2000 Pontiac Trans am problems

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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.

2000 Pontiac Trans am

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Common 2000 Pontiac Trans am problems

The Pontiac Trans Am 2000 is known to have several common problems, particularly with its electrical system and engine components.

One of the most common issues is related to the Body Control Module (BCM), which is responsible for controlling various electrical functions in the vehicle. Owners have reported problems with the door locks, radio display, and blinkers, which may indicate a malfunctioning BCM. Replacing the BCM with a better quality replacement, such as the MSD unit, can solve these issues.

Another common problem is with the power window lift motors, which can experience premature failure and cause the affected window not to roll up or down. Replacing the damaged lift motor with a new replacement of better quality can solve this problem

The front seats of the 2000 Trans Am are also known to tear on the sides over time, which is a cosmetic issue that can be solved by reupholstering the torn seat professionally

The backside of the intake manifold in some of these vehicles with 5.7 liter LT1 engines tends to develop oil leaks over time. Installing a new intake manifold gasket can solve this problem

The rubber seals of the T-tops in the 2000 Trans Am can dry out over time, causing rainwater to leak inside the vehicle. Replacing the old rubber seals with new ones can solve this problem

The oil pressure switch, also known as the oil pressure sensor, in some of these vehicles is prone to malfunction over time, causing the oil pressure gauge to fluctuate randomly or display either extremely low or no oil pressure. Replacing the defective oil pressure switch with a new one of better quality can solve this problem

The water pump in some 1993 to 1997 Trans Ams with 5.7 liter LT1 engines is prone to develop coolant leaks before the vehicle reaches 100,000 miles. Replacing the leaking water pump with a new replacement of better quality can solve this problem

The headliner fabric in some of these vehicles tends to detach over time, giving the interior of the vehicle a bad appearance. Removing the old fabric completely and replacing it with new headliner material using the correct headliner adhesive can solve this cosmetic problem

The plastic gears of the headlight bucket motors are prone to strip over time, causing the affected headlight bucket not to lift when the headlights are turned on. Replacing the OEM plastic headlight motor gears with aftermarket brass replacements can solve this problem

The clear coat of the exterior paint tends to peel off over time, causing the need to have the vehicle repainted. This is a cosmetic issue that can be solved by repainting the vehicle

In addition to these common problems, the 2000 Trans Am is also known to have issues with the popup headlights, power window mechanisms, taillights, interior plastics and upholstery, odometers, EGRs, fuel pump, and sending units. However, replacement parts for these issues are easy to find, and many of these cars have been modified with aftermarket upgrades.

It is important to note that the 2000 Trans Am has a reliable powertrain, with engines and transmissions that are good for well over 100,000 miles if cared for properly. However, the LT1's Optispark ignition can have problems with moisture, so it is important to check the water pump for leaks as well as other seals close to the system, which is located on the front of the engine.

In summary, the 2000 Trans Am has several common problems, particularly with its electrical system and engine components. However, many of these issues can be solved by replacing or repairing the affected parts, and replacement parts are still available for most of these problems. It is important to maintain the vehicle properly and address any issues as soon as they arise to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.

2000 Pontiac Trans am engine

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 2000 Trans Am have?

The performance-oriented Formula coupe and Trans Am coupe and convertible have a 5.7-liter V-8 and either a standard four-speed automatic or a no cost six-speed manual.

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?

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.

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.

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.

2000 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:

  • Structure problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2000 Pontiac Trans am vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2000 Pontiac Trans am complaints

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2000 Pontiac Trans am.

2015-06-28

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-03-17
  • VIN: 2G2FV22G7Y2
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TROUBLE CODE FOR BAD CATLIC CONVERTERS THE HAS BEEN REPLACES 3 TIMES PRIOR AND NOW THERE CLOG FOR THE FOURTH TIME? ASKING GM TO REPLACE AS A WARRENTY ISSUE SINCE THE LAST TIME WAS 4 YEARS PRIOR AND I WAS TOLD THAT THE NEW ONE WOULD BE COVERED FOR 10YEARS 100000 MILES DUE TO GM WARRENTY POLICY. SECOND THAN IS THE CAR HAS DROPPED IN GAS MILEAGE FROM 26MPG TO ABOUT 14 BOTH HIGHWAY MILES. AND THE LAST THING IS THE IGNITION LOCK SOMETIMES WHEN I TRY TO START THE CAR THE SECURITY FEATHUR SUCH THE CAR DOWN DUE TO THE ANTI THEFT CONTROL. I AM THE ONLY PROUD OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE AND WANTED TO PASS THIS CAR ON TO MY SON AS A VINTAGE TRANS AM WITH ME BEING THE ONLY OWNER BUT WITH THE ISSUES THAT HAS BEEN GOING ON I MAY BE PASSING IT TO A DEALER AS A TRADE IN. LONG TIME PONTIAC TRANS AM OWNER AND GM LOYAL CUSTOMER. MA Y BE READDY TO MOVE ON IF NO HELP WITH THE WARRENTY I WAS PROMISSED ON THE LAST CONVERTER, AND THIS ONE WOULD BE THE FORTH ONE OF THE THREE THAT IS IN THE CAR.PLUS THE SMELL OF GAS IS GETTING VERY BAD AS IF THERE IS A LEAK? AND FOR THE KEY ISSUE THERE WAS MANY CARS WITH THE SAME ISSUE BUT NOT THIS GM PRODUCE. THE REASON BEING IS THAT ALOT OF PPL HAVE STORE THIS CAR DUE TO THE STOPAGE OF THE MANUFACTORING OF THE CAR? MAYBE.
2006-12-11

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-10-27
  • VIN: 2G2FV22GXY2
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AT 55-60 MPH, WENT TO PASS ANOTHER CAR AND T-TOP BLOWS OFF AND BUSTS. T TOP WAS LOCKED AND LATCHED CORRECTLY. *JB
2005-08-19

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-07-02
  • VIN: 2G2FV22G8Y2
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: DT: THE DRIVER'S SIDE T TOP EXPLODED WHILE GOING 70MPH. NOT SURE IF IT HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE HEAT OR WIND. WAS IN HEAVY TRAFFIC SOUNDED LIKE A GUN SHOT GOING OFF IN THE VEHICLE. THE ONLY THING LEFT WAS THE RUBBER SEAL AND LOCKING BAR. CONTACTED PONTIAC,THEY SAID THEY WOULD SEE WHAT THEY COULD DO, AND THEY HAD THE CONSUMER CALL SO IT WAS ON FILE. THIS HAPPENED ON JULY 2, 2005. *AK *SC *TT
2004-10-10

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-09
  • VIN: 1G2NV12E6YM
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: BOTH THE DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER SIDE POWER WINDOWS WILL NOT OPEN OR CLOSE. ENGINE WILL NOT START DUE TO FUEL PUMP PROBLEMS. CAR WILL SHUT OFF WITHOUT NOTICE WHILE DRIVING. *NM
2004-08-27

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-02
  • VIN: 2G2FV22GXY2
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: HEADLIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY SHUT OFF, BUT COME RIGHT BACK ON.*AK
2004-01-12

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-03-25
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO THIRD OR FOURTH GEAR. VEHICLE HAD BEEN IN DEALER' REPAIR S SHOP THREE TIMES FOR THIS SAME PROBLEM. ALSO, WHEN THE GEAR DID SHIFT INTO THIRD GEAR THERE WAS SEVERE VIBRATION THROUGHOUT THE VEHICLE. *AK
2004-01-03

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-09-27
  • VIN: 2G2FV22G4Y2
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL LINE LEAK. HIGH PRESSURE FUEL RETURN LINE LEAK FROM PINCH/CHAFING 9 INCHES FROM FUEL SENDER (HIGH VOLUME LEAK ABOVE FUEL TANK AND MUFFLER).*AK
2002-10-01

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-08-08
  • VIN: 2G2FV22G9Y2
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: THE CAR PULL TO THE RIGHT WHEN SEVERE BRAKING. MR
2001-02-14

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AT 65 MPH AND DEPRESSING BRAKE PEDAL, PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR , RESULTING IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE, AND CAUSING VEHICLE TO RUN INTO GARAGE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
2001-02-04

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 2G2FV22GXY2
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: ALL SPEEDS WITHOUT WARNING VEHICLE PULLS HARD TO RIGHT, INCREASED WHEN BRAKING. HARD TO CONTROL VEHICLE WHEN THIS OCCURS. DEALER STATES, CAN'T DUPLICATE PROBLEM, BUT THIS MAY BE DO TO FACTORY TIRE SIZE 275 R 16.. WHATEVER THE PROBLEM IS, THIS VEH. IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE!!!.*AK
2000-08-31

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-07-11
  • VIN: 2G2FV22G6Y2
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: SEVERE ENGINE DETONATION CAN LEAD TO ENGINE FAILURE
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2000 Pontiac Trans am problems:

2000 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
2000 Pontiac Firebird Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2000-pontiac-firebird/problems

Problem with your 2000 Pontiac Firebird? Our list of 21 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2000 Pontiac Firebird.

Q&A: Troubleshooting 2000 Pontiac Firebird & Trans Am
Q&A: Troubleshooting 2000 Pontiac Firebird & Trans Am
https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/73orz-pontiac-firebird-having-problems-2000-pontiac.html

Sep 4, 2012 ... This sensor is under the harmonic balancer. When it gets hot, the sensor drops the signal, and it causes the engine to think it is not running ...

buying WS6 friday any common problems to look for? - LS1TECH ...
buying WS6 friday any common problems to look for? - LS1TECH ...
https://ls1tech.com/forums/new-ls1-owners-newbie-tech/1577479-buying-ws6-friday-any-common-problems-look.html

Aug 22, 2012 ... so im buying a 1999 ws6 with 100k miles on it friday I have been in love with 98-02 WS6 trans ams since i first saw this exact car back in ...

Troubleshooting 2000 Pontiac Trans Am Radio: Expert Q&A
Troubleshooting 2000 Pontiac Trans Am Radio: Expert Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/pontiac/2bnzi-2000-pontiac-trans-my-power-windows-radio-will-arbitrarily-cut.html

Jul 20, 2009 ... This indicates that the BCM did not program and the system components, wiring and contacts should be checked for a fault.

Any common issues with the 1998-2002 Firebird Trans Am? : r/Pontiac
Any common issues with the 1998-2002 Firebird Trans Am? : r/Pontiac
https://www.reddit.com/r/Pontiac/comments/jd0itw/any_common_issues_with_the_19982002_firebird/

Oct 17, 2020 ... Cracked dash, window/headlight motors, t top leaks, rear diff eating itself, turn signal flasher, rust, wiper switch, hatch glass trim ...

Other years of Pontiac Trans am

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