1976 Pontiac Firebird problems

General information about Pontiac-Firebird
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Pontiac Firebird is an American automobile built and produced by Pontiac from the 1967 to 2002 model years. Designed as a pony car to compete with the Ford Mustang, it was introduced on February 23, 1967, five months after GM's Chevrolet division's platform-sharing Camaro. This also coincided with the release of the 1967 Mercury Cougar, Ford's upscale, platform-sharing version of the Mustang. The name "Firebird" was also previously used by GM for the General Motors Firebird series of concept cars in the 1950s.

First generation (1967–1969)

The first generation Firebird had characteristic Coke bottle styling shared with its cousin, the Chevrolet Camaro. Announcing a Pontiac styling trend, the Firebird's bumpers were integrated into the design of the front end, giving it a more streamlined look than the Camaro. The Firebird's rear "slit" taillights were inspired by the 1966–1967 Pontiac GTO and Pontiac Grand Prix. Both a two-door hardtop and a convertible were offered through the 1969 model year. Originally, the car was a "consolation prize" for Pontiac, which had desired to produce a two-seat sports car based on its original Banshee concept car. However, GM feared this would cut into Chevrolet Corvette sales, and gave Pontiac a piece of the "pony car" market by sharing the F-body platform with Chevrolet. The listed retail price before options for the coupe was $2,666 ($24,361 in 2023 dollars) and the convertible was $2,903 ($28,519 in 2023 dollars).

The 1967 base model Firebird came equipped with the Pontiac 230 cu in (3.8 L) SOHC inline-six. Based on the architecture of the standard Chevrolet 230 cu in (3.8 L) inline-six, it was fitted with a one-barrel Rochester carburetor and rated at 165 hp (123 kW). The "Sprint" model six came with a four-barrel carburetor, developing 215 hp (160 kW). Most buyers opted for one of three V8s: the 326 cu in (5.3 L) with a two-barrel carburetor producing 250 hp (186 kW); the four-barrel "HO" (high output) 326, producing 285 hp (213 kW); or the 325 hp (242 kW) 400 cu in (6.6 L) from the GTO. All 1967–1968 400 CI engines had throttle restrictors that blocked the carburetors' secondaries from fully opening. A "Ram Air" option was also available, providing functional hood scoops, higher flow heads with stronger valve springs, and a hotter camshaft. Power for the Ram Air package was the same as the conventional 400 HO, but peaked at 5,200 rpm.

The 230 cu in (3.8 L) engines were subsequently enlarged for 1968 to 250 cubic inches (4.1 liters), the base version developing an increased 175 hp (130 kW) using a one-barrel carburetor, and the high-output Sprint version the same 215 hp with a four-barrel carburetor. Also for the 1968 model, the 326 cu in (5.3 L) engine was replaced by the Pontiac 350 cu in (5.7 L) V8, which actually displaced 354 cu in (5.8 L), and produced 265 hp (198 kW) with a two-barrel carburetor. An HO version of the 350 cu in (5.7 L) with a revised cam was also offered to start in that year, which developed 320 hp (239 kW). The power output of the other engines was increased marginally.

There was an additional Ram Air IV option for the 400 cu in (6.6 L) V8 engines during 1969, complementing the Ram Air 400(now often colloquially but incorrectly called the "Ram Air III," a name never used by Pontiac). The Ram Air IV was rated at 345 hp (350 PS; 257 kW) at 5000 rpm and 430 lb⋅ft (583 N⋅m) of torque at 3400 rpm; and 335 hp (340 PS; 250 kW) respectively. The 350 cu in (5.7 L) HO engine was revised again with a different cam and cylinder heads resulting in 325 hp (242 kW). During 1969 a special 303 cu in (5.0 L) engine was designed for Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) road racing applications that were not available in production cars.

Modifications for 1968 included the addition of federally-mandated side marker lights: for the front of the car, the turn signals were made larger and extended to wrap around the front edges of the car, and on the rear, the Pontiac (V-shaped) Arrowhead logo was added to each side. The front door vent-windows was replaced with a single pane of glass and Astro Ventilation, a fresh-air-inlet system. The 1969 model received a major facelift with a new front-end design but unlike the GTO, it did not have the Endura bumper. The instrument panel and steering wheel were revised. The ignition switch was moved from the dashboard to the steering column with the introduction of GM's new locking ignition switch/steering wheel.

In March 1969, a US$1,083 ($8,998 in 2023 ) optional handling package called the "Trans Am performance and appearance package", UPC "WS4", named after the Trans Am Series, was introduced. A total of 689 hardtops and eight convertibles were made.

Due to engineering problems that delayed the introduction of the new 1970 Firebird beyond the usual fall debut, Pontiac continued production of 1969 model Firebirds into the early months of the 1970 model year (the other 1970 Pontiac models had been introduced on September 18, 1969). By late spring of 1969, Pontiac had deleted all model-year references on Firebird literature and promotional materials, anticipating the extended production run of the then-current 1969 models.

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Common 1976 Pontiac Firebird problems

The Pontiac Firebird 1976 is a classic car that has earned its place in automotive history. However, like any other car, it is not without its common issues. Here are some of the most common problems with the Pontiac Firebird 1976, based on complaints from owners of this car.

Electrical problems: The 1976 Firebird has a lot of electrical components, and over time, these components can wear out or become damaged. Common electrical issues include malfunctioning gauges, faulty switches, and problems with the ignition system.

Transmission issues: The 1976 Firebird is known for having issues with the Turbo-Hydramatic 400 transmission. Common issues include slipping gears, hard shifting, and problems with the torque converter.

Engine issues: Engine issues are not uncommon with the 1976 Firebird, particularly with the 400-cubic-inch V8 engine. Common issues include oil leaks, overheating, and problems with the carburetor or fuel system.

Grounding issues: The 1976 Firebird may have grounding issues, particularly if there is no obvious ground wire from the car to the engine. It's essential to ensure that the engine is grounded to the chassis to prevent any electrical issues.

Manifold compatibility: The manifolds on the 1976 Firebird may not be compatible with other engines, such as the one on a 1972 Lemans. If you're swapping engines, you may need to procure another set of downpipes or headers.

In summary, the Pontiac Firebird 1976 is a classic car with some common issues that owners should be aware of. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent these issues from becoming more significant problems, ensuring that the car remains in good condition for years to come.

What engine did the 1976 Firebird have?

Trans Ams carried a standard 185 horsepower 400-cid V-8, as they had in 1975. Except in California, the big 455 V-8 remained available, again rated at 200 horsepower. Trans Ams continued to display their immense Firebird emblem, sometimes derided as the "screaming chicken."

Is a Firebird a reliable car?

The Firebird Trans Am was also popular among gearheads who valued reliability and longevity, which is why you can still find many in good condition today.

How much was a Firebird in 1976?

Prices climbed again and the base 1976 Firebird started at $3905, attracting 21,106 buyers. The luxury Esprit started at $4161 (22,252 sold). The Formula cost $4565 (20,613 sold) and featured a striking yellow-over-black paint job, full-length console, white letter tires, and steel hood with twin scoops.

How much horsepower does a 1976 Firebird 350 have?

A two-barrel 350-cid V-8 now was standard in the Formula (Turbo Hydra-Matic only), delivering 160 horsepower. The 185 horsepower, 400-cid V-8 was optional, and could drive a four-speed.

Is a Pontiac Firebird a good car?

Firebird owners have made 49 complaints over 13 model years. It ranks 2nd in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system.

What engine did the 1976 Firebird have?

What is special about the Pontiac Firebird?

The Pontiac Firebird is a classic American 'pony' car – an exotic-looking sporty car with lots of power. It was a direct rival to the Ford Mustang and went for the same long-hood, short-deck look, and had a performance-orientated image calculated to appeal to a youthful market.

Why did they stop making the Pontiac Firebird?

Stricter emissions regulations, changing market preferences, and the financial struggles of Pontiac's parent company, General Motors, led to the discontinuation of the Firebird. In 2002, the final Firebird rolled off the assembly line, marking the end of an era.

1976 Pontiac Firebird car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Exterior lighting problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1976 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1976 Pontiac Firebird complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1976 Pontiac Firebird.

2000-01-02

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1999-06-01
VIN: 2T87M6N5482
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: TURN SIGNAL LEVER STRESSED AT BASE NEAR STEERING COLUMN AND FINALLY BROKE. IT IS NOW HANGING BY CRUISE CONTROL CABLE (CRUISE CONTROL BUTTON AT END OF TURN SIGNAL LEVER) OEM REPLACEMENT WILL COST $70. *AK

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1976 Pontiac Firebird recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1976 Pontiac Firebird.

2007-10-24

Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.

1976-09-07

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR

1976-05-11

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1976 Pontiac Firebird problems:

Fixed The Problems? 1976 Triumph TR7 V6 | Barn Finds

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Jan 13, 2017 ... 1976 ... Fixed The Problems? 1976 ... However, I don't see any rust, even in the TR7's known problem spots.

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Feb 1, 2014 ... well I have a 1990 firebird formula with a 3.1 l v6 engine with 91k miles on it . the problem is you start car runs idle ok for a few the when ...

Q&A: Troubleshooting Speedometer Issues in 1988 Firebird Formula

https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/cj71y-odometer-speedometer-don-t-work-1988-firebird-formula.html

Jun 19, 2019 ... ... common problem on these when the ... Pontiac Firebird Formula: I have a 1976 firebird formula with ... 76 firebird formula factory power brake ...

What problems can i encounter with a 89 Firebird - Third Generation ...

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/aftermarket-product-review/1468-what-problems-can-i.html

May 27, 2001 ... I live in the Netherlands and thirdgen cars are somewhat of a luxory. However i've been offerd a 1989 Pontiac Firebird V6 2.8L with 15.000 miles ...