Faults:
The distributer cap failed and needed replaced at 55,000 miles.
The catalytic converter was replaced at 55,000 miles.
The heater coil broke, causing anti-freeze to spill all over the passenger side floor and the car to over-heat. This happened at 62,500 miles.
The fuel pump fell apart in the gas tank as I was driving. This happened at 66,000 miles.
The head gasket cracked at 67,500 miles. This led to an average idle of 2000 RPM all the way up to a 4000 RPM idle.
The clutch went out at 71,000 miles.
General Comments:
I received this car as a graduation gift. Had I known that I would eventually put $5,000 into this poorly engineered machine, I would have said, "Thanks, but no thanks."
It is the least dependable car I've ever come in contact with. In less than the year that I owned this car, I had to have it towed four times! The first time I had to have it towed was the first day I had it!
However, it was very exciting to drive. It handled exceptionally well. There was very little roll in turns with the stock suspension.
The Fiero also has a decent amount of leg room considering its overall size. I'm 6'2" and I had plenty of room.
This car was doomed from the start. It was built with left over GM parts and many shortcuts were made to save money. The reason the Fiero was only produced for 4 years was because Pontiac couldn't afford to continue to pay for the warranty claims that were made by new Fiero owners.
Overall, I loved driving this car (When it wasn't broken down and in the garage.) However, I will never buy another Fiero (Or anything else GM for that matter) again.
16th May 2007, 18:31
We just recently bought an 86 Pontiac Fiero and we have not had any issues with it yet. Other than the need for more power, high performance parts or some remodeling we have been all set.