1986 Pontiac Trans am 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 1986 Pontiac Trans am problems
The Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, produced in 1986, is known for several common issues that owners have reported. These issues range from mechanical and electrical problems to design flaws and cheap materials.
One of the most common problems is related to the ignition control module, which can fail and cause the engine to stall or prevent it from starting altogether. This can be a significant issue for drivers, especially if it occurs unexpectedly. To prevent this problem, it's essential to have the ignition system checked and replaced if necessary.
Another issue that can arise with the Trans Am is problems with the cooling system. This can include issues with the radiator, water pump, and cooling fans. These problems can cause the engine to overheat, which can result in engine damage if not addressed promptly. Overheating can be a severe problem for any vehicle, and it's crucial to have the cooling system checked regularly to prevent this issue from occurring.
The Trans Am is also prone to issues with the suspension system. This can include problems with the shocks, struts, and sway bars. These issues can cause the car to handle poorly, particularly in high-speed or cornering situations. To prevent this problem, it's essential to have the suspension system checked and maintained regularly.
The Trans Am is known to have issues with the braking system. Common problems include brake caliper failures, warped rotors, and brake fluid leaks. These issues can reduce the effectiveness of the braking system, which can be dangerous. To prevent this problem, it's essential to have the braking system checked and maintained regularly.
Finally, the Trans Am is known to have issues with the transmission. Common problems include slipping gears, delayed shifts, and complete transmission failure. Regular maintenance and inspections of the transmission can help to address these issues before they become more extensive and costly to repair.
In summary, the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, produced in 1986, is known for several common issues that owners have reported. These issues range from mechanical and electrical problems to design flaws and cheap materials. To prevent these problems from occurring, it's essential to have the vehicle regularly maintained and inspected by a qualified mechanic. By doing so, owners can ensure that their Trans Am is running smoothly and performing at its best.
What year is the most sought after Trans Am?
With only 1,555 ever made, the 1989 Pontiac Firebird Turbo Trans Am remains one of the most sought-after muscle cars on the market. This special edition 20th anniversary model was the official pace car for the 73rd running of the Indianapolis 500.
What engine did the 1986 Trans Am have?
5.0-liter V-8 engine
The SE and Trans Am were available with a 5.0-liter V-8 engine. The Trans Am was exclusively available with a fuel-injected V-8 that made 190hp when new. The “Tuned Port Injected” 350 cid V-8 was also available and rated at 210 horsepower.
What is the top speed of the 1986 Trans Am?
Data File
- Wheels:ZR1 19x9 front, 20x12 rear.
- Front tires:Michelin Pilot Sport 265/35/19.
- Rear tires:Michelin Pilot Sport 335/30/20.
- Fuel Octane:93.
- HP/TQ:1,407/1,110.
- Best ET/MPH:9.19/158.
- Best 60-ft time:1.45.
- Top Speed:253.
How much did a Trans Am cost in 1986?
As before, the TPI engine came only with four-speed automatic. The Trans Am's standard V-8 delivered 150 horsepower with a four-barrel carburetor and came with a five-speed manual. Prices took another hike, as the Trans Am's starting figure hit $12,395 ($400 more than an S/E).
What engine is in a 1986 Trans Am?
5.0-liter V-8 engine
The SE and Trans Am were available with a 5.0-liter V-8 engine. The Trans Am was exclusively available with a fuel-injected V-8 that made 190hp when new. The “Tuned Port Injected” 350 cid V-8 was also available and rated at 210 horsepower.
What is the best year of Trans Am?
- 7 1993 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 6 1997 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 5 1999 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 7.5/10. ...
- 4 1988 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8/10. ...
- 3 1989 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10. ...
- 2 2000 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10. ...
- 1 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: 8.5/10.
What is the top speed of the 1986 Trans Am?
Data File
- Wheels:ZR1 19x9 front, 20x12 rear.
- Front tires:Michelin Pilot Sport 265/35/19.
- Rear tires:Michelin Pilot Sport 335/30/20.
- Fuel Octane:93.
- HP/TQ:1,407/1,110.
- Best ET/MPH:9.19/158.
- Best 60-ft time:1.45.
- Top Speed:253.
Is the Trans Am a muscle car?
One of the most anticipated muscle car come-backs ever imagined, now on a modern platform… the rebirth of a muscle car legend. Reimagining the most popular American Muscle Cars of the past, Trans Am Worldwide is now taking orders on the most recent in their modern-day muscle car line up, the 70/SS.
1986 Pontiac Trans am car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Pontiac Trans am problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Tires problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Pontiac Trans am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Pontiac Trans am complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Pontiac Trans am.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1986-12-17
- VIN: 1G2FW87F1GL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MAKE: PONTIAC MODEL: FIREBIRD MODEL YEAR: 1986 MANUFACTURER: GENERAL MOTORS CORP. MFR'S REPORT DATE: MAY 04, 1990 NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 90V105000 EA90001 NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA90001 COMPONENT: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 1500000 SUMMARY: PLASTIC COMPONENTS OF SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES DO NOT CONTAIN AN ULTRA VIOLET STABILIZER, AND EXPOSURE TO DIRECT SUNLIGHT AND ELEVATED INTERIOR TEMPERATURES COULD WEAKEN THE PLASTIC COMPONENTS. CONSEQUENCE: THIS COULD RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF PLASTIC COMPONENTS WHICHCOULD PREVENT BUCKLE FROM LATCHING AND PROTECTING OCCUPANT IN A SUDDEN STOP ORACCIDENT. REMEDY: REPLACE OR REPAIR SEAT BELT BUCKLE. NOTES: SYSTEM: SEAT BELT BUCKLE.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-29
- VIN: 1G2FW87H5GL
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: KELLY SPRINGFIELD TIRES 245/5016R HUGGER GT-D. INNER TREADWALL HAS SEPARATED APPROX 1/2 ABOVE RIM, COMPLETELY AROUND TIRE. TIRE IS STILL INFLATED, BUT HAD A FAILURE OF FRONT RIGHT TIRE IN 1/2007. DID NOT SEE TIRE PRIOR TO REPLACEMENT OF TIRE BY FAMILY MEMBER. LEFT REAR TIRE HAS SAME SEPARATION BUT NOT YET AS SEVERE AS FRONT LEFT. CAR IS UTILIZED MOSTLY ON WEEKENDS AND HAS AMPLE TREAD REMAINING ON TIRE SURFACE. PICTURES AVAILABLE. HAVE NOT YET REPLACE TIRE AS I WILL TRANSIT TO STORE PURCHASE LOCATION 9/30/08 FOR ASSESSMENT. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-11
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I TRIED TO BRING IN MY 86 PONTIAC TRANS AM TO THE LOCAL GM DEALERSHIP (MIKE SMITH AUOTPLAZA) AND THEY REFUSED TO FIX A RECALL THAT WAS PUT OUT FOR DEFECTIVE SEATBELTS ON MY CAR. THEY SAID TIME HAD RAN OUT FOR ME TO GET THE WORK DOWN AND MY CAR WAS TOO OLD FOR THE RECALL. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2203-02-18
- VIN: FULLFILL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION LOCKED UP WHICH CAUSED THE REAR TIRES TO LOCK UP, WHICH MADE THE VEHICLE DIFFICULT TO CONTROL.*JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-13
- VIN: 1G2FW87H8GL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEEKING ASSISTANCE IN MAKING PONTIAC DIVISION ACKNOWLEDGE ITS RESPONSIBILITY IN TAKING CORRECTIVE ACTION ON AN OPEN RECALL NUMBER 90-C-03. THIS RECALL WAS COMPLETED BY DON SISK PONTIAC IN INDIANAPOLIS ON APRIL 1995. THE UNIT SUBSEQUENTLY FAILED IN NOV. 1999 AND WAS TAKEN TO THREE PONTIAC DEALERS IN SEARCH OF A REPAIR, FIELDS PONTIAC IN LAKE WALES, FL, DON SISK IN INDIANAPOLIS, AND COGGIN STARLING, 4425 W. VINE ST., KISSIMMEE, FL 34746, 407/847-8122 WHERE THE LAST REFUSAL TO HONOR THE DEFECTIVE RECALL WAS RECEIVED. THE PONTIAC ZONE MANAGER, DENNIS FERGUSON, WHO TAKES A NEGATIVE POSITION IN HONORING THIS PLEDGE MADE IN THE LETTER TO ME WHICH ACCOMPANIED THE RECALL, "IF YOU EVER HAVE ANY OF THE CONDITIONS OF THE RECALL OCCUR IN THE FUTURE - NO MATTER WHEN - CONTACT YOUR PONTIAC DEALER FOR THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE REPAIR. PLEASE KEEP THIS LETTER IN YOUR PONTIAC, ALONG WITH YOUR OWNERS MANUAL, SO THAT ANY FUTURE OWNER WILL ALSO KNOW OF THIS SITUATION." I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH PONTIAC AND HAVE A COMPLAINT FILE NUMBER WITH THEM OF 00017837. I HAVE HAD CONSTANT DISCUSSIONS WITH PONTIAC OVER THE PAST 3 DAYS WITH THE RESULT THAT PONTIAC'S OPERATIVES UP THROUGH JAN 26TH HAD NOT TAKEN THIS DISPUTE UP THE LINE, RATHER THEY TOOK IT DOWN TO THE ZONE MANAGER (FERGUSON) WHO DECLINED IT IN THE FIRST PLACE. AT THE LAST CONVERSATION THEY WERE TO GO TO HIGHER AUTHORITY BUT HAVING FAILED TO DO THAT IN THE FIRST PLACE I HAVE NO CONFIDENCE. NO SAFETY DEFECT (S) LISTED IN SUMMARY. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-12
- VIN: 1G2FW21F8HN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING SMELLED GAS FUMES. TOOK VEHICLE TO MECHANIC. NOTICED TOP OF TANK WAS SOFT & WAS BECOMING RUSTY DUE TO WATER ACCUMULATION. FUEL TANK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-30
- VIN: 1G2FW87F7GL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER SIDE SHOULDER BELT ANCHORS DO NOT WORK PROPERLY, CONSUMER CAN'T PULL THE SEAT BELTS OUT. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-23
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FIRE.(OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT).
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NOT SPECIFIED.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-14
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G2FW87H9GL
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT DOOR LATCH/STRIKER FAILURE. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Pontiac Trans am problems:
common 3rd gen problems - Third Generation F-Body Message ...
Mar 29, 2004 ... And what TA said, its not just Trans Ams.. all Firebird models can have that problem. GTATransAM's Avatar. GTATransAM , 03-30-2004 07:56 AM.
1986 trans am electrical issue | Firebird Nation
Nov 6, 2010 ... Ive tried everything but have an expensive mechanic look at it. are these issues common in older firebirds?
2.8L (173) on a 1986 Firebird problems - Third Generation F-Body ...
Sep 3, 2010 ... V6 - 2.8L (173) on a 1986 Firebird problems - hey all, OK I got my firebird drove from Indy,IN to Atlanta,GA the next day tried to get an ...
1986 Pontiac Firebird Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Faults: Struts and shocks, and steering linkage eventually wore out, but were very cheap to replace. The car has needed a new alternator about every 5 years ...
What to look for when buying a THIRD GEN FIREBIRD-If I Should ...
Feb 17, 2011 ... Common problem for the Pontiac Firebirds ... 1986 Pontiac Firebird $179 - $70 less than the Civic! ... 86 trans am 350 only costs $85. Save Share.
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