Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan (often considered entry-level to mid-range)
Target Audience:
Value-conscious buyers seeking a practical and stylish vehicle
Key Competitors:
Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Dodge Neon
Styling:
Distinctive 'futuristic' styling for its era, especially the GT models
Powertrain Options:
Availability of a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder (Ecotec) and a more powerful V6 engine
Interior Design:
Sporty interior accents, particularly on GT models
Powertrain:
Engine operation, transmission controls, fuel system overview
Chassis:
Braking system operation, steering system basics, suspension overview
Electrical:
Lighting controls, instrument cluster explanation, basic electrical features (wipers, horn)
Body Interior:
Door locks, seat adjustment, climate control operation, interior amenities
Safety Features:
Airbag system, seat belt usage, child restraint system installation guidance
Comfort Convenience:
Audio system, power windows/locks, cruise control, keyless entry (if equipped)
Operation:
Starting and driving the vehicle, parking, fuel filling
Maintenance Checks:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement guidance
Troubleshooting Basic:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic operational issues
Emergency Procedures:
Flat tire changing, jump starting procedures
Depth:
Focus on owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting; not a service or repair manual.
Engine 1 Type:
Inline 4-cylinder (DOHC, 16-valve)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2198 cc)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
140 hp @ 6200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
150 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Type:
V6 (OHV, 12-valve)
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3350 cc)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
175 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Economy Est Mpg City:
20-24 MPG (varies by engine and transmission)
Fuel Economy Est Mpg Highway:
28-32 MPG (varies by engine and transmission)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Std 4 Cyl:
4-Speed Automatic (4T40-E)
Transmission Std V6:
4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)
Transmission Opt:
5-Speed Manual (available on some 4-cylinder models, less common)
Traction Control:
Available on GT models, often linked with V6 and ABS
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (as per available data for similar models/years)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (as per available data for similar models/years)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims
Traction Control:
Optional, often bundled with GT package
Airbags Front:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable seat belts, rear 3-point seat belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound system with amplifier.
Display:
Digital climate control displays, basic radio displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, electronically controlled.
Keyless Entry:
Optional remote keyless entry system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific guidance.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
First flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (using Dex-Cool coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement 4 Cyl:
Approx. 100,000 miles (with Iridium or Platinum plugs, as specified)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (with Platinum plugs, as specified)
Engine Oil Type 4 Cyl:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346290 (Dex-Cool, Orange)
Transmission Fluid Type 4T40E:
Dexron III or Dexron-VI (for eventual replacement)
Transmission Fluid Type 4T65E:
Dexron III or Dexron-VI (for eventual replacement)
Common Issue 1:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on the 3.4L V6)
Common Issue 2:
Cracked dashboard material due to sun exposure
Common Issue 3:
Ecotec engine oil consumption issues in some instances
Common Issue 4:
Power window motor failures
Common Issue 5:
Transmission shift solenoid failures (especially on 4T40-E)
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was known for sporty styling and performance-oriented vehicles within GM's lineup.
Third Generation:
The 2002 model is part of the third generation of the Grand Am, introduced in 1999, featuring a more aerodynamic and modern design.
Updates For 2002:
Minor updates likely included feature packaging changes and potential minor styling tweaks, but the core design remained consistent with the third generation.
Manufacturing Plant:
General Motors Assembly Plant, Lansing, Michigan