1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP 3.8 Super Charged from North America
Summary:
Don't buy this bargain sports car unless you have deep pockets
Faults:
Went through 2 serpentine belts within 3 months, was told by a neighbor that it was my water pump. The dealership said there was no way for the pump to be bad. Turns out it was the water pump and another belt broke. Since replacing the pump the belt has not broken.
Radio display flashes and acts erractically.
Had recall work done, my car was out of commission for 2 weeks... yes 2 weeks! Turns out the recall was not done right and when I left the lot I was unable to steer. I immediately pulled back in and got a rental.
Had to have 2 tie rods replaced. I am in no way rough on my cars.
Had muffler replaced.
Lens cap on head light fall off replaced next day after dealer received part, only to have the other fall off within the next year.
Blower motor went for the heater.
Then the blower control/ switch went.
Right now car is in the shop to get a new alternator, drivers side window motor and new fog lights. The passenger side fog light has died 6 times in 2 years.
General Comments:
I love the look of the car and the performance, but the hassles are just not worth it.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 29th March, 2004
2nd Mar 2006, 01:48
Do you suppose the previous driver abused the car? when you buy a used car, especially something like a gp gtp you need to know it has likely been driven hard a few times. the car begs you to drop your right food hard and when you do that things break. even if YOU don't drive that way the last owner may have. that is part of buying a used car. I always figure on fixing some things like water pumps, alternators etc... when I look at the price of the car. after all, you didn't buy a little old lady's grocery getter...
29th Jul 2005, 05:00
Sounds EXACTLY like my 1997 Grand Prix. The similarities are uncanny... And although I purchased it used at 42K miles, I thought, what I am doing wrong!... (seeing as this was is my first car)