1998 Pontiac Grand Prix GT 3.1 from North America
Summary:
I think it's a great 70,000 mile car
Faults:
Around 65,000 miles oil pan replaced, and head gasket replaced at a cost of $1100.
2 front head lamps replaced at a cost of $150 each. Why just the cover can't be replaced, I don't know. The entire unit needed to be replaced.
Replaced the clip that holds the power window switches on drivers side twice.
Replaced windshield wiper motor as the wipers stuck in the upright position.
At 75000 miles the car sputtered and spit, so I had it towed to the dealership, and of all things, I was told that mice or some rodent ate most of my wire covers, replaced them, 2 fuel injectors, fuel pump and finally catalytic converter. This is not the fault of the car, but it cost me $1200 to have it fixed.
Immediately after that I had to replace the serpentine belt - another $120.
Newest problem is that sometimes my RPM raise, but the car hardly wants to move. When I turn the car off and start it, it stops. NOW the dealership tells me that I need a new transmission. Clutch slipping when car gets warm. Yikes, they want $2500 for a new transmission or $1500 for a used. Going to take it to a transmission specialist to verify before deciding whether to fix it or junk it.
General Comments:
I've always loved the looks of the car, still think it looks great. Leather seats have held up wonderfully. Very roomy. Great pick up. Never kept a car this long, but have enjoyed it so until recently that I didn't care if I got a new car. Planned on keeping this another year, but now I'm faced with a decision.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 29th July, 2004
8th Jul 2004, 23:29
My 1998 GTP transmission, suspension, creeking noise in the dashboard, and need overhaul of supercharger.
I drove this car in a normal everyday fashion. No racing or whatever and still have to spend lots of money with only 93,xxx miles on it.
I'm trading the car to a foreign car. Good-bye apple pie cars.