Summary
The Pontiac LeMans has 8 recalls spanning the 1978–1993 production run, with the most serious being a rear brake defect on 1978 models where a wheel cylinder can shift or rotate, lose brake fluid, and eliminate rear braking, extending stopping distances and raising the risk of a crash.
The 1993 model year has a seatbelt concern where the motorized shoulder belt carrier can bind, chatter, or stop moving entirely due to insufficient lubrication in its guide track, preventing the front occupant from using the shoulder belt properly. Going back to 1991, the front seatbelt buckle can crack at the release button, causing it either to fail to latch or to refuse to release, leaving the front occupant unrestrained or trapped. On 1978 models, rear seatbelt anchor bolts can shed their heads during normal use, meaning the belt will not hold an occupant in a crash. Also on 1978 models with front bench seats, incorrectly fitted head restraints do not meet occupant protection standards and can increase the risk of head injury to rear passengers in a collision. The 1981 model year has a compliance issue related to evaporative emissions, with no direct safety consequence described.
