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1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Pontiac Firebird includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Pontiac Firebird.
1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Brake noise: Rear brake squeal can be eliminated by replacing the brake pads with revised ones. (1993-94)
Coolant leak: The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (1993-2002)
Coolant leak: Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1995-02)
Doors: The power door locks may not operate due to a rubber bumper falling off of the actuator arm. (1994-95)
Engine temperature: Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)
Manual transmission: Manual transmissions tend to pop out of gear in cold weather until the interior warms up. (1993-94)
Starter: The starter may keep running after the engine starts, or the key is turned off, due to a short in the wiring. (1995)
Transmission leak: Fluid may leak from the pump body on 4L60-E transmissions due to the pump bushing walking out of the valve body. (1995-96)
Vehicle shake: Cars with the 5.7-liter engine may vibrate at highway speeds, which can be corrected by replacing the driveshaft with an aluminum shaft (although this usually results in axle noise becoming more apparent). (1993-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $535
Alternator $290
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $775
Brakes $255
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $755
Exhaust System $470
Radiator $410
Shocks and/or Struts $595
Timing Chain or Belt $330
Universal Joints $200
NHTSA Recall History
1994: Misrouted V8 fuel line may contact "air" check valve; heat could damage line.
1995: Lower coupling of steering intermediate shaft could loosen and rotate, resulting in loss of control.
1997: Seatbelt retractors on some cars can lock-up on slopes.
1999 w/manual transmission: Clutch master cylinder on a few cars may have incorrect retaining ring, preventing disengagement when clutch pedal is depressed.
2002: Welds near the lower driver's-side door hinge do not meet specifications.
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