1999 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America

GEC Valve needed replacement immediately after purchase.

Front driver seat is "loose" i.e. rocks an inch or so due to poor bolting to floor.

Electrical System is a constant source of worry and surprise! Many components will randomly stop working periodically, and then mysteriously start acting fine again shortly thereafter (i.e. cooling fan, A/C, fuel indicator... turning signals will suddenly start clicking without prompting!).

Interior molding is squeaky while driving.

Random unusual rattling noise from engine area - though source cannot be identified.

Brakes are a concern - at first they would "lock up" on stiff braking, causing the chassis to "crunch" on the shocks at the point of stopping. This was fixed, but now there is a worrying thumping noise from the front right brake every time I brake, which I will have examined this week.

The braking problem might be related to an associated "crunching" noise (from the calipers?) every time I press the brake. Also a consistent brake squeaking that won't go away.

Engine noise is sometimes a source of concern. I know the reputation is that they are loud, but ticking sounds and other unusual characteristics also occur.

Looks like previous owner had parts of the power steering section replaced.

A really fun car to drive, with great response.

A solid feel to the car on the highway, although there is some steering wheel vibration above 100km/h.

Great fuel consumption on highway (7.3), but a bit of a guzzler in the city.

Just drove it across the country without any problems (apart from the electrical and brake phantoms!).

Changing the Serpentine belt (due to wear) cost me $135 CDN, which was double what I was promised... apparently these models pose extra difficulties for such basic things.

Feels like a car with a great engine, but with substandard assembly and parts.

Wish I had bought the Malibu at the lot instead!