1996 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird problems
The 1996 Pontiac Firebird has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. One of the most prevalent issues is related to the engine, with many owners reporting cracked heads and broken piston rods.
Another common problem area for the 1996 Pontiac Firebird is the heater hoses. The original heater hoses on GM’s 3.8L V6 are attached using flimsy plastic clips with a screw cap to hold the hose on the block. These clips are prone to breaking, as was the case for the owner of the car in the ResCars article.
The 1996 Pontiac Firebird has also been known to have issues with the blinkers. Specifically, the blinkers don’t work if you have the headlights on. They work like a charm when the lights are off, but if you turn the headlights on, the taillights illuminate, but it doesn’t register that you’re making a turn. This is a problem that needs to be addressed, as it could result in failing an inspection.
The transmission is another problem area for the 1996 Pontiac Firebird. Some owners have reported that the shifter just kind of... pogos up and down in place when you rapidly accelerate or decelerate. This is a concerning issue, as it is unclear whether this is a normal occurrence or a sign of a more serious problem.
Finally, the cooling system is another problem area for the 1996 Pontiac Firebird. Some owners have reported that the car runs hot, with the temperature gauge getting up to 3/4 or barely into the red. This can be especially concerning if the car is driven, as the temperature may not come down with revving.
In conclusion, the 1996 Pontiac Firebird has several common problems that owners have reported. These include engine issues, heater hose problems, blinker issues, transmission problems, and cooling system problems. While some of these issues may be minor, others can be more serious and require significant repairs or replacements.
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 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.
What is the gas mileage on a 1996 Pontiac Firebird?
Based on data from 10 vehicles, 326 fuel-ups and 76,099 miles of driving, the 1996 Pontiac Firebird gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.95 with a 0.73 MPG margin of error.
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.
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.
What is the gas mileage on a 1996 Pontiac Firebird?
Based on data from 10 vehicles, 326 fuel-ups and 76,099 miles of driving, the 1996 Pontiac Firebird gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.95 with a 0.73 MPG margin of error.
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.
1996 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
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Pontiac Firebird
The NHTSA has received 43 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Pontiac Firebird. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Pontiac Firebird vehicles.
CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-25
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A COSCO SAFETY SEAT LIGHT AND COMFY SAFETY SEAT (NA), MODEL NUMBER: IC-108BVN (NA). THE SEAT WAS MANUFACTURED ON NOVEMBER 6, 2013. THE SAFETY SEAT WAS BEING UTILIZED IN A 1996 PONTIAC FIREBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BOTTOM LEFT LATCH BECAME DIFFICULT TO RELEASE WHEN REMOVING THE CHILD SEAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A SCREWDRIVER WAS NEEDED TO DEPRESS THE LATCH IN ORDER TO RELEASE THE CHILD SEAT. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONSTANTLY. THE CHILD WAS IN THE SAFETY SEAT AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN AND PURCHASE DATE WERE UNKNOWN.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FS22K4T2
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: 1996 PONTIAC FIREBIRD SEAT BACK COLLAPSED INTO THE BACK SEAT. CONSUMER STATES THAT HE VIOLENTLY TURNED THE WHEEL TO THE LEFT ON THE HIGHWAY TO AVOID AND ACCIDENT WHEN HIS SEAT COLLAPSED INTO THE REAR SEAT CAUSING HIM TO LOSE CONTROL. *KB THE CONSUMER WAS REAR ENDED, BECAUSE WHEN THE SEAT BROKE, HE COULD NOT SEE THE ROAD AND INSTINCTIVELY APPLIED THE BRAKES. THE CONSUMER STATED THE SEAT WILL NOT LOCK IN ANY POSITION. THE CONSUMER STATED IT WASN'T THE FIRST TIME THE SEAT FAILED. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-11-10
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE PLASTIC GEARS THAT DRIVE THE HEADLIGHT PODS ON MY 1996 PONTIAC FIREBIRD HAVE FAILED. RETRACTION OF THE HEADLIGHT CAUSES LOUD GRINDING NOISES. OCCAISIONALLY, ONE OR OTHER OF THE HEADLIGHT PODS DOES NOT RASIE WHEN THE HEADLIGHTS ARE TURNED ON. IT CAN ONLY BE A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THE PODS NO LONGER OPERATE AT ALL. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE GIVEN THE LOW MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE. THE PROBLEM IS WELL KNOWN AMONG FIREBIRD OWNERS AND SOME ENTERPRISING SOUL HAS EVEN COME UP WITH A "FIX". NOTE THIS FIX REQUIRES THE DISASSEMBLY OF PARTS THAT WERE NEVER INTENDED TO BE TAKEN APART. HTTP://WWW.BFRANKER.BADZ28.COM/HEADLIGHTFIX/INDEX.HTM GM CHARGE OVER $200 DOLLARS FOR THE POD DRIVE MOTOR. THAT IS SIMPLY EXTORTION.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-15
- VIN: 2G2FS22K3T2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THIS IS THE SECOND TIME I'VE HAD TO REPLACE THE MIRROR ON THE DRIVERS SIDE OF THIS CAR. THE MIRROR BREAKS OFF OF THE CONTROLS WHICH MAKES IT FLOP AROUND. YOU CAN'T USE IT TO DRIVE WITH, NOR CAN YOU GET IT TO STAY STILL. YOU CAN'T REPLACE JUST THE MIRROR EITHER. YOU HAVE TO BUY THE WHOLE PIECE (CASING AND MIRROR) THEN YOU HAVE TO HAVE IT PAINTED. GRRRRRRRRRR!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2G2VFV22PXT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH FLAMES WERE COMING FROM VEHICLE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK *TS *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FS22K8T2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SPARK PLUG WIRES GO BAD WHICH CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO MISFIRE. THIS HAS HAPPENED AT LEAST TEN TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER HAS A SAFETY CAMPAIGN FOR THIS PROBLEM FOR UP TO 70,000 MILES OR SEVEN YEARS. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER FIXED ONE TIME AT NO COST. THE OTHER TIMES THE CONSUMER HAD TO PAY THE EXPENSES. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-01
- VIN: 1G2JVB1249T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE PLACING KEY INSIDE OF IGNITION SWITCH VEHICLE WILL NOT START. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-07
- VIN: 2G2FS22K4T2
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN COLD OR DAMP OUTSIDE ENGINE IDLE WILL RACE AND STICK AT 2500 TO 3000 RPM. VEHICLE HAS MANUAL TRANSMISSION - 5 SPEED. SOMETIMES (OCASSIONALLY) TURNING OFF THE VEHICLE AND RESTARTING SOLVES THE PROBLEM, MOST TIMES NO. COULD BE DANGEROUS IN THE WINTER CAUSING EXCESS TORQUE TO REAR WHEELS. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-19
- VIN: 2G2FV22P5T2
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ONGOING PROBLEM WITH FUEL ODOR/VAPOR GETTING INTO VEHICLE VEHICLE BEEN IN DEALER SHOP ON FOUR OCCASIONS, AND STILL UNABLE TO LOCATE CAUSE. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING CAR STARTED HESITATING AND ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON DUE TO A DEFECTIVE WATER PUMP. VEHICLE HAS HAD 3 WATER PUMPS PREVIOUSLY. PROBLEM STILL EXISTS.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-08
- VIN: 2G2FS22K5T2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DEALER SAID - NO RECALL ON THIS COMPONENT. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED IN SUMMARY. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-08
- VIN: 2G2FS22KOT2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FUSE BLEW OUT AND ENGINE SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING. CONSUMER SAID THAT MECHANIC INDICATED IT WAS THE FUSE. IF ON THE FREEWAY IT COULD CAUSE A FIRE OR ACCIDENT. WHEN CONSUMER PUTS KEY IN FUSE IT WILL IMMEDIATELY BLOW OUT. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FS22K8T2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS WARNING LIGHT ON DASH COMES ON INTERMITTENTLY. RESTARTING CAR (1 TO 3 TIMES) MAY CORRECT PROBLEM. BRAKES ALSO SLIP ON DRY PAVEMENT CAUSING LOW TRACTION LIGHT TO COME ON AND MAY CAUSE ABS WARNING LIGHT TO COME ON.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-02
- VIN: 2G2FV22P0T2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-10
- VIN: 2G2FS22K8T2
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE CABLE ON THE LT. DRIVER SIDE KEEPS BREAKING. THIS WILL BE THE THIRD TIME REPLACED. I HAVE SEEN IT BREAK BOTH TIMES, NO ONE WAS TOUCHING THE MIRROR WHEN IT HAPPENED. IT JUST "POPS" AND THE MIRROR FLIPS UP.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-18
- VIN: 2G2FS22K7T2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DEFECT IN THE WIRING HARNESS CAUSING FUSES TO BLOW OUT CONTINUALLY. MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-12
- VIN: 2G2FS22K9T2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL LEAKS SIMULTANEOUSLY LEAKING FROM THE FRONT,REAR,MAIN,HEAD,AND OIL PAN GASKETS.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-22
- VIN: 2G2FS22K5T2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE BRAKES ARE REPEATEDLY FAILING. WHEN STOPPING THEY WILL BEGIN TO SLOW THE VEHICLE AND THEN LET GO, ALLOWING THE VEHICLE TO PROCEED FORWARD. IT IS ESPECIALLY HAZARDOUS WHILE TURNING. THE NO TRACTION LIGHT ILLUMINATES WHEN OCCURRING. EVENTUALLY THIS COULD LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-05-11
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE BRAKE LIGHTS ARE NOT ILLUMINATING. THE ELECTRONIC SPECIALIST SAYS THERE IS A SHORTAGE IN ONE OF THE TWO WIRES THAT RUNS FROM DASH TO REAR OF VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FIRST TRANSMISSION REPLACED AT 34000 MNUFACTURER'S WARRANTY, SECOND TRANSMISSION BEING REPLACED WITH ONLY 40,000 MI ON IT. MANUFACTURER WILL ONLY PAY 1/3 OF $2,200 COST. SAME PROBLEM ON BOTH TRANSMISSIONS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FV22P1T2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THIS IS AN ONGOING BRAKE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WHERE THE DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO STOP IN TIME, DESPITE GOOD CONDITIONS AND RELATIVELY LOW SPEED. SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: CAR DOES NOT FEEL LIKE SUFFICIENT BRAKING IS BEING PROVIDED; MORE NOTICEABLE WHEN ROTORS ARE WET. SYMPTOMS: 1) DRIVER CANNOT APPLY SUFFICIENT FORCE TO LOCK ROTORS (OR ENGAGE ANTI-LOCK SYSTEM); 2) REAR BRAKE PADS WORN COMPLETELY OUT AT 35000 MILES, WHILE FRONT PADS BARELY WORN AT ALL. OTHER RELATED FACTS: 1) HAVE PERSONALLY BLED BRAKE SYSTEM, VERIFIED NO AIR IN LINES; 2) DEALER CLAIMS SYSTEM "OPERATING AS DESIGNED" DESPITE EVIDENCE OF WORN REAR PADS; 3) AT PRESENT, CAR HAS WORN TIRES, WHICH SHOULD MAKE IT EASIER TO LOCK-UP ON WET PAVEMENT; I HAVE TO PUT BOTH FEET ON THE PEDAL AND PUSH WITH ALL MY MIGHT TO FORCE ROTORS TO LOCK (AND ANTI-LOCK SYSTEM DOES THEN ENGAGE).
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-05
- VIN: 2G2FS22K2T2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NOTICED ROARING IN THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE AFTER PURCHASE. THOUGHT POSSIBILITY OF SIMPLE ROAD NOISE AT FIRST. BUT LATER AS THE ROAR CONTINUED AND GOT LOUDER ,BECAME CONVINCED OTHERWISE. I HAVE WORKED IN A GARAGE IN THE PAST SO I WAS AWARE OF POSSIBLE PROBLEMS WHICH COULD CAUSE THE NOISE, BUT DID NOT BELIEVE THESE POSSIBILITIES SHOULD EXIST AT SUCH A LOW MILEAGE. THE REAR WHEEL BEARINGS WERE REPLACED, BUT THE ROARING CONTINUES. THE REAR CHUNK WAS FREE OF EXCESS METAL ON THE MAGNET, SO THE PROBLEM STILL REMAINS A MYSTERY SINCE LABOR WILL COST SO MUCH. THIS IS ONLY A 3 YEAR OLD CAR SO YOU CAN IMAGINE MY FRUSTRATION. AN INQUIRY WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED AND FOLLOW UP LATER FROM NHTSA. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FS22K7T2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE ABS BRAKES THE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOOR, CAUSING EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. ALSO, FRONT BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS ARE PREMATURELY WEARING, CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-29
- VIN: 2G2FV22P9T2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE LEAKING OIL. CHANGED OIL FILLER CAP STEM, ENGINE GASKET TWICE, MAIN CRANK SEAL, DRIVE SHAFT, AND MANIFOLD BUT BUT NONE OF THE REPLACEMENT CORRECTED THE OIL LEAK.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FV22P9T2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL LEAK CAUSING OIL FUMES TO ENTER THE INTERIOR PASSENGER AREA THROUGH THE AIR VENTS.
1996 Pontiac Firebird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 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: 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 1996 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
Positive 1996 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
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I recently purchased this car to replace my old 92 LeBaron convertible. Although it was a LeBaron, I had owned it for a long time and had finally worked out all the kinks. The Firebird, on the other hand, is a V6 manual and has proven to be the best daily driver I've ever had, regularly achieving over 21 MPG in the city! However, being a used car, it has had some growing pains that I've had to deal with. I've managed to fix almost all of the initial issues, most of which could have been avoided if the dealership, Pete Moore of Pensacola, had been honest with me. The only thing left to do now is to replace the fuel pump and it will be good as new!
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I have both a '96 Bird and an '01 Grand Am GT1 Anniversary Edition. The Grand Am will be out of my inventory long before the Bird. I can't believe how well it has held up both mechanically and stylishly. I'm excited to give it a pimpin' in the springtime. It's going to be a classic someday!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that your vehicle is in great shape! It has a lot of pick up power and handles really well. The engine is also very tough and reliable. Even with 112000 miles, it's still going strong!
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You've got yourself a great car there!
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I have the T-Top version with the 3.8 L 3800 Series II. It's a blast to drive and the power is impressive. Although, I have had to replace a few parts such as the motors in the windows, the oil pressure sensor, a power steering line, and the muffler has a hole in it. Additionally, the head light motors are out. However, it has proven to be reliable as I've only had to tow it twice. Just be prepared for the occasional maintenance.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Pontiac Firebird problems:
1996 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 20 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
I'm Starting To Find What's Wrong With My 1996 Pontiac Firebird
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1996 trans am WS6 misfire issues stumped - LS1TECH - Camaro ...
Apr 18, 2018 ... make sure the #1 piston comes up as high in the bore as the rest of the pistons...If it doesn't indicates bent rod...Can use a caliper to ...
1999 Pontiac Firebird stereo problems | Firebird Nation
Oct 4, 2010 ... This is a common problem in the 1996+ Firebirds. You most likely have a bad Body Control Module (BCM). The Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...
Other years of Pontiac Firebird
Are you having problems with your 1996 Pontiac Firebird?
Pablo Bins 2024-11-19
Buying a 1996 Pontiac Firebird with 126,000k on it seemed like a great deal. The exterior appearance caught my attention with its slick design, and the interior is both comfortable and attractive. Despite being 24 years old, the car's performance is impressive, with powerful V-6 engine and amazing handling. However, I should have inspected the car more thoroughly before purchasing it, as the frame was in poor condition due to being stored for 9 years. Despite this, I have been driving it without any major issues, aside from a few repairs such as a water pump, exhaust, and a new battery. I have heard rumors about the cooling system needing constant attention due to blown head gasket experiences, but I am still considering my options. Any advice would be appreciated!
Rusty Schuppe 2024-05-13
Hey there! I see you're interested in owning one of these vehicles. I owned one for 2 years and wanted to share my experience with you. While I did have to spend $6000 on maintenance, I learned that it's important to be careful about who you buy from and to get an ASE certified mechanic to check it out first. Just a friendly tip to help you make an informed decision!