Well, where do I start...
I changed the alternator at 144,000 km, back in March.
After the alternator died, I had to get the brake pads, rotors, wheel bearings (front and back) and fan belt changed in April. Part of my muffler needed changing also during this trip to my mechanic. Total cost was $1,800.
I had to replace the transmission in May at 156,000. This cost me $2,000.
Had a complete tune-up done, spark plug wires were completely corroded, another $200 at the beginning of June.
Various lights (engine, ABS brakes) keep coming on for apparently no reason.
Today, I'm waiting to found out why the car would start, then die immediately afterward. I suspect the built-in anti-theft system is screwy. I had to have the car towed to my mechanic's garage.
I have been told to look forward to changing the head gasket on this car as well. Glad to know I'm not done re-building the vehicle.
When I first bought this car two years ago (used), it was great to drive. It has a V6 engine, therefore wicked speed, but ever since the problems have started, it's been one thing after another.
I will never, ever buy another GM vehicle as long as I live. Various mechanics tell me that all the problems I've experienced are normal for this make, model and year of car. Yippee...
If you drove the car with more mechanical sympathy you would not have experienced the faults which you have experienced. Why blame the manufacturer when it is clearly down to driver abuse of the vehicle.
Um well eventually cars do break. The '97 Grand Ams were weak I will admit, but brake pads and rotors are put under extremely harsh conditions, the only reason they will wear quickly is if you ride them like a granny. Belt, same deal, it happens to every car ever made. My Volvo had a belt go out. Don't complain about routine maintenance, it makes you sound like a whiny baby.
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