1996 Pontiac Firebird Transmission and drivetrain Problems
- Complaints
- 7about this part
- Share
- 17%of 41 total for the year
- Median mileage
- —not reported
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 7 complaints about the transmission and drivetrain of the 1996 Pontiac Firebird, 17% of the 41 complaints for this model year. 1 a fire, according to the filers.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Noticed roaring in the rear end of the vehicle after purchase. Thought possibility of simple road noise at first. But later as the roar continued and got louder ,became convinced otherwise. I have worked in a garage in the past so I was aware of possible problems which could cause the noise, but did not believe these possibilities should exist at such a low mileage. The rear wheel bearings were replaced, but the roaring continues. The rear chunk was free of excess metal on the magnet, so the problem still remains a mystery since labor will cost so much. …”
NHTSA complaint #703442, filed 1999-02“When cold or damp outside engine idle will race and stick at 2500 to 3000 RPM. Vehicle has manual transmission - 5 speed. Sometimes (ocassionally) turning off the vehicle and restarting solves the problem, most times no. Could be dangerous in the winter causing excess torque to rear wheels.”
NHTSA complaint #754168, filed 2001-11“The brakes are repeatedly failing. When stopping they will begin to slow the vehicle and then let go, allowing the vehicle to proceed forward. It is especially hazardous while turning. The no traction light illuminates when occurring. Eventually this could lead to an accident.”
NHTSA complaint #708996, filed 1999-07“Consumer contacted the dealer on two occasions in reference to oil leaks, the consumer was driving at 60 MPH and oil was leaking from the transmission dip stick onto the motor, causing the vehicle to catch fire in the engine compartment. Abs light illuminated, dealer replaced ABS.”
NHTSA complaint #806062, filed 1996-12“First transmission replaced at 34000 mnufacturer's warranty, second transmission being replaced with only 40,000 mi on it. Manufacturer will only pay 1/3 of $2,200 cost. Same problem on both transmissions.”
NHTSA complaint #705839, filed 1999-04Transmission and drivetrain: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 3 | 14% |
| 2001 | 1 | 4% |
| 2000 | 2 | 8% |
| 1999 | 9 | 19% |
| 1998 | 2 | 3% |
| 1997 | 5 | 10% |
| 1996 | 7 | 17% |
| 1995 | 11 | 13% |
| 1994 | 3 | 5% |
| 1993 | 1 | 6% |
| 1992 | 2 | 7% |
| 1991 | 1 | 4% |
Other parts of the 1996 Pontiac Firebird
12 complaintsElectrical system
8 complaintsEngine cooling
6 complaintsOther or unknown
4 complaintsFuel system
2 complaintsSeats
2 complaintsAir bags
1 complaintsExterior lighting
1 complaintsLatches, locks and linkages
1 complaintsSuspension
1 complaintsVehicle speed control
1 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1996 Pontiac Firebird
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology