1987 Pontiac Grand am problems
The Pontiac Grand Am is a car model that was produced by Pontiac in various years between 1973 and 2005. Produced as a RWD mid-size car on the LeMans GM A platform in its first two generations, the Grand Am name was reused for a FWD compact car for its last three generations.
The platform actually began development intended to be the next generation GTO, but the muscle car era was drawing to a close. So, Pontiac decided to make this model America's answer to European luxury|sports sedans. The Grand Am (GA) name was derived from two other Pontiacs; "Grand" signifying Grand Prix luxury, and "Am" for Trans Am performance.
These first generation GAs had some innovative features, including a deformable urethane nose (an evolution of the Endura bumper pioneered on the 1968 GTO), and was one of only three GM cars (Olds Cutlass Salon, Chevy Monte Carlo S) to debut radial-ply tires (RTS - Radial Tuned Suspension) as standard equipment. The intermediate sized Grand Am was canceled in 1980 when it was replaced by the Pontiac 6000.
A compact-sized Grand Am, based on the GM N-platform, was released in 1985, replacing the Pontiac Phoenix. It became Pontiac's best selling car and was later replaced by the Pontiac G6, so named as it was intended to be the 6th generation of the Grand Am.
All 1973–1975 Grand Ams were built in Pontiac, Michigan at Pontiac's main assembly plant. The 1978-1980 Grand Ams were built in Pontiac, Michigan at Pontiac's main assembly plant and in Atlanta, Georgia at GMAD Lakewood. All Grand Ams between 1985 and 2005 were built in Lansing, Michigan at the Lansing Car Assembly.
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Common 1987 Pontiac Grand am problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1987 Pontiac Grand Am, several common problems have been reported:
- Coil Pack Failure: Owners have experienced issues with the coil pack failing, affecting the ignition system of the car. A faulty coil pack can lead to misfiring, rough idling, and overall poor engine performance.
- Steering Rack Mounting Bracket Breaks: Complaints include the right side steering rack mounting bracket breaking, which can compromise the steering system's integrity and safety. This issue can result in difficulty steering the vehicle and poses a risk to the driver's control.
- Transmission Problems: Some owners have reported transmission issues, with instances of the transmission needing to be rebuilt at relatively low mileage. Transmission problems can manifest as gear slipping, rough shifting, or complete transmission failure, impacting the car's drivability.
- Rust Issues: Rust problems, particularly around the wheel wells, have been noted by owners. Rust can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, leading to safety concerns and potentially costly repairs to address the corrosion.
- Power Window Malfunctions: Complaints about power windows, specifically difficulties with roll-up windows, have been raised by owners. Malfunctioning power windows can be inconvenient and affect the overall usability and comfort of the vehicle.
- Fuel System Concerns: The fuel system has been a common area of complaint, with issues related to fuel delivery and performance. Problems in the fuel system can lead to poor fuel efficiency, engine stalling, or difficulties in starting the vehicle.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues, including those related to the coil pack and other electrical components, have been reported by owners. Electrical malfunctions can cause a range of problems, from starting issues to malfunctioning accessories within the car.
These reported problems highlight various areas of concern for owners of the 1987 Pontiac Grand Am, ranging from mechanical failures to issues affecting comfort and convenience features. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall reliability.
How reliable is a Pontiac Grand Am?
It's reliable, but not as reliable as a Camry. In blending a Grand Prix and a Trans Am, Pontiac have developed a car that's good at everything, and great at nothing. Fun to drive and priced to move, the Grand Am delivers a sporty feel and a comfortable ride.
How many miles will a Grand Am last?
Drivers generally report a minimum mileage of 200,000 before the expensive repairs start to pile up, while some have passed 300,000. Expect to hit anywhere from 225,000 to 250,000 on the original engine and powertrain before your Grand Am is ready for retirement.
Why did they stop making Pontiac Grand Am?
Another factor leading to the Grand Am's cancellation were plans for all 1976 Pontiac A-body cars receiving the newly approved rectangular headlights, which would necessitate a complete redesign of the Grand Am's Endura nose and Pontiac officials decided that the expense of such a redesign could not be justified based ...
What kind of engine does a Pontiac Grand Am have?
Pontiac's base Ecotec 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine is rated at 140 horsepower and mates with either a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. A 170-hp, 3.4-liter V-6 engine is standard in the SE2 and optional in the SE1.
How reliable is a Pontiac Grand Am?
It's reliable, but not as reliable as a Camry. In blending a Grand Prix and a Trans Am, Pontiac have developed a car that's good at everything, and great at nothing. Fun to drive and priced to move, the Grand Am delivers a sporty feel and a comfortable ride.
Why did they stop making Pontiac Grand Am?
Since Grand Am was an "in-between", its sales declined and the model was discontinued in 1975.
How long do Pontiac Grand Ams last?
How Long Will the 2004 Pontiac Grand Am Last? Drivers generally report a minimum mileage of 200,000 before the expensive repairs start to pile up, while some have passed 300,000. Expect to hit anywhere from 225,000 to 250,000 on the original engine and powertrain before your Grand Am is ready for retirement.
What kind of engine does a Pontiac Grand Am have?
Pontiac's base Ecotec 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine is rated at 140 horsepower and mates with either a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. A 170-hp, 3.4-liter V-6 engine is standard in the SE2 and optional in the SE1.
1987 Pontiac Grand am car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Grand am problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Steering problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Pontiac Grand am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1987 Pontiac Grand am
The NHTSA has received 44 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Pontiac Grand am. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1987 Pontiac Grand am vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-15
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P195/70/14 )
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-15
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P195/70/14 )
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-21
- VIN: 1G2NW14L8HC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY DIGITAL ODOMETER STOPPED WORKING AT 199,999 MILES. I WAS TOLD BY PONTIAC THAT IT WAS DEFECTIVE, AND THAT NORMALLY IT WOULD CONTINUE ON TO 200,000. THE ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT THE LCD DISPLAY WILL ONLY SHOW A "1" IN THE ONE HUNDRED THOUSANDS PLACE. TECHNICAR, THE COMPANY WHO FIXES INSTRUMENT CLUSTERS, SAYS THEY ALL STOP AT THAT MILEAGE, AND THE CHIP IN THE BACK HAS TO BE REPLACED. I WENT THROUGH A LENGTHY PROCESS OF COMPLAINTS AS WELL AS WRITING A LETTER ONLY TO GET A STATEMENT SAYING MY CAR WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. I DON'T SEE HOW THEY CAN DESIGN AN ODOMETER TO FAIL, MANY PROBLEMS RESULT - MAINTENANCE, TITLE, VALUE, ETC. HAD I GOTTEN THE ANALOGUE VERSION, IT WOULD STILL BE GOING. I NEED AN EXPLANATION. THANKS.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: IG2NE14L2HC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DESIGN OF THE LAP BELTS MOUNTED IN THE DOOR DOES NOT PROPERLY PROVIDE ENOUGH PROTECTION IN AN EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING 40MPH AND WAS STRUCK ON THE DRIVER SIDE. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2NE51U4HC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CAN'T SEEM TO EVER SAVE ANY MONEY TO BUY A NEW VAN BECAUSE CAR THIS ONE IS COSTING TOO MUCH MONEY TO KEEP ON THE ROAD. NO SAFETY DEFECT (S) LISTED IN SUMMARY. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE11U8HC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE HAVING TROUBLE STARTING. CONSUMER CHARGED BATTERY AND WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO POSSIBLE ELECTRICAL FAILURE RESUTING IN INJURY TO DRIVERS HANDS.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-01
- VIN: 1G2NE51UXHC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEATBELT BUCKLE BROKE, CAUSING BOTH TO BE INOPERATIVE, WHICH OFFERED NO PROTECTION FOR THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. CONSUMER CLAIMS THERE IS A BULLETIN AND THERE IS NO RECALL.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G2NV11U5HC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY FAILED AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. FUEL INJECTOR STARTS WHEN IT FEELS LIKE IT FOR THE LAST YEAR. STARTED ONE WEEK. SEAT BELT LOCKS UP ON DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDES CAUSING THE DRIVER TO GET BURNED ON THE NECK WHEN STOPPING.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-18
- VIN: 1G2NE14U9HC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED ,GOING OVER A SMALL HILL THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE AND WOULD NOT DISENGAGE WHEN PUSHING THE BRAKE OR STEERING COLUMN SWITCH. TURNED OFF IGNITION TO STOP VEHICLE. VEHICLE TAKEN TO DEALER WHO COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2NE51UXHC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXHAUST MANIFOLD FAILURE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MASS AIRFLOW SENSOR FAILED. ALSO REPLACED ELECTRONIC IGNITION/WATER PUMP/ALTERNATOR/CRANKSHAFT/LOCKED TORQUE CONVERTER. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE11L0HC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ALONG A 4-LANE STREET, THE GAS PEDAL WENT TO FULL THROTTLE, VEHICLE ACCELERATED FROM 50 MPH TO PASS A BUS. ENGINE WAS THEN TURNED OFF, CAUSING A LOSS OF POWER STEERING. UNABLE TO STEER, VEHICLE BRUSHED UP AGAINST ANOTHER VEHICLE , WENT UP ON CENTER OF MEDIAN AND STOPPED WHEN IT HIT A SIGN POST.*AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-05-01
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE RACK AND PINION MALFUNCTION. VEHICLE IS VERY HARD TO STEER.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-01
- VIN: 1G2NW51LOHC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: BOTH FRONT SEATS HAVE SEPARATED FROM TRACKING, FELL ONTO REAR SEATS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-25
- VIN: 1G2NE11U6HC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THERMOSTAT FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-25
- VIN: 1G2NE11U6HC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL PAN GASKET FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-25
- VIN: 1G2NE11U6HC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VALVE COVER GASKET FAILED.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-26
- VIN: 1G2NE11U6HC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION LINE FAILED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2NE14U2HC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RELEASE FROM BELT BUCKLE AFTER PRESSING THE RED RELEASE BUTTON. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-15
- VIN: 1GZNV544XHC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 'COLD POWER STEERING' PREVENTS RIGHT HAND TURN FOR FIRST FIVE MINUTES OF VEHICLE OPERATION. *DH
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING GETS REAL TIGHT WHEN DRIVING SLOWLY AND FIRST STARTING VEHICLE CANNOT TURN STEERING WHEEL. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G2NV11U2HC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SEAT BELT RETRACTOR IS NOT WORKING RIGHT . TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-13
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING COLUMN IS COMING LOOSE, EQUIPPED WITH TILT STEERING. TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-04
- VIN: 1G2NV11L2HC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PURCHASED VEHICLE USED HAD TO REPLACE THE STATER AND THE ALTERNATOR. TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-04
- VIN: 1G2NV11L2HC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PURCHASED VEHICLE USED HAD TO REPLACE THE STATER AND THE ALTERNATOR. TT
1987 Pontiac Grand am recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1987 Pontiac Grand am.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FUEL FEED OR FUEL RETURN HOSE AT THE ENGINE MAY RUB AGAINST A SHIFT LEVER ON THE 5 SPEED TRANSAXLE.
- Consequence: IN TIME A HOLE COULD BE RUBBED THROUGH THE HOSE AND FUELLEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THIS COULD REUSLT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL FEED AND RETURN HOSE/PIPE ASSEMBLIES.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
- Summary: THE FUEL FEED AND/OR RETURN HOSE/PIPE ASSEMBLIES COULD CRACK OR SEPARATE, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE UNDERHOOD AREA.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE, WITHOUT PRIORWARNING, AND CAUSE INJURY TO OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: REPLACE BOTH FUEL FEED AND RETURN HOSE/PIPE ASSEMBLIES.
Additional sources
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