16th Jun 2010, 09:49
If your ignition key is getting stuck, there's a hole under the ignition switch on the steering column. Stick something up in there, and the key will come out. I jammed a piece of rubber up there that stuck, and I haven't had a problem with it since.
20th Aug 2010, 19:19
I have a 2001 Grand Prix SE that has been experiencing transmission problems. It was shifting hard, and gradually reached a point where it shifted up and down rapidly at stop signs. The first transmission shop I went to determined that the error code 1811C had been tripped. He said I would need to change out several solenoids at the cost of about $500. The second transmission shop explained it more thoroughly. According to that mechanic, the 1811C code will trip if it takes more than 0.75 seconds to shift gears at least three times. Then the computer will increase the transmission fluid pressure to help the transmission to shift sooner. If this happens repeatedly, the fluid pressure will reach the point where the car balks, or acts like a manual transmission would if you were starting out in 4th gear. At that point, you may also have a code tripped for the torque converter, but that isn't the real problem.
This very smart mechanic installed a small spring to cheat the sensor, changed the transmission fluid and filter all for about $150, and it has been running great since then.
27th Oct 2010, 09:16
I have been the original owner of a 2000 Grand Prix SE with the 3100 engine. This car now has 220K miles on it and is still going strong!
Only problem I have had was to replace some front-end components that wore out at 180K which I find very acceptable and of course the brakes have been replaced along with regular maintenance items.
I think most problems I see on this website who are complaining about their Grand Prix are the people who don’t maintain their vehicle properly, everyone thinks you can drive them and beat them with no maintenance and then blame the automotive manufacture.
10th Jun 2010, 10:42
I bought a 2001 Grand Prix.. with close to 200,000 miles on it, and I have had no issues. Of course with that many miles, I would not be surprised if something did go out.. it's had a long life.. but still this car handles great, it has the best brakes ever.. and after being rear ended in the thing, it held up very well.. compared to other cars..
So not always will your Grand Prix be a pain in the neck.. It's horrible that some have had that major of issue with the car, and there finally was a recall, and hopefully all of you got it figured out.. but as far as my Pon. GT SE goes, I love it.. It's got power, it has style, and besides normal maintenance.. It has no big issues...