Market Position Description:
The Pontiac Grand Am (2000) was positioned as a mid-size, sporty sedan and coupe aimed at younger buyers and those seeking a blend of style, performance, and affordability within the GM lineup. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Taurus, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry.
Competitive Analysis Notes:
The Grand Am differentiated itself with its more aggressive styling, often featuring distinctive body kits and sporty suspension tuning, particularly on GT models. It offered a more visceral driving experience than some of its more comfort-oriented competitors.
Key Features List:
Distinctive 'Wider-Track' styling, available 3.4L V6 engine (GT models), sports suspension tuning, optional sunroof, power accessories, and a range of audio system options. The third generation introduced a more modern interior and exterior design compared to its predecessors.
Coverage Areas Description:
Comprehensive coverage of all operating, maintenance, and safety features specific to the 2000 Pontiac Grand Am.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 250-300 pages (based on typical owner's manual size for this era).
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Systems Covered List:
Instrument Panel and Controls, Starting and Operating, Seats and Seatbelts, Safety Features, Child Restraints, Storage, Climate Control, Audio System, Lighting, Wipers and Washers, Wheels and Tires, Maintenance and Care, Vehicle Care, Service Information, Roadside Emergencies, Owner Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Tire Changing, Jump Starting, Towing, Vehicle Specifications.
Procedures Included List:
Operating the ignition, driving controls, transmission, parking brake, climate control system, audio system, adjusting seats and seatbelts, proper use of child restraints, locating and using safety equipment, checking fluid levels, tire pressure checks and inflation, basic cleaning and interior care, jump starting a dead battery, changing a flat tire, basic troubleshooting for warning lights and indicators, proper towing procedures, fuel recommendations, oil change procedures (basic overview), coolant checks.
Technical Depth Level:
Designed for the end-user to understand vehicle operation and basic maintenance. Does not cover in-depth mechanical diagnostics or repair procedures typically found in service or factory repair manuals.
File Format Details:
PDF (Portable Document Format). Searchable text is usually present in official GM PDFs. Compatible with all major operating systems: Windows, macOS, Linux.
Print Quality Description:
Printable at high resolution, allowing for clear reproduction of text and diagrams. Quality will depend on the user's printer.
Binding Type Description:
N/A (Digital PDF format, not a physical binding).
Paper Type Description:
N/A (Digital PDF format, not printed on paper).
Engine Options:
2.4L DOHC L42 (Twin Cam) Ecotec, 3.4L OHV LA1 V6 (GT Model)
2.4L Engine Performance:
Approx. 150 hp @ 5600 rpm, 155 lb-ft torque @ 4400 rpm
3.4L V6 Engine Performance:
Approx. 170 hp @ 4800 rpm, 205 lb-ft torque @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 octane (Regular Unleaded) for 2.4L, 87 octane (Regular Unleaded) for 3.4L V6 (though premium may provide marginal benefits).
Recommended Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for 2.4L L4, Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for 3.4L V6 (with filter change).
Standard Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (4T40-E)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle (Getrag F23) - Primarily with the 2.4L engine.
Transmission Features:
Torque converter clutch on automatics, overdrive gear for highway efficiency.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for specific GM specs).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GM Synchromesh or equivalent manual transmission fluid (GL-4 rated).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 187.5 inches (4763 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1500 kg), varies by trim and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 4100-4300 lbs.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (may vary slightly by specific year/testing conditions within the generation).
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable or Good (depending on specific year and equipment, but generally performed reasonably well for its class).
Active Safety Features List:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some models/trims).
Passive Safety Features List:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional on some trims), front seatbelt pretensioners, rear child seat anchors (LATCH).
Seatbelt Features:
Three-point seatbelts for all outboard positions, front seatbelt height adjusters.
Infotainment Features List:
AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player, optional premium sound systems, steering wheel audio controls (on some models).
Driver Assistance Features List:
Cruise control, optional anti-lock brakes (ABS), optional traction control.
Connectivity Features List:
No advanced smartphone integration (like Bluetooth or USB) as standard for this model year. Primarily basic audio connectivity.
Lighting Features:
Halogen headlamps, automatic headlamp control (optional), front and rear fog lamps (optional on some trims).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil (recommended). Consult manual for specific conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or at every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 5 years/50,000 miles, then every 2 years/30,000 miles thereafter (for Dex-Cool coolant, if specified).
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 1052866 (Dex-Cool) or equivalent Orange Long-Life Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III/VI ATF or GM P/N 12345714.
Common Known Issues List:
Head gasket failures (particularly on early 3.4L V6 engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump leaks, O2 sensor failures, EVAP system leaks, AC system issues (compressor, evaporator), rear window defroster issues, sunload sensor failure (climate control).
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
ACDelco PF2057 or equivalent.
Engine Air Filter Part Number Example:
ACDelco A3135C or equivalent.
Pontiac Brand Heritage:
Pontiac was known for its performance-oriented image, targeting younger demographics with sporty styling and powerful engines. It aimed to be the 'excitement' division of General Motors.
Grand Am Model Evolution:
The Grand Am, first introduced in 1973, evolved through several generations. The 1999-2005 third generation marked a significant redesign, moving to the GM N platform and adopting a more modern, aerodynamic aesthetic. It offered both coupe and sedan body styles.
Production Years For Generation:
1999-2005
Assembly Locations:
Various GM assembly plants in North America, notably Lansing, Michigan (Delta Township).
