2000 Pontiac Grand Am

Introduction

The 2000 Pontiac Grand Am is a compact sedan powered by a standard 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It was also available with an optional 3.4L V6 engine that produces 175 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, and a CVT. The Grand Am was praised for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and affordable price, but it also had some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, reduced engine power, and a check engine light. The manifold gasket must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Head Gasket Failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to mix. Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a check engine light. The head gasket must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Timing Belt Failure: The timing belt can fail, causing the engine to lose power and stall. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, difficulty starting, and a check engine light. The timing belt must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

3.4L V6 Engine

• Ignition Coil Failure: The ignition coils can fail, causing misfires and reduced engine power. Symptoms include a rough idle, stalling, and a check engine light. The ignition coils must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure: The intake manifold runner control can fail, causing reduced engine power and fuel economy. Symptoms include a lack of power at low RPMs and a check engine light. The intake manifold runner control must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage: The transmission may slip gears, causing a loss of power and acceleration. Symptoms include difficulty shifting, delayed engagement, and a check engine light. The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

CVT Transmission

• Belt Failure: The CVT belt can fail, causing the transmission to lose power and stall. Symptoms include a whining noise from the transmission, difficulty accelerating, and a check engine light. The CVT belt must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Strut Failure: The struts can fail, causing the front end of the vehicle to bounce and handle poorly. Symptoms include uneven tire wear, excessive body roll, and a clunking noise from the suspension. The struts must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Control Arm Bushing Wear: The control arm bushings can wear out, causing the front end of the vehicle to wander and make noise. Symptoms include a knocking or clunking noise from the suspension, uneven tire wear, and a loose steering feel. The control arm bushings must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery can drain quickly, causing the vehicle to have difficulty starting. Symptoms include a weak or dead battery, dim headlights, and a parasitic drain on the electrical system. The source of the battery drain must be identified and repaired. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge properly. Symptoms include a flickering or dim dashboard lights, a battery warning light, and difficulty starting the vehicle. The alternator must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Exterior

• Sunroof Leak: The sunroof may leak, causing water to enter the interior of the vehicle. Symptoms include wet carpets, a musty odor, and water stains on the headliner. The sunroof seal must be replaced or repaired. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can crack over time, especially in hot climates. Symptoms include visible cracks in the dashboard material. The dashboard must be replaced or repaired. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Door Handle Failure: The interior door handles can fail, making it difficult to open the doors. Symptoms include a loose or broken door handle. The door handle must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary

The 2000 Pontiac Grand Am has several common issues that owners should be aware of. The most severe issues include engine and transmission failures, which can be expensive to repair. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a reasonable cost. Overall, the Grand Am is a reliable and affordable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of its potential problems before purchasing one.