1996 Pontiac Fiero problems

Common 1996 Pontiac Fiero problems

The Pontiac Fiero, introduced in 1984, was a mid-engine sports car that quickly gained popularity due to its handling and affordable price. However, it soon developed a reputation for unreliability, particularly in its early models.

One of the most notorious issues with the Pontiac Fiero was its tendency to catch fire. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a total of 135 cars were reported to have had engine fires.

Another issue that contributed to engine fires was a wiring harness mounted just above the exhaust manifold, which was prone to melting and starting electrical fires. Additionally, improperly-tightened head bolts could crack the engine block and also lead to fires.

The Fiero's innovative body structure, which featured a space frame and bolt-on plastic panels, was expected to keep the weight under 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms). However, the complete structure ended up just as heavy, or even heavier than, a similarly sized car with a steel monocoque. This resulted in a car that was significantly heavier than expected, with a weight of over 2,500 lbs (1,135 kg).

The Fiero's heavy weight had a significant impact on its performance, with real road tests performed by Car and Driver in December 1983 showing an uninspiring 0-60 miles per hour (0-97 kilometers per hour) acceleration in 11.3 seconds and a top speed of only 105 mph (169 kph) for the base model.

The Fiero's suspension was also a source of frustration for many owners. The 1984-1987 models used a double wishbone design based on the chassis of the Chevrolet Chevette. While the suspension received positive reviews for its handling, it was also criticized for not meeting expectations of higher performance from its mid-engine configuration.

In 1988, the Fiero received a completely redesigned suspension, along with two-piece brake calipers and ventilated disc brakes at all four corners. However, these improvements came too late, as sales had already declined significantly. Despite its design finally realizing its potential, GM ended production of the Fiero in 1988.

In conclusion, the Pontiac Fiero was plagued by a number of significant issues, including engine fires, heavy weight, and subpar performance. While the car received positive reviews for its handling and affordable price, these issues ultimately contributed to its downfall.

What problems did the Fiero have?

The Pontiac Fiero had a litany of issues, most of which were limited to the inaugural 1984 model year. The biggest were the low-capacity oil pans that caused overheating, faulty connecting rods that failed at a rate of about 1 in 10, and an electric panel that was mounted too close to the exhaust manifold.

What was the best year for the Pontiac Fiero?

1988 GT

The best-performing Fieros in the market are 1988 GT coupe models. That final production year saw in improved suspension to make that model the best of the breed, and prices reflect it, with #2-condition values at $13,400.

Are Pontiac Fieros hard to work on?

Working on a Fiero is not worse than any other FWD car and better in some cases. I just ran into some guy who claimed to be a Fiero owner that told me you have to drop the cradle to change the plugs/ I know he had the cars as he had photo's of 4. But he either had no skills or never worked on a Fiero before.

What year Fiero catches fire?

1984

Safety issues escalated rapidly by the summer of 1987, when the fire count for 1984 models reached a rate of 20 fires per month. Fieros were catching fire at the rate of one for every 508 cars sold, surpassing all other mass-market automobile cars.

What problems did the Fiero have?

The Pontiac Fiero had a litany of issues, most of which were limited to the inaugural 1984 model year. The biggest were the low-capacity oil pans that caused overheating, faulty connecting rods that failed at a rate of about 1 in 10, and an electric panel that was mounted too close to the exhaust manifold.

Is a Pontiac Fiero a safe car?

The Fiero was also relatively safe for its time. It received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Despite a few flaws, the Pontiac Fiero was a groundbreaking car.

What year is the best Pontiac Fiero?

1988 GT

The best-performing Fieros in the market are 1988 GT coupe models. That final production year saw in improved suspension to make that model the best of the breed, and prices reflect it, with #2-condition values at $13,400.

Are Pontiac Fieros hard to work on?

Working on a Fiero is not worse than any other FWD car and better in some cases. I just ran into some guy who claimed to be a Fiero owner that told me you have to drop the cradle to change the plugs/ I know he had the cars as he had photo's of 4. But he either had no skills or never worked on a Fiero before.

1996 Pontiac Fiero car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Fiero problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Pontiac Fiero vehicle components and the number of complaints received.