1999 Pontiac Firebird Brakes Problems

“I had to replace the catalytic converter twice in the first year of purchase. I had to replace battery and alternator at 37500 miles (warranty expired at 37000). The motor in driver side door went bad for no reason. Had to replace rear seal and pins 4 times or more. I believed for a long time that it was just me but after reading through the other complaints, I realize it's the car! I have also had several of the same brake problems mentioned by others on this site. Purchased new, drove it off the Pontiac lot.”

“My service engine soon light keeps coming on (steady and flashing). All in less than 2 months I have had to replace the battery, path lock sensor and ignition cylinder, remote alarms and keys, spark plug wires, clean fuel injectors, replace serpentine belt and upgraded my gas octane in a v6. And now the stupid service engine soon light is on again and the engine is hesitating and the bearings on pulleys are making a noise (after replacing the serpentine belt). I have receipts for all of it so far. I am going tonight to read the code for what is wrong now!!!!! …”

“I am having a constant problem with the brake rotors warping. I had them turned at around 18,000 miles after finding signs of warpingwhicn included vibrations when the brake was applied. Now about 8,000 miles later I am having the same problem all over again and once again the rotors need to be turned. It is getting very annoying and I know for fact that there are others with the same make and model having the same problems.”

“Front brake system squealing every time I apply the brakes. It gets worse as the weather gets hotter. I took to the dealer, the first time they applied some chemical to stop it from squealing, but the problem returned 2 weeks later. When I took it back I was informed that they ford company knows about the problem and cannot do anything about it. I called ford customer service and was informed that it is normal for the brakes to squeal.”

“I have been having problem with the brakes/rotor and excessive brake noise when braking at all times, especially in the summer months/hot weather. 6/17/99, took car into dealer for excessive brake noise, they gave me bulletin #88-5-13 dated 9/88, said noise was normal it will go away with time. Took car in aga in on 7/30/99 for same problem, nothing was done, dealer said I had to give brakes some time to wear down, then it will go away. Again, on 09/08/99, with 4,477 miles, brake noise was way excessive, they replaced the pads and refaced the rotors. …”