2002 Pontiac Trans Am
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Pontiac › Trans Am › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Pontiac Trans Am. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
32 complaints5 involved a crash3 injuries4 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Unknown or other
Car being painted by chanllors collision warner robins ga. Whenever the top (halo) IS painted, glue or oil cause paint to bubble through. Unable to paint top of car. After checking there IS a recall.
- Air bags · Engine · Seat belts
TL* the contact owned a 2002 pontiac trans am. While driving approximately 95 mph in fourth gear, the vehicle stalled without warning. As a result, the contact crashed into a guardrail and drove down an embankment. The air bags failed to deploy and the seat belts failed to retract. A police report…
TL* the contact owned a 2002 pontiac trans am. While driving approximately 95 mph in fourth gear, the vehicle stalled without warning. As a result, the contact crashed into a guardrail and drove down an embankment. The air bags failed to deploy and the seat belts failed to retract. A police report was filed. There were two injuries reported that required medical attention. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 5,000. The vin was not available.
- Structure › Body
There IS bubbles coming through the paint on the roof panel. It IS known by gm that its the glue bleeding through the fiberglass panel and paint. *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 pontiac trans am. When she took the vehicle to a local mechanic for routine maintenance, she noticed that her vehicle had a gasoline leak. The mechanic diagnosis located the failure as the gasoline tank liner which needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileage was 50,000.
- Structure
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 pontiac trans am. the contact noticed that the driver's side door panel separated from the frame. he IS concerned that the door will fall off while driving. the manufacturer sent him to the GMC collision center and they stated that the repair was not covered under the warranty. the failure and current mileages were 49,000.
- Tires
Tire separation -- of 4 tires with the same dot 3 either show signs of separation or separated and caused an accident.*tr
- Equipment › Electrical
Sensing diagnostic module complaint. Consumer states that he found out that gm was putting event data recorders on their vehicles. He states these recorders will not be accurate if the consumer changes things such as tire size. *kb the consumer was involved in an accident which resulted in 2…
Sensing diagnostic module complaint. Consumer states that he found out that gm was putting event data recorders on their vehicles. He states these recorders will not be accurate if the consumer changes things such as tire size. *kb the consumer was involved in an accident which resulted in 2 people in the second vehicle being killed. The edr/sdm that was installed in the consumers vehicle recorded his speed over 100 mph. The consumer stated he made modifications to the vehicle that could have affected the data. *Jb
- Structure › Body › Roof and pillars
I own a 2002 pontiac trans am. the sail panel between the t-tops and the rear window IS defective. there are bubbles that look like rust spots in the paint going in a straight line across the sail panel. gm IS aware of the problem and has even issued a service bulletin to it's dealers on how to…
I own a 2002 pontiac trans am. the sail panel between the t-tops and the rear window IS defective. there are bubbles that look like rust spots in the paint going in a straight line across the sail panel. gm IS aware of the problem and has even issued a service bulletin to it's dealers on how to fix the problem. however, the dealerships will not acknowledge the problem and owners are faced with paying out of pocket to have the problem fixed. if gm knows there IS a problem, ie. The epoxy used IS causing air bubbles through the paint, then they should issue a recall on the vehicles to have them fixed. also, the recall on the 2002 firebirds relating to the structural damage, I have never received notice of this recall. *tr
- Exterior lighting › Turn signal
Both left and right front turn signal lamps, sockets and lens housing failed due to high temperatures generated by the front lamp position lights remaining on during operation of vehicle. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · Steering › Rack and pinion
TL*- the contact stated that on two separate occasions while driving the 2002 pontiac trans am with 30000 failure mileage and 59100 failure mileage at 50 mph, she b lost control of the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to a dealer, who determined that she needed to have the rack and pinion…
TL*- the contact stated that on two separate occasions while driving the 2002 pontiac trans am with 30000 failure mileage and 59100 failure mileage at 50 mph, she b lost control of the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to a dealer, who determined that she needed to have the rack and pinion steering tightened up. the rack and pinion had been tightened up on may/2005 and march 2007. also, the vehicle jerked after pressing on the brake pedal. the current mileage was 60,088.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
Normal maintenance requirements maintained on this low mileage car. Engine coolant (listed as 5 year/150,000. Mile coolant) broke down and turned to brown foamy sludge at 39,000. Miles (less than 4 years). I will be having my local service center flush the cooling system and replace the long life coolant. *jb
- Interior lighting · Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc › Caliper · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
2002 trans am jerks when brakes are applied. Mechanic determined the rotors were warped. *ts the dealer stated the calipers are hard hitting which warps the rotors. it IS a know problem and a defect. the window motor was replaced and the inside light above the handle was inoperative. *jb
- Electrical system · Engine and engine cooling · Exterior lighting › Headlights · Exterior lighting › Turn signal › Switch · Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pump · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
Car started having problems after being purchased two months brand new. multiple electric problems, fuses constantly burning out and are replaced, all power options failed, crackling noise from under the dash, groaning/grinding noise from under engine compartment, wheel balance issues, left…
Car started having problems after being purchased two months brand new. multiple electric problems, fuses constantly burning out and are replaced, all power options failed, crackling noise from under the dash, groaning/grinding noise from under engine compartment, wheel balance issues, left blinker constantly malfunctions, right headlamp always burning out, battery acid leaked all over after only have the car a few months, was getting 30+ miles to a gallon, now gets <8 miles to a gallon, interior door panel split, poor customer service, issued a complaint with GMC - they noted me as a dissatisfied customer, defog vent does not work in driver's side a-pillar. there IS more, but I don't have my log and receipts with me. *Jb
- Seat belts › Front
Dt*: the contact stated the guide that holds the driver's side seat belt shoulder strap broke. the vehicle was taken to the dealership to have the guide replaced. the manufacturer has not been contacted. This caused the seat belt to ride up\ on the driver's neck. If an accident occurred this…
Dt*: the contact stated the guide that holds the driver's side seat belt shoulder strap broke. the vehicle was taken to the dealership to have the guide replaced. the manufacturer has not been contacted. This caused the seat belt to ride up\ on the driver's neck. If an accident occurred this could have resulted in a broken neck or strangling the driver . Manufacturer took report over the telephone, but dealer did not show concern. *Ak
- Suspension › Front › Wheel bearing
Driver side rear wheel bearing malfunction causing me to wreak my car into a mailbox. State farm insurance would not fix wheel bearing said that it was a defect from pontiac. Contacted pontiac they would not help pay for the repair since I took it to a state farm service first location which was a…
Driver side rear wheel bearing malfunction causing me to wreak my car into a mailbox. State farm insurance would not fix wheel bearing said that it was a defect from pontiac. Contacted pontiac they would not help pay for the repair since I took it to a state farm service first location which was a dodge dealership. I have had bad dealings with the wiese (gm) dealership. But this was a place that the state farm case was delt with so they had to investigate and pontiac would not help. Second time pontiac would not help me out. I will trade my car if this IS not solved. *nm
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Dt: the vehicle was parked when the consumer started it and could hear an explosion sound coming from under the hood. when lifting the hood could see oil coming from all over. when she took it to the dealership, they verified that the maintenance had been kept up. they told her that they…
Dt: the vehicle was parked when the consumer started it and could hear an explosion sound coming from under the hood. when lifting the hood could see oil coming from all over. when she took it to the dealership, they verified that the maintenance had been kept up. they told her that they would replace the motor with a used motor. the consumer was concerned that the same problem will happen again. the consumer contacted the manufacturer, they understood her concern and stated that they could not help her because her warranty was with someone else. there have been no previous problems with the engine. *Ak
- Unknown or other
Request for federal or state investigation of edr / sdm accuracy.*mr consumer was involved in a collision that resulted in an airbag deployment and two fatalities (2002 pontiac trans am modified to firehawk by superlegal performance). *Bf the consumer believes the information from the edr/sdm…
Request for federal or state investigation of edr / sdm accuracy.*mr consumer was involved in a collision that resulted in an airbag deployment and two fatalities (2002 pontiac trans am modified to firehawk by superlegal performance). *Bf the consumer believes the information from the edr/sdm using the vetronix software was incorrect/inaccurate. the consumer request a full investigation determine the accuracy of the edr/sdm if modifications are made to the vehicle after the factory built specification are made. *nm
- Exterior lighting › Turn signal › Switch
Loss of turn signals and high/low headlights caused by failure of what IS called the "wind shield washer switch assembly" located on the stearing column. part number 26098535 switch,ws 10 163.*ak to correct, required teardown of stearing column.
- Exterior lighting › Headlights
Headlights intermittently shut off but, come right back on. dealership said that the running lights shut off too, but there was nothing they could do.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic
When driving at highway speeds and then slowing down, the steering wheel shook violently. the dealer determined that the rotors were warped. The owner had the rotors turned at least four times. *nm
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc › Rotor
I have had two vehicles of different year models with the same issues. he first was a 1999 pontiac trans am heavy brake shudder after only 20000 miles.the dealership stated the rotor was warped and "turned" it.*ak the problem re ocurred after aprox 20K more miles but by then was out of warranty.i…
I have had two vehicles of different year models with the same issues. he first was a 1999 pontiac trans am heavy brake shudder after only 20000 miles.the dealership stated the rotor was warped and "turned" it.*ak the problem re ocurred after aprox 20K more miles but by then was out of warranty.i also had issues with the rear window defroster, the dealrship attempted to repair it 3 times with no success. I traded that vehicle in for a 2002 firebird firehawk. 22K miles and guess what, the brakes shudder. Took it to the same dealership, they said rotors are warped and turned them, even after I explained to the service rep. That I had previous issues and the repair didnt last. I also showed him the defroster issue but told him I would not allow them to touch it due to their failure at repairing it on the 1999, and that those attempts resulted in a damaged console. He offered to wash my car "next" time I was in. there wont be a next time at that dealership I find it hard to swallow that there arent any service bulletins on these two matters after owning two different year models with the same issues
- Tires
The tires are the wrong size for this vehicle according to the owner's manual. The consumer has falken 225/50r/16 m+s tubeless tires, when the owner's manual states that the tire size should be 245/50/16. The consumer has contacted the dealership. *Ak
- Structure
Driver's side window leaks. *mr *scc *jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Engine knock; piston slap. continuous tapping sound from the engine throughout the temp range. *nlm
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Consumer states when accelerating engine looses power. cause unknown. *Ak when consumer attempts to pass a vehicle, the rpm goes down. The engine would die down to 50 mph forcing the consumer to pull behind the vehicle he tried to pass. Since dealer couldn't duplicate the problem, vehicle was unable to be repaired. *ph
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.
- 11006621Vehicle 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 updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This 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, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This 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 DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10227056This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10224820This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10222796This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10214869This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10209980This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10209921This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10201115OnStar Voice Fallback Number Update
- 10190934Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some form of corrosion. This corrosion may be red in appearance (rust) if the component is steel, forged iron or cast iron. This corrosion may also be grey or white in color if the component is constructed of an aluminum alloy.
- 10190933Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some form of corrosion. This corrosion may be red in appearance (rust) if the component is steel, forged iron or cast iron. This corrosion may also be grey or white in color if the component is constructed of an aluminum alloy.
- 10190932Refinishing Aluminum Wheels This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel's coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed. Evaluating Damage In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer's responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished. Wheels that have been refinished by an outside company must be returned to the same vehicle. The Dealer must record the wheel ID stamp or the cast date on the wheel in order to assure this requirement. Refer to Refinisher's Responsibility Outside Company later in this bulletin.
- 10190931Refinishing Aluminum Wheels This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel's coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed. Evaluating Damage In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer's responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished. Wheels that have been refinished by an outside company must be returned to the same vehicle. The Dealer must record the wheel ID stamp or the cast date on the wheel in order to assure this requirement. Refer to Refinisher's Responsibility Outside Company later in this bulletin.
- 10190512OnStar Voice Fallback Number Update Some customers may have received a letter from OnStar stating that "We recently tried to provide a software update to the OnStar hardware in your vehicle. However, your system could not be updated remotely. As a result, some of your OnStar system functions may not be working as expected." The customer is further instructed in this letter to "Please contact your dealer or any dealer near you as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for this no-cost software update. Your dealer will reprogram your OnStar module with an update. This is for vehicles that have previously received the Canada upgrade as described in Service Bulletin #15-08-44-001F."
- 10176607This 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 DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10083900This preliminary information communication advises the technician, if unable to place an onstar call in the ignition on mode after the onstar canada upgrade to contact the gm technical assistance center onstar group for further assistance.
- 10083898This preliminary information communication advises the technician if unable to place an onstar call in the ignition on mode after the onstar canada upgrade, to contact the gm technical assistance center onstar group for further assistance.
Every Pontiac Trans Am model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.