1988 Pontiac Grand Am review from North America
"Wonderful beginner car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
When I acquired it the battery was dead.
Alternator was shot, which caused the above problem.
Oil leak.
Oxygen sensor went 6/14/02 (about 155000)
Catalytic converter fell off taking everything behind it with it (about 158000)
Rear brake auto adjusters are shot and I have to leave the parking brake half on in order to stop effectively.
1 strut and both shocks are shot.
General comments?
I love this car. My stepmother gave it to me for free (yes, that's right, free) and it's a hell of a car.
Typical Pontiac, wonderfully comfortable seats.
This engine is supposed to get great gas mileage (high 20s), but the best I've gotten is 20mpg average.
It's had it's share of problems, but it's 14 years old. What car wouldn't?
Great pickup and acceleration for a 93hp engine. My only wish is that the transmission had one more gear, then it wouldn't be so hard keeping highway speeds through the hills.
Recommended reviews
| An excellent older car that holds up with only a few minor repairs |
|
| I'm surprised at how reliable it was |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L Tech4 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 148000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 162000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 3rd January, 2003 |