1997 Pontiac Trans am problems

General information about Pontiac-Trans am
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

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 1997 Pontiac Trans am problems

The 1997 Pontiac Trans Am is a popular sports car known for its performance and style. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.

One of the most common issues with the 1997 Trans Am is the failure of the pop-up headlights to operate correctly. The headlights are prone to staying either up or down, which can be a significant problem when driving the car at night. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out motors, faulty wiring, or blown fuses.

Another common problem with the 1997 Trans Am is the failure of the power window mechanisms. Over time, the window motors can wear out, causing the windows to stop working correctly. This issue can be particularly frustrating for drivers, as it can make it difficult to open or close the windows, especially when driving at high speeds.

The taillights on the 1997 Trans Am are also known to have issues. Specifically, the taillights can take on water and turn dark, which can make it difficult for other drivers to see the car at night. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out seals or faulty wiring.

The interior of the 1997 Trans Am can also be prone to problems. The hard interior plastics and upholstery are particularly susceptible to damage from the sun, which can cause them to crack and fade over time. Additionally, the odometers on these cars are known to conk out, which can make it difficult for owners to keep track of the car's mileage.

Under the hood, the 1997 Trans Am's powertrains are generally reliable, with the engines and transmissions capable of lasting for well over 100,000 miles with proper care. However, there are some common issues that owners have reported. For example, the LT1's Optispark ignition can have problems with moisture, which can cause it to fail over time. Additionally, the EGRs, fuel pump, and sending units are known to eat themselves, which can lead to expensive repairs.

Replacement parts for the 1997 Trans Am are generally easy to find, but aftermarket upgrades are also widely available. Many of these cars have been modified with superchargers, nitrous, and turbos, but even minor modifications like aftermarket wheels and gauges can drive down the value of the car.

In terms of pricing, the current value of 1996 and 1997 WS6 Pontiacs is around $12,000, with 1998 and later cars with the more desirable LS engine commanding slightly higher prices. However, the average price of a 1998 Trans Am Coupe is only $13,000, while 1998 convertibles are significantly more expensive at $20,100. WS6 Trans Am convertibles from 1999-2002 cost about $1000 more, with the average price of #1-condition (Concours) cars nearly reaching $35,000.

When buying a 1997 Trans Am, it's important to be aware of these common problems and to look for signs of wear and tear. Checking the vehicle's VIN and option codes on the Service Parts Identification (SPID) sticker on the driver's door jamb can help ensure that the car is a genuine WS6 model. Additionally, checking for rust in the usual places, such as behind the rear tires at the bottom of the quarter panels, and inspecting the front fenders for alignment issues can help identify potential problems.

Overall, the 1997 Trans Am is a powerful and stylish sports car that can provide years of driving enjoyment. However, like any vehicle, it's important to be aware of its common problems and to take steps to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity.

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 engine did the 1997 Trans Am have?

In its run of final Firebirds, Pontiac used two versions of the small-block V-8, both displacing 5.7 liters. From 1992–97, all Trans Ams and Formulas were powered by the Gen II LT1 small-block. By 1996, the engine was rated for 285 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 2400 rpm.

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 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 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 1997 Trans Am?

Figure on 0-60 m.p.h. in just 6.5 seconds and a reported top speed of nearly 160 m.p.h., even with the $790 automatic. One doesn't buy a Trans Am for fuel economy, but it delivers an estimated, noteworthy 26 m.p.g. on the highway with the manual and 25 with the automatic.

What engine did the 1997 Trans Am have?

Was the 1977 Trans Am fast?

Moreover, our Z/28 produced a top speed of 105 mph (limited by the redline and the 3.73 rear axle), while the Trans-Am with a 3.23 final-drive ratio was no faster than 110 mph.

1997 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:

Electrical system problems
Air bags problems
Exterior lighting problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Pontiac Trans am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1997 Pontiac Trans am complaints

The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Pontiac Trans am.

2002-10-25

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-10-24
VIN: 1G2NE52T5DC
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: THE CONSUMER WAS PULLING INSIDE OF THE PARKING LOT AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING BOTH AIRBAGS DEPLOY. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. TS

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2002-02-08

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 2G2FV22P2V2
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: THE LEAD CONTACT POINTS FOR THE BRAKE LIGHTS ARE MELTING AFTER APPROXIMATELY TWO WEEKS OF USE. THE ACTUAL FILMENTS ARE STILL INTACT AND THE FUSE DOES NOT BLOW. THE TAIL FIN BRAKE LIGHT STILL WORKS BUT THE ACTUAL BRAKE LIGHTS DO NOT WORK AFTER THE LEAD CONTACT POINTS MELT.*AK

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2001-11-07

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2001-10-17
Fire: 1
VIN: 2G2FV22PQV2
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE WHILE DRIVING, TOTALLED VEHICLE. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD, HE PULLED OVER OPENED THE HOOD AND THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE.*SLC

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2001-08-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1998-06-16
VIN: 2G2FV22P8V2
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: WHEN THE CAR GET WET IT WILL MISFIRE AND GO DEAD, BEEN IN SHOP 69 TIMES SAME PROBLEM, THE CAR WILL LOOSE ALL POWER, SUNRISE PONTIAC WOLFCHASE SAYS THEY REFUSED TO WORK ON IT BECAUSE THEY DONT KNOW WHY IT HAPPENING, THE CAR IS PRESENTLY AT SUNRISE COVINGTON PIKE. *AK

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2000-11-06

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 2G2FV22P1V2
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: HIGH BEAMS SHINE LIKE LOW BEAMS SHOULD. LOW BEAMS ARE TO DIM THAT THEY DONT ILLUMINATE THE ROAS ENOUGH. FORCING ME TO ALWAYS USE MY HIGH BEAMS. THIS IS DANGEROUS AND SHOULD NOT HAVE TO HAPPEN.*AK

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2000-11-05

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-05-04
VIN: 2G2FV32P7V2
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: THE SEALED-BEAM HEADLIGHTS SUPPLIED BY THE PONTIAC FIREBIRD TRANS AM MODEL DOES NOT LIGHT THE ROADWAY SUFFICIENTLY. THIS HAS ENDANGERED MYSELF AND OTHERS IN MY CAR SEVERAL TIMES AND REQUIRES EYE STRAIN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. NO RECALL OR TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN HAS BEEN ISSUED TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM, NOR HAS GMC RETURNED LETTERS OR E-MAIL SENT IN CONCERNS TO THIS PROBLEM. USING THE HIGH-BEAMS ON THE HIGHWAY (WHEN CLEAR ENOUGH TO DO SO), BARELY SUPPLIES LIGHTING EXPECTED BY THE LOW-BEAMS. LOW-BEAMS ARE VIRTUALLY USELESS TO THE DRIVER AND SERVE ONLY TO SHOW APPROACHING CARS I AM ON THE ROAD.*AK

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2000-09-15

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1998-06-05
Number Of Injuries: 2
VIN: 1G4HP54L7KH
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 35 MPH , I WENT TO PASS A CAR TRANSMISSION DROPPED DOWN TO A LOWER GEAR ,AS THAT HAPPENED MY BODY WEIGHT PUSHED BACK IN THE SEAT , THE HEAD REST THEN SUDDENLY RELEASED WHICH ALLOWED MY HEAD TO FLING BACK.THERE WAS CONSIDERABLE PAIN IN MY NECK THEREAFTER.*AK

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2000-07-12

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-06-06
VIN: 2G2FV22P2V2
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AT 55 MPH, A ROCK HIT PASSENGER SIDE "T" TOP TEMPERED GLASS SHATTERING IT TO PIECES WHICH SPREAD THROUGOUT THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. YH

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2000-06-19

SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1998-01-03
VIN: 2G2FV22P3V2
Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS
Summary: WHEN CAR GETS WET, THE SES LIGHT APPEARS, ENGINE VIBRATES. DEALER SERVICED (5) DIFFERENT TIMES COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. INCONVENIENT TO KEEP MAKING SO MANY TRIPS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM.

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2000-06-19

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
VIN: 2G2FV22P3V2
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: INTAKE MANIFOLD LEAKS OIL, ETC... AT 39,000 MILES. THE OIL IS CHANGED EVERY 3,000 MILES. WELL TAKEN CARE OF. SHOULD NOT HAVE OIL LEAKS. DEALER STATED NOT RESPONSIBLE 3,000 MILES OUT OF WARRANTY. NOT ACCEPTABLE TO ME.

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2000-06-15

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-06-13
VIN: 2G2FV22P2V2
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: THE GLASS IN THE "T" TOP PASSENGER SIDE WHEN STRUCK BY A PROJECTILE FROM A TRUCK EXPLODED INTO PIECES CARRIED BY THE WIND BLAST THROUGHTOUT THE VEHICLE. I THOUGHT STANDARD NO. 205 INDICATES ALL GLASS IN THE DRIVERS FACE MUST BE A TYPE OF SAFETY TYPE THAT DOES NOT ALLOW THE BROKEN GLASS TO FLY ABOUT THE VEHICLE.

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2000-06-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-10-22
VIN: 1G2NE5292VC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: BRAKES HAD TO BE REPLACED THE ELEVENTH TIME. WHEN CONSUMER APPLIES BRAKES THEY PULSATE, AND VEHICLE SHAKES AND TREMBLES. *AK

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1997 Pontiac Trans am problems:

1997 firebird 5.7 problems? | Firebird Nation

https://www.firebirdnation.com/threads/1997-firebird-5-7-problems.227857/

Jul 2, 2010 ... Im going to go look at a 1997 firebird 5.7 6 speed and wanted to know if there is any known problems with these cars that i should be looking ...

1997 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues

https://repairpal.com/1997-pontiac-firebird/problems

Problem with your 1997 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 21 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Pontiac Firebird.

Common problems with LT1 Camaros? - LS1TECH - Camaro and ...

https://ls1tech.com/forums/lt1-lt4-modifications/926620-common-problems-lt1-camaros.html

May 26, 2008 ... LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion ... I am sure I will find another way but PCM's ... Tags 97, aftermarket, bottle, camaro, change, ...

Q&A: Troubleshooting a 1997 Pontiac Firebird that Won't Crank ...

https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/7ejiq-pontiac-firebird-1997-firebird-will-not-crank-else.html

Dec 12, 2012 ... Using the picture above, see if you can locate the theft deterrent starter relay. Then connect a jumper wire between the thick yellow and thick ...