1998 Pontiac Trans AM
Only 11 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 11 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 11 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 11 total reports mention: power train.
1 of 11 total reports mentions: visibility.
1 of 11 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
1 of 11 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WITH NO WARNING VEHICLE WILL JERK, AND THEN ENGINE LIGHT WILL COME ON AND WILL STAY ON THE REMAINDER OF TIME THAT VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20020919
1 of 11 total reports mentions: structure.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Pontiac Trans AM — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1998 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 1998 Pontiac Trans AM?
The most-reported component is power train:driveline:differential unit, accounting for 18% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 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.