Faults:
Wow, that's a big one...let's see...
The water pump went bad at 110,000 miles.
I've gone through a couple of alternators.
I've got a million little problems like instrument cluster lights that don't extinguish when they should.
The air conditioning must be recharged every year and NO ONE can find the leak.
The rear brakes seized up.
One power window motor died on me.
My ignition module also failed.
The power antenna ceased to function.
The oil pan always has leaked a small amount of oil, maybe 1/4 to 1/2 a quart every 3,000 miles.
Currently there is a mysterious >THUNK< sound whenever I decelerate. I've still got to figure that one out.
General Comments:
Pontiacs in general are gimmick and feature laden and the Grand Prix SE does not disappoint in this regard.
Unfortunately, the more electronics you have, the more electrical problems you will have. I can attest to this.
This model has had a formidable number of factory recalls on various things ranging from the rear brake calipers to the seat belts.
The paint on the metal surfaces has withstood the elements beautifully. However, the paint covering the fiberglass (or plastic) front and rear fascias has faded to a chalky, dull version of it's former glory.
The pushrod V-6 is fairly peppy, even at 150,000 miles. The engine has given me no problems as long as I've owned the car (well, the water pump and alternator went bad, but the engine itself is a tank).
The exhaust has an... interesting note to it. It's sort of a growl. BUT... after 150,000 miles, it's really loud and obnoxious. Especially when the car is first started.
There are no cup holders for the driver and front passenger in this model. The rear seaters get two.
All in all, this car has served me well. It still handles and performs well after all these miles, I just have to keep a close eye on it because something is ALWAYS about to break for some reason. I don't think this car was as thoroughly engineered as some other models from other manufacturers. I think that pretty much all of the early '90s Grand Prixs are lemons, but they've got the style I like, the performance I want, and the comfort I need. That's why I've stuck with mine through all that's gone wrong with it.
11th Jun 2002, 17:02
Cars with 118,000 miles need brakes and belts!