1987 Pontiac Grand Am review from North America
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Changed timing gear from plastic to metal (at approx. 50,000 miles)
Alternator changed twice at 90K and 140,000 miles..
Changed water pump at 190,000 miles. It was a royal pain.
Changed radiator at 198,000 miles.
Changed steering rack at 165,000 miles.
Changed fuel pump at 175,000 miles (inside gas tank).
Passenger-side ball joint replaced at 196,000 miles.
Had cruise control fixed, but broke again.
Driver's seat worn badly.
Driver's side manual window is almost impossible to open.
Car rattles a bit.
General comments?
The car still has full power, but at almost 200,000 miles, it's showing some age. It's always been a bit noisy and rattly, but it gets excellent gas mileage, the tires seem to last forever, and it's never let me down. The seats can hurt your back on long trips. I have always done excellent maintenance on it, using the highest quality materials (synthetic oils, good filters, etc.). I want to coax it to get to 250,000 miles. Overall, I'm surprised that an American 4-cylinder has made it this far.
Recommended reviews
| I'm surprised at how reliable it was |
|
| I would recommend it to anyone as a first car (it's pretty solid and safe) |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1987 |
| First year of ownership | 1991 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 68000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 198000 miles |
| Previous car | Mitsubishi Colt |
| Date of Entry | 23rd May, 2002 |