2002 Pontiac Grand Am GT 6

Summary:

I like the car but wish I could diagnose the problem

Faults:

I love this car and have few complaints, but the ones I do have are big ones.

After owning this car for less than a year the fuel pump had to be replaced.

I had no issues in between until the trans went out. Until recently the key has been falling out of the ignition while the car is in drive!

I've also had problems with the car shutting off while in motion after hitting a large bump or pothole.

The latest problem is after someone borrowed the car, and didn't make sure the key was in the off position, took the key out over night causing the (new) battery to die. After the battery was charged and deemed fine, the care won't turn over, or start. I replaced the starter and found that wasn't the problem. I can't figure out what the deal is... and we can't keep spending money trying to diagnose the issue.

I do have a remote start and think that may be causing problems.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 17th April, 2009

2002 Pontiac Grand Am GT 1 Ram Air 3.6 V6

Summary:

Sporty lemon

Faults:

I bought this car in August of 08 and since then a laundry list of problems.

- First thing, the line that carries the windshield washer fluid sprung a leak, and had to replace.

- Then I had a blowout in my left front tire, according to the guy at Midas, aluminum rims (especially Pontiac's) can start to bubble and form ridges leading to the blowing of the tire, had the rim cleaned and that was solved... for now.

- After about a month of no problems, Check Engine Light came on, took it to get a scan at Auto Zone, and got the printout, it said there was a malfunction in the cooling system. I then took it to the Pontiac dealership here in Ohio, I paid them $89 for them to look it over and say nothing is wrong with it.

- In mid-December the light came on again, took it to Auto Zone again, same results from the scan, a malfunction in the cooling system. Took it to the dealership this time back home in NY, and I once again paid $89 for them to tell me the car is fine.

- Now in February, this time not only does the check engine light come on but the "Low Coolant" light comes on, I check the reservoir, and it is low, but there is nothing leaking from under the car. I take the car to Midas this time, and the manager (he knows me by name now) tells me there is a leak in the intake, resulting in coolant leaking into the oil, and oil leaking in to the coolant. Had to flush and fill, and replace the reservoir and the other parts damaged. Total cost $1700.

- About a month later in March the drivers side window got stuck in place and later dropped completely in to the door. Went to Midas again, told me the window regulators broke resulting in the window falling in the door. Another $700 to fix.

- Now in April, I notice the two tires on the drivers side losing air at a rapid pace, once again go to Midas, the manager sees me walk up and has my info ready by the time I reach the counter. I tell him the problem and it was the exact same thing with the rims, he fixed the rims, and luckily there was no damage to the tires so it was a cheap $40 fix.

- Now still in April, I have noticed the tailpipes starting to rust, and it looks as if they are starting to drop out of place a little bit. Also whenever I start the car there is a loud grinding noise coming from the car, sometimes it goes away once I get going, sometimes not. I'm not worrying about yet, because being a college student I don't want to spend the money on something that might not be broken.

- Also since I bought the car, a lot of exterior problems have been surfacing. When I bought the car 6 months ago, there was almost no rust or any exterior blemishes, however now the panel between the two drivers side doors has completely rusted, the front of the hood is starting to rust, as well as some small spots on the trunk. Also some of the molding around the car has started to bow out and disconnect from the car itself.

- Also this car is tough on brakes, I've had to replace the rear brakes three times in the 6 months I've had the car.

General Comments:

I would not recommend this car to any college student or anyone strapped on money, as it has basically drained my funds, and I have had to start digging in to my college money, as I need a car because I go to school in Bowling Green, OH and live in Syracuse, NY, it is necessary.

However this car is very sporty looking and I love the sunroof (although it has started to leak a little bit), and the 3.6 liter V6 provides a lot of power, and is very good on gas. Also this car's handling is excellent; it takes corners perfect.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 9th April, 2009

11th Apr 2009, 20:38

Wow. The amount of dough you spent on having the window fixed is insane. Time to invest in a tool kit and get your hands dirty fixing it yourself! Window guides fail and need to be reattached/re-riveted when the factory welds fail. Washing and waxing helps prevent rust. Condition all of the weather stripping with spray lubrication to keep the seals soft and leak proof. Also spray any hinge, latch, and parts of the window guides (around the area where the windows slide up and down) to keep all moving parts working. Stop taking your car to chain auto stores. Search your local craigslist for a trusted mechanic in the "wanted" section. That will most likely solve your tremendous bills.

Interested in reading about keeping your car alive and healthy like mine?

Check out my review and learn lots of hints! Eagle Talon 1993 "Thumbs Up DSM" If you read through my updates (the looooong updates) you might find some helpful information.

Good luck with your Pontiac - Mike.