1999 Pontiac Grand Am SE 3.4 from North America
Summary:
Average, could be better
Faults:
Brake rotors need to be replaced once a year
Lower intake manifold gasket replaced in 2006
Head gasket replaced in 2006
Replaced water pump in 2004
Cruise control switch has fallen apart
Turn signals work when they want to
LED on radio has burnt out
Replaced resistor on fan blower motor.
General Comments:
The engine runs better now than is has in years since the gaskets were replaced. The car rides and handles good, one of the reasons I bought it in the first place.
The brakes are enough to drive you crazy- my mechanic claims the front brakes do too much of the work on this car, and the rear brakes not enough- a common problem with this model.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 7th July, 2007
16th Mar 2009, 18:33
I can't imagine replacing the brakes on a vehicle before 70,000 to 100,000 miles. I replaced the front pads (which were the originals) on my 2001 Grand Am at just over 70,000 miles at a cost of $17. The rear pads are still original, and the rotors are all original as well. I was actually disappointed at having to replace the front pads at such LOW mileage, as my previous car went 89,000 without any brake work (it was a Mustang).
My Dodge had TWO brake jobs in 240,000 miles. When brakes wear out too quickly the driver is either riding the brakes constantly or there is some other problem.
And comment 17:50 is 100% correct. The front brakes do the vast majority of work in stopping a car and always need replacing first. This is true of ALL cars. The comment about that being a characteristic of the Grand Am was obviously made by a less than totally car savvy mechanic. On cars with 4-wheel disc brakes the rear pads will often go well beyond TWICE the distance of the front pads.
15th Mar 2009, 23:08
I am the original poster for this car.
FYI: after continual brake problems, which included new rotors every six months in city driving (and numerous other issues), I have long gotten rid of this thing.
I have had my present vehicle for over a year - guess what? No brake problems, and I drive 30 K city to work every day.