1983 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

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Common 1983 Pontiac Firebird problems

The third generation Pontiac Firebird, produced from 1982 to 1992, is known for a few common problems that owners have reported over the years. These issues range from mechanical problems to recalls and general dissatisfaction with the car's performance.

First, there were problems with the engine, specifically the 5.0L V8 engine. The 1982 model year saw the introduction of the L03 5.0L V8 with throttle body injection, which replaced the carbureted LG4 5.0L V8. This engine had issues with fuel economy, and the car was assessed a $1200 Gas Guzzler Tax due to fuel economy restrictions mandated by the EPA.

Another issue with the engine was the lack of a V8 powered Formula version in the 1982 model year. This option was not available until later in the third generation F-body.

The car's handling and braking systems were also problematic. The WS6 Package, introduced in 1978, got power four-wheel disc brakes in 1979, an option that bumped the package to $434. However, for $150, buyers could get power four-wheel disc brakes, option code J-65, on Trans Ams and Formulas with the L-37 301-cubic-inch V8 and positraction rear end. Despite these options, the car's handling and braking systems were still criticized for being subpar.

The car's bodies were not well built, with the front suspension struts and steering parts not being of good quality. This led to issues with the car's handling and steering, which were further exacerbated by the car's heavy weight and underpowered engines.

Finally, there were recalls for the seatbelts and gas tank. The seatbelts were recalled for the front mounting points coming loose, and the gas tank was recalled for the evaporative controls whistling under operation. These recalls were a source of frustration for owners, who had to deal with the inconvenience and safety concerns associated with them.

In summary, the third generation Pontiac Firebird was known for a few common problems, including issues with the engine, handling and braking systems, bodies, and recalls. These issues were a source of frustration for owners and contributed to the car's reputation as a problematic vehicle.

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.

What engines were available in the 1983 Pontiac Firebird?

A non-HO V-6 was offered that made 102 horsepower. Moving up to the V-8s, buyers could still get the carbureted 5.0-liter with 145 horsepower or the Crossfire-injected version that made 165 horsepower. 1983 also saw the addition of the “L69” High-Output 5.0-liter V-8.

How reliable is a 4th gen Firebird?

The 4th generation Firebird (1993—2002) has 44 owner complaints, mostly about engine problems. Overall it ranks 6th in reliability out of 27 eligible Pontiac generations. Reliability rankings are based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems.

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 engines were available in the 1983 Pontiac Firebird?

What is special about the Pontiac Firebird?

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.

1983 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:

Seat belts problems
Parking brake problems
Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1983 Pontiac Firebird complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Pontiac Firebird.

2007-07-03

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2007-07-02
VIN: 1G2AS8712DN
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: THE FRONT SEAT BELTS IN MY FIREBIRD HAVE FAILED AND THE MANUFACTURER NO LONGER HAS PARTS AVAILABLE. THEY WERE SUBJECT TO A RECALL, 85V169000, IN 1985. *AK

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2006-01-26

PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
VIN: 1G2AW87S7DN
Components: PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS
Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT AFTER BEING EXTENDED AND THE PARKING BRAKE DOES NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL, # 85V169000, 91V055000 REGARDING THE SEAT BELT WEBBING AND PARKING BRAKE. THE VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALLS; HOWEVER IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION AND REPAIR.

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2006-01-26

PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2006-01-26
VIN: 1G2AW87S9DN
Components: PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS
Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT AFTER BEING EXTENDED AND THE PARKING BRAKE DOES NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL, # 85V169000, 91V055000 REGARDING THE SEAT BELT WEBBING AND PARKING BRAKE. THE VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALLS; HOWEVER IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION AND REPAIR.

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2002-02-17

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-02-15
VIN: 1G2AW87H6DL
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: PLEASE SEND ME INFORMATION ON RECALLS THAT WOULD CAUSE ACCIDENTS. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK

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1983 Pontiac Firebird recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1983 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.

1991-04-11

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL
Summary: PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTER FAILS TO OPERATE AND DO NOT WORK AFTER BRAKE PAD WEAR.
Consequence: PARKING BRAKES WILL NOT COMPLETELY HOLD A PARKED VEHICLEWHEN PARKED ON A SLOPE, CAUSING UNINTENDED VEHICLE ROLLAWAY WHICH COULD RESULTIN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Remedy: REPLACE NONFUNCTIONING PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTERS.

1985-12-20

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING
Summary: DISLOCATION OF A SPRING COVER WILL NOT ALLOW THE SHOULDER BELT TO RETRACT AFTER BEING EXTENDED. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: ALTHOUGH INERTIAL FEATURE THAT LOCKS THE LAP BELT AND SHOULDER BELT IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT ARE NOT AFFECTED, IF SLACK IS MORE THAN RECOMMENDED IN OWNERS MANUAL, INJURIES TO UPPER BODY AND HEAD WOULD BE INCREASED IN AN ACCIDENT.
Remedy: INSTALL RETAINING SPRINGS ON SPRING COVER OF FRONT SHOULDER BELT RETRACTOR AND, WHEN REQUIRED, RETRACTORS WILL BE REPLACED.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1983 Pontiac Firebird problems:

common 3rd gen problems - Third Generation F-Body Message ...

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/history-originality/231561-common-3rd-gen-problems.html

Mar 29, 2004 ... Stress cracks above the rear of the drip rails. Stress cracks around the steering box. Slow power windows and locks. Noise in the doors. Ovaling ...

Issues with '83 Firebirds/Trans Am | Firebird Nation

https://www.firebirdnation.com/threads/issues-with-83-firebirds-trans-am.565260/

Sep 20, 2019 ... If you could go back in time, what's something you wish you had known before getting your variant, and would you still have gotten it knowing ...

Common problems!! - Third Generation F-Body Message Boards

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tech-general-engine/666468-common-problems.html

Nov 7, 2012 ... Tech / General Engine - Common problems!! - Hey ... Hey guys, I own a 1983 z28 and am just ... Pontiac Firebird · PBR rotors rubbing on a '95 9 bolt ...

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 ...