1997 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America

Four months after I got it (thank God I bought the extended warranty) the transmission started skipping.

The carpet started to wear last year, mainly from the floor mats rubbing on it.

Right after the transmission went the alternator and battery had to be replaced.

The fog lights had to be replaced often, they last about a year each.

Sometimes the clock on the radio scrambles.

Both control arms had to be replaced at 98,000 miles.

The driver's side door lock only unlocks.

The plastic molding around the passenger side door handle comes loose.

I'm currently having the lower manifold gasket replaced because it's leaking coolant, which will be setting me back about $500. Aside the from a few problems here and there, it's the best car I've owned, out of four I've owned so far. It has great pick up and I feel very safe and secure riding in it.

The last car I owned was like riding in a tin can (a 1985 Honda CRX), so it was important to me to find a more secure car.

Not many people can say this, but this is the car I wanted from the moment I got my license when I was 16. I suppose it's more of an emotional attachment, but I love it -- it's my baby!! I have thought about trading it in lately, only to realize how tense I became thinking about it. Overall, I don't regret buying the car.