1997 Pontiac Grand Am SE review from North America
"Good to go"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replace water pump. $20
Replace alternator. $80
Replace starter. $80
Replace both power window motors. $100
Serpentine belt. $25
Replace brake pads and rotors every 2 years. $80
Replaced drum shoes once. $40
Trans and radiator flush every 2 years. $90
Replace plugs every 2 years. $20
Castrol Syntec and long life oil filter every 8000 miles. $25.
Burns.cj@gmail.com if you need help with any of the above operations.
CV axle is in need of replacement. Water is getting in from somewhere after a long rain. Horn IN-OP. Shocks and struts are way overdue.
General comments?
All things considered, this car has served me very well. I've had it 5 years now and put on nearly 85000 miles and have done only minimal repairs, and everything except the flushing can be done in your driveway.
I threw in a knock-off K/N air filter and get an extra 25 miles out of a tank of gas, and it gives the motor a nice throaty sound. I get about 26/28 miles a gallon at about 75% highway driving.
The red paint still glistens in the sun and I only wax once or twice a year with nu finish. The A/C is cranking out 53 degree air and it's never been charged, at least not since I've had it.
Not bad for a 10 year old car.
Recommended reviews
| Driving Excitement Pontiac - Yeah Right |
| Its holding up admirably considering how hard I run it |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 189 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 46000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 130000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Beretta |
| Date of Entry | 10th June, 2006 |