1993 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 1993 Pontiac Firebird problems
The 1993 Pontiac Firebird is a popular car that is known for its performance and style. However, like any car, it can experience common issues that owners should be aware of.
One of the most common issues with the 1993 Pontiac Firebird is the failure of the ignition switch. This can cause the car to stall or even shut off while driving, which can be very dangerous. If you experience any issues with your ignition switch, it's important to have it checked and replaced if necessary.
Another issue that can arise with the 1993 Pontiac Firebird is problems with the cooling system. This can include issues with the radiator, thermostat, and water pump. These problems can cause the car to overheat, which can damage the engine if not addressed promptly.
In addition, the 1993 Pontiac Firebird is known for having issues with the power steering system. Common problems include leaks in the power steering lines or the power steering pump, which can cause a loss of power steering assist. If you experience any issues with your power steering, it's important to have it checked and repaired as needed.
Finally, the 1993 Pontiac Firebird is also prone to rust, particularly in the lower areas of the car and around the wheel wells. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance can help to address these issues before they become more extensive and costly to repair.
Overall, the 1993 Pontiac Firebird is a great car that offers a lot of performance and style. However, like any car, it's important to be aware of the common issues that can arise in order to keep your Firebird running smoothly and performing at its best. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help to ensure that your Firebird stays in great condition for years to come.
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 is the gas mileage on a 1993 Pontiac Firebird?
Fuel & MPG
232.5/356.5 mi. 15.5 gal.
Is 4th gen Firebird reliable?
For the most part, the fourth-generation Pontiac Firebird is a reliable muscle car you can drive daily. However, there are a few potential issues that buyers need to watch out for. Always check for rust before handing over your hard-earned money. This is especially true for cars that were driven in a snow-prone region.
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 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 4th gen Firebird reliable?
For the most part, the fourth-generation Pontiac Firebird is a reliable muscle car you can drive daily. However, there are a few potential issues that buyers need to watch out for. Always check for rust before handing over your hard-earned money. This is especially true for cars that were driven in a snow-prone region.
What is the gas mileage on a 1993 Pontiac Firebird?
Fuel & MPG
232.5/356.5 mi. 15.5 gal.
1993 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1993 Pontiac Firebird complaints
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Pontiac Firebird.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FV22P2P2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: LOST TRACKS HEN FROM THE BACK WHEEL LEAVEN A DRIVEWAY,WENT UP IN A BANK MET FLIP ON TOP ROLL OVER AND THE AIRBAG DID NOT COME OUT,WINDSHIELD ON PASSER SIDE SHATTER,THE PASSER IN THE CAR GOT HIT IN THE RIGHT SHOULDER BUY THE JACK THEY CALL IT A ACROMIOCLAVICULAR INJURIES AND THE DRIVER WISH IS ME AND THE OWNER OF THE CAR,GOT HURT ON THE LEFT SIDE.THE AIRBAG DID NOT COME OUT ON BOTH SIDE. I BOUT THE CAR OF A CAR DEALER IN SPINDALE N,C. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-23
- VIN: 2G2FS22S7P2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: SOMETIMES WHEN I START MY CAR MY ABS LIGHT COMES ON, AND WHEN THAT LIGHT COMES ON THE ABS IS NOT FUNCTIONAL. AFTER A FEW TIME OF RESTARTING MY CAR IT WILL GO OFF AND THE ABS LIGHT WILL GO OFF AND THEY WILL WORK. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-20
- VIN: 2G2FV22P5P2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WE HAVE HAD TROUBLE WITH THE REAR TURN SIGNAL SOCKETS SHORTING OUT. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE LAST ON 7/20/99.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FV22P2P2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MY CAR IS EXPERIENCING THE IDENTICAL PROBLEM AS THE 3.5 MILLION SUV/VAN GM RECALL WITH ABS.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FS22S2P2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKE PEDAL DISENGAGED WHILE IN THE DRIVEWAY OF CONSUMER'S HOME, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO PLOW INTO THE GARGAGE DOOR. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: INDICATOR SIGNALS FAIL CONTINUALLY.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-15
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PROBLEM WITH AIRBAG.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2G2FV22P0P2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE THE CAR WAS IDLING IN THE DRIVEWAY THE STARTER RELAY FAILED, CAUSING STARTER TO OVERHEAT, RESULTING IN A FIRE. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN REPAIRED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-15
- VIN: 262F221P221
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DEFECTIVE CONTROL MODULE CAUSED AIR BAG INDICATOR LAMP TO BE ON CONSTANTLY.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 16MDU06DSPT
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HYDRAULIC BAG LIFT FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2NE54N3PM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILED.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE ADHESIVE BETWEEN THE WINDSHIELD GLASS AND THE MOUNTING IS SEPARATING. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-12
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL: VEHICLE PARKED IN GARAGE AT10:30PM. DISCOVERED FIRE AT 1:30AM BECAUSE SMOKE WOKE THEM UP. VEHICLE TOTALED AND HOUSE NOT LIVEABLE DUE TO SMOKE. FIRE FIGHTERS SEEM TO THINK THE FIRE WAS ELECTRICAL. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THERE IS A GAS SMELL IN THE CAR, CONSUMER THINKS IT IS THE FUEL LINE . *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-26
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FV22PXP2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S AIR BAGS DURING AN ACCIDENT, RESULTING IN INJURIES TO BOTH. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FV22PXD2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN DOWN SIFTING INTO A LOW GEAR THE TRANSMISSION WILL SLOW DOWN LIKE IT IS GOING TO STALL . PLEASE DESCRIBE .*AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-08
- VIN: 2G2FS22S8P2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DESIGN FLAW IN POWER STEERING BELT, WHEN VEHICLE IS DRIVEN THRU PUDDLES BELT SLIPS OFF, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-04
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FV22P1P2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: UPON FRONTAL COLLISION OFF CENTER TO DRIVERS SIDE, DRIVERS AIR BAG DEPLOYED NOT PASSENGER.TT *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-06
- VIN: 2G2FV22P1P2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: AMPMETER GAUGE COMES ON, RELATED TO ABS SYSTEM. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-02
- VIN: 2G2FV22P3P2
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE HAS HAD A FUEL ODOR IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-08
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FIRE. *AW
1993 Pontiac Firebird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1993 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: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
Negative 1993 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
Positive 1993 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
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I'm so happy to hear that you were able to acquire a 68000 93 model Trans Am! As a kid growing up in the 90s, that was definitely the hottest car to have. It sounds like you're really enjoying every minute of driving it in 2023.
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It sounds like you have a fantastic car! Even after eleven years, it's still running strong. The interior is designed so well that everything is easy to reach, and the shifter falls naturally to hand. It's no wonder all your friends love it!
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This truly is a tale of two cars. On one hand, you have the amazing head-turning style, power, and handling. However, you may encounter some mechanical problems, particularly with the ancillary mechanical parts (emissions). Despite this, the power, handling, and all-important 'babe magnet' factor make it worth it for me.
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She's getting old, but that's okay. Some parts are starting to fail, but we can fix them. The worst so far has been the alternator, heater hoses (in 2007), and an oil leak on the pan and timing cover, which is going to be a bit of a challenge. Unfortunately, the posi blew in '97, but we'll get it sorted. Don't worry, we'll have her running like new in no time!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1993 Pontiac Firebird problems:
93 trans am not starting, but has spark | Firebird Nation
May 5, 2020 ... I then replaced the ignition coil and module after hearing they were common problems but after they both got installed I still had the same ...
1993 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Problem with your 1993 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 20 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1993 Pontiac Firebird.
1997 firebird 5.7 problems? | Firebird Nation
Jul 2, 2010 ... Im going to go look at a 1997 firebird 5.7 6 speed and wanted to know if there is any known problems with these cars that i should be looking ...
I really need your help to desicion 93 trans am - LS1TECH - Camaro ...
Dec 31, 2014 ... I dont want to bump into problems everytime.Can you count me important parts for trans am( transmission, etc). -After buy this 1993 trans am, i ...
1995 Trans Am 5.7L LT1 Problems | Firebird Nation
Aug 3, 2013 ... 1993 LT1/ automatic. (was rebuilt about 3000 miles ago). It Starts run and idles fine Most Of the Time. but this afternoon, after being driven ...
Other years of Pontiac Firebird
Are you having problems with your 1993 Pontiac Firebird?
Tyree Tillman 2024-06-21
We named this black 67,000 actual mile TA the Batbird after the Batmobile, due to its aftermarket 4