Faults:
I have had numerous problems with my vehicle. To begin, with only 100 miles on this car the aluminum wheel cracked under the cold weather and had to be replaced at the cost of $350 for a used one. At 12,000 miles the car lost power steering and the steering unit had to be replaced. The ignition was replaced twice at 18,000 miles and again at 35,000 miles. At around 40,000 miles the brakes started squeaking constantly, even when not pressing on the brakes. This squeaking could also be heard when steering to the left. I have had this problem fixed several times by having the rotors turned, but they are now worn down so much that they need to be replaced. Replacement of the rotors is not an option at $900 each.
The majority of my problems have occurred in the last 15,000 miles. At 60,000 miles the A/C compressor had to be replaced for $850. The alternator went out at 70,000 miles and was replaced. At 71,000 miles the A/C compressor bracket broke causing the belt to break. Also around this time the headlights (they pop up and down) started making horrible grinding noises. It's because the motors need to be replaced. This is also very expensive at around $500 per headlight. Needless to say, I did not replace the headlight motors, and now the headlights are stuck in the "on" position. At 72,000 miles the door locks became jammed in the "unlock" position for a couple of weeks, until I finally gave in to a mechanic. In addition, the hatch no longer stays up by itself, and the stereo display is no longer visible. This also has to be completely replaced for approximately $600. Aftermarket stereos are also pricey because it is manufactured as a double-din stereo. The passenger speaker cuts out constantly, but that is the least of my problems.
Just recently (in the last 500 miles) I have noticed that my car is leaking/burning 1 quart of oil per week. The brakes are still squeaky prompting attention from everyone I drive by. The right windshield wiper hasn't been functioning. Also, a normal wiper blade is about $3 to replace. Pontiac came up with the great idea to make the Firebird have a special wiper blade costing $15. Don't even ask about the cup holders, or should I say cup-spillers. There is only one and it dumps directly into the shifter anytime you break.
I know I have forgotten some things. But let me just end here by saying that this is quite possibly America's worst vehicle ever.
28th Mar 2005, 12:14
Hey I have a 1996 Trans Am LT1, I was told to change the Air Intake from factory to a K&N Air intake. the Hypertech chip deal, along with a termosat. And in addition to add pulleys. I am also thinking about the Nit. route however I want to keep it just American Muscle.