Summary
What Edmunds.com says
A viable import alternative, but don't expect Camry- or Accord-like resale values or build quality.
Pros
Sporty styling, lots of standard features, available five-speed manual transmission, crisp handling.
Cons
Price creep has followed sales growth, true sport sedans need a five-speed with a V6, odd interior styling.
What's New for 2001
For 2001, the Grand Am gets audio improvements, a wheel upgrade and revised paint choices.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Great First Car
Vehicle
2001 Pontiac Grand Am SE1 2dr Coupe (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
This was my first car. In terms of reliability it was flawless. I drove the car into high mileage territory and always used high mileage oil when getting it changed. The first major hiccup started just recently when the on-board computer started triggering the security switch in the middle of driving - causing the engine to stop. But mechanically it's always just hummed along.
Favorite Features
It handled curves surprisingly well. I don't think the style has grown old quite yet.
Suggested Improvements
Better quality plastics and fastenings. Otherwise this may have been Pontiac's last relatively reliable vehicle.
electrical
Vehicle
2001 Pontiac Grand Am GT1 4dr Sedan (3.4L 6cyl 4A)
Review
An excellent vehicle for good acceleration and power but have had numerous problems with the anti theft system, tire wear is below average, thermostat problems and just replaced alternator at 140,000 mi. It also goes through brake pads quite frequent. Gas mileage not bad for a v6 with power if it was only more reliable.
Favorite Features
acceleration and power with attractive dash
Suggested Improvements
reliability with anti theft system especially
Total Poor Quality - Beware!
Vehicle
2001 Pontiac Grand Am GT 4dr Sedan (3.4L 6cyl 4A)
Review
This car has given us nothing but trouble. It is poorly made in every regard. Parts have fallen off the car such as the interior door panel reflector and the wing type material above the window. The front hub bearing had an issue, the fuel pump went out, the electrical is very messed up and lights fill the dash at any given time whether or not there is an issue. The repairs it would take to make this car drivable far exceed its worth. Mechanics will tell you how many issues GM's motors are having. Just DON'T DO IT.
Favorite Features
NONE
Suggested Improvements
More reliability, better construction of parts, and all around better value.
junk
Vehicle
2001 Pontiac Grand Am SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
Had trouble from the start. security light shuts down the engine. car wont start. tow about 17 times since I bought it in June 08. fuel went frame squeaks. not dependable
Favorite Features
looks good
Suggested Improvements
I should of walk away
AMAZING first car.
Vehicle
2001 Pontiac Grand Am SE1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
If you're thinking of getting an affordable car, then I would definitely put a Pontiac Grand AM on your list. This car is a speed demon, just to warn, the acceleration takes some getting used to at first, but once you've driven it enough, it gets easier. This car is a champion to me, and I've only had it for 2 days. If you can find one for a good price tag, then its a steal. This is the perfect first car, it is sharp and not tacky or too sophisticated at all. Runs great, sounds quiet, handles well and easily. Shocks absorb any road divots or potholes, just be on the look-out for them though, never know where you will find one, especially in states with a lot of un-paved streets. A+ car!
Favorite Features
Auto-lock, power windows, power mirrors, Adjust seats with ease, easily accessible trunk button, Cruise Ctrl, A/C, heats up nice,GREAT sound system. Radio quality could be better, but CD quality is excellent! Blast it for best results, just don't over-do it.
Suggested Improvements
Windshield wipers on the rear of the car would be nice. Also, provide a way to adjust the sensitivity of the accelerator, or weight it down more if thats even possible.
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