2004 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America

The bearings and tie rods went on it at about 160000kms. The repair cost $1200, along with a transmission flush. This was the first problem with the car. (Note I had it for 115000kms at this point)

The only other problem I have encountered with this car is the brake cylinders cracked. This happened at 180000kms. I was told they don't usually last more than 80000kms, so I figure they were of good quality.

This car has excellent handling and easy to use controls. It has an excellent turning radius in my opinion. I can make tight turns/full circles as well as, if not better than my friend's Corolla and Lancer.

The fuel economy is excellent on it as well. I drive 50 kms (on the highway) each way to work everyday, and it uses 1/8 of the tank each way. It equates to about 5-7 bucks in gas each way with todays gas prices 1.40/L.

I love the large brake lights on it, and the look of the car is excellent.

The hub caps (wheel covers) make a really annoying noise though, so I replaced them. On the subject of noise, the engine is hardly noticeable when inside the car, and there have been many times when I can't tell if the car is on or not in a parking lot.

The way you drive this car has a huge impact on its reliability. I base this on the huge number of problems people have had with the Grand Am. I like to take it easy and hardly ever have to go over 2500RPM, even going at 130km/h.