1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix: Reliability

Updated: 11/23/08

1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP
2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
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1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix 

  • Price Range:  $1,700 - $7,300
CG Rating

55

out of 100

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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.

Brake noise: During moderate application, the rear brakes make a moaning sound. New pads are available to correct the problem. (1998-99)

Check-engine light: Chafed wiring harness near the A/C accumulator can cause check-engine light, no-start, ABS warning light, stalling, or poor drivability. (1999-2001)

Coolant leak: The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (1997-2004)

Coolant leak: Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1997-03)

Cruise control: If the cruise control cancels when the wipers are running, the cruise control module and ground wires must be replaced. (1997-98)

Door handles: On white cars, the door handles turn yellow from the lock-cylinder grease. The company will replace the cylinders under warranty and there is a colorless grease available. (1997-99)

Doors: The power door locks fail due to a rubber part breaking on the actuator arm inside the door. (1997)

Engine misfire: The 3800 engine develops an ignition miss because the grease in the spark-plug boots causes them to crack. (1997-98)

Engine noise: Ticking on cold startup may be due to excessive piston pin to bore clearance. (1997-98)

Engine temperature: Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)

Poor transmission shift: The transmission may not shift out of third gear because the wires from the torque-converter switch rub and short out on the air-cleaner housing. (1998)

Tail/brake lights: If water leaks into the left taillight housing, it must be replaced with a countermeasure housing. (1997)

Wipers: The windshield wipers may not park at the bottom of the windshield because water gets into the motor assembly and freezes. (1997-98)

Wipers: The wipers may not stop in the correct position due to a problem with the wiper motor bracket. (2002)

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 $460
Alternator $220
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $855
Brakes $390
Constant Velocity Joints $795
Exhaust System $425
Radiator $215
Shocks and/or Struts $910
Timing Chain or Belt $220
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