1996 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.
Social links
Common 1996 Pontiac Grand am problems
The 1996 Pontiac Grand Am is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues primarily affect the transmission, electrical system, and engine.
Transmission problems are the most prevalent issue, with 25 complaints related to the automatic transmission. The most frequently reported problem is the parking rod going out, which affects the car's ability to shift out of park. This issue is related to the control module of the automatic transmission and has been reported by 21 owners. Another automatic transmission problem is related to the park/neutral start interlock, which has been reported by one owner. Additionally, one owner has reported a problem with the manual transmission.
The electrical system is another area of concern for the 1996 Grand Am. Several owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the instrument panel and electrical wiring. One owner reported having to replace the instrument panel and experiencing trouble with the electrical system. Another owner reported that the car would not shift out of park and was blowing the ERLS fuse. This issue required re-wiring the car, which cost $500 to fix.
Engine problems are also common in the 1996 Grand Am. One owner reported that the car would shut off while driving, and the dealer could not find anything wrong with it. Another owner reported that the car would not idle and would drop RPMs while driving, running roughly. This issue was attributed to a possible problem with the EGR, which could be stuck open.
Other common problems reported by owners include issues with the water pump and front disk brakes/rotors. Water pumps tend to go out on these cars, and cross-drilled or slotted rotors are recommended for replacement.
In conclusion, the 1996 Pontiac Grand Am has several common problems that affect the transmission, electrical system, and engine. These issues can be costly to repair and may require extensive work to resolve. It is essential to be aware of these problems and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Pontiac Grand Am get?
Fuel & MPG
304.0/456.0 mi. 15.2 gal.
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 ...
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Pontiac Grand Am get?
Fuel & MPG
304.0/456.0 mi. 15.2 gal.
1996 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Pontiac Grand am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Pontiac Grand am
The NHTSA has received 488 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Pontiac Grand am. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Pontiac Grand am vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-12
- VIN: 1G2NE52M6TC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING DOWN HIWAY THE CAR DIED I TURNED IT TO THE RIGHT TO GET OFF THE HIWAY AND THE AIRBAG ON DRIVERS SIDE EXPLODED, I HAD THE CAR TOWED AND WAS TOLD THE PASS KEY SYSTEM OR THEFT SYSTEM WENT BAD IN IGNITION SWITCH AND NO EXPLANATION WHY AIR BAG WENT OFF? OR HOW TO FIX ANY OF IT, THIS IS NOW JULY AND I AM STILL HAVING PROBLEMS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG WHEN OFF WHEN I WAS WAITING TO PULL AUT OFF PARKING LOT. HAVE INJURY TO MY SHOULDER.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G2NW12M8TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DRIVER AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-04
- VIN: 1G2NE12M0TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS LEAVING MY PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT, HAD JUST BACKED OUT OF MY PARKING SPOT AND PUT THE CAR IN DRIVE. STARTED MOVING FORWARD AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. NO BUMPS, NO CONTACT WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. JUST DEPLOYED. STEERING WHEEL PARTS HIT MY ARM, BRUISED IT PRETTY WELL. HAVE SINCE PURCHASED ANOTHER VEHICLE. *TR
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-03
- VIN: 1G2NE52T1TM
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR WOULD NOT START. STEERING LOCKED AND TRANSMISSION STUCK IN PARK.KEY WOULD NOT TURN. TOWED CAR HOME. REMOVED THE IGNITION SWITCH AND FOUND THE IGNITION LOCK HAD MELTED. THE OBVIOUS FIRE HAZARD PROMPTED A RECALL SEARCH FOR THE MAKE AND MODEL FINDING AN IGNITION RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED. I CONTACTED PONTIAC CUSTOMER SERVICE. THE REPRESENTATIVE ASKED ME IF MY VIN WAS COVERED. I HAVE CONFIRMED THE VIN IS ON THE RECALL LIST ALTHOUGH THE REP. FAILED TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS. THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE RECALL, POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD AND VALIDITY OF MY COMPLAINT WAS IGNORED AND [XXX] (PONTIAC REP.) WOULD NOT ASSIST ME FURTHER. I AM STUCK NOW WITH TRYING TO RESOLVE GETTING MY CAR REPAIRED IN A TIMELY MANNER. PLEASE ADVISE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-29
- VIN: 1G2NE52T6TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS WHERE IT WAS ADVISED TO THE CONTACT THAT THE SENSOR WAS DISCONNECTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-19
- VIN: 1G2NW12TXTC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I STARTED MY CAR IN A PARKING LOT AND WAS DRIVING APPROX 10MPH WHEN THE CAR DIED ALMOST IMMEDIATELY, AFTER RESTART, IT DID IT AGAIN. THEN, IT WOULDN'T EVEN TURN OVER. I HAD IT TOWED TO A MECHANIC WHO TOLD ME THAT IT WAS PROBABLY A BAD FUEL PUMP. TURNS OUT IT WAS THE PONTIAC ANTI-THEFT DEVICE THAT WAS KEEPING IT FROM STARTING. WHEN YOUR KEY STARTS GETTING WORN AND ROUNDED OFF, (AS MOST KEYS DO AFTER SOME USE!) THE THEFT SYSTEM LOCKS YOUR CAR UP. THERE IS NO FIX FOR THIS PROBLEM OTHER THAN REPLACING THE ECU, IGNITION SYSTEM, KEY TUMBLER, OR A COMBINATION OF THE SAME, AND REPROGRAMMING IT, WHICH COSTS UPWARDS OF 1000.00 THIS ANTI THEFT SYSTEM IS PREVENTING ME FROM USING MY LAWFULLY OWNED CAR! THE ONLY WAY TO FIX IT IS TO HAVE A DEALERSHIP REPLACE DEFECTIVE PONTIAC PARTS. AN ANTI THEFT SYSTEM SHOULD BE A PREVENTATIVE MEASURE TO KEEP CROOKS FROM BOOSTING YOUR CAR, NOT SOMETHING THAT WILL COST THE OWNER MORE MONEY LATER WHEN THEIR KEY WEARS DOWN! WORSE YET, IF THE CAR IS DISABLED ON A HIGHWAY AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKS UP, YOU RISK KILLING YOURSELF OR OTHERS ON THE ROAD! THIS HAS GOT TO BE A SAFETY VIOLATION AND A RED FLAG FOR A RECALL. I'M GOING TO PROBABLY SELL THIS RAT-TRAP FOR SCRAP/CRUSH VALUE TO A JUNK YARD AND BUY ANOTHER CAR, SO ALTHOUGH THIS COMPLAINT WON'T BENEFIT ME, HOPEFULLY MY COMMENT WILL HELP SOMEONE ELSE WHO IS HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THEIR POS PONTIAC. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE52T2TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM THE PARK, DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG WENT OFF, BURST OF POWDER AND HORN BLOWING, SCRAPED RIGHT HAND. WAS ABLE TO PULL TO SIDE OF ROAD AND UNDO FUSE TO HORN. FOUND OUT BY GOING ONLINE MANY OTHERS HAVE HAD THIS HAPPEN IS THERE ANY RECOURSE TO THIS THAT I CAN FOLLOW UP ON? NOTE: IT SEEMS GMC HAS KNOWN ABOUT THIS AND REALLY SHOULD HAVE RECALLED THESE VEHICLES OR TAKEN THEM OFF THE ROAD, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH COULD HAVE HAPPENED IF THESE BLOW WITHOUT CAUSE. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE12M3TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAD JUST TURNED MY CAR ON AND PUT IT IN REVERSE TO BACK OUT OF A PARKING SPOT. I ONLY MOVED ABOUT TWO INCHES BACKWARDS, NOT EVEN GOING OVER 5 MPH, WHEN THE AIR BAG RANDOMLY DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. IT HIT ME ON THE LEFT SIDE OF MY HEAD/NECK, CHEST, AND ARM RESULTING IN CUTS, BURNS, AND BRUISES IN THOSE AREAS. MY LEFT EAR STARTED RINGING AND I MOMENTARILY LOST HEARING ON THAT SIDE. I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING WITH MY VEHICLE NOR DID SOMETHING HIT ME. MY CAR DID NOT EVEN LEAVE THE PARKING SPOT BEFORE THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED. AFTER I GAINED COMPOSURE AND REALIZED WHAT HAD JUST HAPPENED, I MADE MY WAY OUT OF THE CAR AND A MAN WHO WITNESSED EVERYTHING WALKED ME TO THE FIRE DEPARTMENT NEAR BY. MY CUTS WERE TENDED TO AND I WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE FOR FURTHER TREATMENT AND EXAMINING. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE52TXTM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY WHILE THE CONTACT WAS SEATED IN THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT. THE AIR BAG WAS ON FIRE AND IGNITED THE JACKET THAT THE CONTACT WAS WEARING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTED TO THE SCENE AND A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TAPED THE AIR BAG INTO THE DASHBOARD IN ORDER FOR THE CONTACT TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS OR REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE52M8TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH THE DRIVERS SIDE AIR BAG EXPLODED AND THEN THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG EXPLODED. AFTER THE EXPLOSION THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO DRIVE HOME AND PARK THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAG HIT HER IN THE CHEST BUT SHE DID NOT GO TO THE HOSPITAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, FOUND NO OTHER DAMAGE AND CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER OFFERED HER $500 AS A BUY BACK FOR THE VEHICLE. COMPLAINT FILE#297715 WAS FILED WITH THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 146,242.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-21
- VIN: 1G2NE52T9TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED OR REPAIRED BY A DEALER OR MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO CALL BACK THE FOLLOWING DAY. THE VEHICEL WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 230,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2NW12M4TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL - THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM . THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT ANY EXPLANATION. HE ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE AIR BAG ITSELF HAD BURN MARKS. THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 180,000. PM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-30
- VIN: 1G2NE52T4TM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM KEEPS ACTIVATING. HAD KEY SWITCH AND INSTRUMENT CLUSTER REPLACED. STILL HAPPENING!!!!! *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-07
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING OUR 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM AT APPROXIMATELY 30MPH WHEN THE AIRBAG SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-12
- VIN: 1G2NE12T3TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL-THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE CONTACT HAD JUST PUT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION WHEN THE DRIVERS AIRBAG DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT WAS THEN DRIVING AT 30MPH WHEN THE PASSENGERS AIRBAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT A CRASH. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY STATED THAT THEY NEEDED TO INSPECT IT. AFTER THE INSPECTION WAS DONE THEY TOLD HIM THE WIRES WERE CORRODED WHICH CAUSED THE DEPLOYMENT. THERE HAVE BEEN NO REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE AND THEY STATED THIS ISSUE CAN'T BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 185000.CV
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-28
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2NW12T9TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS TRAVELING ALONG THE HIGHWAY GOING EXACTLY 60 MPH WHEN SOMETHING POPPED CAUSING ME TO LOSE CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE ( ALL PASSENGERS WERE IN SEAT BELTS) WE SLID DOWN A DITCH HITTING A LIGHT POLE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO COME TO A STOP NEITHER THE DRIVER OR THE PASSENGER BAG DEPLOYED. WE WERE TRAVELING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED AND THE AIR BAGS MALFUNCTIONED CAUSING MY FIANCE TO HIT HER HEAD ON THE DASH. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-01
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE12M2TM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WATER GETTING INTO VEHICLE SOMEWHERE BEHIND FIREWALL. STARTED APPROXIMATELY 1YR. AGO. CAUSED ALL LIGHTS ON DASH TO LIGHT UP, NOW VEHICLE WILL NOT START, COULD NOT AFFORD TO HAVE PONTIAC FIX, ALTHOUGH THEY DID ISSUE A WARNING REGARDING ISSUE, BUT WILL NOT HELP WITH REMEDY. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-01
- VIN: 1G2NW12T4TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE ONTO THE EMERGENCY LANE AND WRAP THE DEFLATED AIR BAG TO KEEP IT FROM OBSTRUCTING HIS VISION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 175,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-11
- VIN: 1G2NE52T3TC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE AND THE DRIVER SIDE HAD TWO INCHES OF RAIN IN THE VEHICLE BUT WAS UNABLE TO IDENTIFY WHERE IT WAS COMING FROM. THE THEFT SYSTEM ACTIVATED AND THE VEHICLE RESPONDED AS IF IT WERE STOLEN WHICH MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO START THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO HAD A LOT OF MAJOR COMPONENTS REPAIRED ON THE VEHICLE AND THE FAILURE CONTINUED TO OCCUR. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO TO ASSIST WITH THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS CURRENTLY 141,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-13
- VIN: 1G2NE12M7TM
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE A 1996 PONITAC GRAND AM THAT HAS WATER IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. GM SENT A LETTER STATING THAT THE AIR BAG MODULE COULD DEPLOY THE AIR BAGS WITH WARNING WHILE DRIVING WITHOUT A CRASH OR WHEN THE KEY IS TURN ON. THIS HAS MANY COMPLAINTS BUT NO ONE IS DOING ANYTHING. AS A AUTO TECH FOR MY OWN SAFETY AS WELL OF OTHERS THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL AND OF THE EFFECTIVE YEARS OR 96-98 GRAND AMS. THEY SAID INJURIES HAVE BEEN REPORTED ALREADY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-08
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: GM PASS LOCK SYSTEM ON A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM WONT ALLOW CAR TO START STRANDING ME AT WORK. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-05
- VIN: 1G2NE52M6TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY AIRBAG DEPLOYED UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS (NO IMPACT/CRASH, NO DAMAGE, ETC.) AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH, I LEARNED THAT IT COULD BE DUE TO THE FACT THAT MY CAR WAS WET (NOT FLOODED.) I SUFFERED BRUSH BURNS UP MY FOREARMS. I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM PONTIAC STATING THAT THEY ARE AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM, HOWEVER, THERE IS NO RECALL AND IT IS UP TO THE OWNER TO FIX IT (AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE.) IF PONTIAC IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM, AND SENT OUT MILLIONS OF LETTERS, THEY SHOULD ISSUE A RECALL. AT THE VERY LEAST, THEY SHOULD PAY FOR THE DAMAGES/REPAIRS. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE52T1TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED IN THE CONTACT'S FACE. THERE WAS NO IMPACT OR CRASH AT THE TIME OF THE DEPLOYMENT. SHE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, BUT MANAGED TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT WAS THE ONLY OCCUPANT IN THE VEHICLE AND SHE WAS WEARING HER SEAT BELT AT THE TIME. SHE SUFFERED SEVERE CHEMICAL BURNS ALL OVER HER FACE AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM FOR HER INJURIES. THE CONTACT HAS NOT YET NOTIFIED PONTIAC. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-27
- VIN: 1G2NW52M8TC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 PONTIAC GRAND AM. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
1996 Pontiac Grand am recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1996 Pontiac Grand am.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMP MODULES / MODULE RESERVOIR ASSEMBLIES (MRA) THAT WERE SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE MRAS VENT AND FUEL RETURN TUBES WERE REVERSED. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN THE VEHICLE NOT RUNNING CORRECTLY (IDLE ROUGH AND/OR STALL) DUE TO AN OVERLY RICH FUEL BLEND OR THE VEHICLE'S EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CARBON CANISTER MAY LEAK FUEL.
- Consequence: A STALLED VEHICLE CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. A FUEL LEAK CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE MRAS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 1-877-335-7443.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE ENGINE FAILS TO START AND THE DRIVER HOLDS THE KEY IN THE "START" POSITION FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD, HIGH CURRENT FLOWS THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND SOMETIMES PRODUCES ENOUGH HEAT TO MELT INTERNAL SWITCH PARTS.
- Consequence: IF THE SWITCH IS DAMAGED, A FIRE COULD OCCUR IN THE STEERING COLUMN, EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF AND THE KEY REMOVED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RELAY KIT IN THESE VEHICLES TO PREVENT HIGH CURRENT FROM FLOWING THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 27, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR THE INTERIOR LAMPS TO COME ON UNEXPECTEDLY WHILE THE VEHICLES ARE BEING DRIVEN. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 101, "CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS."
- Consequence: THE INTERIOR LAMPS COMING ON UNEXPECTEDLY COULD STARTLE A DRIVER CAUSING A MOMENTARY LOSS OF CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL RUN A DIAGNOSTIC TEST ON THE LAMP CONTROL MODULE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE IT.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS
- Summary: THE FRONT AND/OR REAR HAZARD WARNING LAMPS (FOUR-WAY FLASHERS) DO NOT FLASH WHEN THE HAZARD SWITCH IS ACTIVATED. THIS FAILS TO COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: IF THESE LAMPS WERE NOT FLASHING, OTHER VEHICLES WOULD NOT BE AWARE THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS STOPPED INCREASING THE RISK OF AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS OR VEHICLE OWNERS WILL INSPECT FOR PROPER FUNCTION OF THE HAZARD WARNING LAMPS. IF NECESSARY, DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HAZARD LAMP SWITCH.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
- Summary: THE STEERING COLUMN LOWER PINCH BOLT WAS NOT PROPERLY TIGHTENED DURING ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence: AN UNDERTORQUED PINCH BOLT CAN RATTLE AND CAUSE LOOSENESS IN THE STEERING SYSTEM. IF THE PINCH BOLT BACKED OUT OF THE JOINT COMPLETELY, ROTATION OF THE STEERING SHAFT AGAINST THE CONNECTOR COULD CAUSE INCREASING LOOSENESS IN THE STEERING SYSTEM AND RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING AND AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING COLUMN PINCH BOLT FOR CORRECT TORQUE AND, IF NECESSARY, TIGHTEN THE BOLT TO THE SPECIFIED TORQUE.
Negative 1996 Pontiac Grand am car reviews
Positive 1996 Pontiac Grand am car reviews
-
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it new and I've been really happy with it overall. It always starts up without any issues and runs smoothly. Plus, I'm getting an average of 33 MPG, which is great! :)
-
I've had this car for just over 4 years now and have had only one thing go wrong other than routine things like brakes and such. The tumbler on my ignition went out but was covered under warranty. That was almost 3 years ago. Other than that, this car has been nothing but reliable. I will certainly be buying another GA in the future.
-
This was my first new vehicle purchase and overall it was a great car for me. I am now selling it with 116K miles driven and I am sorry to see it go. Unfortunately, during the first weekend I had it, the trunk seal failed and rain water filled the trunk due to a defective seal. Additionally, I had a problem with the driver side mirror adjuster breaking twice early on. Lastly, there was a pinhole in the transmission, but luckily it was under warranty and was replaced for free. Despite these issues, I was happy with the car and believe it was a great value for the price.
-
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that you recently purchased a Pontiac car for $1900 with 98k on it. That's great! I've had good experiences with Pontiacs in the past too. It sounds like the pick-up is great and it handles extremely well. The paint is also excellent, which is always a plus. I understand that the shifter is a bit funky, but the 5 speed with four cylinders will definitely save you some gas. 150 ponies is pretty impressive for a GM 4 banger! I did notice that there's some clunking coming from the driver's side front, which could be related to the suspension or cv joints. Overall, it sounds like you made a great purchase and I hope you continue to enjoy your new car!
-
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my Grand Am. I bought it back in January of '04 (it was my first car!) with 63,900 miles on it. Since then, I've put on about 3,000 miles and I'm happy to say that it hasn't given me a single problem! I did have to change the Serpentine Belt because I didn't like the squeaking noise, but that was an easy fix. I also had the transmission serviced, oil changed, and a new fuel filter installed at 66,033 miles. I'm really hoping to have a long life with this car! Thanks for listening.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Pontiac Grand am problems:
2001 Pontiac Grand Am GT 3.4L Engine - Q&A on Common Problems
Jul 7, 2014 ... I have a 2001 Pontiac Grand Am GT with a 3.4L engine. All was fine when I came home from work on Friday. Saturday - Answered by a verified ...
Pontiac Grand Am Electrical/Lighting Problems — Car Forums at ...
Jul 9, 2006 ... I have a 1996 Pontiac Grand Am with and I am experiencing some problems. The ETS/ABS light will not turn off. I took it to have the brakes ...
1996 Pontiac Grand Am Problems and Complaints - 23 Issues
Top 1996 Pontiac Grand Am Problems · No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil · "No Start" Due to ...
1996 Pontiac Grand Am Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 1996 Pontiac Grand Am? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Pontiac Grand Am Problems and Complaints - 47 Issues
Top Pontiac Grand Am Problems · No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil · Turn Signal Switch May Fail and ...
Other years of Pontiac Grand am
Are you having problems with your 1996 Pontiac Grand am?
Marc Ondricka 2024-11-02
Although my car had 3 recalls and experienced several failures, I can confidently say that I did everything in my power to maintain it. Despite the challenges, I was able to keep it running for 7 years and 37,000 miles. While it may not have been the most reliable car, I am proud of the effort I put into keeping it on the road.
Kendall Murray 2024-10-24
This car looks really sporty! I hope it sells fast. I bought it a year ago for 3000.00 and have put in over 1500.00 with another 1000.00 needed. Unfortunately, the AC compressor failed, water pump, power steering lines and hose, intake gasket, plenum gasket, valve cover gaskets and o-rings, and alternator all needed replacing. Now it has some suspension problems. Need I say more?
Timothy McCullough 2024-09-09
I purchased this car as a demo from a dealer with less than 3000 miles on it. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the car, including multiple replacements of the transmission, window motors, door locks, coil housing unit, catalytic converter, power steering unit, water pump, and oxygen sensors within three years. Additionally, there have been several repairs to gauges, fans, and pressure lines. Recently, I have had to have the car towed twice due to a starting issue that has yet to be resolved. Today, I received a recall notice from GM regarding a potential starting problem that could cause a fire. Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful that the issues will be resolved and I am grateful for the support of the dealership. Thank you for your understanding.
Monte Nikolaus 2024-08-10
Overall, I have enjoyed this car which I bought new. However, the mechanical reliability is questionable. The worst design flaw is the water pump, which is driven from the cam chain and requires a major stripdown of one side of the engine to replace. For a water pump!!! They cost over $500 to replace and last about 40000 miles. Pontiac, this was not a smart idea.
Fern O'Hara 2024-08-01
I've been the owner of this car since January of 1997. Unfortunately, the car has been experiencing chronic electrical problems for the past eight years. The power windows stopped working in March of 1998 and despite my efforts to have the problem fixed, the dealership did not address the issue until after the car was out of warranty. We have had to replace 4 factory radios, all of which were defective, but thankfully replaced for free. Additionally, the car has had some issues with the water pump. Looking back, I wish I had made a different choice when purchasing this car. While I have a love/hate relationship with this vehicle, the negative experiences have been more prominent.