1996 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America

The entire cooling system has been replaced. This includes all hoses, water pump, heater core, coolant reservoir, and radiator. Seems the hard plastic used in the manufacturing of the cooling system parts would not stand up to the rigors required. The water pump was replaced around 60,000 miles. A well known consumer organization made note that the 96 Grand Am had problems with its cooling system.

Replaced the A/C compressor.

Replaced the crankshaft position sensor twice.

Replaced the alternator three times.

Replaced the serpentine belt twice.

The right door actuator never has worked.

The windshield spray never has worked.

Note to all who read: Learn to do your own repairs if possible. (e.g. replacing the alternator, serpentine belt, etc or else find yourself a really good garage you can count on. I do both. When I need to have the codes read, I let my garage diagnose it. If I can repair the vehicle, I will do it. If not, I let my garage do the repair job. If you're wondering how difficult the job is, ask your garage the estimated labor cost. If the labor cost is < $150.00 that's a good indication the job is not difficult and you could do it yourself. Invest in a good manufacturer's repair manual)

I use my Grand Am to drive around town and to/from work. I would not buy another one, but it serves the purpose.

This vehicle has a transverse engine which makes it difficult to work on. I will not buy another vehicle which has a transverse engine. This is due to the fact that there is not a lot of room in the engine compartment.