1997 Pontiac Grand Am GT 3.1 from North America
Summary:
I don't think I'll ever buy a Pontiac again
Faults:
Tires were bald when I got it. Replaced those for about $400.
Power Steering Hose had a leak, had to replace it. $80.
All of the brakes and pads have been fixed 4 times since 2001. $700-$800 combined.
Driver Side power window motor went out, fixed it myself for $45.
Water Pump went out, was causing the car to die. The dealer fixed the spark plugs and that didn't work and eventually found out it was the water pump. Spark Plugs and Water pump $500.
Alternator went out $200.
New battery, $50.
A/C and heat aren't blowing as much anymore. Have to fix that next. Had the A/C recharged which lasted about a week. The guy said it wasn't leaking before he recharged it, I'm guessing he was lying or didn't know.
Now my brake warning light has come on. It actually goes off and on. It goes off when I turn the wheel and make 90+ degree turns. Also goes off when I hit large bumps or curbs. I think its just the sensor.
General Comments:
Really has good pickup.
Good looks.
Quite pricey for repairs though.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 14th February, 2006
22nd Mar 2006, 13:57
Built for someone short? I'm 6 foot tall, and I fit into my '97 Grand Am SE perfectly fine. Mind you, I had the seat all the way back, but I wasn't smashed against the steering wheel like I was in my '88 Ford Ranger.