE OF THE FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV).
Risk. A FRACTURE MAY ALLOW FUEL VAPORS TO PASS THROUGH AND ALLOW DROPLETS OF FUEL TO ACCUMULATE ON THE SIDE OF THE FUEL TANK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK. THE RECALL WILL BE MAILED IN TWO PHASES WITH THE FIRST PHASE BEGINNING ON DECEMBER 4, 2007. THE SECOND PHASE WILL BE MAILED ON DECEMBER 13, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668. THE VEHICLE POPULATION INCLUDES BUICK RENDEZVOUS AND PONTIAC AZTEK VEHICLE BUILT IN MAY 2003; CHEVROLET VENTURE AND PONTIAC MONTANA VEHICLES BUILT FROM JUNE THROUGH AUGUST 2002; AND ALL VEHICLES REGISTERED IN NEVADA, ARIZONA, VIRGIN ISLANDS, PUERTO RICO, AND HAWAII.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
What's wrong. CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
Risk. FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Fix. DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
Equipment:other:owners/service/other Manual
What's wrong. CERTAIN MINIVANS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER UNIVERSAL ANCHORAGE SYSTEM.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
Fix. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS SUPPLEMENT DESCRIBES AND SHOWS THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE VEHICLE AND ON THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER CUSHION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
2001 Pontiac Aztek recalls 6
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, VARIATIONS IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OR EXPOSURE TO HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES MAY LEAD TO FRACTURE OF THE FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV).
Risk. A FRACTURE MAY ALLOW FUEL VAPORS TO PASS THROUGH AND ALLOW DROPLETS OF FUEL TO ACCUMULATE ON THE SIDE OF THE FUEL TANK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK. THE RECALL WILL BE MAILED IN TWO PHASES WITH THE FIRST PHASE BEGINNING ON DECEMBER 4, 2007. THE SECOND PHASE WILL BE MAILED ON DECEMBER 13, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668. THE VEHICLE POPULATION INCLUDES BUICK RENDEZVOUS AND PONTIAC AZTEK VEHICLE BUILT IN MAY 2003; CHEVROLET VENTURE AND PONTIAC MONTANA VEHICLES BUILT FROM JUNE THROUGH AUGUST 2002; AND ALL VEHICLES REGISTERED IN NEVADA, ARIZONA, VIRGIN ISLANDS, PUERTO RICO, AND HAWAII.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
What's wrong. CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
Risk. FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Fix. DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
Equipment:other:owners/service/other Manual
What's wrong. CERTAIN MINIVANS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER UNIVERSAL ANCHORAGE SYSTEM.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
Fix. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS SUPPLEMENT DESCRIBES AND SHOWS THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE VEHICLE AND ON THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER CUSHION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Air Bags:frontal
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND MINI VANS, SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A PASSENGER AIR BAG THAT WAS MANUFACTURED WITHOUT A CHECK VALVE PIN. AN AIR BAG WITHOUT THE CHECK VALVE PIN COULD PRODUCE INCREASED PRESSURE AT THE ONSET OF THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT AND REDUCED PRESSURE AFTERWARD.
Risk. THIS COULD INCREASE THE SEVERITY OF INJURY TO A PERSON WHO WAS NOT PROPERLY RESTRAINED AND WHO WAS CLOSE TO THE PASSENGER AIR BAG AT THE TIME OF DEPLOYMENT. IT COULD ALSO REDUCE THE AB8ILITY OF THE AIR BAG TO PROTECT A RESTRAINED FRONT SEAT PASSENGER.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PASSENGER AIR BAG. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 16, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537, OR SATURN AT 1-800-553-6000, PROMPT #3.
Air Bags:frontal
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND MINIVANS. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG INFLATOR MODULES WERE BUILT WITHOUT THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF GENERANT, WHICH PRODUCES THE GAS THAT FILLS THE AIR BAG. SOME WERE BUILT WITH A DOUBLE LOAD OF GENERANT AND SOME WERE BUILT WITHOUT GENERANT.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH THAT WOULD TRIGGER A PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, A DOUBLE LOAD OF GENERANT CAN CAUSE THE INFLATOR MODULE TO EXPLODE. IF THE AIR BAG MODULE EXPLODES, METAL AND PLASTIC DEBRIS COULD CAUSE SEVERE INJURY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANT. A MODULE WITH NO GENERANT WOULD NOT INFLATE THE AIR BAG, AND THE OCCUPANTS COULD RECEIVE MORE SEVERE INJURIES.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PASSENGER AIR BAG MODULE. TELEPHONE CALLS WERE MADE TO OWNERS ON JANUARY 29, 2001. FOLLOW UP OWNER MAILING BEGAN ON APRIL 17, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR SATURN AT 1-800-553-6000.
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN MINI VANS BUILT WITH SECOND ROW 50/50 SPLIT BENCH SEATS OR CAPTAIN'S CHAIRS, FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE SEAT LATCH ANCHOR WIRE DIAMETER IS GREATER THAN 6.1 MM.
Risk. IF THE CONNECTOR FOR A LATCH-TYPE CHILD RESTRAINT IS NOT ATTACHED CORRECTLY TO THE ANCHORAGE POINTS, THE RESTRAINT WILL NOT PROPERLY PROTECT A CHILD IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE LATCH ANCHOR WIRES AND REPAIR THOSE WITH AN IMPROPER DIAMETER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 10, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737.
Best and worst years for the Pontiac Aztek
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 32 tracked years, the worst years are 2001, 2003, 2002 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1995, 1996, 1997.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 Aztek | — | Best | |
| 1996 Aztek | — | Best | |
| 1997 Aztek | — | Best | |
| 1998 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 1999 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2000 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2001 Aztek | Electrical System | Avoid | |
| 2002 Aztek | Fuel System | Avoid | |
| 2003 Aztek | Fuel System | Avoid | |
| 2004 Aztek | Electrical System | Average | |
| 2005 Aztek | Electrical System | Average | |
| 2006 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2007 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2008 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2009 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2010 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2011 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2012 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2013 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2014 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2015 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2016 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2017 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2018 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2019 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2020 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2021 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2022 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2023 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2024 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2025 Aztek | — | Average | |
| 2026 Aztek | — | Average |
What are the most common Pontiac Aztek problems?
The most-reported Pontiac Aztek problems are Air (3 reports), Other (18 reports) and Seats (6 reports) — out of 603 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Pontiac Aztek specifications & dimensions
The 2026 Pontiac Aztek. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Pontiac Aztek window sticker.
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Pontiac Aztek cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Aztek holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Pontiac Aztek tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Pontiac Aztek get?
The Pontiac Aztek returns up to 20 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $3,000/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 2005 Pontiac Aztek (3.4L 6-cyl) gets 19 mpg combined and costs about $3,300/yr to fuel, emitting 468 g/mi CO₂ — about $5,500 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 Aztek | 17 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.4L 6-cyl | |
| 2004 Aztek | 17 | 24 | $3,100 | 444 | 1/10 | 3.4L 6-cyl | |
| 2003 Aztek | 17 | 24 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.4L 6-cyl | |
| 2002 Aztek | 17 | 24 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.4L 6-cyl | |
| 2001 Aztek | 17 | 24 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.4L 6-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Aztek stacks up against the most fuel-efficient SUVs, or calculate this Aztek's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Pontiac Aztek have? Power & range
The Pontiac Aztek is offered with 1 powertrain — 3.4L 6-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 3.4L · 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Can a Pontiac Aztek tow? Towing & payload
As an SUV, the Pontiac Aztek is built to tow and haul. The exact maximum towing capacity and payload depend on the engine, drivetrain and whether it has the factory tow package.
What sets your Aztek's tow & payload rating:
- Engine — a larger or turbocharged engine tows more than the base unit.
- Drivetrain & axle — 4WD/AWD and the axle ratio shift the rating.
- Tow package — the factory towing package (hitch, wiring, transmission cooler) raises the max.
- Payload & GVWR — GVWR caps the combined load; more passengers and cargo lower how much you can tow.
Exact towing capacity, payload and GVWR are added per engine, drivetrain and trim — decode your VIN above, or check the driver's door-jamb and hitch labels. Curb weight from vehicle specifications.
How much does a Pontiac Aztek cost to own?
A Pontiac Aztek depreciates at about an average rate. A typical example keeps roughly 46% of its value after five years — losing about 54% to depreciation. Check what a used Aztek is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 80% | $24,000 | −$6,000 |
| Year 2 | 70% | $21,000 | −$9,000 |
| Year 3 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 4 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 5 | 46% | $13,800 | −$16,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Aztek loses about 54% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $15,000 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Aztek ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Pontiac Aztek safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Aztek yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Pontiac Aztek last?
A well-maintained Pontiac Aztek typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Pontiac Aztek’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Aztek’s VIN free →All Pontiac Aztek model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Pontiac Aztek — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2025 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2024 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2023 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2022 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2021 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2020 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2019 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2018 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2017 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2016 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2015 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2014 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2013 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2012 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2011 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2010 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2009 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2008 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2007 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2006 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 2005 Aztek | 1 recall | — | |
| 2004 Aztek | 4 recalls | — | |
| 2003 Aztek | 4 recalls | — | |
| 2002 Aztek | 3 recalls | — | |
| 2001 Aztek | 6 recalls | — | |
| 2000 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 1999 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 1998 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 1997 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 1996 Aztek | 0 | — | |
| 1995 Aztek | 0 | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Aztek?
By owner-complaint volume, 2001, 2003, 2002 drew the most reports. 1995, 1996, 1997 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Aztek have?
18 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1995–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN. See all Pontiac recalls and reliability across every model.
What MPG does the Aztek get?
Up to 20 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Aztek last?
A well-maintained Aztek typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Aztek reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Aztek is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Pontiac Aztek warranty?
New Pontiac models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Pontiac dealer.
Where is the Pontiac Aztek made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Aztek's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Pontiac may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Aztek have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.