1980 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.

Social links

https://twitter.com/PromotePontiac

Common 1980 Pontiac Firebird problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1980 Pontiac Firebird, several common problems have been identified:

Non-functional Clock and Air Conditioning: Some owners experienced issues with the clock in the console and the air conditioning system. The clock not working is a common electrical problem, while the air conditioning issue could be related to a malfunctioning clutch or motor drag when the AC is turned on. Repairing these components in a vintage 1980 system may require specialized knowledge and parts.

Electrical Problems: The 1980 Pontiac Firebird is known to have electrical issues, which can manifest as malfunctioning gauges, faulty switches, and problems with the ignition system. These electrical components can wear out over time, leading to various operational issues within the vehicle.

Transmission Issues: Common transmission problems reported by owners include slipping gears, hard shifting, and torque converter issues. Specifically, the Turbo-Hydramatic 400 transmission in the 1980 Firebird is prone to these types of transmission-related problems.

Engine Problems: The 1980 Pontiac Firebird, equipped with a 301-cubic-inch V8 engine, has been associated with oil leaks, overheating, and carburetor or fuel system issues. These engine-related problems can impact the performance and reliability of the vehicle.

Paint Oxidation: Some owners mentioned issues with paint oxidation, which led to the car being repainted. While this may not affect the functionality of the vehicle, it is a common cosmetic problem that owners have encountered.

Value Concerns: Potential buyers have raised concerns about the value of the 1980 Pontiac Firebird, especially when considering the asking price and the cost of potential repairs. Evaluating the overall condition of the car, including its documented history and any existing issues, is crucial in determining its true value and negotiating a fair price.

By addressing these common problems with the 1980 Pontiac Firebird, owners and potential buyers can make informed decisions regarding maintenance, repairs, and overall vehicle value.

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 many miles per gallon does a 1980 Pontiac Firebird get?

Based on data from 2 vehicles, 26 fuel-ups and 4,864 miles of driving, the 1980 Pontiac Firebird gets a combined Avg MPG of 13.92 with a 1.45 MPG margin of error.

What was the price in 1980 for a Pontiac Firebird?

Base Firebirds now started at $5604 with a Buick V-6 and $5784 with a 140-bhp 301 Pontiac V-8. The base engine for California was a 150-bhp Chevrolet 305 V-8 and all California cars were fitted with air conditioning.

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 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 1980 Pontiac Firebird have?

To maintain Trans Am's performance image for 1980 and 1981, Pontiac turbocharged its 301-ci V-8 to significantly increase its output. It's well documented in vintage Pontiac sales literature that the LU8 301 Turbo engine was emissions certified with A/C, a Turbo-350 automatic transmission, and 3.08:1 ratio rear axle.

What is special about the Pontiac Firebird?

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.

1980 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:

Steering problems
Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1980 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1980 Pontiac Firebird complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1980 Pontiac Firebird.

2015-09-03

STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1980-10-01
VIN: 2W87WAN1229
Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
Summary: RECENTLY RECEIVED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 80V108000, WHICH I ASSUME WAS ISSUED IN OCTOBER 1980, I WOULD JUST LIKE TO VERIFY THAT IF MY CAR WAS INCLUDED IN RECALL THAT IT WAS ADDRESSED, IT HAS APPROXIMATELY 38K ORIGINAL MILES, AND I DO NOT WISH TO HAVE A RECALL WHICH WENT UNFIXED. THANK YOU

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1980 Pontiac Firebird recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1980 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.

1980-08-19

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT TO STEERING KNUCKLE ATTACHING NUT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TORQUED TO SPECIFICATIONS. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE NUT TO BACK OFF, RESULTING IN JOINT SEPARATION.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL PERFORM A TORQUE CHECK OF THE ATTACHING NUT, AND, IF NECESSARY, TIGHTEN IT. IN SOME CASES AN INADEQUATE TORQUE LEVEL MAY HAVE CAUSED BALL STUD OR STEERING KNUCKLE DAMAGE; IF SO, THE AFFECTED COMPONENTS WILL BE REPLACED AT NO CHARGE TO OWNER.

1980-04-28

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Summary: VEHICLES MAY FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS". PLACARD ON REAR EDGE OF LEFT DOOR MAY SHOW AN INCORRECT VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT INSTEAD OF THE CORRECT FIGURE OF 800 LBS.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL THE CORRECT LABEL FREE OF CHARGE TO OWNER.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1980 Pontiac Firebird problems:

Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 33 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/pontiac/firebird

Top Pontiac Firebird Problems · Car Won't Start Because of Anti-Theft System That Uses Raised-Chip Key · Power Window Motors May Fail From Overheating · Head light ...

Door sag | Firebird Nation

https://www.firebirdnation.com/threads/door-sag.7192/

Mar 18, 2006 ... its a pretty common problem in our cars I just changed the bushing ... Hang together, or we'll surely hang apart. PAST F-BODS: 1980 Trans Am ...

Considering purchasing a Firebird? Heres some advice. : r/Pontiac

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

Sep 8, 2014 ... This is aimed at only the 3rd and 4th Generations as these two generations are the most common. Firstly, remember that these are 2 door cars ...

Resolved Electrical Issues | Firebird Nation

https://www.firebirdnation.com/forums/resolved-electrical-issues.217/

by FBN Firebird Nation · '80 Push-Pull Light/Dimmer Switch on 1980 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am · sixth_sense676 · Feb 20, 2010. 2. 6K. Feb 21, 2010. by ...