1977 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 1977 Pontiac Firebird problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Pontiac Firebird 1977, several common problems have been reported:

Electrical Problems: The Pontiac Firebird 1977 is known to have electrical issues, including malfunctioning gauges, faulty switches, and problems with the ignition system. Over time, these components can wear out or become damaged, leading to electrical malfunctions.

Suspension System Weakness: The suspension system of the Pontiac Firebird 1977 is relatively weak. Upgrading to a more robust suspension can enhance the car's handling and performance on the road.

Engine Issues: Common engine problems with the Pontiac Firebird 1977 include oil leaks, overheating, and issues with the carburetor or fuel system. The 400-cubic-inch V8 engine in this model is particularly prone to these problems.

Transmission Problems: The Turbo-Hydramatic 400 transmission in the Pontiac Firebird 1977 can experience issues like slipping gears, hard shifting, and problems with the torque converter. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are essential to address these transmission issues.

By addressing these common problems promptly and with proper maintenance, owners of the Pontiac Firebird 1977 can ensure the longevity and performance of their classic car.

What engine came in a 1977 Firebird?

Pontiac's own 301-cid V-8, with a two-barrel carburetor delivering 135 horsepower at 4000 rpm, became standard gear in the Firebird Formula. Two 170 horsepower, four-barrel 350 V-8s could be ordered, produced by Oldsmobile or Pontiac.

How many miles per gallon does a 1977 Firebird get?

Based on data from 9 vehicles, 237 fuel-ups and 40,397 miles of driving, the 1977 Pontiac Firebird gets a combined Avg MPG of 13.53 with a 0.35 MPG margin of error.

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 did a Pontiac Firebird cost in 1977?

Prices rose sharply and the base Firebird now started at $4270, attracting 30,642 buyers. The luxury Esprit cost from $4551 and 34,548 were sold. The Formula was basically a stripped Trans Am and 21,801 were sold to enthusiasts who paid upwards of $4977.

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 does a 1977 Pontiac 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.

Is a Pontiac Firebird a muscle car?

Firebird and Camaro grew more European in nature with their second-generation redesign, but the scooped and spoilered 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am was pure American muscle car, and more immodest than ever.

1977 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:

Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1977 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1977 Pontiac Firebird complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1977 Pontiac Firebird.

2010-12-10

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2010-11-08
Fire: 1
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1977 PONTIAC FIRE BIRD. THEE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 30 MPH WHEN THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT INJURY. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS AVAILABLE. THE ORIGIN OF THE FIRE WAS UNKNOWN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.

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1977 Pontiac Firebird recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1977 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.

1979-02-26

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Summary: LABELS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS". INCORRECT INFORMATION WAS PROVIDED ON TIRE LABELS.
Remedy: CORRECT PLACARDS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR INSTALLATION BY OWNERS OR BY DEALERS WITHOUT CHARGE.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1977 Pontiac Firebird problems:

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https://www.reddit.com/r/Pontiac/comments/2fsd93/considering_purchasing_a_firebird_heres_some/

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