The Transmission fluid pan had to be replaced because it leaked.
The Speedometer didn't work when I got it, and the Odometer runs about 5x too fast (1 mile registers about 5 on odometer.)
The car started backfiring at about 75,000 miles; had to replace the engine coil, plugs, and wires.
The dash lights didn't work when I got it, and for some reason the fuse blew out right after I had them fixed -- trying again with a bigger fuse (10 instead of 5 as marked on fuse box.)
Drivers side window (manual) comes out of track.
Engine mounts are bad, so it rattles when switching to 3rd gear at low speeds.
2.5 L engine is sweet, and doesn't get bad mileage, although I don't know what mileage I'm really getting.
I can out-accellerate a Buick Roadmaster at 50 and up, so I'm pretty happy with performance.
Turning is pretty good, and the hand brake is helpful for making curves.
I picked it up for $1000 plus like $400 in repairs ($140 for transmission pan, and $160 for coil, wires, and plugs).
I was really happy with the cabin size, I'm 6'6", and I'm not cramped driving it!
I got the same car a little over a year ago. I, too have had similar problems, in fact many exactly the same- (backfiring after XX, XXX miles, dash lights, rattling from 3rd gear)
I have a grand Am Le, with 158,000 miles on it, NO problems, paid $595.00 last July, had 147,000 miles on it then, on the hi-way I, am getting 40 miles per gallon, great car.
I Brought My Grand AM LE last year with 100,000 miles on it, now it has 200,000 and still running strong, just all depends how you take care of it.
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