1990-1996 Pontiac Grand Prix: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
1996 Pontiac Grand Prix
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1990-1996 Pontiac Grand Prix ▼
- Price Range: $600 - $1,600
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Our reliability study for this generation Pontiac Grand Prix includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Pontiac Grand Prix .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
TH-125 or 440-T4 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1990-94)
Automatic transmission:
4T60E transmissions may drop out of drive while cruising; shift erratically; or have no second, third, or fourth gear because of a bad ground connection for the shift solenoids. (1991-94)
Engine noise:
A tick or rattle when the engine is started cold may be due to too much wrist-pin-to-piston clearance. (1994-95)
Engine noise:
A rattling noise from the engine when the car is started after sitting is often caused by automatic-transmission pump starvation or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. (1991-95)
Steering noise:
The upper bearing mount in the steering column can get loose and cause a clicking, requiring a new bearing spring and turn-signal cancel cam. (1994-96)
Transaxle leak:
The right front-axle seal at the automatic transaxle is prone to leak. GM issued a revised seal to correct the problem. (1992-94)
Valve cover leaks:
The plastic valve covers on the 3.1-liter engine were prone to leaks and should be replaced with redesigned aluminum valve covers. (1994-95)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $555 |
| Alternator | $215 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,070 |
| Brakes | $200 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $385 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $470 |
| Exhaust System | $470 |
| Radiator | $340 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,855 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $170 |








