1999 Pontiac Grand Am

Introduction:

The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am is a sporty midsize sedan known for its sleek styling, spacious interior, and nimble handling. It is powered by a choice of 2.4L or 3.4L V6 engines, paired with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. The Grand Am was praised for its performance, comfort, and value for money, but it has also received criticism for its unreliability and common mechanical issues.

Engine

2.4L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, engine misfires, and poor performance
• Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

• Recalls: None Found

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
• Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve covers, causing a burning oil smell and engine smoke
• Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Recalls: None Found

3.4L V6

• Head Gasket Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, and engine misfires
• Solution: Replace the head gasket
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

• Recalls: None Found

• Timing Chain Rattle:
• Description/Symptoms: Loud rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup
• Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioners
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
• Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
• Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

• Recalls: None Found

• Valve Body Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed or no response from transmission
• Solution: Replace the valve body
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging or disengaging gears, slipping
• Solution: Replace the clutch assembly
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+

• Recalls: None Found

• Transmission Mount Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, gear grinding
• Solution: Replace the transmission mount
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Worn struts or shocks, resulting in poor handling, tire wear, and a harsh ride
• Solution: Replace the struts or shocks
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (all four corners)

• Recalls: None Found

• Control Arm Bushing Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Loose or worn control arm bushings, causing excessive tire wear, steering instability, and noise
• Solution: Replace the control arm bushings
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (all four corners)
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Charging system problems, battery not charging properly, dim lights
• Solution: Replace the alternator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

• Recalls: None Found

• Starter Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t crank, solenoid click
• Solution: Replace the starter motor
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, unable to open or close doors
• Solution: Replace the door lock actuator or lock cylinder
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door

• Recalls: None Found

• Window Regulator Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Windows not rolling up or down properly, stuck windows
• Solution: Replace the window regulator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Window switches not working properly, windows stuck
• Solution: Replace the power window switch
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per switch

• Recalls: None Found

• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Heating and cooling system not working properly, air not blowing from correct vents
• Solution: Replace the HVAC blend door actuator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am has a number of common issues, primarily related to its engine, transmission, and electrical systems. While the Grand Am is known for its performance and comfort, its reliability issues can be a significant concern for potential buyers. The estimated cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to over $2,000, depending on the severity of the issue.