1997 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 1997 Pontiac Grand am problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1997 Pontiac Grand Am, several common problems have been reported:
- Exhaust Leaks: Another common problem reported is exhaust leaks, which some owners have noted can actually make the car sound good. While the sound may be appealing to some, exhaust leaks can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and potential safety hazards due to exposure to exhaust fumes.
- Reliability Concerns: The 1997 Pontiac Grand Am has been associated with reliability issues, as reported by Kelley Blue Book. Understanding the reliability of this vehicle is crucial for owners to anticipate and address potential major repairs that may arise within the next 12 months.
These common problems highlight some of the challenges that owners of the 1997 Pontiac Grand Am may face. Addressing these issues promptly and proactively can help maintain the performance and safety 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.
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 was the last year they made the Pontiac Grand Am?
The Pontiac Grand AM is a mid-size sedan produced by Pontiac from 1973 to 2005.
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.
1997 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
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Pontiac Grand am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Pontiac Grand am
The NHTSA has received 428 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Pontiac Grand am. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Pontiac Grand am vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-20
- VIN: 1G2NE52M4VM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE THEFT WARNING SYSTEM KEEPS THE IGNITION SWITCH FROM ENGAGING. THE CAR WILL NOT START UNLESS THE KEY IS IN THE "ON" POSITION FOR FIFTEEN MINUTES AND RESETS THE SYSTEM. *TR
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-14
- VIN: 1G2NE12T1VM
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN TRYING TO START THE CAR THE STEERING LOCKS UP AND YOU HAVE TO MOVE THE STEERING WHEEL BACK AND FORTH FOR IT TO CATCH AND FINALLY WILL START LIKE IT KEEPS LOCKING UP. MY SON BOUGHT THIS CAR AS HIS FIRST CAR SO NO SURE HOW LONG IT HAS BEEN LIKE THIS DOING THIS AS WE PURCHASED FROM A FRIEND AND HE DID SAY THAT SOMETHING WAS UP WITH THE STEERING WHEN TRYING TO START.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-14
- VIN: 1G2NW52M0VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE IGNITION ON THIS COLLEGE STUDENTS 97 PONTIAC GRAND AM RANDOMLY DEFAULTS. IT WILL GET STUCK IN ON OR OFF POSITION. CAR SOMETIMES CONTINUES RUNNING. KEYES WILL LOCK IN THE IGNITION AND CAN NOT BE REMOVED. LIGHTS REMAIN ON WHILE KEYS ARE STUCK IN IGNITION. IGNITION GETS WARM. *JS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-12
- VIN: 1G2NW12M8VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I CANNOT DRIVE CAR WITH OUT SPEEDOMETER. THERE WAS A SERVICE BULLETIN #66-83-04A I FEEL THE DEALER SHOULD REPAIR THIS AT THERE COST. IT IS NOT SAFE DRIVING IT WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO SEE SPEED. THE DEALER SAYS IT COST 450.00 THE VSS IS WORKING FINE. I BUY A LOT OF CARS. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-04
- VIN: 1G2NE12M6VC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE MOST RECENT OF PROBLEMS IS MY STEERING WENT OUT ON ME WHILE TURNING IN TO A PARKING LOT. HAD MY MECHANIC LOOK AT IT AND HE SAID IT WAS THE RACK AND PINION SEAL THAT CAUSED IT TO POUR OUT THE FLUID. I HAVE ALSO HAD MANY OTHER PROBLEMS SUCH AS GAS LEAKING EVEN THOUGH ALL LINES WERE REPLACED. POWER STEERING LINE REPLACED DUE TO PIN HOLE LEAKS, MULTIPLE WHEEL BEARINGS, RADIATOR. IGNITION SWITCH, AND ONE OF THE SENSORS IN THE UPPER BACK SIDE OF THE MOTOR SOMEHOW CAME UNDONE AND MELTED THE CONNECTOR AND CAUSED A DEAD SHORT IN MY CAR. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-11
- VIN: 1G2NW12M8TC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT STARTED THE IGNITION BUT THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY STALLED. THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED ON A SEPARATE OCCASION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED TO THE CONTACT THAT THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICE WOULD REQUIRE REPLACEMENT. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 07E021000 (FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER: STORAGE: TANK ASSEMBLY: PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES) BUT THE CONTACT'S VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-18
- VIN: 1G2NE52T8VC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I HAVE BROUGHT A SET OF FOUR TIRE FROM FIRESTONE DOT NUMBER IS H Y C 6 38B 3896 DUR3M365182 P195/65R15 SO THE TIRES START WHAT DO I DO ABOUT THIS TO COME A PART THE FRIST TIME THIS HAPPEN I BROUGHT TO TIRES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-01
- VIN: 1G2NW12M5VC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM GT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED A STRONG FUEL ODOR. THE FUEL CAP WAS REPLACED BUT THE ODOR PERSISTED WITH THE ILLUMINATION OF THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED AN EVAPORATION LEAK CODE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND WOULD NOT ASSIST WITH THE REPAIR DUE TO THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 95,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 126,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-05
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: 1G2NW12M3VC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM. WHILE TRAVELING 70 MPH, BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT SIDE AIRBAGS HAD DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 189,000. UPDATED 02/01/118 LJ THE CONSUMER AND HER PASSENGER WERE INJURED DUE TO THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAGS. UPDATED 03/18/11 *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-25
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE PASSLOCK ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM IN MY 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM GT IS A FAILED PIECE OF JUNK THAT NEVER SHOULD HAVE BEEN PUT INTO ANY VEHICLE. GM SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CORRECTING THIS SITUATION AS MANY, MANY INDIVIDUALS ARE SPENDING TOO MUCH MONEY NOT HAVING THIS SITUATION FIXED. MOST MECHANICS ARE AT A LOSS. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-05
- VIN: 1G2NW52M6VC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COOLANT LEVELS IN RESERVE TANK ALWAYS WOULD DROP BELOW MINIMUM LEVELS, AND WE WOULD CONTINUE TO ADD COOLANT. LAST OIL CHANGE IN JUNE 2009 REVIEW NO PROBLEM. NOVEMBER 2009, WHILE SON WAS DRIVING HOME FROM COLLEGE (APPROXIMATELY 80 MILES) CAR BEGAN TO OVERHEAT WITH TEMP GAUGE READING IN THE RED. HAD CAR TOWED TO LOCAL SHOP AND REPORTED THAT COOLANT HAD LEAKED INTO CORE, ENGINE DESTROYED (ESTIMATED REPAIR - NEED NEW/REMANUFACTURED ENGINE $2500-3000). SEEMS WHILE REVIEWING THIS SUBJECT ONLINE AND W/NHTSA WEB SITE THAT THIS HAS BEEN A RE-OCCURRING PROBLEM WITH 1997 PONTIACS 4 AND 6 CYLINDER ENGINES. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-23
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: COOLING SYSTEM IS FAILING ALL THE TIME ON ALL PONTIACS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM INTAKE MANIFOLD BLOW 5 TIMES AT 50.00 MILES OIL MIXES WITH THE COOLANT AND ALL THE SMOKE FROM THAT GOES IN THE AIR IT IS A MAJOR PROBLEM AND THAN THE CARS ARE JUNK SO THAN EVERYBODY WHO BUYS PONTIAC THEY ARE BUYING A LEMON CARS EVEN IF IT BRAND NEW FROM THE SHOP. *TR
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-01
- VIN: 1G2NE12M0VM
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1) FIREWALL BODY SEAM LEAKS WATER INTO PASSENGER COMPARTMENT DUE TO RUST THROUGH. FILLS FLOORS BENEATH CARPETS WITH WATER. CAUSES AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE (SDM) UNDER PASSENGER'S SEAT TO FAIL DUE TO MOISTURE. ACTIVATES "AIR BAR" DASH LIGHT. GM HAS ISSUED A LETTER RELATED TO "FLOOD" CARS. IT GOES BEYOND FLOODS!!!! THIS IS A DEFECTIVE DESIGN & BUILD PROBLEM. 2) WATER ENTERS EVERY TIME IT RAINS. THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE (SDM) LOCATED UNDER THE PASSENGER SEAT (STUPID DESIGN) HAS FAILED DUE TO MOISTURE UNDER THE CARPETING. "AIR BAG" LIGHT IS TRIGGERED AND GM WARNS THAT AIR BAG(S) COULD DEPLOY WITHOUT WARNING!!! 3) I HAVE REMOVED THE 10A AIR BAG FUSE AND DISCONNECTED BOTH AIR BAGS BY UNPLUGGING WIRES TO THE INFLATORS. GM SAYS THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE (SDM) NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AT MY EXPENSE. NO THANK-YOU, GM SHOULD COVER REPLACEMENT AND FIREWALL REPAIRS TO PREVENT RECURRENCE, PERIOD. THIS IS THE 2ND CASE OF FIREWALL WATER LEAKAGE I HAVE SEEN ON THE GM "N" BODIED CARS. THE OTHER WAS AN OLDS ACHIEVA WITH THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE RUST OUT AREAS FROM BOTH VEHICLES. GM SHOULD BE MADE TO RECALL & REPAIR THESE CARS - FREE OF CHARGE TO THE OWNERS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-18
- VIN: 1G2NW52M2VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE HAD SEVERAL PROBLEMS WITH MY 1997 GRAND AM GT SINCE PURCHASING IT. I HAVE REPLACED THE IGNITION SWITCH THREE TIMES IN ONE YEAR, THE SERVICE COSTS ARE $900.00 IN TOTAL. I CAN'T UNDERSTAND HOW THE SAME THING KEEPS BREAKING EVERY 3 MONTHS. MY WINDOWS GET STUCK AND DON'T WANT TO ROLL UP, IT HAS POWER WINDOWS. I WAS REAR ENDED IN 2003, BUT OTHER THAN THAT, NO DAMAGE DONE TO MY CAR. WHAT CAN I DO? JUST KEEP REPLACING IGNITION SWITCHES EVERY 3 MONTHS? I HAVE GOTTEN WRITTEN UP AT WORK FOR MY CAR NOT STARTING. I DO NOT HAVE TRIPLE A. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-19
- VIN: 1G2NW52M5VC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: IGNITION WON'T TURN TO THE OFF POSITION. I HAVE TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY SO I DON'T DRAIN IT. I HAVE TO LEAVE MY KIDS IN THE HOT CAR WHILE I DO THIS. OR PAY $200 THAT I DON'T HAVE TO GET IT FIXED. I HAVE FOUND MANY OTHER PEOPLE THAT HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD IT COULD BE THE SENSOR ON THE TRANSMISSION THAT TELLS THE CAR ITS IN PARK. WHATEVER THE PROBLEM IS IT HAPPENS TO A LOT OF VEHICLES. I UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE TO MAINTAIN MY CAR BUT I DON'T SEE WHY SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE THIS PROBLEM. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-17
- VIN: 1G2NE12T4VC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM. IN RAINY WEATHER CONDITIONS, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE BECAME COMPLETELY SATURATED WITH WATER. TWO YEARS LATER, THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTICE ADVISING CONSUMERS THAT THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE COULD FAIL AND ALLOW WATER TO ENTER THE VEHICLE, CAUSING UNEXPECTED AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT AND FLOODING. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE LETTER WAS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND THAT THEY WOULD NOT ASSUME ANY FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COSTLY REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-16
- VIN: 1G2NW52M0VC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT CONSTANTLY SMELLS ANTIFREEZE AND IT HAS LEAKED ONTO THE FRONT AND BACK FLOORS OF THE VEHICLE. SHE NOTICED THAT THE FLOORS WERE WET, BUT NEVER PAID ATTENTION TO IT UNTIL SHE REMOVED THE FLOORMATS AND SAW THE GREEN ANTIFREEZE. AS OF APRIL 16, 2008, THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR A MECHANIC. THE POWERTRAIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 97,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-25
- VIN: 1G2NW12T4VC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: PASSLOCK SYSTEM TURNED CAR OFF IN MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY HAD TO PUSH CAR TO SIDE OF ROAD WITH 100'S OF CARS PASSING ME AT 65 MPH (LIFE THREATENING) RESET PASSLOCK BUT HAS DONE THE SAME 4 TIMES. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-12
- VIN: 1G2NE52M4VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE ANTI-THEFT DEVICES ARE MALFUNCTIONING. THEY ARE OFTEN LEAVING CODES AND POPPING ON MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE52T5VM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM. WHILE DRIVING 30-35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF AND ON THREE DIFFERENT TIMES. THE WINDOWS WOULD NOT ROLL UP AND DOWN PROPERLY UNLESS CONTROLLED BY THE DRIVER'S SIDE CONTROL SWTICH. THE FOG LIGHTS DO NOT WORK AS WELL AND THE FUSES ARE CHARRED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT YET BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 128,728.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-03
- VIN: 1G2NE12T9VC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 1) FRONT ABS BEGAN TO PULSATE AS IF THE VEHICLE WERE IN A SKID HOWEVER THIS HAPPENED DURING NORMAL DRIVING AND BRAKING WHEN ATTEMPTING TO STOP. 2) ABS WIRING HARNESS WAS FAULTY DUE TO WEAR AND TEAR FROM TURNING THE WHEEL 3) HAD TO REPLACE BOTH FRONT RIGHT AND LEFT ABS WIRING HARNESSES THIS BRAKING SYSTEM IS FAULTY AND CAN LEAD TO SERIOUS BRAKING ISSUES. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GENE52T7VL
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM TIRE BLEW CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL AND END UP IN A DITCH. *KB THE VEHICLE HAD DAMAGE TO THE REAR AXLE AND LEFT SIDE MIRROR. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT)*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-15
- VIN: 1G2NE52M6VM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF AT A STOP WITHOUT WARNING. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CAUSED THE FAILURE. AS OF OCTOBER 15, 2007, THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAD NOT REPAIRED THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HER VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 02V070000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: IGNITION: SWITCH). THE CONTACT FELT THAT HER VEHICLE SHOULD BE INCLUDED AS PART OF THE RECALL. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 150,000. UPDATED 01/11/08. *LJ THE DEALER STATED ENGINE REPLACED IN JUNE. UPDATED 12/12/07 *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-01
- VIN: 1G2NE52T7VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE IGNITION KEY CONTINUES TO GET LOCK OR STUCK IN THE IGNITION. THIS REPRESENTS A SECONDARY SAFETY ISSUE IN THAT CAR HAS KEY IN THE IGNITION AT ALL TIMES. BATTERY COULD DRAIN LEAVING PASSENGERS AND DRIVERS STRANDED IN UNSAFE OR UNABLE TO REACT TO UNSAFE SITUATIONS (CRIMINAL PURSUERS, ASSAILANTS, ETC). BECAUSE YOUR CAR HAS BEEN DRAIN DUE TO AN IGNITION DEFECT THAT LOCKS YOUR KEY IN THE IGNITION. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G2NE12TXVM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM. THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND SPARKS UNDERNEATH THE HOOD WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE WIRE HARNESS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, BUT DID NOT MAKE THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE IS EXCLUDED FROM RECALL # 97V059000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD). THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 102,715.
1997 Pontiac Grand am recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 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: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
- Summary: THE PROTECTIVE COVER FOR THE UNDERHOOD FUSE CENTER WAS OMITTED. WITHOUT THIS COVER, THE POSITIVE TERMINAL BOLT ON THE FUSE BLOCK IS EXPOSED AND CAN CONTACT THE INSULATED NEGATIVE BATTERY CABLE. IF THE INSULATION ON THE NEGATIVE CABLE BECOMES SUFFICIENTLY WORN, AN ELECTRICAL SHORT CIRCUIT CAN OCCUR BETWEEN THE POSITIVE TERMINAL AND NEGATIVE CABLE RESULTING IN EXTREMELY HIGH CURRENT FLOW.
- Consequence: THIS HIGH CURRENT FLOW CAN CAUSE ARCING AND RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES FOR THE PRESENCE OF THE PROTECTIVE COVER AND, IF NECESSARY, INSTALL A PROTECTIVE COVER TO THE UNDERHOOD FUSE CENTER.
Negative 1997 Pontiac Grand am car reviews
Positive 1997 Pontiac Grand am car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it way back in August of 1996 and it's been a great ride ever since! The only issue I had was last year when my driver side power window stopped working, but the dealer took care of it for me. I've put 89,000 miles on it and it still has the power to get up and go. I did have to replace the brakes and rotors twice, but besides that, the car is sound. Overall, I highly recommend the Grand Am GT. Thanks for listening!
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I purchased my Grand Am GT in early 98 with 7500 miles. I now have 128000 on it and it has been very good to me. I've maintained it well. I have had few problems. I replaced the water pump at around 65,000 miles. Both window regulators have went bad. I also just replaced the alternator. Overall I think it has been pretty good. It still runs, drives, and looks like new although now there are some rattles in the interior. The door panels are made cheep. The factory stereo/wCD sounds great although the display quit working. I have the 2.4/auto combination. It performs well. Power is good. It also delivers outstanding fuel economy. I recently drove half way
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Great choice for Quality, Safety, and Reliability. I really appreciate some of its features more than those of other larger vehicles I've owned.
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Great little ride! I was originally considering a Honda or Toyota, but ended up choosing an American model due to the price options. In addition to the great fuel economy, I absolutely love this car!
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The 2.4 4 cyl engine gave us the perfect balance between power and economy that we were looking for. To our surprise, we were able to purchase it for $2000 less than we had expected. Even today, four years later, we still get an average of 31 mpg and it has 230,000 miles on it. The only issue we had was when the water pump went out at about 75,000 miles, but thankfully the 6 month warranty extension we purchased covered that repair. It still has great acceleration when we need to pass someone going 65 MPH, picking up quickly and allowing us to get around the other driver without any delay. We're happy to report that everything is still tight and nothing has come/fallen off of the interior or exterior.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Pontiac Grand am problems:
1997 Pontiac Grand Am Problems and Complaints - 43 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Pontiac Grand Am? Our list of 43 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Pontiac Grand Am.
Q&A: Troubleshooting 97 Grand Am Gauges | Pontiac Instrument ...
May 19, 2012 ... There is a micro processor internal in the instrument cluster that fails and this is what controls these gauges. When it fails the gauges wont ...
97 Pontiac Grand Am, rear wheel locking up... | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Jul 18, 2007 ... I've just bought a 1997 Pontiac Grand Am ... I had an '87 grand prix with the same exact problem. ... common problem with the front disc/rear drum ...
Q&A: 2004 Pontiac Grand Am Engine - Oil Type, Motor, Problems ...
Nov 11, 2020 ... This was a very common issue on this engine when the gaskets were replaced and I have seen mistakes made on the pushrod markings to where they ...
Grand Am Problems - Page 2 — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jun 12, 2000 ... Home › Pontiac › Pontiac Grand Am. Grand Am ... I have a 1997 Grand Am GT Coupe fully loaded. ... I am really looking forward to the transmission ...
Other years of Pontiac Grand am
Are you having problems with your 1997 Pontiac Grand am?
Elbert Mante 2025-01-08
The car looks great, but I've been experiencing some issues with the 4 Cyl manual engine. Unfortunately, the acceleration is not as strong as I had hoped. I'm not sure if there's a problem with the engine, but it's been a bit discouraging. Additionally, I've had some trouble with the engine sputtering shortly after starting, which can be a bit nerve-wracking when stuck in an intersection. On the bright side, the car has no rust and the fog lights are the only issue I've noticed. They appear to be burned out and a bit difficult to access. There are also some underbody flaps near the engine that are hanging down. Overall, I do like the car, but I've found that I need to rev over 3.5 rpm to get the horsepower I need.
Moshe Kihn 2024-10-17
Based on my personal experience, I would advise smart buyers to avoid the quad four engine and Pontiacs in general. My 97 Grand Am alone has cost me over $3000 in repairs. In my opinion, it may be more worthwhile for buyers to consider quality cars from overseas or Ford. Thank you for considering my advice.
Dallin Harris 2024-09-12
Until last week, I was a loyal Pontiac customer. However, when my water pump failed, I was shocked to learn that replacing it would cost over $800 due to the complexity of the Quad4 engine. Even my landlord, who owns an auto repair shop, refused to work on it. My husband is currently in the process of disassembling the engine just to access the water pump. Unfortunately, I have decided to sell the car within a month to avoid further expenses, including $1500 for a used head plus labor.
Leif Konopelski 2024-08-03
This vehicle is a great choice for single people who don't need much room in a car. However, it may be too small for a family. The car performs well and is a stable vehicle to have around.
Don Strosin 2024-07-07
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my Grand Am. I bought it back in '97 with only 4 miles on it, and now it has over 105,000! The only repair I've had to do was a water pump at around 50,000 miles. Other than normal maintenance, the car has not cost me anything. It runs great every day. I have the 4 cyl / 5 speed combo which works great. I do wish that they had offered the 5 speed with the 6 cyl engine, but overall, I've been very happy with my Grand Am.