1990 Pontiac Grand Am LE review from North America
"Heed my warning: AVOID PONTIAC!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The car has had several issues. In my ownership (listed in point form to quick reference) :
-SLOW window motors (I think they are on the verge of death)
-Transmission (several issues)
-Rough shifts
-Missing shifts (i.e. has trouble deciding when to shift from 1 to 2, 2 to 3, etc.)
-Horrible shaking when in reverse
-Minor water leaks around all seals
-Power handling (see General Comments)
-Loud knocking sound
-Lower than reported fuel economy.
General comments?
The Pontiac Grand Am is a car that everyone should avoid. The few positive remarks I have about this car are hidden behind the major concerns. The car will not hold a charge. I have a new battery, and I have checked all connections yet the clock will always reset, locks will not work, etc. The headlights also seem to have problems- if I try to use the headlights and the brakes at the same time, the headlights (and tail lights) go out. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. The Transmission has also become a recent major problem. When shifted into reverse, the whole car (violently) shakes.
On the other hand, the car builds up to city speed OK (has issues getting up to highway speed). This is about the only good comment I have for the car.
No matter what the price, or how low the kms (I know the previous two owners, this car did not have a roll back!) avoid any Pontiac!
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| 1990 - Grand Am SE quad 4 engine 2.3 Never got a chance to enjoy this car with 'soul' |
|
| A hunk of junk money gobbler |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1990 |
| Year of manufacture | 1990 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3L Quad Four Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 54000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 57000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 30th December, 2004 |