1984 Pontiac Firebird problems
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 1984 Pontiac Firebird problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here is a list of common problems with the Pontiac Firebird 1984 based on complaints from owners:
- Power Window Motors May Fail: Complaints include power window motors failing due to overheating.
- Headlight Issues: Specific complaints about headlight problems have been noted, although details on the exact nature of these issues are not provided in the sources.
- Engine Runs Roughly: Complaints mention the engine running roughly, indicating potential engine performance issues.
- Heater Core Failure: The heater core in the 1992 Firebird has been reported to fail, impacting the heating system of the vehicle.
- Gas Gauge Malfunction: Owners of the 1989 Firebird have experienced issues with the gas gauge not working correctly.
- Timing Chain Slop: Complaints include the timing chain having slop in it, which can affect engine timing and performance.
- Electrical Problems: One complaint highlights electrical issues in the vehicle, although specific details are not provided in the sources.
- Interior Concerns: A single complaint mentions interior problems, but further details are not specified.
- HVAC System Troubles: Another complaint refers to issues with the HVAC system, which could impact heating, ventilation, and air conditioning functionality.
These reported problems with the Pontiac Firebird 1984 encompass a range of issues from starting and engine performance to specific components like power windows and the HVAC system. Owners have highlighted various challenges they have faced with this particular model, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and potential repairs to address these common issues.
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 does a 1984 Pontiac Firebird cost?
1984 Pontiac Firebird Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Trans Am | $11,103 |
| STD | $8,753 |
| SE | $11,053 |
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.
How much is a Pontiac Firebird worth now?
Find a Used Pontiac Firebird Near You
Prices for a used Pontiac Firebird currently range from $6,000 to $49,999, with vehicle mileage ranging from 489 to 191,337. Find used Pontiac Firebird inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.
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 is in a 1984 Firebird?
It had front and rear stabilizer bars and upgraded suspension. V-8 engine options were a carbureted 5.0-liter unit with 145 horsepower or the High Output throttle-body injected 5.0-liter unit with 190 horsepower.
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.
How much does a 1984 Pontiac Firebird cost?
1984 Pontiac Firebird Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Trans Am | $11,103 |
| STD | $8,753 |
| SE | $11,053 |
1984 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
- Seats problems
- Structure problems
- Parking brake problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1984 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1984 Pontiac Firebird complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1984 Pontiac Firebird.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS,WHEELS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-14
- VIN: 1G2AW87G7EL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS,WHEELS,SEATS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1984 PONTIAC FIREBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER WILL NOT REPAIR, REPLACE, OR PROVIDE REFUNDS ON RECALL REPAIRS PERTAINING TO HIS VEHICLE'S YEAR, MAKE, AND MODEL. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN IS OUT OF RANGE AND IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALLS. THE CONTACT FEELS THAT THE DEALER IS BEING DISHONEST. HE STATED THAT THERE ARE SEVEN RECALLS ISSUED ON HIS VEHICLE. THOSE RECALLS ARE AS FOLLOWS: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL, SEAT BELTS: REAR:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY, SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING, SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS, AND, WHEELS:CAP/COVER/HUB. THE ENGINE SIZE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 100,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-01
- VIN: 1G2AS87H0EL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING HIT A POTHOLE AND WHEELS STARTED TO WOBBLE FROM SIDE TO SIDE. CONSUMER COULD NOT STEER PROPERLY,. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP, AND MECHANIC INDICATED THAT FRAME RAIL WAS CRACKED WHICH WAS LOCATED BEHIND STEERING BOX.*AK
PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-03
- VIN: 1G2AS8716EL
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I AM NOT SURE THAT THIS IS A NECCESSARY FILING. I WAS RESEARCHING RECALLS FOR A USED CAR THAT I PURCHASED AND WANTED TO CONFIRM THAT THE VEHICLE DID IN FACT HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE COMPONENTS INDICATED. IF I AM GOING ABOUT THE PROCEDURE IN A WRONG MANNER PLEASE ADVISE(AND DIRECT). NO SAFETY DEFECT (S) LISTED IN SUMMARY. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2AS87H2EN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: NO SUMMARY PROVIDED BY CONSUMER
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-02
- VIN: 1G2AS87H7EN
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS MAKING A ROUTINE SERVICE INSPECTION OF VEHICLE WHEN NOTICED THE FRAME WAS BROKEN AT THE STEERING BOX. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1986-01-01
- VIN: 1G2AW87G4EN
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: FRONT SEAT BACK RELEASES.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2AW87G4EN
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: FRONT SEAT BACK, SEAT BELT, AND REAR BRAKE FAILURE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-04
- VIN: 2G2FS22S1R2
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: T-TOP EJECTED WHEN DRIVER CLOSED POWER WINDOW. *DH
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-13
- VIN: 1G2AW87GXEN
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE IS INCLUDED IN THE PARKING BRAKE RECALL, BUT PONTIAC WILL NOT SEND HIM A LETTER SO HE CAN GET THE RECALL FIXED. 95V055000. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-22
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PLASTIC COMPONENTS OF SEAT BELT BUCKLE BROKE , PREVENTING BELT FROM FASTENING. *AW
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-05
- VIN: 1G2A58718EL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: INNER/OUTER TIE RODS BROKE, CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING. *AW
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-05
- VIN: 1G2A58718EL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SHOULDER HARNESS FAILS TO RETRACT/LOCK.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G2A58718EL
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: BROKEN SEATS, ALSO METAL WIRE COMES THROUGH SEAT, CAUSING INJURY.
1984 Pontiac Firebird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 1984 Pontiac Firebird.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- 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.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: PLASTIC COMPONENTS OF SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES DO NOT CONTAIN AN ULTRA VIOLET STABILIZER, AND EXPOSURE TO DIRECT SUNLIGHT AND ELEVATED INTERIOR TEMPERATURES COULD WEAKEN THE PLASTIC COMPONENTS.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF PLASTIC COMPONENTS WHICHCOULD PREVENT BUCKLE FROM LATCHING AND PROTECTING OCCUPANT IN A SUDDEN STOP ORACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE OR REPAIR SEAT BELT BUCKLE.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: WHEELS:HUB
- Summary: THE HUB AREA OF THE WHEELS MAY NOT BE STRUCTURALLY SOUND AND THUS SUBJECT TO FRACTURE. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THE WHEELS COULD SEPARATE FROM THE CAR CAUSING A LOSS OF CONTROL. THIS COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: INSTALL NEW FRONT AND REAR TIRE/WHEEL ASSEMBLIES.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: REAR BRAKE HOSES WERE NOT PROPERLY MANUFACTURED AND DO NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 106, "BRAKE HOSES". HOSES COULD COME LOOSE FROM THE END FITTINGS WHEN SUBJECTED TO A PULLING FORCE.
- Remedy: A NEW HOSE WILL BE INSTALLED IF NECESSARY. IN ADDITION, BRAKES WILL BE SERVICED.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: SOME VEHICLES HAVE BUCKET SEAT BACK LOCKS THAT DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 207, ANCHORAGE OF SEATS. IN EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK LOCK MAY NOT FUNCTION.
- Remedy: INSPECTION OF SEAT BACK LOCKS WILL BE PERFORMED. LOCKS THAT HAVE BENT, BROKEN OR MISSING HOOKS WILL BE REPLACED.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1984 Pontiac Firebird problems:
1984 Pontiac Trans-Am | Firebird Nation
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1984 Pontiac Firebird Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Jun 17, 2016 ... 1984 Pontiac Firebird 305 gasoline from North America. Summary: One great machine. Faults: Nothing. General Comments:.
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