Overview & Reviews

For much of its modern history, Pontiac has been home to legendary cars like the Firebird and GTO. With such dedication to raciness, it might seem a bit odd that when it came time for Americans to buy a Pontiac for much of the 1980s and '90s, they overwhelmingly chose the Grand Am, a car that wouldn't know a smoky burnout from a backyard barbecue.

Although the Pontiac Grand Am blipped into existence during the 1970s, it's the unassuming and over-styled family sedan from more recent decades that most people are probably familiar with. Within Pontiac's lineup, the Grand Am slotted one or two rungs up from entry-level. It featured an attractive price, just enough space for four average-sized adults, and four-cylinder or V6 power.

This was a good enough combination for many people, and Pontiac further expanded the Grand Am's visibility by selling heavily to rental car fleets. However, we were never particularly impressed by the car. Our first hands-on experiences were with the mid-'90s models, and we found them to be uncomfortable, unrefined and lacking in handling ability. More recent models didn't fare much better. Looking to ditch the car's "Bland Am" image, Pontiac eventually replaced the Grand Am with the superior G6 in 2005.

Widely available and convincingly inexpensive, used Grand Ams are adequate enough in most respects to be worth considering for a small family car. Just know that there have always been plenty of offerings in this segment, and many of them will likely prove to be more rewarding to own.

Most Recent Pontiac Grand Am

The last-generation Pontiac Grand Am was produced from 1999 through 2005. It was larger than the previous model, and a more rigid platform combined with a new multilink rear suspension provided better ride and handling characteristics. Sedan and coupe body styles were offered, and both initially came with either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 150 horsepower or a 3.4-liter V6 with 170 hp. All early models had a four-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

The Grand Am's basic trim lines were SE and GT, though both contained submodels (SE, SE1, SE2, GT, GT1) with slight variations. The basic SE came with 15-inch wheels, antilock brakes, air-conditioning, radio and power door locks. The SE1 added power windows, a power seat, cruise control and folding rear seat, while the SE2 added the V6 engine, 16-inch wheels, speed-sensitive power steering, an upgraded stereo, steering-wheel audio controls and keyless entry.

The V6-powered GT added "Ram Air" hood scoops for 5 extra hp (175 total), more aggressive gearing, four-wheel disc brakes, a stiffer suspension and exterior styling add-ons like a spoiler and ribbed body cladding. The GT lost some of the items added by the SE2, but Pontiac reinserted them for the top-of-the-line GT1 and then topped it off with a sunroof.

The Pontiac Grand Am came closest to its sport sedan aspirations when equipped with the V6. The tires, brakes and steering upgrades that came with this engine helped as well, and the stiffer-sprung GT cured the SE's excessive body roll. On the downside, both engines were rough and unrefined, and the steering and brakes were rather uncommunicative. Finally, overall mileage with the V6 was below average.

Admittedly, the greater point of contention was the Grand Am's overwrought and unappealing styling. Much of the garishness could be avoided by selecting one of the SE models, but all Grand Ams shared the same interior that was marred by deeply recessed instruments and bulging components. In addition, the seats were mounted a bit too low and thus not all that comfortable, and overall interior materials quality was lacking. A marginal frontal-offset crash test score from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety was a further point of concern.

Overall, competitors like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima were better cars at the time thanks to their superiority in terms of refinement, interior design and V6 power. But if you are set on a Grand Am, there are a few changes to look out for. A year after the car's debut, Pontiac made a five-speed manual transmission available with the four-cylinder engine. In 2002, the old 2.4-liter engine was replaced with new 2.2-liter "Ecotec" that traded 10 horsepower (down to 140) for better fuel economy. And in 2005, the only Grand Ams on sale were GT coupes; sedans had already been supplanted by the Pontiac G6.

Past Pontiac Grand Am Models

The previous-generation Grand Am was sold from 1992-'98. Both the sedan and coupe came in SE and GT trim lines. The SE started with little besides power steering, a radio and antilock brakes. The GT added a firmer suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels and some aero cosmetics. Air-conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a tilt steering wheel, upgraded stereos and cruise control were optional on both trim levels. Quicker variable-assist power steering was available on GT models.

The greater differences were in powertrain availability. Grand Am SEs started with a 115-hp, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic. GTs were equipped with a high-powered version of that engine that cranked out 170 hp. A medium-powered, 155-horse version of the four-cylinder and a 160-hp 3.3-liter V6 (with considerably more torque) were optional across the board.

The Pontiac Grand Am got many substantial changes over the coming years. For 1994, Pontiac added a driver's airbag and a new 155-hp, 3.1-liter V6 paired to a four-speed automatic. The following year, all three four-cylinders were dropped in favor of one heavily revised one with 150 hp and far smoother operation (thanks to balance shafts). A styling revision came for 1996, as did dual airbags and further powertrain updates.

There were glaring flaws endemic to this generation. The standard steering setup was heavy, numb and slow, and SE models had subpar grip around corners. Ride quality managed to be both soggy and harsh, and the Grand Am's body structure flexed over common bumps.

The interior was similarly miserable. The overly low seats created the impression of sitting on the floor. Further, their thin padding offered minimal back and thigh support, while the backseat was a squeeze even for two.

We see little reason to look at this older-generation Pontiac Grand Am as a used car purchase, especially when other mid-1990s cars like the Ford Contour and Nissan Altima proved more entertaining, comfortable and well-designed in nearly every way. For those determined to buy a Grand Am from this era, models built from 1996 onward are the best picks. Only by then did all engines run acceptably smoothly and come with more efficient four-speed automatic transmissions. Try to find a sample with the more responsive variable-effort power steering -- it was a package option typically bundled with power accessories and cruise control.

User Reviews:

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  Keeps on Running - 1997 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Chris from Michigan - September 15 - 10:00 am

  Bought my Grand Am in 97 with only 4 miles on it. It now has over 105,000! Only repair that has been done was a water pump (at around 50,000 miles). Other than normal maintence, car has not cost me anything. Runs great everyday. I have the 4 cyl / 5 speed combo which works great. I wish that they had offered the 5 speed with the 6 cyl engine. Car does not excell at any particular thing, but does not bother me since it runs so good. Been very happy with my Grand Am.

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  Fun to drive, but some issues - 1999 Pontiac Grand AM
  By David - September 15 - 6:36 am

  This overall has been a great first car! The car was my sisters and when she got a newer Grand Am, she gave hers to me. The car is a lot of fun to drive, it has a lot of pick up with the V6, but has some mechanical issues. In the time that weve both had it weve replaced the passenger window motor, the passenger window, front breaks, a couple sensors here and there, it needs a new engine belt, the drivers brake light had to be replaced and some other repairs here and there.

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  GrandAmLemon - 2001 Pontiac Grand AM
  By GMEatMyTow Charges - September 14 - 2:00 am

  The dealer tells me I was given a Friday car and apologizes. GM refuses to allow me out of lease. Ive had electrical issue since purchased the vehicle which is 2 1/2 years now. The Car doesnt start about 2 times a month on average. Just got car back from shop today and once again they swear its fixed. The 2nd time I heard that this month! The whole experience has been a 2 1/2 year nightmare for me. I know I could sue and win 10 attempts to fix the same problem twice this month alone. But I only have 3 more months on their lease they wont let me out of less I sue. HEY GM EAT THOSE JUMP START & TOW CHARGES!!!!

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  GrandAmLemon - 2001 Pontiac Grand AM
  By GrandAmLemon - September 14 - 2:00 am

  The dealer tells me I was given a Friday car and apologizes. GM refuses to allow me out of lease. Ive had electrical issue since purchased the vehicle which is 2 1/2 years now. The Car doesnt start about 3 times a month on average. Just got car back from shop today and once again they swear its fixed. The 2nd time I heard that this month! The latest excuse The whole experience has been a 2 1/2 year nightmare for me. I know I could sue and win 10 attempts to fix the same problem twice this month alone. But I only have 3 more months on their lease they wont let me out of less I sue. HEY GM EAT THOSE JUMP START & TOW CHARGES!!!!

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  Im gonna miss ya, Joey - 2000 Pontiac Grand AM
  By jleahcap - September 8 - 8:12 pm

  I bought my Grand Am in 99, and shes still with me at 133,000 miles. I Love getting into this car every time. The color (navy blue), the style. There are just too many things that are falling off - both side mirrors, the overhead light, no visible clock, back window goes half-way up/down depending on mood. Its a good thing I own this car, because I wouldnt be able to afford the repairs every 3-4 months if I had to make car payments. Giving up my Grand Am will be like losing my best friend - albeit a high-maintenance friend. If I could find a way to replace all these problems to make it run for another 10 years, I would in half-a-heartbeat.

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  a good car so far - 2001 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Thebitz - September 8 - 10:00 am

  As I read other reviews on the 2001 GA, I realized I too have had similar problems with the engine not turning over on the first attempt. Hmmm??? This is my second GA. first was a 1996 GA GT. I think the handling of the GT was better. Overall, I have not had many problems with car. I did have to replace a tail light seal which leaked water into the truck/extra tire compartment. I would think this is a good car, but it is not a Nissan, Toyota, or Honda. You get what you pay for. The brakes are not very strong which is a known GM problem.

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  Impressive - 2001 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Kaci TRUTXN - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I have to admit that I have a 2002, but as soon as I drove home I fell in love. It has good pick up, nice comfort in the back, plenty of trunk space. I was overall impressed. I did notice that the pain on the front has chipped off from objects hitting it off the highway. I guess I didnt expect for it to be like that. I do think it is a good car over all. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  Excellent Car!!! - 2003 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Pontiac Grand Am GT - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Just bought our first Grand Am GT. Its an excellent car, thats fun to drive. Other Grand Am owners say its reliable and maintance is minimal. I highly recommend this car!

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  This Car is Junk - 1999 Pontiac Grand AM
  By DoNotBuy - September 3 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car and it only had 12,000 miles on it. At 19,000 miles the automatic transmission went out and had to be replaced at MY COST ($3,000)! Then the alternater was replaced (Twice), both window motors had to be replaced, two front hub assembiles, the left CV joint twice, the right CV joint once, and it eats brakes like crazy (replaced 4 times just this year). I do not drive my car hard nor do I neglect it. I loved this car at first and now it is nothing but a headache. DO NOT BUY GRAND AMs they will live you in ruins!

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  No problems - 2001 Pontiac Grand AM
  By heavenbndt - August 26 - 6:00 am

  Ive had my 2001 grand am for two years now and have had no problems with it. It has power I didnt expect it to have and moves good in traffic. The gas mileage is good compared to my ford truck and it is a comfortable ride. I love my car and felt it was a good deal.