1996 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America

Where to begin...

Front brakes needed to be changed every 10,000 miles Back brakes were only changed once since I've owned the car.

Radio LED went out at 70K, radio still functions fine otherwise. Front Pass speaker is blown at, just puts static through speaker.

Check Engine light went on at 50K, was misfire on Hole #6, fixed by replacing plugs wires, and a fuel injection cleaning.

Alternator went at 75K.

Trunk/gas door handle binds up, not allowing to open either.

Ignition locks up randomly usually in cold weather not allowing me to take key out of ignition. Then works fine for 2 years with no problems 60-85K.

Replaced motor at 82K, partially my fault, low coolant light came on was winter time, I was 40 miles from home put some water in the radiator, Engine froze over. Replaced intake gaskets and thermostat. 3 months later Heads went, so I totally replaced the engine.

A/C now doesn't work after motor change, not sure if theres a leak or compressor/condenser is bad.

Since about 80K both pass side windows motors are blown, or guide rails are seized up, not allowing me to move the windows.

102K and for the past 15K miles the front seems to shake a bit, but only at speeds from 40-50mph.

Gas mileage is decent at times, but is poor lately due to an EGR valve on new motor not functioning properly. also Car seems to eat coolant, but from where I have not a clue. There is no leaks; only thing I can think of is another head gasket, but no white smoke comes from exhaust during cold starts.

When I bought the car, it was great, 1 previous owner who was a salesperson. Car had 35K on it, but was only on the road for 8 months. Tires were a bit worn, breaks were in decent shape, a few stone scratches in the paint, but nothing to be overly concerned about. Car ran great all the way up to 50K miles. Then slowly minor problems began.

At 102K miles... I feel the car doesn't' handle as it should, suspension isn't solid, gas mileage could be a bit better. But over all I've totally enjoyed the car, it's a dark green 4dr. Only draw back of the car is it didn't come with a rear spoiler :- (I've come to accept that part of it. The power windows problem is annoying especially with the duct tape on the window.