2000 Pontiac Grand Am from North America - Comments

At 34,000 miles after about 14 months (2,000 before expiration of warranty), the engine started grinding while driving and the Check Engine and Track Off lights came on. It turned out there was a hole in one of the cylinders. The dealer couldn't explain why there was a hole, or why it took almost a year for the hole to become a problem.

Exactly 11 months later, the engine had the same problem. Another hole in another cylinder. But because the car is no longer under warranty, it is going to cost big bucks to fix it.

The check oil light also comes on (and makes the ding noise) every 500-600 miles or so after an oil change.

For a 2000 Grand Am being only 2 years old, there have just been too many problems in too little time. I shouldn't have to add a quart of oil every 600 miles (but now that we know holes keep developing in the cylinders, this may contribute to the oil problem).

My girlfriend has a 1991 Honda Civic and it ran beautifully for more than 240,000 miles before the original transmission finally gave out and she just got a new one (another Honda). Looks like I'm going to have to get a new car as well, and I promise you, it won't be a Pontiac.

Just to add another side of the coin to your review: I owned a 2000 Grand Am. Bought it used with 25,000 miles on it. Never had one single problem with it up to 60,000 miles, when I totaled it. It did, however, have the all-too-common 'weld' problem that led to pooling of water under the seats after driving in rain.

I feel your frustration, as I've had a few lemons. But, to totally dismiss a certain model of car based on one person's experience is a bit naive.

Coincidentally, the car that I bought to replace my totaled 2000 was a 2002 Grand Am. If I had more money, I would definitely go for a Chevy Camaro or Silverado. But, bang for buck, the Grand Am is a pretty good deal for those of us that can't afford nicer cars. The dealer was trying to unload Grand Prix's on me. While the engine is real nice, the ergonomics are horrible. That's one thing that I love about the later model Grand Am's...the ergonomics. And, after being in a head-on collision at 50mph, I must say it's safety design is not too shabby (not a scratch on me, save for a slight bruise on my left knee).