1992 Pontiac LeMans review from North America

The passenger door lock tumbler was jammed when I bought it.

The bumper was wind-stripped and patched.

When I changed provinces it cost me half of what I purchased it for to certify it: bent lower control arm; worn & rusted tire rim; brakes & rotors; various bulbs; alignment and balancing. These sort of repairs would have been expected if it wasn't for the fact that I bought it a month prior, certified.

The right-side axle boot leaked and had to be replaced (the axle grinds slightly on sharp turns).

The speedometer cable broke, but was easily replaced with a junkyard part.

The upper-radiator hose blew, but was simple to repair.

8 months after the complete brake & rotor job done for certification it needed a new one (though I suspect shoddy workmanship by the certifying shop).

The idle air control and the starter both went at the exact same moment (I had to push start it and hold out the clutch to keep down the RPM). Was an expensive repair.

5 months after the second brake the front left caliper-slide stuck while traveling, resulting in caliper, rotor, and pad replacement.

The driver side door lock came loose and disconnected from the rod. Given the state of both locks, I now have to unlock the vehicle by climbing through the hatch.

It has, and continues to slowly leak oil and antifreeze from various locations.

It's pretty good on gas (it could be a little better) and is cost-effective for long-distance trips.

It doesn't have much power, but is fairly responsive being a 4-speed manual. As well, besides the idle air control and external leaks, the engine has had no problems.

I replaced all 4 tires a year after purchase since the previous owner had 3 different sizes on it (this "upgrade" significantly increased handling).

Though I work a delivery job which requires a lot of city driving, I am not hard on the brakes. Despite my efforts they have been the most expensive and unreliable part of the vehicle.

Though the interior is ugly and the stock sound system is pathetic, some seat-covers, black carpet, speakers and a deck really enhance the ride. Still, the seats aren't all that comfortable and they are very worn.

I am a college student, so I can't really afford to get another car, however, I also can't afford to keep this one much longer. It has been somewhat reliable most of the time (only stranded once). However, I don't expect it to live more than 230,000 km.