1989 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 1989 Pontiac Trans am problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are some common problems reported by owners of the 1989 Pontiac Trans Am:
- Suspension and Handling: While the GTA model boasted enhanced suspension features like the WS6 package, over time, components like shock absorbers and springs can wear out, affecting the car's stability and ride quality. Upgrading suspension components can be necessary to maintain the car's handling performance.
- Engine Performance: Some owners have reported concerns about engine performance, including potential issues with fuel injection, throttle response, and overall power delivery. These problems can impact the driving experience and may require thorough diagnostics to address effectively.
- General Wear and Tear: As with any older vehicle, wear and tear on various parts of the car, such as alternators, starter motors, and interior components, can lead to reliability issues. Regular maintenance and potentially costly repairs may be needed to keep the car in good working condition.
These common problems highlight the challenges that owners of the 1989 Pontiac Trans Am may face, ranging from engine performance issues to electrical and suspension concerns. Addressing these issues promptly through proper diagnostics and maintenance can help ensure the longevity and reliability of this classic muscle car.
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.
Is Firebird Trans Am reliable?
It ranks 2nd in reliability out of 17 eligible Pontiac models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems. The average Pontiac score is 11.72 while the Firebird comes in at 2.71.
How fast does a 1989 Trans Am go?
Thanks to its performance-oriented platform, the turbo T/A can run without a speed limiter. Thus freed, the turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 is able to push the Trans Am all the way up to 153 mph.
What is the rarest Trans Am?
1969 Trans Am
The '69 Trans Am is among the rarest of the rare 'Birds with fewer than 700 built—only eight were convertibles and all were Cameo White with Tyrol Blue stripes.
Is Firebird Trans Am reliable?
2000 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Ratings
| Rating Category | 2000 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Score |
|---|---|
| Average Reliability Score (9.6) | 10 |
| Average Running Costs Score (6.6) | 7 |
How fast does a 1989 Trans Am go?
Thanks to its performance-oriented platform, the turbo T/A can run without a speed limiter. Thus freed, the turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 is able to push the Trans Am all the way up to 153 mph.
How many 1989 Trans Am GTA were made?
1989 Pontiac Trans Am GTA Convertible
Only 139 Trans Am's were built with the 350 tuned port injection and automatic overdrive transmission. Of these, only 50 total convertibles were made and there were less than 30 Trans Am's with this color option.
Is the 3rd generation Firebird reliable?
The 3rd generation Firebird (1982—1992) has 11 owner complaints, mostly about engine problems. Overall it ranks 2nd in reliability out of 27 eligible Pontiac generations. Reliability rankings are based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems.
1989 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:
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Pontiac Trans am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1989 Pontiac Trans am complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Pontiac Trans am.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-01
- VIN: 1G2FW21FXKL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TILT STEERING COLUMN LOOSE HAS SHUT OFF THE CAR WHILE MAKING LEFT HAND TURN.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Pontiac Trans am problems:
What problems can i encounter with a 89 Firebird - Third Generation ...
May 27, 2001 ... I live in the Netherlands and thirdgen cars are somewhat of a luxory. However i've been offerd a 1989 Pontiac Firebird V6 2.8L with 15.000 miles ...
What to look for when buying a THIRD GEN FIREBIRD-If I Should ...
Feb 17, 2011 ... I have had my thirdgen 1987 Pontiac GTA for about 3 years. Common problem for the Pontiac Firebirds even the 4th gen Firebirds have this ...
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.
Firebird Discussions - Car Forums and Automotive Chat
Common Problems? 69 Fire-Bird · 1981 turbo trans am ... this a good deal? need parts fast · headlight adjustment problem · problem with 98 pontiac firebird ...
Fuel Pump | Firebird Nation
Jun 29, 2010 ... My friend told me his 2 Firebirds (90 and 91 Formula) ran into the same problem, and so did his dad's friend's Trans Am, saying it was a common ...
Other years of Pontiac Trans am
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