🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Pontiac

Model:

Grand Am

Year:

1993

Platform:

GM N-body

Chassis Code:

2nd Generation (1985-1991 for previous generation, but this refers to the 1992-1998 generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact to Mid-size Coupe and Sedan

Target Audience:

Younger buyers, families, individuals seeking a practical and stylish American car

Key Competitors:

Ford Tempo/Taurus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Lumina, Dodge Neon/Spirit, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry

Design Philosophy:

Sporty styling, comfortable interior, good value for money

Trim Levels:

SE, GT (typically)

📋 Manual Details

Market Region:

North America (USA, Canada)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 250-300 pages (typical for an owner's manual of this era)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system

Transmission:

Automatic transmission operation, fluid checks

Brakes:

Brake system operation, parking brake

Steering:

Power steering system operation

Suspension:

Suspension system components and operation

Electrical:

Lighting system, battery, fuses, warning indicators

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, controls, cabin air filter

Interior Features:

Seating adjustments, seat belts, airbags (if equipped), interior lighting, power windows/locks

Exterior Features:

Doors, windows, mirrors, wipers, hood, trunk, fuel filler

Instrument Panel:

Gauges, indicators, warning lights, driver information center

Startup Operation:

Starting the engine, operating the transmission, basic driving controls

Routine Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement

Troubleshooting:

Interpreting warning lights, basic diagnostic information

Emergency Procedures:

Changing a flat tire, jump starting the vehicle, towing information

Convenience Features:

Operating radio, cruise control, power accessories

Depth Level:

Owner-level information, focusing on safe and proper operation, routine checks, and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows, macOS, Linux

Printability:

Printable on standard home/office printers

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L40 (2.3L Quad-4)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2319 cc)

Horsepower:

160 hp @ 6000 rpm (typical for Quad-4)

Torque:

150 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (typical for Quad-4)

0-60 Mph:

Approx. 8.5-9.5 seconds (depending on transmission and body style)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Optional Engine:

2.5L V6 (LN8 - often referred to as the '3.1L' in some GM documentation for this era, but typically 2.5L or 3.0L OHV V6 options existed in the N-body platform. For the '93 Grand Am, the 3.4L V6 was also an option in some configurations). For '93 Grand Am specifically, the V6 was the 3.4L V6 (L32).

Optional Engine Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3396 cc)

Optional Engine Horsepower:

160 hp @ 4600 rpm (typical for L32)

Optional Engine Torque:

185 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (typical for L32)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle (Less common, often paired with the Quad-4)

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for fluid change, 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) for complete refill.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

181.0 inches (4597 mm) (Coupe/Sedan)

Width:

69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Height:

53.7 inches (1364 mm) (Coupe) / 53.1 inches (1349 mm) (Sedan)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3100 lbs (1315-1406 kg) depending on engine and trim

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Refer to specific NHTSA reports for '93 Grand Am; generally considered adequate for the era but lacking modern safety structures.

ABS:

Available on certain trims (often GT), typically rear-wheel anti-lock brakes (RWAL)

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard on most models for '93

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts, rear lap belts

Child Safety Anchors:

No LATCH system; relies on seat belt installation for child seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, optional premium sound system.

Speakers:

Standard 4 or 6 speaker configuration, optional 8 speaker system.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models, particularly GT trims.

Original Connectivity:

No integrated smartphone connectivity. Analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation, check manual for exact detail)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years (typical)

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change for 2.3L Quad-4

Coolant Type:

GM Type II or equivalent (Orange/Pink silicate-free coolant recommended for later models, but early '90s might specify silicate-based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron-II or Dexron-III ATF

Quad 4 Timing Chain Tensioner:

Early Quad-4 engines could experience wear on the timing chain tensioner, leading to rattling noises. Regular oil changes are critical.

Engine Mounts:

Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion can occur in various electrical connectors, leading to intermittent issues.

Idle Air Control Valve:

Can become dirty or fail, causing rough idling or stalling.

📚 Vehicle History

Pontiac Legacy:

Pontiac was known for its 'performance' image within GM, often offering sportier styling and options compared to Chevrolet.

Second Generation:

The 1985-1991 generation was a significant departure from previous designs. The 1992-1998 generation, which this manual covers, introduced a more aerodynamic and rounded styling, shared the GM N-body platform with cars like the Chevrolet Lumina and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and saw the introduction of the potent Quad-4 engine.

Manufacturing Plant:

Various GM plants in North America (e.g., Lansing, Michigan)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popular Mechanics Car Of The-Year:

The Grand Am, as part of the GM N-body platform, often received mentions in automotive publications for its styling and value, but didn't typically win major 'Car of the Year' awards outright against established imports.