Hey Scotty, I just got a great deal on my first car, it’s a 1 owner 2001 Pontiac Grand Am 3.4L V6 4 speed automatic with overdrive SE 1 trim with 81,400 miles on it. Mint condition body and interior, it only needed a window regulator and it’s getting out of the shop for that tomorrow, I got it for $1000 as it was from my fathers boss who owns a tow truck and scrap car business and he knew it would be my first car. Got a blue book evaluation done on it and it’s worth $2850 with that low of mileage and the condition. Just want to know of some known issues with these cars/drivetrains so I know what to expect with repairs when needed. Thanks.
Not a good year
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Pontiac/Grand_Am/
The engine was known for bad lower intake manifold gaskets. Likes to overheat and hydrolock. The 3.8L was much better.
Little things like window motors are common, cheap plastic interior components are likely to go as well (switches, bezels that hold switches in place, etc). The 3.4's are pretty good, keep up with oil & coolant and you'll be okay. Transmissions are weak, but so is the 3.4. So if you dont abuse it you'll be okay for awhile.
Its an old GM, parts typically aren't expensive & very available
