1996 Pontiac Grand Am review from North America
"It was money well invested"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
About three months after buying the car, the alternator belt broke. It was easy and cheap to fix (about $15 for the belt).
Now, a year later, my water pump is broken. I don't blame the dealership for this problem. It is just the chance that you take when you buy any car, new or used.
I am upset because it is an expensive job to fix, but it's no one's fault.
General comments?
For anyone who says they will never buy a Pontiac again, you are going to have problems with any kind of car. Replacing parts on your vehicle is just one of the "joys" of owning a car.
I have had my car, which is now 8 years old, for just over a year. I am very impressed with my Grand Am. When it is time for me to get a new car, a newer Grand Am is definitely at the top of my list.
I love the way my car handles, especially on icy roads, it's got great heat in the winter and great air conditioning in the summer. I really have no complaints about my car.
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![]() ![]() | A fun car not worth the pain of upkeep |
![]() ![]() | Fun Car, but you better be mechanically inclined |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 80000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 115000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mercury Tracer |
| Date of Entry | 3rd February, 2004 |

