2002 Pontiac Grand Am

Introduction:

The 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is a mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and affordable price. It comes standard with a 2.2L Ecotec engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A more powerful 3.4L V6 engine is optional, paired with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, overheating, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the engine, especially at startup.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800

3.4L V6

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, overheating, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Valve Seat Recessions:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of compression, rough idle, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: 03V324000

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or fail to engage a gear.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission solenoid pack or valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficulty Shifting into Gear:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may be difficult to shift into gear, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Replace the shift linkage or lubricate the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from the suspension, such as clunking or rattling, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Control Arm Bushings Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations or excessive noise from the suspension, especially when turning or driving over uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimmed headlights, flickering dashboard lights, and battery drain.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may not operate or may operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Exterior

• Tail Light Lens Fade:
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic tail light lenses may become faded or discolored over time.
  • Solution: Replace the tail light lenses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

• Door Panel Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: The door panels may rattle or make noises when the vehicle is driven over uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Tighten the door panel screws or add foam padding to the panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100

Summary:

Overall, the 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has a fair reliability record. While it has some common issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and alternator failure, the severity and cost of these issues are generally moderate. The Grand Am provides a good balance of performance, affordability, and reliability, making it a popular choice for budget-minded drivers.