1999 Pontiac Grand Am GT 3.4 from North America

Summary:

Poor Quality

Faults:

First I have to say Pontiac Sucks! Have you ever seen a Pontiac Firebird and a Chevy Camaro of the same year, say 98 for example. The Pontiac is trashed and the Camaro still looks nice.

ANY WAYS, I purchased a 99 Grand Am GT-1 in 2003 with 39,000 miles on it. Okay, here it goes.

First I replaced the upper and lower intake manifold gaskets when I got it, because it was leaking into the engine.

Next, had to replace the power steering pump at 40,000 miles.

Next, all the window regulators went out within a week of each other.

ALSO, I'm still leaking antifreeze, I am pretty sure that its the water pump this time.

Also, the BRAKES, talk about noisy, especially when cornering. The rotors will need to be replaced soon, I just know it!!

The Security Light that comes on every once in awhile, it's very annoying, especially when you have to wait about 15 minutes before you can start it again.

General Comments:

The repairs are easy to do yourself, so I would recommend taking the time to do it, just to save yourself some money. And as always, BUYER BEWARE! I should have stuck with Nissan!!!

Fast and fun, but lots of trouble, especially at only 57,000 miles on it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 4th September, 2006

4th Oct 2006, 21:41

Yeah, most 99 Grand Am's are lemon's. But most Pontiac's are lemons, including the firebird. They might have the same drivetrain, but that is where the similarities end, the body and everything else are not the same quality at all.

26th Oct 2006, 22:46

Yeah... it is pretty bad. I already replaced my caliber, rotors and now the power steering is going. I've only got 85k on it. and I've been the owner since it had 6k. The repairs were easy to do by myself... OK I had help, but no need to pay extra for labor fees. I have an SE, but in the long run its been through a lot of crap. I treat it like it's my beater car. You couldn't even imagine. But it's still alive and willing, so I'm thankful for that.

1999 Pontiac Grand Am SE 2.4 from North America

Summary:

Looks great and runs well - when it runs!

Faults:

The bad brake pads and rotors on my Grand Am have put a "stop" to my driving for the third time. First at 29,000 miles, then 54,000 miles, and now at 72,000.

Last Mass state vehicle inspection I had to replace front-passenger side tie rod. Mechanic said the wheel was due to fall off any day.

The security pass-lack system has been keeping me out of the car so often for the past 3 months. On a whim, the security light comes on any the engine will not start. Sometimes it starts after 20 minutes or so, and other times it can take hours. Each time I enter my car I have to say a prayer due to it's erratic behavior. Naturally, nothing happens when it's at the dealership.

Other than normal wear-and-tear replacements (battery, hoses, belts, etc.) I have replaced or repaired the following:

Alternator, starter, 2 front wheel bearing/hub assemblies, both front springs, shocks, valve cover gasket, 2 driver's side-view mirrors, 1 passenger side-view mirror, driver's side window, belt pulley, and these are just off the top of my head.

In the summer, the radio (and time) display looks like Chinese symbols. On the highway, the wind noise from the mirrors is deafening. The trunk leaks. The cup holders are improperly placed. Many times I have left a bottle of water in them (cup holders) and when I put the car into park I have really smashed my fingers!

Did I mention that I baby this car in regards to service and maintenance?

General Comments:

With all of the mechanical and electrical problems, this car spends significantly more time in the shop than on the road.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 3rd September, 2006