1998 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.
Social links
Common 1998 Pontiac Firebird problems
The 1998 Pontiac Firebird, like any other vehicle, has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Faulty Ignition Switch: One of the most common problems with the 1993-2002 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.
- Power Steering Problems: The fourth-generation 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.
- Cooling System Issues: Problems with the cooling system are also common in the 1993-2002 Firebird. 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.
- Rust: Rust is a common problem with the 1998 Firebird, 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.
- Torn Seats: The front seats of the 1998 Firebird tend to tear on the sides over time. To solve this cosmetic issue, the torn seat needs to be reupholstered professionally.
- Oil Leaks: The backside of the intake manifold in some 1998 Firebirds tends to develop oil leaks over time. Installing a new intake manifold gasket can solve this problem.
- Leaky T-Tops: The rubber seals of the T-tops in the 1998 Firebird tend to dry out over time, causing rainwater to leak inside the vehicle. Replacing the old rubber seals with new ones can solve this problem.
- Faulty Oil Pressure Switch: The oil pressure switch in the 1998 Firebird is prone to malfunction over time, causing the oil pressure gauge to fluctuate randomly or to display either extremely low or no oil pressure. Replacing the defective oil pressure switch with a new one of better quality can solve this problem.
- Water Pump Failure: The water pump in some 1998 Firebirds is prone to develop coolant leaks before the vehicle reaches 100,000 miles. Replacing the leaking water pump with a new replacement of better quality can solve this problem.
- Headliner Fabric Detachment: The headliner fabric in some 1998 Firebirds tends to detach over time, giving the interior of the vehicle a bad appearance. To repair this cosmetic problem, the old fabric needs to be removed completely and replaced with new headliner material using the correct headliner adhesive.
It's important to note that not all 1998 Firebirds will experience these problems, and some may not experience any issues at all. However, being aware of these common problems can help owners to identify and address potential issues before they become more serious and costly to repair. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help to keep your 1998 Firebird running smoothly and performing at its best.
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 a 1998 Firebird worth?
Used 1998 Pontiac Firebird Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| Formula Coupe 2D | $23,290 | $6,784 |
| Convertible 2D | $25,545 | $3,682 |
| Trans Am Coupe 2D | $26,400 | $7,803 |
| Trans Am Convertible 2D | $30,140 | $7,728 |
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.
Was the Firebird better than the Camaro?
Verdict: Firebird
Although closely related to the Camaro throughout the nameplate's life, all but the earliest Firebirds were offered with equipment that gave it a performance edge over Chevy's pony car.
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 a 1998 Firebird worth?
Used 1998 Pontiac Firebird Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| Formula Coupe 2D | $23,290 | $6,784 |
| Convertible 2D | $25,545 | $3,682 |
| Trans Am Coupe 2D | $26,400 | $7,803 |
| Trans Am Convertible 2D | $30,140 | $7,728 |
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 the 1988 Pontiac Firebird a good car?
Fun car to drive
Stiff ride but fun to drive. Great car for the warmer months especially if you have one with t-tops. The car is quick and can handle sharp curves with no problem. It's like driving your old go cart you had as a child even though I never had one.
1998 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
- Exterior lighting problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Pontiac Firebird
The NHTSA has received 78 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Pontiac Firebird. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Pontiac Firebird vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- VIN: 2G2FV22GXW2
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel lines on this car are non-metallic. Apparently, some sharp-toothed critter bit the line causing a fuel leak as confirmed by the independent service center indicated on the uploaded invoice. There was no warning. I noticed a puddle under the differential. Replacement lines are no longer available from manufacturer. Problem must be known because repair kits (see invoice) are available. "Best" solution is replacement of existing nylon lines with metallic lines (as should have been done when the car was first manufactured). As this would be an extremely costly and impractical repair, may I suggest an alternative: cover the fuel lines with a braided stainless steel sheath. This would be effective as well as both practical and relatively inexpensive. Leaving the lines exposed risks further damage and increased possibility of fire. My car is available for inspection upon request.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-23
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: SLOW LEAK OF GASOLINE COMING FROM REAR OF CAR DIDN'T NOTICE IT BUT I COULD SMELL GAS WHEN THE CAR WAS TURNED ON THE REAR WAS SMOKING BUT NOT FROM THE EXHAUST THEN FIRE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-03
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR WAS DRIVEN TO A FRIENDS HOUSE. AFTER BEING IN THE HOUSE FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 MIN. WE WERE NOTIFIED THAT OUR CAR'S ENGINE COMPARTMENT WAS ON FIRE. EVERYTHING IN THE COMPARTMENT WAS MELTED OR DISTORTED. INSURANCE COMPANY TOTALED THE CAR.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2WP52K5WF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: I OWN A 98 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX,BLACK,FOUR DOOR AUTOMATIC.I HAVE BEEN PAYING FOR THIS CAR FOR ABOUT TWO YEARS.I WENT TO START MY CAR AND IT WAS DEAD SO WE HOOKED IT UP TO A POWER SAVE JUMPER CABLE BOX(THE ONE THAT DOESNT NEED ANOTHER CAR TO CHARGE THE BATTERY) IT STILL WOULDNT START SO MY STEP FATHER (WHO IS A MECHANIC) CAME OVER TO HELP, WE HOOKED IT BACK UP TO THE JUMPER CABLES AND HE TRYED TO TURN IT OVER, NOTHING.... I LEANED IN TO TRY AND TURN IT OVER AND MY FUEL INJECTOR MANIFOLD EXPLODED. THE PLASTIC CASING BLEW ABOUT 20 FT DOWN THE ROAD AND THE WHOLE TOP OF MY ENGINE WAS ON FIRE.THE FIRE BLEW MY MANIFOLD APART,MY FUEL INJECTOR IS COMPLETELY MISSING THE WHOLE PART WHERE MY SPARK PLUGS ARE IS BURNED AND SO ON THERE IS ALOT OF DAMAGE!!!I HEARD FROM MY INSURANCE COMPANY THAT THERE IS AN ONGOING INVESTIGATION INTO THE PONTIAC GRAND PRIX.I HAVE TRYED TO RECEIVE ANY INFORMATION THAT WOULD HELP ME UNDERSTAND WHY THIS HAPPENED. I HAVE CONTACTED GM PERSONALLY AND AM HAVING IT LOOKED AT BY A GM SPECIALIST(SUPPOSEDLY).IM JUST VERY THANKFUL THAT MINE NOR MY STEPFATHERS FACE WAS UNDER THAT HOOD OR ONE OF US WOULD HAVE BEEN VERY BADLY INJURED.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-01
- VIN: 2G2FS32K3W2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WATER WAS SEEPING INTO THE RIGHT REAR TAILLIGHT FROM RAIN CORRODING THE REFLECTIVE MATERIALS IN THE TAIL LIGHT, WHICH DIMINISHED THE ILLUMINATION. THE SERVICE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT ALERTED. UPDATED 12/1/2006 - *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-05
- VIN: 2G2FS22K1W2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: BOUGHT THE CAR IN JAN. OF 98, AND DIDN'T HAVE ANY PROBLEMS WITH IT UNTIL 700 MILES. THAT IS WHEN THE GAS PEDAL STUCK FOR THE FIRST TIME. IT WENT TO THE FLOOR AND I DIDN'T HAVE ANY CONTROL OVER IT. LUCKILY I WAS ON A RURAL ROAD AND SHUT THE CAR OFF AND IT STOPPED. IT HAPPENED 2 TIMES AFTER THAT, ONE TIME TAKING ME 100 MPH. THE FINAL TIME I WAS IN HEAVY TRAFFIC AND HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL, WHICH BLEW MY MOTOR AND COST ME 4000 TO REPLACE. I WOULD APPRECIATE SOME HELP BECAUSE THIS IS A LIFE THREATING PROBLEM. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-24
- VIN: 1G2WJ52K0WF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHT LENS POPPED OUT.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-29
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FS22K0W2
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD ON COLLISION. THE DUAL AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED DUE TO SEVERE DAMAGE. *NM DRIVER HIT SHOULDER ON THE STEERING WHEEL THAT CAUSED A LIGAMENT TEAR, AND PASSENGER SUFFERED A CUT ON THE HEAD. *LA
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-11
- Number Of Deaths: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2JB524XW7
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING WAS RECALLED BEFORE I PURCHASED THE CAR AND WAS NEVER FIXED, CAUSED AN AUTO WRECK. *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-15
- VIN: 1G2HZ52K7WH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NOTICED ENGINE WAS OVERHEATING. OWNERS MANUAL SAID CHECK COOLANT TANK AND IF EMPTY SERVICE AND SEE IF THAT FIXES THE PROBLEM. SERVICED COOLANT TANK AND WHEN I STARTED THE CAR AFTER ABOUT THREE MINUTES RUNNING THE THERMOSTAT OPENED UP AND THE CAR STARTED TO SPUTTER AND RUN ROUGH. I SHUT OFF THE CAR AND WHEN I TRIED TO RESTART IT FOR THE MECHANIC IT HYDRO-LOCKED AND BROKE THE STARTER WHICH ALSO HAD TO BE REPLACED. COOLANT HAD ENTERED THE ENGINE CYLINDERS. MECHANIC FOUND INTAKE PLENUM WARPED. HE SAID THEY CHANGE THESE ALL THE TIME.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-15
- VIN: 2G2FV22GXW2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: LAST YEAR I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. THE RIGHT HEADLIGHT MOTOR BROKE. I COULDNT AFFORD TO FIX IT. I GOT IT FIXED IN JULY 03. NOW IN SEPTEMBER 03 THE LEFT IS GONE. IM VERY UPSET WITH THIS. DONT YOU THINK GM COULD MAKE SOMETHING LAST LONGER THEN 4 OR 5 YEARS? I CANT AFFORD THIS. I JUST PUT OVER $3,OOO INTO THIS CAR BETWEEN TIRE RODS BRAKES,HEADLIGHTS, NEW PASSENGER MIRROR, UNIVERSAL JOINTS,EVERYTHING IS GOING ALL AT ONCE GIVE ME A BREAK. IM 24 AND I HAVE OWNED AN 87 & 95 FIREBIRD BESIDES THIS ONE. I LOVE THE CAR BUT SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE WITH HOW LONG STUFF LASTS IN IT. MELONY MCNEANEY
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-08
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: REAR TAIL LIGHT HAS A DESIGN FLAW. IT ALLOWS MOISTURE INSIDE THE TAIL LIGHT AND HAS CAUSED PROBLEMS WITH NUMEROUS REPLACEMENT BULBS AND A BUILD-UP OF MOISTURE. I FEEL IF THIS CONTINUES, IT WILL EVENTUALLY DAMAGE THE ENTIRE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THE INSIDE OF THE TAIL LIGHT COVER APPEARS VERY DARK, ALMOST AS IF THE TAIL LIGHT BULB IS BURNED OUT, THEREFORE CAUSING LAW ENFORCEMENT TO FOLLOW AND WATCH MY EVERY MOVE ON SOME INSTANCES.*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LEFT SIDE HEAD LIGHT IS OVERHEATING BURNING OUT THE AMBER BULB WHICH IS USED FOR DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT. THE MOTOR FOR RAISING AND LOWERING THE HEADLIGHT LID PERFORMS ERRATIC. THE HEADLIGHT MOTOR DOES NOT RECOGNIZE THAT THE LID HAS SHUT AND CONTINUES TO RUN. THE OWNER ALSO INDICATED THAT THE ENGINE WOULD SHUT DOWN SOMETIMES WHEN THIS HAPPENS. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TS
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-16
- VIN: 2G2FS22K9W2
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED THAT THE WHEELS RIM BASE FAILED (TIRE SIZE P235 55 R16). *YH
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-10
- VIN: 2G2FS22K9W2
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: THE TIRE RIM IS CUTTING INTO TIRE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *MR
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-09
- VIN: 2G2FS22K6W2
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: HARSH 1-2 UPSHIFT, ENGINE CHECK LIGHT HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES AND CANNOT TRACE PROBLEM. CD PLAYER QUIT WORKING SOON AFTER WARRANTY EXPIRED
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-15
- VIN: 2G2FV22G2W2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY IS LINKING INTO WIRING HARNESS, AND IS HARD TO START MOTOR.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FS22Z55W
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WOULD FAIL TO STOP WHEN APPLYING ABS BRAKES SUDDENLY TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT AT 45MPH. HAD HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE AT 90 DEGREE ANGLE. UPON IMPACT, AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. DRIVER WAS INJURED, BUT NOT TREATED AT EMERGENCY ROOM, WENT TO PRIVATE DOCTOR.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-01
- VIN: 2G2FS22K3W2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-08
- VIN: 2G2FV22G7W2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 60 MPH ENGINE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED UP TO 80 MPH. WHEN STEPPED ON BRAKE PEDAL TO REDUCE SPEED BRAKES DID NOT WORK.*AK
SUSPENSION,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-31
- VIN: 2G2FS22K9W2
- Components: SUSPENSION,VISIBILITY
- Summary: SPRINGS ARE ALSO WORN OUT, HAD WINDOW MOTORS REPLACED AND THEY STILL MAKE CRUNCHING NOISES. THIS CAR STAYS AT THE PONTIAC SERVICE DEPARTMENT INSTEAD OF MY GARAGE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-01
- VIN: 2G2FS22K1W2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING 50MPH STEERING STARTED TO JERK VIOLENTLY WHILE BRAKING. THIS SECOND TIME AT 26,000 MILES THAT FRONT ROTORS NEEDED REPLACING. DEALER STATED IT WAS NATURAL WEAR AND TEAR.*AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G2FS22K5W2
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AND SAW A DEER; PUT ON BRAKES MAKING THEM SOUND, DEER HIT FRONT END OF CAR TEARING OFF LEFT HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY AND MANGLING INSIDE OF LIGHT; ALSO PUSHED THE LEFT FRONT QUARTER PANEL TOWARD THE DRIVER'S DOOR WITH MINOR DENT IN THAT SECTION. TOOK CAR TO DEALER NEXT MORNING AND RECEIVED ESTIMATE. DURING THE NEXT FEW DAYS NOTICED THAT THE SEAT FELT LIKE IT WAS LOOSE WHEN TURNING SHARP CURVES AND WOULD MAKE A THUMP SOUND. CAR IN FOR REPAIRS. DEALER HAS STATED THAT THE ACCIDENT COULD NOT HAVE CAUSED THE SEAT TO BECOME LOOSE IN ITS TRACKS. BOLTS ARE TIGHT.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-01
- VIN: 2G2FS22K6W2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: UNEVEN WEAR IN THE BRAKE ROTORS. GM HAS REDESIGNED THE ROTOR BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM AND THE CAR HAS BEEN IN FOR SERVICING TWICE REGARDING THIS PROBLEM. BECAUSE CAR IS NOW OUT OF WARRANTY, GM REFUSES TO FIX IT EVEN THOUGH THEY ACKNOWLEDGE IT WAS INCORRECTLY REPAIRED PREVIOUSLY AND IS A KNOWN PROBLEM. THE UNEVEN WEAR CAUSES A SHIMMY IN THE CAR AT FREEWAY SPEEDS. ACCORDING TO GM SERVICE BULLETINS, IT GENERALLY HAPPENS AFTER ABOUT 7000 MILES FROM LAST BRAKE SERVICING (AS IS THE CASE WITH MY CAR. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-21
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G21522K9W2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 50 MPH AND TRYING TO AVOID A DEER ON ROAD, DROVE OVER A WET SPOT, LOST CONTROL AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. UPON IMPACT, AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *AK
Negative 1998 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
Positive 1998 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
-
The 4th generation Trans Am is truly a remarkable performance car that offers great value for your money, especially the WS-6 Ram Air! This car has everything you could ask for; power, style, personality, and heritage. Getting behind the wheel of this car is an experience like no other! It's not for the faint-hearted or those who don't want to be noticed. Surprisingly, it even gets pretty good gas mileage, considering the 5.7 liter V8! In the city, I get 19 MPG. However, it's not the best car to drive in wet/snowy/icy conditions, so be careful with the back end. If you're interested, I highly recommend buying one before they become hard to find.
-
Good horsepower, outruns most stock. It's a great buy compared to any '93 to '02 Camaro, Firebird, and Mustang. The style is great and with some mild performance mods, it will crush the competition. This is the last Pontiac they will ever make.
-
Hi there! I am the original owner of this beautiful chameleon-colored blue-green convertible! I ordered it new and waited 2 1/2 months for it. It has 78,000 miles on her! Before I bought this Trans Am, I drove a '73 Mustang for 25 years. Let me tell you, this car has so much power with its V8 LS1 engine. It's so much fun to drive! In fact, it's the best car we've ever had!
-
Hey there! I just wanted to say that your car is really impressive! I've even taken it out on the drag track a few times and it's an absolute beast!
-
This car is awesome for a V-6! It's very fun to drive and overall reliable, with just a few little things here and there. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Pontiac Firebird problems:
What sort of problems can I expect from a 98' Trans Am - LS1TECH ...
Dec 4, 2006 ... Pontiac Firebird 1967-2002 - What sort of problems can I expect from a 98' Trans Am - I am buying (hopefully) a low mileage 1998 Trans Am ...
1998 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
Problem with your 1998 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 21 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Pontiac Firebird.
Any common issues with the 1998-2002 Firebird Trans Am? : r/Pontiac
Oct 17, 2020 ... Any common issues with the 1998-2002 Firebird Trans Am? ... Cracked dash, window/headlight motors, t top leaks, rear diff eating itself, turn ...
buying WS6 friday any common problems to look for? - LS1TECH ...
Aug 22, 2012 ... so im buying a 1999 ws6 with 100k miles on it friday I have been in love with 98-02 WS6 trans ams since i first saw this exact car back in ...
1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am V8 auto with 131k on the dash, bad ...
Jan 30, 2023 ... The ls1 is a very reliable engine as long as it was maintained. Better reliability than the v6. The 4l60e is a good transmission again as long ...
Other years of Pontiac Firebird
Are you having problems with your 1998 Pontiac Firebird?
Gage Emmerich 2024-11-27
The Pontiac Trans Am offers fantastic overall performance at an affordable price. This is actually my third Trans Am and I have to say, it's the best one yet. The LS1 engine is truly exceptional, and could easily be considered one of the best V-8 engines in the world, second only to the LS6. It's a shame that this great value is no longer available. However, I'm excited to see how the new GTO will perform and lead GM into mid-market greatness.
Nathanael Wisozk 2024-07-28
I had some fun with the sports car look and the beautiful green/blue flake paint (chameleon). However, being small in stature, I found it difficult to see out of the car due to the tall dash and long nose. Unfortunately, I experienced some front nose scrapes from trying to turn tightly. To make matters worse, as soon as I bought it, I started experiencing expensive repairs such as the AC compressor costing $500 and the fuel pump failure costing $700. The fuel pump replacement was a nightmare as it required removing the gas tank. I eventually sold it to a Firebird/Transam enthusiast who had much experience repairing them. Overall, I would not recommend this car to older individuals on Social Security like myself, but it may be a good fit for someone with more experience and resources.