I am considering to purchase a used Pontiac Sunfire 2000 model that is fully equipped including 2.4L engine with automatic transmission from a co-worker. This vehicle does not have factory warranty anymore. The good point is that it has less than 60,000Km which is very low for the year. It is a single owner and is in an extremely clean condition. I have done some research (read few used car book as well as "Jacques Duval" author of new/used car book. I am confuse a bit about reliability index as it does not differentiate clearly to me which motor is a problematic. For example 2.2L or 2.4L engine that has a problem. I have a few friends that has a 1997 Sunfire and he said he never has any engine problem. He has 2.2L engine with manual transmission. My other friend has a Cavalier 95 has head gasket problem. But their cars is an older model and I am wondering if that even represent for what I am looking for. Jacques Duval said automatic transmission is very fragile. He does not mention anything about automatic transmission for 2.2 or for 2.4L if this is matter? Assuming it is, does it apply to 2000 model such as the one I am looking for? I want to buy an automatic transmission because of traction control option and from what I am being told that is only available to model with automatic transmission. What exactly does Jacques Duval refer to as fragile transmission?
If you have experience of knowledge about this specific powertrain (2.4L with automatic) such as problems that I should be aware off before consider purchase this vehicle please share it with me.
Thx, PN