1996 Pontiac Trans AM
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 1 |
| 1982 | 2 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1986 | 10 |
| 1987 | 1 |
| 1988 | 1 |
| 1989 | 1 |
| 1991 | 2 |
| 1992 | 3 |
| 1993 | 1 |
| 1994 | 9 |
| 1995 | 5 |
| 1996 | 4 |
| 1997 | 12 |
| 1998 | 11 |
| 1999 | 16 |
| 2000 | 11 |
| 2001 | 10 |
| 2002 | 32 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: suspension.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
FACTORY INSTALLED VEHICLE ANTI-THEFT ALARM SOUNDS WHEN VEHICLE GETS WET. DOME LIGHTS WON'T SHUT OFF. RESERVE POWER IN VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN WHEN IGNITION SHUT OFF.
NHTSA ODI report, 20000905
1 of 4 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: interior lighting.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
CONSUMER HAS NOTICED AN OIL LEAK. ALSO, COOLENT LEAKING, AND CAUSING VERY BAD FUMES/ODOR IN TO ENTER INTO THE PASSENGER'S COMPARTMENT. THE OCCUPANT BECAME SICK.
NHTSA ODI report, 20000404
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1996 Pontiac Trans AM — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1996 Pontiac Trans AM reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1996 Pontiac Trans AM?
The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1996 Pontiac Trans AM have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.