1998 Pontiac Firebird: problems, recalls and reliability
0 recalls and 63 owner complaints on record; the weakest area is service brakes, hydraulic (39% of complaints).
Data updated weekly
0
recalls
63
owner complaints
2
fire reports
69,500
typical failure mileage, mi
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
No recall campaignsOne of the most complained-about Firebird years (#2 of 11, age-adjusted)Weak spot: service brakes, hydraulic (39%)2 fire reports
Common problems
Computed from 63 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic (brakes)39% · 24 complaints
Air Bags (airbags and crash sensors)8% · 5 complaints
Exterior Lighting (headlights, taillights)7% · 4 complaints
Structure (body, frame, doors, rust)5% · 3 complaints
Visibility (windshield, wipers, defroster, mirrors)5% · 3 complaints
Vehicle Speed Control (unintended acceleration, cruise control)5% · 3 complaints
“Slow leak of gasoline coming from rear of car didn't notice it but I could smell gas when the car was turned on the rear was smoking but not from the exhaust then fire. *tr”Owner report · Fuel/Propulsion System · Feb 2012
“Bought the car in jan. Of 98, and didn't have any problems with it until 700 miles. That is when the gas pedal stuck for the first time. It went to the floor and I didn't have any control over it. Luckily I was on a rural road and shut the car off and it stopped. It happened 2 times after that, one time taking me 100 mph. The final time I was in heavy traffic and had no choice but to put it in neutral, which blew my motor and cost me 4000 to replace. I would appreciate some help because this is a life threating problem. *jb”Owner report · Vehicle Speed Control · Mar 2005
“While driving 30 mph the vehicle was involved in a head on collision. The dual air bags did not deploy. The vehicle was totaled due to severe damage. *nm driver hit shoulder on the steering wheel that caused a ligament tear, and passenger suffered a cut on the head. *la”Owner report · Unknown Or Other · Jan 2004
Show 7 more owner reports
“Last year I had the same problem. The right headlight motor broke. I couldnt afford to fix it. I got it fixed in july 03. Now in september 03 the left is gone. Im very upset with this. Dont you think gm could make something last longer then 4 or 5 years? I cant afford this. I just put over $3,ooo into this car between tire rods brakes,headlights, new passenger mirror, universal joints,everything is going all at once give me a break. Im 24 and I have owned an 87 & 95 firebird besides this one. I love the car but something needs to be done with how long stuff lasts in it. Melony mcneaney”Owner report · Unknown Or Other · Sep 2003
“Harsh 1-2 upshift, engine check light has happened several times and cannot trace problem. Cd player quit working soon after warranty expired”Owner report · Equipment · Jul 2002
“Rear tail light has a design flaw. It allows moisture inside the tail light and has caused problems with numerous replacement bulbs and a build-up of moisture. I feel if this continues, it will eventually damage the entire electrical system. The inside of the tail light cover appears very dark, almost as if the tail light bulb is burned out, therefore causing law enforcement to follow and watch my every move on some instances.*ak”Owner report · Exterior Lighting · Oct 2001
“Dt*: the contact stated water was seeping into the right rear taillight from rain corroding the reflective materials in the tail light, which diminished the illumination. The service dealer was notified. The manufacturer was not alerted. Updated 12/1/2006 - *nm”Owner report · Exterior Lighting · Oct 2001
“Vehicle would fail to stop when applying ABS brakes suddenly to avoid an accident at 45mph. Had hit another vehicle at 90 degree angle. Upon impact, air bags failed to deploy. Driver was injured, but not treated at emergency room, went to private doctor.*ak”Owner report · Air Bags · Sep 2001
“While driving about 60 mph engine suddenly accelerated up to 80 mph. When stepped on brake pedal to reduce speed brakes did not work.*ak”Owner report · Service Brakes, Hydraulic · Jun 2001
“Springs are also worn out, had window motors replaced and they still make crunching noises. This car stays at the pontiac service department instead of my garage. *ak”Owner report · Suspension · May 2001
When filing, owners marked a crash in 8 of these complaints and injuries in 5 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
How other years compare
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Is the 1998 Pontiac Firebird reliable?
NHTSA has 63 owner complaints and 0 recall campaigns on record for the 1998 Pontiac Firebird. The most complained-about area is service brakes, hydraulic (39% of complaints).
At what mileage do 1998 Pontiac Firebird problems usually appear?
Half of the complaints that mention mileage were filed at 69,500 miles or less.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.