1992 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 1992 Pontiac Trans am problems
The 1992 Pontiac Trans Am, like any other vehicle, has its share of common problems reported by its owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Coolant Fan Temperature Switch Failure: This issue is specific to the VIN E TBI-V8 engine only. The coolant fan temperature switch may fail, which is estimated to cost around $9.00 for parts and $19.50 for labor to repair.
- Electronic Control Module (ECM) Failure: This is another common problem with the 1992 Pontiac Trans Am. The ECM may fail, and the estimated cost to repair it is about $134.00 for parts and $65.00 for labor.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems are common in the 1992 Pontiac Trans Am, particularly with the 3.1L engine. These issues include difficulty in starting, holding the idle, and weak shifting in first and second gears. The car may also roll in reverse when park is fully engaged. These problems could be due to low transmission fluid or worn-out u-joints. A transmission flush or inspection by a reputable mechanic/transmission specialist is recommended.
- Bad Shocks: This is a common problem, especially if the car has been sitting for a while. Bad shocks can be easily replaced.
- Missing Lug Nuts: This is another common issue, which is easily rectified.
- Possible Blown Head Gasket: This is a potential problem, but unless a lot of white smoke is coming out of the exhaust, it may not be the primary issue. However, if the car is blowing a lot of white smoke, it's likely that the head gasket is blown, and the car may need a head gasket replacement.
- Headlights Not Going Up: This is a common issue, but the headlights can be manually put into the upright position until they are fixed.
- Crack on the Windshield: This is a common problem that can be repaired, usually covered by insurance if they cover glass.
- Sketchy Brakes: If the car has been sitting for a while, the brakes may not work well due to rust. Brake components are inexpensive, and brakes are straightforward to do on these cars.
- Bad Throttle/Idle: This could be due to a vacuum leak or other issues. A can of starting fluid or brake cleaner can be used to find the location of the air leak. The throttle/idle issue should be addressed first, as it may be the cause of other problems.
- Parasitic Battery Drain: This is a common problem, where something is draining the battery. A bad parasitic drain is the official term for it. This issue can be frustrating and overwhelming, but it's common in older cars. Checking the grounds and making sure they are connected right to various points can help solve this issue.
These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the 1992 Pontiac Trans Am. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues or catch them early before they become more serious problems.
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 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.
How much horsepower does a 1992 Trans Am have?
140 to 240 hp1992 Pontiac Firebird / Horsepower
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 |
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.
What is the most famous Trans Am?
1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am – The Hollywood Star
The Firebird rose to celebrity status in the late 1970s when the 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am was featured prominently in the 1977 American action comedy film, “Smokey and the Bandit.”
Why was Trans Am discontinued?
Despite its rich legacy, the Pontiac Trans Am Firebird faced numerous challenges in the late 1990s. Stricter emissions regulations, changing market preferences, and the financial struggles of Pontiac's parent company, General Motors, led to the discontinuation of the Firebird.
1992 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:
- Visibility problems
- Steering problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Pontiac Trans am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1992 Pontiac Trans am complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Pontiac Trans am.
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-01
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: BLINKERS STOPPED WORKING AFTER A WHILE. RIGHT WOULD TURN ON, BUT WOULDNT TURN OFF AND LEFT DIDNT BLINK. ANTI-LOCK BREAKS STOPPED WORKING. WIPPERS WOULD ONLY SOMETIMES WORK. PASSENGER SIDE DOOR DIDNT OPEN FROM THE OUTSIDE AND SLIDING DOOR WAS DIFFICULT AND ONCE FLEW OPEN WHILE ON HIGHWAY. HEATER/AC DIDNT WORK. HORN DIDNT WORK. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-06
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD WORK INTERMITTENTLY.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-06
- VIN: 1G2FW23F1NL
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN ROAD SMELLED GAS FUMES IN THE CAR. WENT TO A SERVICE STATION TO FILL UP, DROVE FOR AWHILE, VEHICLE JUST CUT OFF, AND GASOLINE EVAPORATED. CONTACTED DEALER WHO SAID THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR PROBLEM. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1992 Pontiac Trans am problems:
1992 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
Problem with your 1992 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 21 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1992 Pontiac Firebird.
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