1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
2002 Pontiac Firebird
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1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird ▼
- Price Range: $1,500 - $13,100
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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 .
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:
Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1995-02)
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)
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 |
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