1997 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America

Tires needed replacement when I got the car (62,000 miles).

Alternator replaced at 70,000 miles.

The automatic transmission is shifting erratically, and very roughly into second.

Antilock Brake System motor replaced on front passenger's side.

Constant Velocity shaft replaced on passenger's side at 78,000 miles.

Paint peeling behind the driver's side door.

The same radio volume control knob problem that seems ubiquitous to all 1997 Grand Ams (can't distinguish between up or down).

Brake rotors are warped.

Interior door inserts are falling apart.

Whine from the power steering pump.

Overheats at random intervals.

Dies when running downhill for an extended period of time.

I was seriously pleased when I got this car... It has plenty of getup, and 4 cylinder engine is hands-down the best offering with this car, with its flat torque curve and generous horsepower.

But this car has steadily become a nightmare to maintain, with seemingly a new problem every time I drive it.

It sticks to the road, but feels overly heavy in spirited maneuvers. Like all N-body type cars, it's a little longer and heavier than I think it has any business being, but looks sharp overall.

I think the seats are quite comfortable, but I'm a little taller than the average driver, and that could be a factor... But the interior is cheaply assembled, and the door panels and switches start off looking tacky, and end up just plain broken.

I would truly enjoy owning this car, be it not for its continual problems... A few suspension mods could make the handling a bit more springy, and the acceleration and low end power of the engine is impressive, given its fuel economy numbers. And flat-out it's a joy to drive, solid steering, and tight cornering with minimal torque steer... My only other gripe is that every 3rd car I pass is a Grand Am.