1996 Pontiac Firebird
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Pontiac › Firebird › 1996
These records cover every 1996 Pontiac Firebird. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 1996 Pontiac Firebird. Newest first.
Certain honeywell fram racing brand HP4 and HP8 oil filters that were manufactured from may 25, 2006, through september 14, 2007, and sold for use as replacement equipment for vehicles list above. the affected filters are marked with a date code a61451 through a72571 sequentially. the date code and part number appear on the filter housing. fram racing…
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition may cause inadequate sealing and loss of engine oil, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy
Honeywell will replace the affected oil filters free of charge. the recall began during november 2007. owners can contact fram customer service toll-free at 1-800-890-2075.
Certain aj motorsport 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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Lack of amber side reflectors in the lamps will decrease lighting visibility to other drivers and may possibly result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Aj motorsport will notify owners and offer reimbursement for the lamps. the recall began on july 31, 2006. owners may contact aj motorsport at 626-618-2026.
Owner complaints
41 complaints5 involved a crash4 involved a fire1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Child seat › Latch connector/clip
TL* the contact owns a cosco safety seat light and comfy safety seat (na), model number: ic-108bvn (na). The seat was manufactured on november 6, 2013. The safety seat was being utilized in a 1996 pontiac firebird. The contact stated that the bottom left latch became difficult to release when…
TL* the contact owns a cosco safety seat light and comfy safety seat (na), model number: ic-108bvn (na). The seat was manufactured on november 6, 2013. The safety seat was being utilized in a 1996 pontiac firebird. The contact stated that the bottom left latch became difficult to release when removing the child seat. The contact stated that a screwdriver was needed to depress the latch in order to release the child seat. The failure recurred constantly. The child was in the safety seat at the time of the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vin and purchase date were unknown.
- Seats › Front assembly › Recliner
1996 pontiac firebird seat back collapsed into the back seat. Consumer states that he violently turned the wheel to the left on the highway to avoid and accident when his seat collapsed into the rear seat causing him to lose control. *kb the consumer was rear ended, because when the seat broke…
1996 pontiac firebird seat back collapsed into the back seat. Consumer states that he violently turned the wheel to the left on the highway to avoid and accident when his seat collapsed into the rear seat causing him to lose control. *kb the consumer was rear ended, because when the seat broke, he could not see the road and instinctively applied the brakes. The consumer stated the seat will not lock in any position. The consumer stated it wasn't the first time the seat failed. *Jb
- Exterior lighting › Headlights › Concealment devices
The plastic gears that drive the headlight pods on my 1996 pontiac firebird have failed. Retraction of the headlight causes loud grinding noises. Occaisionally, one or other of the headlight pods does not rasie when the headlights are turned on. It can only be a matter of time before the pods no…
The plastic gears that drive the headlight pods on my 1996 pontiac firebird have failed. Retraction of the headlight causes loud grinding noises. Occaisionally, one or other of the headlight pods does not rasie when the headlights are turned on. It can only be a matter of time before the pods no longer operate at all. This IS unacceptable given the low mileage of the vehicle. The problem IS well known among firebird owners and some enterprising soul has even come up with a "fix". Note this fix requires the disassembly of parts that were never intended to be taken apart. http://www.bfranker.badz28.com/headlightfix/index.htm gm charge over $200 dollars for the pod drive motor. That IS simply extortion.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling · Unknown or other
This IS the second time I've had to replace the mirror on the drivers side of this car. the mirror breaks off of the controls which makes it flop around. you can't use it to drive with, nor can you get it to stay still. you can't replace just the mirror either. you have to buy the whole piece (casing and mirror) then you have to have it painted. grrrrrrrrrr!
- Electrical system › Wiring › Front underhood
While driving at 65 mph flames were coming from vehicle. Dealer notified. *Ak *ts *jb
- Electrical system › Wiring › Front underhood
The spark plug wires go bad which causes the vehicle to misfire. this has happened at least ten times. the manufacturer has a safety campaign for this problem for up to 70,000 miles or seven years. the consumer stated the dealer fixed one time at no cost. the other times the consumer had to pay the expenses. *Ak
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
While placing key inside of ignition switch vehicle will not start. dealership IS aware of problem. *ak
- Power train › Manual transmission · Vehicle speed control › Cruise control
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. *Ak
- Fuel system, gasoline
Ongoing problem with fuel odor/vapor getting into vehicle vehicle been in dealer shop on four occasions, and still unable to locate cause. Feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system · Unknown or other
While driving car started hesitating and engine light came on due to a defective water pump. vehicle has had 3 water pumps previously. problem still exists.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
Dealer said - no recall on this component. No safety defect listed in summary. *ak
- Electrical system › Wiring › Interior/under dash
Defect in the wiring harness causing fuses to blow out continually. Mjs
- Electrical system › Wiring › Fuses and circuit breakers
Fuse blew out and engine shut down while driving. Consumer said that mechanic indicated it was the fuse. if on the freeway it could cause a fire or accident. When consumer puts key in fuse it will immediately blow out. *Ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
ABS warning light on dash comes on intermittently. Restarting car (1 to 3 times) may correct problem. brakes also slip on dry pavement causing low traction light to come on and may cause ABS warning light to come on.
- Unknown or other
No summary
- Visibility › Rearview mirrors/devices
The cable on the LT. Driver side keeps breaking. This will be the third time replaced. I have seen it break both times, no one was touching the mirror when it happened. It just "pops" and the mirror flips up.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Oil leaks simultaneously leaking from the front,rear,main,head,and oil pan gaskets.
- Power train › Automatic transmission › Control module (tcm/pcm/tecm) · Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
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.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
When applying the brakes the brake lights are not illuminating. The electronic specialist says there IS a shortage in one of the two wires that runs from dash to rear of vehicle. *ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
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. *ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components
This IS an ongoing brake problem. the vehicle was involved in an accident where the driver was unable to stop in time, despite good conditions and relatively low speed. summary description: car does not feel like sufficient braking IS being provided; more noticeable when rotors are wet.…
This IS an ongoing brake problem. the vehicle was involved in an accident where the driver was unable to stop in time, despite good conditions and relatively low speed. summary description: car does not feel like sufficient braking IS being provided; more noticeable when rotors are wet. symptoms: 1) driver cannot apply sufficient force to lock rotors (or engage anti-lock system); 2) rear brake pads worn completely out at 35000 miles, while front pads barely worn at all. other related facts: 1) have personally bled brake system, verified no air in lines; 2) dealer claims system "operating as designed" despite evidence of worn rear pads; 3) at present, car has worn tires, which should make it easier to lock-up on wet pavement; I have to put both feet on the pedal and push with all my might to force rotors to lock (and anti-lock system does then engage).
- Power train › Axle assembly › Axle shaft · Power train › Driveline › Differential unit
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…
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. this IS only a 3 year old car so you can imagine my frustration. an inquiry would be greatly appreciated and follow up later from nhtsa. *ak
- Latches/locks/linkages › Doors › Latch
Door lock turn indicator failed.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Gasoline
Vehicle leaking oil. Changed oil filler cap stem, engine gasket twice, main crank seal, drive shaft, and manifold but but none of the replacement corrected the oil leak.
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc
When applying the ABS brakes the pedal traveled to the floor, causing extended stopping distance. also, front brake pads and rotors are prematurely wearing, cause unknown. please give any further details. *ak
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Fuel tube retaining clip failure
Most of the reports reviewed in this investigation are fire incidents in which fuel leakage has been alleged as the cause or the area of origin IS consistent with the alleged defect.there IS no evidence that the subject clip was a factor in any of these fire incidents and nhtsa testing indicates thatbroken or…
Most of the reports reviewed in this investigation are fire incidents in which fuel leakage has been alleged as the cause or the area of origin IS consistent with the alleged defect.there IS no evidence that the subject clip was a factor in any of these fire incidents and nhtsa testing indicates thatbroken or dislodged retention clip does not result in significant movement of the fuel line bundle toward the left secondary air injection check valve.failure of the clip places the fuel line bundle assembly in the same configuration as the 1993 model year lti vehicles.a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
- Fuel tub retaining clip failure
Owners have reported failures of the fuel tube retention clip that attaches to the plastic throttle linkage cover.according to gm, the subject retention clip (p/n 12048089) was implemented in production on october 12, 1993, to address a concern with incorrect assembly plant fuel line routing.mis-routed fuel tubes may…
Owners have reported failures of the fuel tube retention clip that attaches to the plastic throttle linkage cover.according to gm, the subject retention clip (p/n 12048089) was implemented in production on october 12, 1993, to address a concern with incorrect assembly plant fuel line routing.mis-routed fuel tubes may fail from contact with a hot air check valve, creating a fire hazard in the engine compartment.gm maintains that no problems should occur if the clip IS properly installed and isn't mishandled during subsequent service operations.some owners have alleged to odi that the subject clip becomes brittle over time and may also pull free of the throttle linkage cover attachment hole.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10208027This 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, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10171318This 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, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10170494This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Procedures to Unlock Delco Radio with Theftlock.
- 10168979This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable. E version update is to add administrative details.
- 10166638This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10165876This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable.
- 10157018This 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, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10154641This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10141381This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10138060This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information with the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10114947This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10114924This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10113443This 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, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10017568Intermittent chuggle or fishbite on light acceleration or a highway speeds with no diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs).
- 10017070Rear suspension clunk noise.
- 10012745Information on error codes on radio display their cause and corrective action.
- 10012148New rear main seal and special tool for installation.
- 10010619Driveshaft ping ting clang snap or click noise.
- 10009370The engine does not stall when performing a p1870 diagnostic test with the tech 2 scan tool or when commanding the torque converter clutch enable solenoid on applications that do not have the p1870 diagnostic test listed. 4L60e or 4l65e transmissions.
- 10006297No serial data communications using the tech 1 with a 1986 or newer camaro, firebird or corvette with a 5.0 or 5.7 litre engine. Sit bulletin 1450640.
- 6092567Voluntary emission campaign involving the air injection reactor (air) pump emission control system which may fail to operate and cause the malfunction indicator lamp (mil) to illuminate.
- 6091560On some vehicles the air injection reactor (a.i.r.) pump emission control system may fail to operate and cause the malfunction indicator lamp (mil) to illuminate.
- 6089940Special policy adjustment regarding spark plug wire replacement.
- 6088977Special policy adjustment for spark plug wire replacement on vehicles equipped with 3.8L engine.
- 636700Service manual advises incorrect usage of convertible top fluid.
- 634999Diagnosis of cracked or broken transmission case. 2006 and prior cars and light duty trucks.
- 634815Some customers may comment on a harsh 1-2 upshift and the check engine light or service engine soon indicator IS illuminated and diagnostic trouble code p1870 set.
- 627839Information regarding harsh 1-2 upshift, service engine soon, malfunction indicator lamp, or cel illuminated, diagnostic trouble code p1870 set. (1996-2000 chevrolet and GMC light duty truck models)
- 622930Some owners with vehicles built before january 15,1999 may comment on a harsh 1-2 upshift and may also have a check engine light.
- 619008On certain vehicles, the air injection reactor (a.i.r.) pump emission control system may fail to operate and cause the malfunction indicator lamp (mil) to illuminate.
- 618141A no reverse, no second gear, or no fourth gear condition. Updated
- 618109Vehicles may experience exhaust gas recirculation valve failures.
- 618093Concerns w ith exhaust gas recirculation valve failures.
- 617610General motors has decided to conduct a voluntary emission campaign for the air injection reactor (air) pump emission control system which may fail to operate and cause the malfunction indicator lamp to illuminate.
- 616774Some customers may experience a failure of the exhaust gas recirculation (egr) valve due to corrosion of the internal diaphragm plate, leading to driveability complaints of a check engine light for egr valve (dtc p0400); or engine stall at idle, runs rough or surges.
- 616389A condition may exist where the air injection reactor (air) pump emission control system may fail to operate and cause the malfunction indicator lamp (mil) to illuminate.
- 615084On some convertible models, the convertible top mechanism binds or stops when halfway open or closed.
- 603086Some vehicles experience engine miss/ poor driveability symptoms.
- 601903Subject regarding on-board diagnostic (obd) system improvements (re-flash calibration).
Every Pontiac Firebird model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.