The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am was a popular compact/mid-size car known for its sporty styling and relatively affordable price. Part of the sixth generation (1999-2005), it was available as a coupe or sedan. Key trims included the SE, GT, and GT1. The Grand Am appealed to drivers seeking a blend of performance and value, with a starting price typically in the $15,000-$20,000 range when new. Its distinctive Pontiac styling and readily available performance options contributed to its popularity.
The Good
The 1999 Grand Am offered decent performance, especially in GT trims, providing an engaging driving experience. Its sporty design appealed to younger buyers. From a practical standpoint, it was relatively affordable and fuel-efficient. While not known for exceptional reliability, it offered acceptable value for the price, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 1999 Grand Am included potential issues with the electrical system, particularly the anti-theft system. The 3.4L V6 engine could develop intake manifold gasket leaks. The automatic transmission was also a known weak point. Rust, particularly in northern climates, could also be a concern. Premature wear of suspension components was another area to monitor.
1999 Pontiac Grand Am: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4 (SE): 150 hp
- 3.4L V6 (GT, GT1): 175 hp
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L I4: 150 hp @ 5600 rpm
- 3.4L V6: 175 hp @ 4800 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.4L I4: 23 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 3.4L V6: 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.4L I4: Around 9-10 seconds
- 3.4L V6: Around 8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not Recommended for Towing
- Trim Level Features:
- SE (Base): Air conditioning, AM/FM radio, cloth seats, power windows and locks (optional).
- GT: Upgraded seats, alloy wheels, fog lights, rear spoiler, sport suspension, and sometimes included a CD player.
- GT1: Similar to GT, but sometimes included premium sound system options, leather seats, and other enhanced features.
- Other Notes:
- Transmission: Typically a 4-speed automatic, but a 5-speed manual was available on some models.
- Brakes: Front disc, rear drum brakes.
- Suspension: Independent front suspension, solid axle rear suspension.
1999 Pontiac Grand Am Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Am |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ORION |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.4 L 6-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 3.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic 4-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am Have?
The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am, like many cars of its era, had its share of reported problems. Frequently cited issues included:
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks (3.4L V6): A very common problem, leading to coolant loss and potential engine damage if not addressed.
- Electrical Issues: Problems with the anti-theft system (PassKey), power windows, and door locks were often reported.
- Transmission Problems: The 4-speed automatic transmission was known to be somewhat fragile, with potential for slipping or failure, especially with higher mileage.
- Cooling System Issues: Overheating could occur due to radiator clogs or failing water pumps.
- Suspension Wear: Ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts were prone to wear, impacting handling and requiring replacement.
- Rust: Especially in regions with road salt, rust could be a significant issue, particularly on the undercarriage and body panels.
How long will the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am last?
A well-maintained 1999 Pontiac Grand Am could potentially reach 200,000 miles or more, but this is highly dependent on maintenance history. With average maintenance, expect around 150,000-180,000 miles. Years of service vary significantly.
Long-term durability is affected by the issues mentioned earlier (intake manifold gaskets, transmission, electrical). Rust is a major factor, especially in colder climates. Regular oil changes, cooling system flushes, and transmission servicing are essential to prolonging the life of these vehicles. Neglecting these services will lead to premature failures.
Long-term durability is affected by the issues mentioned earlier (intake manifold gaskets, transmission, electrical). Rust is a major factor, especially in colder climates. Regular oil changes, cooling system flushes, and transmission servicing are essential to prolonging the life of these vehicles. Neglecting these services will lead to premature failures.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am offered basic technology for its time. Standard features included an AM/FM radio. Optional upgrades included a CD player, cassette player, and premium sound systems.
Driver-assistance features were limited, with standard features like power steering and power brakes. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking were available.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional. Some trims had traction control available.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be researched for specific scores. These ratings provide insights into the vehicle's performance in various crash scenarios. Keep in mind that safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since 1999, so these ratings should be considered in that context. Side airbags were not standard, representing a significant difference from modern safety expectations. Overall, the 1999 Grand Am lagged behind modern vehicles in terms of technology, driver assistance, and safety features.
Driver-assistance features were limited, with standard features like power steering and power brakes. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking were available.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional. Some trims had traction control available.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be researched for specific scores. These ratings provide insights into the vehicle's performance in various crash scenarios. Keep in mind that safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since 1999, so these ratings should be considered in that context. Side airbags were not standard, representing a significant difference from modern safety expectations. Overall, the 1999 Grand Am lagged behind modern vehicles in terms of technology, driver assistance, and safety features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Bright White
Black
Medium Gray
Dark Blue
Red
Interior Colors
Light Neutral
Dark Gray
1999 Pontiac Grand Am Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am ranged from approximately $15,000 to $20,000, depending on the trim and options. Today, used market prices are significantly lower, typically ranging from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been substantial due to age, mileage, and known reliability issues. Resale value is primarily affected by the vehicle's mechanical condition, lack of rust, and overall cosmetic appearance. Low mileage examples in excellent condition will command a higher price, but even then, the price will be relatively low compared to its original MSRP.
1999 Pontiac Grand Am Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 1999 Pontiac Grand Am are generally low due to its age and relatively low value. Fuel costs are moderate, depending on the engine and driving habits. Maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable due to potential issues with the engine, transmission, and electrical system. Long-term ownership can be costly if major repairs are needed. While initially affordable, the potential for repairs makes it a potentially expensive car to keep on the road compared to newer, more reliable vehicles.
1999 Pontiac Grand Am Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1999 Pontiac Grand Am Safety Rating
NHTSA
1999 Pontiac Grand Am Recalls & Defects
Structure:body
Recall date
2000-05-18
Recall no.
00v140000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: These Vehicles DO NOT Comply With THE Occupant Protection Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 201, "occupant Protection IN Interior Impact." THE Console Cover ON These Vehicles Does NOT Stay Closed When A Specified Vertical Load IS Applied.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Console Cover Could Open and THE Cover or Items Stored Under IT Could Injure AN Occupant.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Console Latch Mechanism.
Notes
Owner Notification Began June 9, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537 or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering: Steering Wheel/Handle BAR
Recall date
1998-12-15
Recall no.
98v320000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Steering Wheel CAN Come Loose From THE Steering Shaft Because THE Steering Wheel Retaining NUT Could Have Been Improperly Tightened.
Consequence
This Condition Could Cause A Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Steering Wheel Retaining NUT FOR Correct Tightness and Tighten IF Necessary.
Notes
Owner Notification Began December 23, 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537 or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-07-17
Recall no.
06e064000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Tradesonic Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Tradesonic Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During July 2006. Owners MAY Contact Tradesonic AT 626-934-8884.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Tradesonic Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
Recall date
2007-03-12
Recall no.
07e021000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators, P/Nos. Fp10020-11b1, Fp10026-11b1, and Fp10027-11b1, Sold After January 9, 2007, AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. THE Universal Pressure Regulators (Upr) Were Produced Without AN O'ring and Retainer.
Consequence
Fuel MAY Leak, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy
Delphi Will Notify Owners and Replace THE UPR Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 23, 2007. Owners CAN Contact Delphi AT 877-411-8770.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed BY General Motors.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date
2014-07-03
Recall no.
14v400000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON July 3, 2014, That They ARE Recalling 5,877,718 Model Year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand AM and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install Two KEY Rings and AN Insert IN THE KEY Slot or A Cover Over THE KEY Head ON All Ignition Keys, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 9, 2014. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14350.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
1999 Pontiac Grand Am Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Pontiac Grand Am is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Malibu. Compared to the Camry and Accord, the Grand Am offered sportier styling and potentially lower initial price, but it generally lagged behind in terms of reliability and resale value. The Taurus and Malibu were closer competitors in terms of price and features, but the Grand Am often had a more engaging driving experience, especially in GT trims.
In terms of features, the Grand Am was generally comparable to its rivals, offering similar amenities for the price. However, its build quality and long-term reliability were often points of criticism compared to Japanese competitors.
Alternatives to the 1999 Grand Am include:
In terms of features, the Grand Am was generally comparable to its rivals, offering similar amenities for the price. However, its build quality and long-term reliability were often points of criticism compared to Japanese competitors.
Alternatives to the 1999 Grand Am include:
- Toyota Camry/Corolla: More reliable, but potentially more expensive.
- Honda Accord/Civic: Similar reliability benefits to Toyota.
- Ford Focus (later years): A more modern compact car with potentially better fuel economy.
- Mazda 3 (later years): Known for its sporty handling and reliability.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am a Good Sedan?
The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am is ideal for someone on an extremely tight budget who needs basic transportation and is willing to accept the risks associated with an older, potentially unreliable vehicle. It's worth buying only if it's in exceptionally good condition, has been well-maintained, and is available at a very low price. A mechanically inclined buyer who can perform their own repairs would be best suited. The GT trim offers slightly better performance, but reliability concerns remain. Overall, a newer, more reliable vehicle is generally a better investment, even if it means spending a bit more upfront. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is absolutely essential.
Mark E. on September 10, 2025
Driving & ComfortAround town it’s responsive; the V6 has decent punch while the 2.4L four is adequate and thriftier. Highway noise and road harshness are noticeable. Seats are supportive enough for short trips but the interior plastics are basic and wear shows on high-milers.
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Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.