1997 Pontiac Trans Sport Extended Standard

Summary:

Versatile workhorse for families on the go as long as it isn't to the opera valet parking

Faults:

Rear air shocks out at 60 K.

Front pads every 30 K.

Fog lamp bulbs expired once.

Van decided to run into the back of a Celica, a senior moment.

One rear window motor replaced twice.

Battery could not be changed without full set of tools in the 'field'.

The XP2000 tires are a rip off for mileage.

General Comments:

Almost all problems were warranty covered and/or conveniently fixable. There are now the 1997, a 2000, a 2002 and a 2003 in the family. By far the most versatile seats, door options and since the 1997, every car in the family has to have steering wheel audio controls!!!

The last 2 have been salvage purchases out of rental fleets which speaks poorly for the low trade/resale value of any of the GM triplets, but easy to fix and keep. Can't wait for the 2005 redesigns.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th July, 2003

1997 Pontiac Trans Sport

Summary:

Looks great

Faults:

The original tires were all cracked and in need of replacement.

The rear wiper motor was burned out.

Left front brake has line problems.

When the gas tank is empty the fuel gauge reads full.

General Comments:

This van is a very comfortable ride and quite quick on take off.

But, fuel consumption is high.

It hauls my family of five easily and still has room for more. (Three car seats.)

Great insurance rates.

There are very few aftermarket accessories available for customizing.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th November, 2002

1997 Pontiac Trans Sport SE 3.8

Summary:

More bang for the buck!!

Faults:

The only problem was a misalignment of the middle dash air ducts, which were promptly fixed by the dealer.

General Comments:

Th rear seats could be a little easier to take out and re-install.

The ride is very comfortable, we go to Canada every year and don't get that fatigued feeling.

Also the gas mileage has been very good, especially on trips. About a quarter tank to Canada.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th September, 2001

1997 Pontiac Trans Sport 3.8

Faults:

Handles have broken.

Front brakes constantly squeek although they have been "fixed" by the dealer twice.

Right side tires are wearing out much faster than left side.

Fuel gauge sender broke.

Transmission vibrates.

General Comments:

This van test drove very nice. But by 20,000 miles it runs and feels like it has 100,000 miles on it. The dealers have been poor.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 26th July, 1999

30th Jul 2001, 20:34

Your tires are wearing unevenly because your alignment may be off or the tires themselves are unbalanced.