2003 Pontiac Grand Am Review
Fuel Economy
21 - 25 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
A viable import alternative, but don't expect Camry- or Accordlike resale values or build quality.
Pros
Lots of standard features, available five-speed manual transmission, crisp handling.
Cons
Price creep has followed sales growth, five-speed not available with V6, cheap interior pieces, iffy crash test scores.
What's New for 2003
A new trim level has been added -- SE2 -- that offers buyers more standard equipment and additional options, while the SE coupe is no longer available. All SE sedans now feature cleaner styling thanks to less body cladding and smoother front and rear fascias. XM Satellite Radio is an available option on all models, while the OnStar communications system is now standard on all models except the base SE.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Nightmare
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 5 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 6 | Reliability: | 2 |
| Fuel Economy: | 4 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Pontiac Grand Am GT1 4dr Sedan (3.4L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I've had this car since it was brand new and it's been nothing but a nightmare to own. I'm now seeing many of the problems I've had from other reviewers, including turn signal clicking when not in use,paint peeling, seals. Two weeks after purchase, the a/c went - needed air compressor and it's been downhill ever since. I only have 31,000 but have had the brake pedal assembly replaced due to car picking up speed, even going up hill, needed 2 batteries replaced in less than 3 mos., sunroof leaked, had ignition cylinder replaced 3 times because car wouldn't start; 3 days after most recent replacement, security light has been coming on while driving and dealership says can't disconnect. Run!
Favorite Features
Looks good with sport composite hood, controls on steering wheel, fun to drive(when not in ths shop).
Suggested Improvements
None, since Pontiac is now obsolete. And I can see why.
Great coupe for the money
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 8 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Pontiac Grand Am GT 2dr Coupe (3.4L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I find this to be a very solid, great handling and fun to drive car. There is more then the rated horsepower available, especially considering the cars 3800 lbs. and it runs great!! I would advise i bought this NOT looking for a maintenance free car - it waas cherry but i replaced the coolant with NON DEX_COOL and a lower-tem thermostat - its a GM thing you need to correct but the engine will last foever - i'm a mechanic and trust me it will save you TONS of trouble. I've seen GM's like this take some serious abuse and keep on going!!!
Favorite Features
The exterior styling, handling, and serious engine power off the line
Suggested Improvements
inside, the pedals need spaced a little better and more clearance for my size 13 feet - a smaller diameter and telescoping steering wheel - better paint quality outside - keept this thing waxed or else!
Can't GM get it right
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 1 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Pontiac Grand Am SE1 4dr Sedan (2.2L 4cyl 5M)
Review
Looks good fun to drive; Many problems 1) pass lock 2) brakes 3)water pump 4) fuel pump If GM would make cars that did not continually FAIL. They could make money on selling cars. Brakes - were bad from fac. they didn't even clean the disks ( still greasy) ; Pass lock may have worked it they lubricated the cylinder: Water pump - they put this on the timing chain- Very bad design! Fuel pump - in the tank Very bad design. I think GM could design a good car they just chose not to!
Favorite Features
good looks
Suggested Improvements
redesign brakes; pass lock; water pump ; fuel pump. and guarantee these system to 100k so people believe the cars are better!!
Hate this freakin car SOOOOOOOOO Much
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 3 | Fun-to-Drive: | 1 | Build Quality: | 1 |
| Comfort: | 2 | Interior Design: | 3 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 1 | Exterior Design: | 5 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Pontiac Grand Am SE2 4dr Sedan (3.4L 6cyl 4A)
Review
Had this car for 6 years and have nothing but problems with this car. Initially, the car was fun to drive and fulfilled its purpose. After about a year and a half, everything started going south. This piece of crap has front rotor, rear drum brakes. As such, the brakes wear down pretty quick. Have replaced brakes/pads/rotors 5 times so far. Have also replaced entire ignition system, fuel tank, fuel pump, and various other things. Bought car new for $14k and, so farm have spent about $7- $8k in repairs over the life of ownership. DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT BUYING THIS CAR.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
Scrap this car altogether and never ever make this car again.
Great Car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 8 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Pontiac Grand Am GT 4dr Sedan (3.4L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I bought my car brand spanking new with only 2 miles on it. I've had a few issues with it with a bad fuel pump the catalytic converter went out which was replaced under warranty. I've also had to have the battery replaced. Other than that i've had no other problems with my car I usually change the oil at regular intervals and recently had a coolant flush. It rides great.
Favorite Features
I like the audio system although I have upgraded mine with Infintiy's and a Sony subwoffer.
Suggested Improvements
Better fuel mileage, better brakes.
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