2002 Pontiac Firebird

The 2002 Pontiac Firebird, the last year of production, is a rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its powerful engines and aggressive styling. Engine options included the 3.8L V6, the 5.7L LS1 V8 (in the Formula and Trans Am trims). The LS1 produced around 310-325 horsepower and 340-350 lb-ft of torque, depending on the model year and exhaust configuration. The available transmissions were a 4-speed automatic (4L60E) and a 6-speed manual (T56). Many people appreciate the Firebird for its performance and affordability, but common complaints include build quality issues, interior materials, and age-related reliability concerns.

Engine

5.7L LS1 V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some LS1 engines, particularly those with higher mileage, are prone to consuming oil. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust, a low oil level warning, or the need to add oil frequently.
  • Solution: The solution varies based on the severity. It can range from using a thicker oil to replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or even a complete engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (thicker oil) - $3000+ (engine rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, misfire, or fail to start. A check engine light will often illuminate with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Intake Manifold Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally from the intake manifold near the front or rear of the engine. Overheating, loss of coolant, and a sweet smell may also be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets, often upgraded to a more durable design.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic

• Soft or Delayed Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may hesitate to shift between gears, shift harshly, or slip during acceleration.
  • Solution: Often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement. Sometimes, a valve body replacement or shift kit installation can address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 (valve body/shift kit) - $1500 - $3500 (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration. Can also cause stalling at a stop.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

T56 6-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting into Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding when shifting, especially into reverse or higher gears. Difficulty engaging gears, particularly when cold.
  • Solution: Can be caused by worn synchronizers, a failing clutch master or slave cylinder, or a worn clutch. Depending on the cause, repairs may include clutch replacement, synchro replacement, or master/slave cylinder replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (master/slave cylinder) - $800 - $2500 (clutch/synchros)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all. Grinding noise when operating the window switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Motor Gear Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights fail to raise or lower properly. Grinding noise when the headlight switch is activated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight motor gear (often with a metal aftermarket gear to prevent future failures).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• T-Top Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain or car washes. Water stains on the headliner.
  • Solution: Replacement of the T-top weather stripping or adjustment of the T-top latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (cover) - $800+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Headliner
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the headliner board and sags.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headliner fabric or the entire headliner board.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2002 Pontiac Firebird can be a fun and engaging sports car, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues that arise, especially given the vehicle’s age. Engine issues, like oil consumption in the LS1 and intake manifold leaks in the 3.8L, can be moderate to expensive to repair. Transmission problems, particularly with the 4L60E automatic, can be costly as well. Suspension and electrical issues are also common, contributing to the overall cost of ownership. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite significant, making it crucial to inspect any potential purchase thoroughly and factor in potential repair costs.