1999 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird problems
The Pontiac Firebird, particularly the 1999 model, has been associated with several common problems based on owner complaints. These issues range from mechanical malfunctions to cosmetic concerns. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems:
- Engine Problems: 1999 Firebirds with the 3800 motor may experience engine issues, such as loss of power, overheating, and potential engine damage, especially after prolonged periods of inactivity. These issues may be caused by various factors, including low oil pressure, overheating, and worn-out components.
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 1999 Firebird worth?
Used 1999 Pontiac Firebird Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| Coupe 2D | $20,540 | $4,917 |
| Formula Coupe 2D | $23,930 | $7,124 |
| Convertible 2D | $26,465 | $3,886 |
| Trans Am Coupe 2D | $27,040 | $7,944 |
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 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 is a 1999 Firebird worth?
Used 1999 Pontiac Firebird Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| Coupe 2D | $20,540 | $4,917 |
| Formula Coupe 2D | $23,930 | $7,124 |
| Convertible 2D | $26,465 | $3,886 |
| Trans Am Coupe 2D | $27,040 | $7,944 |
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.
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.
1999 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
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Pontiac Firebird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Pontiac Firebird
The NHTSA has received 56 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Pontiac Firebird. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Pontiac Firebird vehicles.
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-07
- VIN: 2G2FV22G1X2
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: LOSS OF POWER STEERING CAN NOT TURN VEHICLE
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-30
- VIN: 2G2FS22K5X2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE CLUTCH SYSTEM DISENGAGED WHENEVER THE CLUTCH PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THIS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO HAVE UNINTENTIONAL VEHICLE MOVEMENT, INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES AND DIFFICULTY IN SHIFTING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSE THAT THE CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER FAILED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED WHO STATED THERE WAS A RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 99V239000 (POWER TRAIN: CLUTCH ASSEMBLY). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-22
- VIN: 2G2FV22GXX2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 PONTIAC FIRE BIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER WAS DEFECTIVE AND WOULD NOT ALLOW THE CLUTCH SYSTEM TO DISENGAGE WHEN BEING DEPRESSED. THERE WAS A RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 99V239000 (POWER TRAIN: CLUTCH ASSEMBLY) BUT THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,200. UPDATED 10/27/11*BF UPDATED 11/16/11*JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-18
- VIN: 2G2FS22K6X2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I RECENTLY PURCHASED A 1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD. WHILE LOOKING UP RECALLS ON WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV, I CAME UPON A RECALL FOR MY CAR (NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 99V239000). I CALLED THE LOCAL PONTIAC DEALER, AND INQUIRED ABOUT SPECIFICS. THE SERVICE EMPLOYEE CHECKED MY VIN, THEN TOLD ME THAT MY VEHICLE HAD NO RECALLS SHOWING FOR IT. MY VEHICLE IS EXPERIENCING THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM THAT IS STATED IN THE RECALL. WITH ONLY 56,000 MILES ON IT, THE REST OF THE CAR IS IN PRISTINE CONDITION, COSMETICALLY AND MECHANICALLY OTHERWISE. THE RECALL STATES THAT A 'POTENTIAL' 69 VEHICLES WERE AFFECTED. DOES THE WORD 'POTENTIAL' MEAN AN AVERAGE OR POSSIBLY MORE? *TR
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-25
- VIN: 1G2NE52T6XM
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE 1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM - POSSIBLY THE WORST CAR EVER MADE. AT 30,000 MILES, THE ALTERNATOR WAS REPLACED. AT 40,000 MILES, THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED. RECALLS REPLACED THE STEERING WHEEL & CENTER CONSOLE, AND OTHER RECALLS HAVE BEEN MADE. AT 50,000 MILES THE ALTERNATOR WAS REPLACED AGAIN. SHORTLY AFTER THE WARRANTY RAN, MAJOR ENGINE PROBLEMS CAUSED A $2,500 COMPLETE ENGINE REPLACEMENT. UNDER 90,000 MILES, THE GAS GAUGE STOPPED WORKING AND THE BRAKE LIGHTS NEEDED REWIRING. NOW, UNDER 92,000 MILES A NEW PROBLEM WITH THE ELECTRICAL: THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS COME ON INTERMITTENTLY, THE TRUNK POPS OPEN ON ITS OWN, THE AIRBAG COMES ON AND OFF, THE CAR ONLY STARTS RANDOMLY, AND WORST OF ALL IT SHUTS OFF ALL ON ITS OWN WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE STREET, SO YET AGAIN WE ARE FORCED TO HAVE DIAGNOSTICS RUN TO FIGURE OUT WHAT NEW AND COSTLY REPAIRS WILL NEED TO BE MADE. PONTIAC/GM SHOULD ADMIT THEY MADE A MISTAKE WITH THE GRAND AM/OLDSMOBILE ALERO AND PAY ALL THE CURRENT OWNERS SOME $$ AND TAKE ALL THE CARS TO A JUNK YARD. THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA COMPLETELY RECALLED THESE CARS FOR THE CITIZENS OF CANADA, YET IN THE U.S. IT'S THE UNFORTUNATE OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES WHO ARE GETTING TAKEN. DO WHAT I AM DOING AND CONTACT YOUR LOCAL BBB, STATE AG, OR ANY OTHER POLITICAL OFFICE (IN ADDITION TO PONTIAC/GM) AND LET THEM KNOW WHAT PIECES OF CRAP THE 99 GRAND AM/ALERO ARE. I HAVE TALKED TO MANY REPAIR SHOPS AND OTHER OWNERS OF THE CAR, AND BY FAR EVERYONE SEEMS TO KNOW WHAT TYPES OF MAJOR PROBLEMS THIS CAR HAS BEEN. WHAT OTHER CAR MANUFACTURER WOULD ALLOW SO MANY PROBLEMS TO EXIST (SUCH AS CAR COMPLETELY SHUTTING OFF WHILE DRIVING) AND HAVE THE GALL TO SAY NOTHING IS WRONG WITH IT? *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-03
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1999 GRAND AM GT SECURITY LIGHT HAS BEEN A ONGOING PROBLEM EVERY SENSE I PURCHASED MY CAR AND THAT WAS OVER A YEAR AGO. PROBLEM HAPPENED A MONTH AFTER A HAD THE CAR I COULD NOT TAKE THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER THE WARRANTY WAS OVER WITH 30 DAYS AFTER I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-01
- VIN: 2G2FS22K5X2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN STARTING THE CAR COLD, AND IDLING THE CAR... HEADLIGHT AND TURN SIGNAL OPERATION IS NORMAL. AFTER APPROXIMATELY 20 MINUTES OF DRIVING THE CAR (NOT IDLING) THE HEADLIGHTS WILL GO DARK WITHOUT WARNING (THE HEADLAMP DOORS REMAIN OPEN), AND THE RIGHT TURN SIGNAL FAILS TO OPERATE. EVERY 6 TO 10 SECONDS, THE ENTIRE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROCEEDS TO PULSE AFTER THIS OCCURS, UNLESS THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH IS TURNED FROM LOW BEAM POSITION TO PARKING LIGHT POSITION. THE PULSING THEN STOPS, BUT THE HEADLIGHTS ARE NOT LIT AND IF TURNED OFF... THE DOORS WILL NOT LIFT UP AGAIN AND THE LIGHTS WILL NOT LIGHT. AFTER LETTING THE CAR SIT FOR A PERIOD OF TIME, THE CAR SEEMS TO "RESET" ITSELF AND THE LIGHTS AND SIGNALS WILL BECOME OPERATIONAL FOR ANOTHER 20 MINUTES OF DRIVING. THIS CREATES AN EXTREME SAFETY HAZARD. THE CAUSE IS CURRENTLY UNKNOWN. I PLAN TO TAKE IT TO MY LOCAL DEALER, NORRIS AUTO MALL FOR EVALUATION. *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2JB5247X7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING 1999 PONTIAC SUNFIRE ON JANUARY 15, 2006 IN THE MORNING IN MILFORD, CT. AT THE CITY ROAD INTERSECTION, I TRIED TO SLOW THE CAR AND MAKE A RIGHT TURN. HOWEVER, I COULD NOT CONTROL THE STEERING AND BRAKE AT ALL. THE CAR CRASHED, AIRBAG DEPLOYED, AND I WAS INJURED. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-20
- VIN: 2G2FS22K2X2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE JUST SHUTS DOWN WITH NO NOTICE AT ALL, THE ENGINE JUST DIES. I'VE HAD THIS PROBLEM OFF AND ON FOR OVER A YEAR AND MY CAR IS IN THE SHOP FOR WEEKS OR MORE AND I'M TOLD THEY CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT SO I GO AND GET IT AND IT DIES ON ME. ONCE THIS HAPPENED WITHIN MINUTES. THE LAST TIME IT HAPPENED A LITTLE OVER A WEEK AFTER I PICKED THE VEHICLE UP, I WAS TOLD THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT AND I DROVE IT FOR A WEEK , BEFORE IT DIED ON ME AFTER THEY HAD IT FOR 2 WEEKS AND COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM. THEY HAVE HAD IT FOR ALMOST TWO WEEKS AT THE MOMENT STATING THEY CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG SO THEY RESET THE TROUBLE CODES IN THE COMPUTER AND WAIT TO SEE IF IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN, BUT I'M AFRAID TO DRIVE IT BECAUSE IT HAS DIED ON ME IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY AND THAT'S VERY SCARY AND DANGEROUS IN MY OPINION. AFTER THE VEHICLE SITS FOR A WHILE IT USUALLY STARTS BACK UP, AND DRIVES AS IF NOTHING HAS EVER HAPPENED TO IT UNTIL IT DIES AGAIN BUT ONE NEVER KNOWS WHEN EVERYTHING WILL JUST GO DEAD. IT DOES TURN OVER BUT HAS NO IGNITION AND AFTER ABOUT 15-20 MINUTES OF INTERMITTENT CRANKING IT WILL START BACK UP. THEY CHANGED A CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR AND THAT LASTED FOR ABOUT 9 MONTHS AND THEN THEY CHANGED IT IN MARCH OF 2005 AND THAT LASTED FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS AND HERE WE ARE AGAIN WITH THE VEHICLE DOING BASICALLY THE SAME THING BUT I'M TOLD ITS A DIFFERENT PROBLEM BUT THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS. THE 10 FAILURES HAVE OCCURRED WITHIN THE PAST YEAR TO YEAR AND A HALF. THERE ARE SITES ON THE INTERNET WHERE THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM IS BEING DISCUSSED ABOUT GENERAL MOTORS VEHICLES. THE DATE OF OCT 20 2005 IS THE LAST TIME THAT THIS PROBLEM APPEARED, AND THEY HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE SINCE THE 24TH OF OCT. IT WAS TAKEN TO THEM ON THE 24TH BECAUSE THAT'S THE EARLIEST THAT THEY COULD LOOK AT IT SO I WAS TOLD. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-05
- VIN: 1G2NE52T2XM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: BEFORE THE FAILURE OF MY BRAKES FOR ABOUT 2 MONTHS I HAD THIS NOISE EVER SO OFTEN AND SLIPPING FEELING WHEN BRAKING. I ALSO STARTED TO HAVE BAD TRACTION ACCORDING TO MY TRACTION LIGHT AND MY ABS AND BRAKE LIGHT WOULD COME ON AFTER EITHER GOING OVER RAILROAD TRACKS OR TURNING A RIGHT HAND TURN OR HITTING A POT HOLE. I WOULD THEN HAVE TO RESTART MY CAR TO GET RID OF THE MESSAGES ON THE DASH TELLING ME WHAT WAS WRONG. I HAD THEM CHECK AT THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP AND NEW BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS WHERE PUT ON ALL THE WAY AROUND ALONG WITH NEW TIRES. THE PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS AND I DON'T KNOW WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE. I HAVE ALSO LOST MY EMERGENCY BRAKE IN THE PAST 2 WEEKS BUT I HAVEN'T HAD IT LOOKED AT YET AND HEARD THAT IT MIGHT NEED TIGHTENED. I ONLY BOUGHT HIS VEHICLE RECENTLY AND IT DOES HAVE OTHER MINOR PROBLEMS THAT I HEAR SO MANY GRAND AM OWNERS HAVE. LIKE THE LOOSE RIGHT SIDE VIEW MIRROR AND THE VOLUME DIAL ON THE RADIO AND THE INABILITY TO TURN OFF THE RADIO ITSELF ALSO ALONG WITH THE # 1 AND 2 ON THE A/C...AND HEATER DO NOT WORK. I FOUND THIS TO BE TRUE IN MORE THAN A DOZEN GRAND AMS I LOOKED AT OVER THE PERIOD OF TIME I WAS LOOKING FOR A NEW VEHICLE AND I THINK SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME.... *NM
SEAT BELTS,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-10
- VIN: 3G2JB5242XS
- Components: SEAT BELTS,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: PROBLEMS W/SEAT BELTS-PASSENGER AND DRIVER SEAT BELT WILL LOCK AT VARIOUS TIMES USUALLY BEFORE CAR IN PUT INTO GEAR. LASTS AT LEAST FIVE MINUTES. CHILD SAFETY LOCK BACK PASSENGER DOOR HAS BEEN LOCKED AT LEAST 3 YEARS DOOR WONT UNLOCK FROM INSIDE. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-12
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE BEEN HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE GM PASSLOCK SYSTEM. RECENTLY, IT HAS GOTTEN WORSE. IN THE PAST 5 DAYS IT HAS MALFUNCTIONED 1-2 TIMES A DAY. WHEN I AM DRIVING, THE SECURITY LIGHT COMES ON AND I KNOW FROM MY MANUAL THAT IT MEANS THERE IS A PROBLEM. OTHER TIMES IT CUTS THE FUEL SUPPLY AND I AM STRANDED. I DON'T THINK IT IS SAFE FOR A YOUNG FEMALE TO BE STUCK SOMEWHERE WHERE HER VEHICLE WON'T START. WHAT IF THERE WAS A DANGEROUS SITUATION OR AN EMERGENCY? IT HAS MADE ME LATE TO CLASSES AND TO WORK. I DID NOT REALIZE THAT OTHERS WERE HAVING A PROBLEM UNTIL I LOOKED IT UP ON THE INTERNET. IT REALLY SHOCKED ME THAT MANY OTHERS WERE HAVING TO DEAL WITH THIS. I THOUGHT I JUST BOUGHT A DEFECTIVE CAR. I HAVE TO LOOK INTO DISABLING THE PASSLOCK SYSTEM BECAUSE I DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO TRY TO FIX IT. AND FROM THE SOUND OF IT IS NOT ALWAYS A GUARANTEE. I AM A COLLEGE STUDENT WHO WORKS PART TIME; I DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO DEAL WITH THIS. NOR DO I FEEL I SHOULD IF MANY OTHER PEOPLE ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME THING. I FEEL THAT GM SHOULD RECALL OR REIMBURSE PEOPLE WHO HAVE DEFECTIVE SYSTEMS. IT IS REALLY A PAIN IN NECK TO HAVE TO ADD THIS PROBLEM TO SCHOOL WORK AND WORK ISSUES, ETC. ESPECIALLY SINCE IT IS A PROBLEM THEY ARE AWARE OF. I WOULD NEVER HAVE PURCHASED THIS CAR IF I HAD KNOWN THIS WOULD BE A ISSUE. APPARENTLY, THIS IS NOT A GOOD SYSTEM TO USE SO I DON'T KNOW WHY THEY CONTINUE TO USE IT. I GUESS FOR NOW THE ONLY THING I CAN DO IS PAY TO HAVE IT DISABLED AND BE WITHOUT A SECURITY SYSTEM FOR MY VEHICLE, WHICH IS PARKED ON A CROWDED COLLEGE CAMPUS, WITH ITS SHARE OF BREAK . *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-23
- VIN: 1G2NE52T6XM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE AT ONLY 94,000 MILES, WITH REGULAR MAINTENANCE PERFORMED. 1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM, VIN [XXX] - LOSS OF ENGINE POWER WHILE DRIVING DUE TO FAULTY RODS/PISTONS/BEARINGS - REQUIRES REBUILD OF REGULARLY SERVICED ENGINE WITH LESS THAN 100,000 MILES. OCCURS DURING OPERATION WHICH IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS, ESPECIALLY AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. *JB *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-18
- VIN: 1G2NE12E5XM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING HER 1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM WHEN HER WINDOW SPONTANEOUSLY CRASHED DOWN. SHE WAS VERY STARTLED BY THE EPISODE. THE DIAGNOSIS BY A MECHANIC WAS THE WINDOW REGULATOR. I OWN A PONTIAC BONNEVILLE AND JUST LAST WK. HAD TO REPLACE MY REGULATORR (THE 2ND ONE ON THIS CAR). MY SON PREVIOUSLY OWNED A GRAND AM. HE ALSO HAD TO HAVE A REGULATOR REPLACED. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH PONTIACS...GRAND AMS, GRAND PRIX'S, BONNEVILLES. WHILE THIS MAY NOT SEEM ON THE SURFACE TO BE SAFETY RELATED, THE SUDDENESS OF THESE WINDOWS MALFUNCTIONING MAY VERY WELL CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. MY DAUGHTER WAS SO STARTLED BY IT SHE SAID SHE ALMOST RAN OFF THE ROAD. GM NEEDS TO TAKE CARE OF THIS PROBLEM WITH THEIR WINDOWS BEFORE SOMEBODY IS INJURED. THE PROBLEMS WITH THESE REGULATORS ARE NOT ISOLATED INCIDENCES. I KNOW MANY PEOPLE WHO HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THEM. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-17
- VIN: 1G2NE52E3XM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: OUT OF NOWHERE THE "SECURITY" LIGHT ON MY DASH LIGHTS UP....NOW I HAVE CONSTANT PROBLEMS STARTING MY CAR. THIS IS A SEVERELY DANGEROUS PROBLEM FOR ME AS I WORK IN CAMDEN,NJ...ONE OF THE MOST VIOLENT CITIES IN THE UNITED STATES...THIS SEEMS TO BE A "PASSLOCK" PROBLEM THAT SEEMS TO HAPPEN ON ALL PONTIAC GRAND AM'S....I AM ALMOST AFRAID TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE NOW FOR FEAR IT WON'T START IN A CRITICAL SITUATION! *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-08
- VIN: 2G2FS22K8X2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON (STEADY AND FLASHING). ALL IN LESS THAN 2 MONTHS I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE BATTERY, PATH LOCK SENSOR AND IGNITION CYLINDER, REMOTE ALARMS AND KEYS, SPARK PLUG WIRES, CLEAN FUEL INJECTORS, REPLACE SERPENTINE BELT AND UPGRADED MY GAS OCTANE IN A V6. AND NOW THE STUPID SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ON AGAIN AND THE ENGINE IS HESITATING AND THE BEARINGS ON PULLEYS ARE MAKING A NOISE (AFTER REPLACING THE SERPENTINE BELT). I HAVE RECEIPTS FOR ALL OF IT SO FAR. I AM GOING TONIGHT TO READ THE CODE FOR WHAT IS WRONG NOW!!!!! ALSO I HAD PREVIOUSLY REPLACED THE ALTERNATOR, MY RADIO VOLUME KNOB HAS NEVER WORKED CORRECTLY, AND MY LOW TRACTION LIGHT COMES ON EVERY TIME I HIT A PUDDLE OF WATER. THIS CAR IS A LEMON. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-17
- VIN: 2G2FS22K6X2
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDOWS FREEZING UP, SPORADIC, INCONSISTENT. POWER WINDOW EVENTUALLY FAILED COMPLETELY AT 35,000 MILES. BOTH DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER SIDE POWER WINDOW REGULATORS NEED REPLACING. THIS CAR WAS BOUGHT BRAND NEW, DRIVEN OFF THE SHOW-ROOM FLOOR, STORED IN SEMI-HEATED STORAGE THROUGHOUT COLD MONTHS. NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE YET TO CORRECT FAILURES, BECAUSE IT IS GOING TO COST OVER $600.00, AND I AM WAITING FOR GM TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS DEFECT. I FEEL THAT IT IS TOO IRONIC THAT BOTH REGULATORS WENT AT THE SAME TIME. THIS SHOWS POOR QUALITY FOR AN EXPENSIVE CAR. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-28
- VIN: 2G2FS22K0X2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN MAKING A U TURN STEERING LOCKED UP AND I WAS NOT ABLE TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL. I HAD TO STOP AND PLACE GEAR SHIFT IN PARK AND THEN MOVE BACK TO DRIVE BEFORE THE WHEEL WOULD TURN. THE ENGINE DID NOT DIE. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THIS HAS EVER HAPPENED IN THE 1 1/2 THAT I HAVE OWNED THIS CAR. ALYSE ECKER. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-12
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ON MY 1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD THE DRIVER'S PASSENGER DOOR PANELS ARE CRACKING SINCE NEW WINDOW MOTORS WERE INSTALLED ALSO HAVE TALKED TO 5 OTHER PEOPLE DRIVING FIREBIRDS WHOSE DOOR PANELS ARE CRACKING ALSO. THE CRACKS OR 2-4 INCHES LONG AND ARE OCCURRING ABOUT 6 TO 8 INCHES FROM DOOR JAM SAME SPOT ON DRIVER AN PASSENGER DOORS ALSO SAME ON THE OTHERS I HAVE SPOKE WITH. *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-16
- VIN: 2G2FS22K8X2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE AIR INLETS ON THE BREATHER FOR ENGINE AIR INTAKE ARE POSITIONED AT THE FRONT CENTER OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT IN FRONT OF THE RADIATOR. THE ANGLE OF THE RADIATOR IN RELATION TO THE ROAD SURFACE PROVIDES A CHUTE FOR WATER TO TRAVEL DIRECTLY TO THE AIR INLETS AND SUBSEQUENTLY TO THE INTAKE AND INTERNAL ENGINE AREAS. THERE IS ALSO A RESEVOIR JUST BEHIND THE AIR FILTER TO CATCH ANY FLUIDS PRIOR TO ENGINE INTAKE. WHY? WATER IS NOT COMPRESSIBLE, SO DISASTER IS WAITING TO HAPPEN WHEN IT IS INTRODUCED INTO A CYLINDER. WHY ISN'T THE AIR BREATHER ASSEMBLY LOCATED ELSEWHERE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT THAT IS NOT DIRECTLY SUSCEPTIBLE TO ROAD WATER INDUCTION. POOR ENGINEERING IS A RESPONSIBILITY THE MANUFACTURER NEEDS TO ADDRESS, NOT THE CONSUMER. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FS32K4X2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE MOTOR THAT OPERATED THE POWER HEAD LIGHTS FAILED AND AS A RESULT THE LIGHTS WOULD NOT GO DOWN. *PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. NLM
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-30
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT FOUR ORIGINAL RIMS ARE CORRODED FROM INSIDE OUT WHICH MAKES UNSAFE TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE. DEALER STATED HE NEVER HEARD SOMETHING LIKE THIS. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-17
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DEALER HAD TO REPLACE IN MARCH AND IN JUNE THE TURN SIGNAL LENS. ONCE AGAIN NEEDS TO REPLACE THE LENS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2G2FS22K7XK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. *NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-08
- VIN: 2G2FV22G5X2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME DEFECT AS STATED IN RECALL 99 V 239 000, REGARDING THE CLUTCH ASSEMBLY, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. *JB SCC
1999 Pontiac Firebird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1999 Pontiac Firebird.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. THE CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN INCORRECT RETAINING RING.
- Consequence: THIS MAY NOT ALLOW THE CLUTCH SYSTEM TO DISENGAGE THE CLUTCH WHEN THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED, RESULTING IN UNINTENTIONAL VEHICLE MOVEMENT, INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES, ENGINE STALLS, AND DIFFICULTY IN SHIFTING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HYDRAULIC CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER WITH A NEW CYLINDER.
Negative 1999 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
Positive 1999 Pontiac Firebird car reviews
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I've had my TA for a little over a year now and, overall, it's been great! The only issues I've had were with the motor in the headlight and a leaking rear axle, but unfortunately, the warranty I purchased for $1,200 didn't cover those repairs. Despite that, the speed of the car is amazing and I would highly recommend it!
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I have never been happier with any vehicle! I had to have some service done on my Trans Am, but it was all under warranty! The brakes do have a tendency to squeal. The power is there whenever you need it. Mustangs don't have a chance! It's a shame that GM is discontinuing the Trans Am and Camaro.
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I've been driving my Trans Am for 5 years now and I absolutely love it! I wouldn't trade it for anything else, except maybe another Trans Am... but unfortunately they don't make them anymore! :( I'm really hoping they bring them back soon. Even though I've already put 145,500 miles on mine, I can't imagine replacing it with anything else.
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Hey there! You've got a good car. Have you checked out the numbers?
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You can count on this product to be both reliable and attractive!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Pontiac Firebird problems:
1999 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Problem with your 1999 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 20 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1999 Pontiac Firebird.
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Other years of Pontiac Firebird
Are you having problems with your 1999 Pontiac Firebird?
Mohammed Ankunding 2024-10-08
I have had several issues with my car, including multiple replacements of window motors, battery, alternator, intake manifolds, and gaskets. Recently, I had to replace the entire engine assembly. Although I have faced several challenges, I am confident that these issues are specific to my car and not a common occurrence. In addition to the engine problems, I also had to replace a blown speaker, a rear seal on the hatch, and fix a hole in the console. The plastic on both door panels is also splitting. I am curious to know if anyone else has faced similar issues.
Mackenzie D'Amore 2024-01-13
I have experienced several issues with this car, including the replacement of both light motors and frequent replacement of all lights on the car. Additionally, I have had to address problems with the window and antenna motor. Currently, I am facing a significant transmission issue that requires a costly repair. Despite these challenges, I remain confident that a solution can be found. Thank you for your understanding.