2002 Pontiac Grand AM Problems
- Complaints
- 395filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 73,000miles, 269 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 1campaigns on record
- Trend
- FallingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —overall rating starts with 2011 models
- EPA fuel economy
- 24 mpgcombined, 2.2L 4-cyl FWD · 21 city / 30 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM (complaints, recalls, investigations), NHTSA crash tests, EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of the 2002 Pontiac Grand Am most often describe electrical troubles: a security (Passlock) system that intermittently leaves the car unable to start, and a turn-signal/hazard switch that clicks on its own or works only intermittently. Cooling and intake-gasket leaks, brake rotor vibration and airbag concerns also appear, and most reports in the sample come with well over 50,000 miles on the odometer.
- Electrical system
Passlock security system prevents starting
- 99 complaints (25%)
- median 86,000 mi at 7.6 yrs old (73 state mileage)
- 2 mention a crash, fire or injury
- owner-quoted repair $500 (median of 11 quotes)
- filed 2002–2020
Owners describe turning the key and getting no start, with the security light on or flashing; many say they must wait 10 to 30 minutes for the light to go out before the car will crank. Some report repeat failures after parts such as the passlock sensor, ignition switch or lock cylinder were replaced, and a few describe the engine stalling while driving. Complaints mention dealers replacing the body control module, ignition cylinder or passlock module, sometimes without a lasting fix. Reported from about 35,000 to over 175,000 miles, often appearing without warning after a short stop.
What to check: Ask whether the passlock sensor, ignition switch or lock cylinder has been replaced, and start the car several times during a test drive. A security light that stays on after starting is worth having diagnosed.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“There are a number of problems: but right now I can turn the ignition and the car will give the sound of starting up but will not. I had the following items checked: fuel pump operation: pressures are good injector pulse - engine has spark body control module: b2965 - key ignition fault recommended to see dealer for possible recall and or ignition diagnose.”
NHTSA complaint #10626567, filed 2014-08, 87,202 miles“Continuous problems with Pontiac 2002 Grand Am passlock system. I have had it replaced 2 in less than a year and the car is still doing the same thing. Sometimes it will start, sometimes it won't. I am very fed up with this ongoing problem.”
NHTSA complaint #10170915, filed 2006-10, 66,842 miles - Exterior lighting
Turn signal and hazard switch clicks or fails
- 116 complaints (29%)
- median 76,657 mi at 6.6 yrs old (84 state mileage)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- owner-quoted repair $360 (median of 13 quotes)
- filed 2002–2018
Owners report a clicking sound from the dash or steering column as if the blinker were on when it is not, and turn signals or hazard flashers that work only sometimes or quit entirely. Several say the fix is a multi-function or hazard switch, and some were charged for the repair because the model year was outside an earlier service campaign. A few describe smoke coming from the switch area when the signal is used. Most often reported between about 20,000 and 120,000 miles, with several owners noticing the clicking early in ownership.
What to check: Operate the turn signals and hazards repeatedly and listen for clicking with the switch off; ask whether the multi-function switch or hazard switch has been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I have a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am in which the blinker continues to blink after it ois turned off. The dash doesn't light up, however the blinking sound is a very fast continuous blink and I took it to the dealer to get fixed and they were going to charge me $500 to fix it. They also informed me that this was a recall on previous models, and there was no recall yet for the 2002 model.”
NHTSA complaint #10141151, filed 2005-10, 46,000 miles“I have a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. The problem started 4 months ago. When I put on the turn signal smoke will start coming from under the plastic cover behind the steering wheel. I pop up the cover and observed that the smoke is coming from inside a sealed mechanism that is behind the steering wheel. It started doing it more often and as soon as the blinker goes off the smoke will stop. …”
NHTSA complaint #10228555, filed 2008-05, 84,300 miles - Brakes
Brake rotor vibration and long stopping distance
- 35 complaints (9%)
- median 39,750 mi at 2.7 yrs old (24 state mileage)
- 2 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2002–2015
Owners describe vibration or pulsation through the steering wheel and pedal when braking, and in a few cases a pedal that felt hard with the car not slowing as expected. Complaints mention repeated rotor replacement or resurfacing at low mileage, and some say the dealer or mechanic could not find the cause. Mostly reported under about 60,000 miles, several within the first 30,000 miles.
What to check: Brake firmly from highway speed during a test drive and feel for pulsation; ask for service records showing rotor or pad replacement.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I have had to replace the front rotors on my car 2 times and don't even have 30000 miles on it. Yet, I bought it brand new with bad rotors, and now it did it again, and my mechanic has told me he has had several vehicles with the same issue. I took it to the dealer, and they replaced the rotors. Very nosey brakes, and when sitting still it was almost like a light vibrating.”
NHTSA complaint #10049647, filed 2003-12, 30,000 miles“Leaving work on december 19, 2007 I applied brakes for approaching traffic signal. Brakes seemed to lock without slowing down or stopping my vehicle. I tried three times applying increasing pressure and the car would not stop. Finally, after 4th attempt, brake seemed to give and slow/stop my vehicle. I was within inches of rear-ending vehicle in front of me at the traffic light. I took my vehicle to a mechanic and was told that they could not locate anything wrong. …”
NHTSA complaint #10214743, filed 2008-01, 43,500 miles - Air bags
Airbag warning light or no deployment in a crash
- 19 complaints (5%)
- median 74,000 mi at 12.0 yrs old (11 state mileage)
- 14 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2002–2019
Complaints describe the airbag warning light staying on, smoke and noise from the airbag area before a stall, and in two cases airbags that did not deploy in a collision. Owners also mention a deteriorated dashboard that let the airbag covers lift. Some had no diagnosis or repair done. Reported from about 61,000 to over 200,000 miles.
What to check: Confirm the airbag warning light goes out after starting, and ask whether recall 14V400000 for the ignition switch has been performed, since the recall notice ties it to airbag system operation.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Was driving my 2002 Pontiac Grand Am down a two lane road going south another car was coming going north he crossed over the yellow line and hit me head on..his air bag deployed mine did not.”
NHTSA complaint #10226638, filed 2008-05, 61,000 miles“The contact owns a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. The contact stated that the dashboard deteriorated and caused the passenger and driver side air bags to slightly pop out, but not fully deploy. An independent mechanic repaired the failure. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10641805, filed 2014-10, 200,000 miles
Buying note. A 2002 Grand Am with a documented history of passlock and switch repairs, fresh brakes and a checked cooling system is the safer starting point; be prepared for electrical troubleshooting and verify open recalls by VIN before purchase.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 395 consumer complaints for the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM. 269 of the complaints include a mileage, and 28% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 73,000 miles. Of all complaints, 22 involved a crash, 3 a fire, 23 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign and 312 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Electrical system148 37%
- Exterior lighting97 25%
- Engine cooling54 14%
- Brakes40 10%
- Steering22 5.6%
- Air bags19 4.8%
- Fuel system15 3.8%
- Transmission and drivetrain13 3.3%
- Tires12 3.0%
Also reported: Engine (11), Equipment (11), Suspension (10), Other or unknown (9), Body and structure (8), Wheels (8), Seats (5), Vehicle speed control (5), Latches, locks and linkages (4), Seat belts (4), Electronic stability control (3), Interior lighting (2).
Example complaints
Electrical system: “I bought a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am and lately the turn signal and hazard lights work whenever they want. I just started experiencing this problem. I researched this website to see that there was a recall back on the problem but it has since closed. I was wanting to know if I can get any assistance with this problem. I you can help please let me know.”
NHTSA complaint #10616460, filed 2014-07, 134,000 milesExterior lighting: “2002 Pontiac Grand Am. Frequent engagement of the turn signal relay from simply moving the steering wheel. We received a recall notice related to the turn signal, but Pontiac has no record of our car qualifying for the recall. Multi function switch replaced. Total cost of repair $360. Research on the internet indicated several of these issues.”
NHTSA complaint #10165125, filed 2006-08, 44,000 milesEngine cooling: “I have a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am with a 3.4 litre engine. The vehicle overheats. I did some research and found out that general motors installed plastic gaskets on these vehicles and recommended dex-cool. The antifreeze eats the gasket up from the inside out and causes the vehicle to overheat. General motors refuses to fix my vehicle even though they knew about this problem for years.”
NHTSA complaint #10357088, filed 2010-09, 142,000 milesBrakes: “I was driving my mothers car when I went to slow down coming up on a hill going down felt like brakes went to the floor. Coming down the hill is when I noticed my ebrake didn't even work. My brake light, oil light, trac off light and my security light were on. Then couldn't control the car went in wrong lane and hit head on with another car.”
NHTSA complaint #10576503, filed 2014-04, 164,760 milesMileage when problems were reported
28% of the 269 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 46,343 and 101,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: falling. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM. Frontal results are shown driver / passenger; rollover shows the star rating and NHTSA's estimated risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Side pole | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand AM · sedan | not rated | 4 / 4 | — | — | — |
| Grand AM · coupe | not rated | 4 / 5 | — | — | — |
Ratings before the 2011 model year come from an older, less demanding test and are not comparable with ratings for 2011 and later.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (5-Star Safety Ratings), nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2002 Pontiac Grand AM version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Am FWD | 2.2L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 22 | 30 | 25 | $2,700 |
| Grand Am FWD | 2.2L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 21 | 30 | 24 | $2,800 |
| Grand Am FWD | 3.4L 6-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 18 | 27 | 21 | $3,200 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- 14V400000Jul 3, 2014Electrical system › IgnitionCovers: Pontiac Grand AM 1999–2005, Chevrolet Malibu 1997–2003, Oldsmobile Alero 1999–2004 +5 more
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…
Recall details for the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 312 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 11020816Jul 18, 2025Other or unknown. This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
- 11014455Feb 20, 2025Other or unknown. This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get…
- 11009156Oct 25, 2024Electrical system. This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester…
- 11007744Sep 12, 2024Other or unknown. This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical…
- 11007743Sep 12, 2024Other or unknown. This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical…
- 11006621Aug 26, 2024Electrical system. Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need…
- 11004557Jun 17, 2024Other or unknown. This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312Jun 6, 2024Electrical system. This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492…
- 10252735Mar 28, 2024Electrical system. This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10251890Mar 13, 2024Engine cooling. This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with…
Other model years of the Pontiac Grand AM
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 102 | 83,000 | 2 | — | 25 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 293 | 74,633 | 2 | — | 25 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2003 | 325 | 63,500 | 2 | — | 25 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 2002 | 395 | 73,000 | 1 | — | 24 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2001 | 538 | 71,000 | 4 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2000 | 675 | 66,771 | 5 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1999 | 849 | 70,000 | 3 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 1998 | 172 | 80,000 | 1 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1997 | 383 | 95,550 | 2 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1996 | 450 | 114,526 | 4 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1995 | 409 | 110,000 | 1 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1994 | 377 | 123,000 | 2 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1993 | 204 | 106,600 | 1 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1992 | 168 | 88,000 | 3 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1991 | 82 | 83,000 | 2 | — | 24 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1990 | 38 | — | 0 | — | 23 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1989 | 44 | 113,000 | 2 | — | 24 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1988 | 31 | — | 2 | — | 24 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1987 | 28 | — | 2 | — | 22 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1986 | 11 | — | 1 | — | 23 | — | Not enough data |
All Pontiac Grand AM model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM?
Owners of the 2002 Pontiac Grand Am most often describe electrical troubles: a security (Passlock) system that intermittently leaves the car unable to start, and a turn-signal/hazard switch that clicks on its own or works only intermittently. The issues reported most often: Passlock security system prevents starting; Turn signal and hazard switch clicks or fails; Brake rotor vibration and long stopping distance.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM have?
NHTSA recorded 395 consumer complaints for the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM as of Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM is reported most often?
Electrical system is named most often, in 148 complaints (37% of the total), followed by exterior lighting with 97.
Has the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM been recalled?
NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM get?
The EPA rates the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM (Grand Am, 2.2L 4-cyl) at 24 mpg combined, 21 city and 30 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,800 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2002 Pontiac Grand AM reported?
Among the 269 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 73,000 miles and the middle half falls between 46,343 and 101,000 miles; 28% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Crash ratings are from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.