1986 Pontiac Firebird V6

Summary:

Great car, I'll miss it!

Faults:

Struts and shocks, and steering linkage eventually wore out, but were very cheap to replace.

The car has needed a new alternator about every 5 years, which seems to be average for about any vehicle.

The water pump went the first year I owned the car at about 210k.

The seats eventually wore out and the headliner started to sag, but these are an easy and cheap fix for anyone whose slightly handy and owns a socket set.

... and of course, lots and lots of tires! LOL.

General Comments:

The car is very fun and economical to drive. Even with the V6 the tires are very easy to break free with the 5spd.

Roomy and comfortable for the driver and passenger, but very little room in the back seats.. really only enough room for kids.

Super reliable. Probably would still be driving it if it weren't for the incentives on new vehicles right now.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th June, 2009

8th Jun 2009, 12:34

The reason you needed to replace so many tires on a 6 cylinder Firebird was probably due to a badly needed wheel alignment and not from the power of the V6, which BTW, is only 115HP. So I seriously doubt you burned the tires right out! I like how V6 Camaro/Firebird and Mustang owners always over exaggerate the power of your cars.

8th Jun 2009, 19:51

I'd keep it as a side vehicle when you buy your new car. They won't give you squat as a trade-in. If it's been so reliable, why get rid of it?? Or you could give it to a friend or relative who needs another car.. at the price the dealer will pay for it you might as well just give it away..

In reply to 8th Jun 2009, 12:34

27th Dec 2011, 21:50

The V6 Firebird from 86 had 135HP.

You're 20 horses off, and he could easily have some mods on something that old that he doesn't know about.

I completely agree with the wheel alignment suggestion. 135 still isn't that much...

In reply to 8th Jun 2009, 19:51

1st Jun 2015, 03:35

I have a 1986 Trans Am. I love it, it's my baby. I take good care of it, but you've got to put money into it. I have 160,000 on it and it runs good.

I am looking to Oct 20 2015 for the new Trans Am GTO to come out, but $40,000 is too much for me to pay for a car, SO I'll keep my Trans Am until I die.

So goodbye... Carmen in Livonia.

In reply to 1st Jun 2015, 03:35

13th Sep 2015, 03:28

What Trans Am GTO?

In reply to 13th Sep 2015, 03:28

13th Sep 2015, 12:32

Modified Camaro: www.transamdepot.com

1986 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am 5.0L 4bbl

Summary:

Driving excitement like a kid going to a candy store

Faults:

• Heater core went bad around 200k miles.

• Overheating problems, of course, replaced the radiator around 210k

• Timing chain wore out (actually the gear) at about 260k, which bent every exhaust push rod

• Brake booster wore out, just last week.

After all is said and done, still an awesome car!

General Comments:

I love the car. It's absolutely fun to drive. Even with the typical problems I've had and have had to fix to keep it on the road, she's still the best car ever. Pop the t-tops and ride.

I think the best part about the car, besides the feel of the car and the look/design of the car, is the exhaust. It is VERY unique and makes me extremely giddy. The throb while I'm puttering through town... I love it!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th May, 2009

11th Jun 2009, 12:35

I had an 86 Trans Am back when I was a young adult. It was one of the best cars I had ever owned. Once you have one, it is always in your blood.

13th Dec 2009, 12:10

I currently own a 1986 FireBird T/A with the L98 corvette 350 and TCI race transmission, and 373 posi. I have to agree, they are a whole lot of FUN!!!

In reply to 11th Jun 2009, 12:35

22nd Oct 2013, 09:19

Hi. I have a 1986 Trans Am and I love it. You have got to take care of her, because your car's got to take you wherever you want to go... So good luck with it...