1995 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 1995 Pontiac Trans am problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1995 Pontiac Trans Am, several common problems have been identified:
- Oil Leakage from Timing Chain and Crankshaft Seal: Owners have reported oil leaks coming from the timing chain and crankshaft seal. This issue requires significant work to remedy, especially since oil can be found in various places underneath the car. The leakage can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Rear Suspension Issues: Complaints include problems with the rear suspension, such as the need to replace shocks, coils, bushings, and bump stops. Neglecting these issues can affect the car's handling, comfort, and safety.
- Gas Leak Near Fuel Tank: Some owners have experienced gas leaks near the fuel tank, which can be hazardous and require immediate attention to prevent fire hazards and ensure proper fuel system functionality.
- Starter Problems: Reports of starter issues have surfaced, indicating the need for replacement. While this is a more straightforward repair compared to other problems, a faulty starter can lead to starting failures and inconvenience.
- Old Tires and Strong Gasoline Fumes: The presence of old tires and strong gasoline fumes can be concerning. Old tires can compromise safety, while gasoline fumes indicate potential fuel system issues that need to be addressed promptly to prevent safety hazards.
- Lack of Maintenance Records: The absence of maintenance records is a red flag, suggesting a lack of proper care and potential hidden issues that may arise due to inadequate upkeep.
- Overall Value and Repair Costs: The evaluation of the car's value in relation to the required repairs is crucial. Owners need to consider the cost of repairs, like addressing the oil leak and rear suspension problems, to determine if the investment aligns with the car's worth.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the longevity and performance of the 1995 Pontiac Trans Am. Addressing these issues promptly can help owners enjoy their classic muscle car without major setbacks.
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 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.
What transmission does a 1995 Trans Am have?
Used 1995 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am - Specs & Features
Drivetrain | |
---|---|
Transmission | 6-speed manual |
Drive type | Rear wheel drive |
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 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 transmission does a 1995 Trans Am have?
Used 1995 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am - Specs & Features
Drivetrain | |
---|---|
Transmission | 6-speed manual |
Drive type | Rear wheel drive |
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.
Is a Pontiac 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.
1995 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
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1995 Pontiac Trans am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1995 Pontiac Trans am complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1995 Pontiac Trans am.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-05
- VIN: 2G2FV22P5S2
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 PONTIAC TRANS AM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNIN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS ISNPECTED BY THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR PARK BRAKE LEVER RETURN SPRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 296,493.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-01
- VIN: 2G2FV22P4S2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL (SEE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 95V046000). THIS HAS AFFECTED MY VEHICLE FOR THE PAST COUPLE YEARS AND THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP KEEPS TELLING ME THAT IT IS THE WAY THE ROADS ARE MADE HERE AND/OR THE LOW PROFILE TIRES. WHEN CALLING YOU GUYS AND THE DEALERSHIPS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM, I AM TOLD THAT THE RECALL DOESN'T AFFECT MY PARTICULAR VIN NUMBER [XXX]. PLEASE ASSIST.*AK *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-01
- VIN: 2G2FV22P1S2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: OUR PROBLEM CONCERNS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. WHEN WE PURCHASED THE CAR ALMOST 4 YEARS AGO WE NOTICED THE TAILLIGHTS WERE LEAKING. THEY HAD CORRODED THE TAIL LIGHTS AND THEY SHORTED OUT. THIS CAR WAS BARELY 7 YEARS OLD AND HAD NO WORKING TAIL LIGHTS. WE BROUGHT THIS UP TO GM AS IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND A DEFAULT OF A FAULTY TAIL LIGHT AND THEY TOLD US THEY HAVE A SPECIAL GLUE MAN THAT WORKS THROUGH GM AND HE WILL COME OUT AND GLUE THE SEAL BUT REFUSED TO REPAIR THE LIGHTS. WE WERE ANGRY ABOUT THIS BUT HAD THEM SEND THE MAN OUT TO DO THE REPAIR. IT DID NOT WORK AND WE TOLD GM THIS AND THEY TOLD US THEY WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR NEW TAILLIGHTS AND HAVE THE ELECTRICAL FIXED THERE AND THE COST WOULD BE OVER 1,000 DOLLARS. WE WERE VERY ANGRY AND HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET HELP WITH THIS SAFETY ISSUE. WE PURCHASED ANOTHER VEHICLE MEANWHILE A TOYOTA CRESSIDA AND THERE IS NO PROBLEMS WITH THOSE TAILLIGHTS EVEN WITH THE AGE OF THE BEING OVER DOUBLE THAN THE TRANSAM. THE TAILLIGHTS DO NOT WORK. THE SIGNALS DON'T WORK AS THEY CANNOT BECAUSE OF THE ELECTRICAL SHORT. WE ARE NOT GOING TO PAY FOR SOMETHING THAT IS OBVIOUSLY A FAULT IN GMS WORK. WE WANT TO KNOW WHAT WE CAN DO. *NM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-19
- VIN: 2G2FV22P6S2
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE PURPOSE TO THIS LETTER IS TO ADVISE YOU OF AN INCIDENT THAT OCCURRED SATURDAY JUNE 19, 2004. WHILE DRIVING ON INTERSTATE 80 AT 65 MPH, I EXPERIENCED A FRIGHTENING ENCOUNTER. I HEARD A LOUD POP AND IMMEDIATELY THE REAR RIGHT OF MY CAR BEGAN TO SWAY AND I ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OFF THE ROAD ONTO THE EMERGENCY LANE, TO FIND A VERY SURPRISINGLY STRANGE TIRE BLOW OUT. THE ENTIRE SIDEWALL OF MY 285/35/18 NITTO NT555 COLLAPSED, AND WAS PUSHED IN TOWARD THE REAR SIDEWALL CAUSING MAJOR DAMAGES TO MY 18 Z06 WHEEL. I HAVE NEVER SEEN A SIDEWALL COMPLETELY BLOW OUT AND DETACH ITSELF FROM THE TIRE, LET ALONE FROM NORMAL USE. THIS TIRE APPEARED AS IF A KNIFE WAS TAKEN TO IT AND SEVERED OFF. DAMAGES SUFFERED TO THE RIM, AS A RESULT OF THIS INCIDENT ARE SO EXTENSIVE THAT REPAIRS ARE NOT AN OPTION. A REPLACEMENT RIM WILL NEED TO BE PURCHASED, AS WELL AS THE NEW NITTO TIRE. THE DEFECTIVE TIRE CURRENTLY HAS APPROXIMATELY 90-95% TREAD WEAR LEFT, WHICH IS THE REASON WHY I AM ASKING FOR NITTO CORP. TO COMPENSATE MY LOSSES. ENCLOSED PLEASE REVIEW THE PHOTOGRAPHS THAT WERE TAKEN ON SITE, AND PROCESS THIS REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT. I AM FORTUNATE ENOUGH THAT THIS MISHAP CAUSED BY YOUR DEFECTIVE TIRE DID NOT RESULT IN DAMAGES EXCEEDING THE ONES THAT OCCURRED. I LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR PROMPT RESPONSE. ENCLOSED IS ALSO A PRICE QUOTE ON A REPLACEMENT RIM. THE RIM PRICE IS $315, FROM AAA RIMS. THIS QUOTE WAS OBTAINED THROUGH JASON, AN AAA RIM REPRESENTATIVE THE MORNING OF 7/21/2004. THE TIRE HAS BEEN SHIPPED OFF TO TOYO TIRES INC. I ALSO FILED A CLAIM WITH TM CLAIM SERVICE, WHICH IS TOYO TIRES INSURANCE COMPANY. THE TIRE WAS SHIPPED OFF FOR INSPECTION, AND TWO WEEKS LATER I AM STILL WAITING FOR A RESPONSE. I ALSO HAVE PICTURES THAT WERE TAKEN ONSITE, AND VARIOUS OTHERS. THANK YOU P.S OLD PARTS ARE STILL AVAILABLE. *LA
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-19
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE LOST STEERING POWER AND HIT A CURB. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1995 Pontiac Trans am problems:
1995 Trans Am 5.7L LT1 Problems | Firebird Nation
Aug 3, 2013 ... -leaks in the fuel lines, including the line for the pump internal to the tank. Overheating: The fans should turn on low speed when the coolant ...
1995 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
Problem with your 1995 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 22 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1995 Pontiac Firebird.
1995 Pontiac Firebird Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Oct 14, 2014 ... Faults: - Head gasket at 133,000 miles. - Ignition control module. - Minor rusting on the quarter panels. - Rag joint. - Ball joints.
Common problems with LT1 Camaros? - LS1TECH - Camaro and ...
May 26, 2008 ... LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion ... I am sure I will find another way but PCM's ... however 95 and below and 98+ are much easier to ...
Considering purchasing a Firebird? Heres some advice. : r/Pontiac
Sep 8, 2014 ... This is aimed at only the 3rd and 4th Generations as these two generations are the most common. Firstly, remember that these are 2 door cars ...
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