1997 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America

Problems with the radio and clock. Decided to live with it as too costly to repair. Listened to stations with really odd number when it chose to light up at all.

After the cars last payment recalled for ignition circuit thermal events. Had recall completed in October 2002.

My major complaint and problems began with my ignition key locking up and had the vehicle towed to the dealership for repair in March 2003. Replaced old lock and replaced code key to the tune of 626.14. Parts 211. labor 379.

Problem reoccurred in mid August, car dies and key is stuck and nothing works, luckily in my driveway. I had my car checked in August and they said my cylinder was loose. (same part they replaced in March). After an initial estimate of over 300. and a call to the service manager this was reduced to a warranteed item and free. Not that they wouldn't have taken my 300. for fixing their own work.

September same problem. Car dies in driveway and ignition key will not budge. Call to dealer has then (now angry with me and not their work or the car) They have the tow company come to pick up car and driver has me open the hood. He touches some wires by the battery and theres a pop noise and smoke. He tells me to start the car. I do an it starts. He said it could be a short either battery cable wire or wire to starter, he's not sure. He asks if I want to take or have him tow it. Tow it! I was not about to drive a car with a smoking problem. Car fixed on a Friday and picked up on a Saturday. I spoke to the service department and told them of the problems. When I picked up the car they had replaced the cylinder again and now I had a new set of keys as they did not replace the code for the key (not a warranteed item). No paperwork to show repair work done, but told to return Monday as when they fixed the car they broke some mounting pieces and needed to replace. Mondays visit says they will send me my repair invoice.

Tuesday morning 10am car again dies in driveway, this time smoke, lots of it and then flames. Panic sets in and while trying to get out the automatic door locks were useless, the horn didn't work and the panic became worse. I attempted to kick my way out then realizing I had manual windows. Two fire trucks arrive as my car is feet from the house and I now have a large pile of ashes in my driveway, but luckily still walking the earth.

I am trying to get as much information as I can about the Grand Am's problems as I now have to fight for the replacement value of my vehicle. Any information or remarks please add or send directly to me at im1daful13@aol.com.

I love the appearance of this car. It is a comfortable ride.

It is a comfortable ride, but I wonder what really lies underneath the hood that can be a potential death trap.