1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GT review from North America
"Looks great, low quality, low mpg, and mfg. unwilling to publicly recognize and fix the problems"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Left headlight lens fell off (around 40+K miles) (Fortunately, dealership was running a "sale" on headlamps - "sale" seemed to be sponsored by mfg. I think the price was around $30 vs. outrageous $.)
Right headlight lens started separating and water got inside (around 50+K) (Paid retailish price for replacement.)
Alternator (failed around 38K)
Main oil seal (small leak since around 65K or so)
Coolant smell in interior since around 65K.
Uses too much gas (waits too long to up shift).
Needs another higher gear and a fuel economy "switch" for earlier shifting.
General comments?
I love the look of the car.
With new (good) Goodyear tires it handles super.
At 87K miles it sounds like it is running out of energy (kind of like it is making an effort to accelerate) but, if I hit the gas the acceleration is quite good.
Previous to this 98 Grand Prix I had an 89 Grand Prix and before that it was a Grand Am. Each time they got better, but each time they were disappointing, but had so very much "potential". I may (/probably will?) buy a Japanese product next time. I work in Detroit but not directly for one of the big 3.
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| A nice looker, but don't judge a book (or a car!) by its cover |
All 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 24000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 87000 miles |
| Previous car | Pontiac Grand Prix |
| Date of Entry | 10th November, 2005 |