1997 Pontiac Grand Am GT 3.1 from North America
Summary:
All dressed up with nowhere to go 15% of the time
Faults:
Bushings replaced @ 91k
Spark plugs & wires @ 91k
Ground wire replaced @ 93k
Left CV axle replaced @ 101k
Belt & pulley, water pump replaced & 110k
Struts replaced @ 134k
Lock assembly replaced in L door @146k
L control arm, sway bar & bushings again!
Radiator, cap, t-stat & gasket replaced @ 152k
Intake manifold gasket & L strut bearing replaced
Alternator replaced @160k
Rear head gasket replaced @ 179k
Heater core replaced, front timing cover going @ 183k.
General Comments:
This has been a wonderful car other than the occasional fixer ups... It drives nicely, has great pick-up!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 24th November, 2007
18th Aug 2008, 19:31
UPDATE on this car - Well, 72000 miles now and the horrors appear to be starting. Brakes still drive me nuts but I have adjusted. 22K since replacing the front and mechanic tells me they're worn out. Rears still "grab" and sometimes lock up at slow speeds (followed by the ABS "CLUNK CLUNK"). Radiator sprung a leak @ 70k - I replaced it. @ 72k the old intake manifold coolant leak curse finally struck. Too big of a repair for my skills so paid $600. 1 week later the heater core ruptured suddenly - another $450. I had them bypass it until winter comes. So aside from the water pump (which may be next) the entire cooling system has pretty much gone south, thanks to the the wonder of "Dex Cool" anti-freeze. Wife wants me to get rid of it. I agree but don't have the money for a new car. Well, it least it looks nice!