1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GT review from North America
"Good looks, bad problems"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced the alternator 6 times.
The headlight lens covers have been replaced twice.
Blower motor on A/C needed replaced.
Door panels have fallen off.
Continuous electrical problems:
Stereo has been replaced twice, speakers have been switched out, trunk light and glove box light were disconnected after coming on when braking.
Loud crackle through speakers when braking.
Power window motors have been replaced.
Dealer "fixed" the electrical problem by disconnecting the third brake light.
The windshield wipers broke in driving rain on a busy highway.
General comments?
It's too bad the poor mechanical soundness and poorly designed cosmetics of the 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix have left this car behind in the consumers' eyes.
This car looks and handles like a dream. I needed a mid size four door for my growing family, but I wasn't ready to give up my sporty lifestyle. I thought the Grand Prix was my answer. After all the problems I have had with this car and my Gran Am before it, I am ready to hang up my loyalty to this American car builder. I need a vehicle that will keep me off the side of the road and out of the shop. I have been window shopping on foreign dealer lots with pangs of guilt. When US car makers get it together, I'll be the first one back.
Recommended reviews
| Great car |
|
| Love it! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 10 miles |
| Most recent distance | 77000 miles |
| Previous car | Pontiac Grand Prix |
| Date of Entry | 2nd May, 2004 |