I have problems starting the car when it is cold. It revs up to 4,000 RPMs then runs really rough, then revs high again and then kills. Also, I just started having problems with the power steering. It was low on power steering fluid so I added some, but it does not seem to be helping any. I only usually have the most problems when I am slowing down or not accelerating.
The power steering problem could be the power steering rack.
GM had a lot of problems with Saginaw power steering racks in the past. Have a qualified technician check it out. If it is in fact the rack, unfortunately they are not cheap.
Expect a $600 minimum cost for the job.
I have a 95 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP with the same startup problem. The car runs great except for the first start of the morning. It goes from 500-3500 RPMS when I'm not touching the gas pedal. It also stalls consistently until it warms up. If anyone has any idea what it could be please let me know. I would appreciate it so much. My garage recommended a new ECU, but they don't know if it will work. I have been through just about all of the sensors (IAC, throttle position, multiple Oxygen sensors). Please HELP!
For the power steering problem you might want to check in you owners manual to see what kind of fluids it takes. Because my brother had problems with his and he found out that he souldnt be using power steering fluid It said in the manual to use transmition fluid... So you might want to try that...
I had the same problem with a 94 Camaro with the 3.4 liter engine. Had the fuel pump replaced and have not had a problem since. Check it out at a dealership.
I have a 94 GTP and I have the same idle problem in the mornings.. sometimes it does start normally, but that only happens if its really warm out. I tried to replace the O2 sensor, but that had nothing to do with the problem. Any thoughts, please respond.
Not sure what it is, my 95 GTP stalls out too when first starting and brakes always seem not to be there. the idle problem don't know what to say I have aftermarket low idle cam in mine so it never idles over like 1500rpms and with the power steering I found a leak and the only way I could get to it was to pull out the heat shield from underneath and found a loose bolt not sure, but it fixed the problem.
I agree power steering fluid does not work I found automatic transmission fluid works the best plus it is a little less expensive. also if anyone knows a good site to find aftermarket accessories let me know.
From a GTP lover.
I have a 1194 Pontiac Grand Prix. After 127,000 miles, The timing belt broke ans I replaced it. Now the car seems to have problems starting. I've had a new starter an alternator puton it. It seems to start after jumping it. Any thoughts??
The 3.4 liter is the "migrane motor"
The 94 GTP needs a new timing belt every 80,000 miles and the problem with the startup/idling is caused by leaky air tubes within the engine. get em' replaced and you'll run like a dream!
One thing you might want to check, if your car is leaking power steering fluid a lot, is the pressure line coming off the power steering pump. I got a Grand Prix from my sister's friend and the mechanic said it needed a new pump and the rack was all messed up, so before going to the mechanic, check out the pressure line, it may have sprung a leak. One question, There is an oil leak coming from the middle of the engine, I think it may be the oil pump, or gasket or something, but I'm just not sure. Its like a little hole with a small clamp over it that's leaking. Can I just tighten the clamp? Any ideas?
Some advice for you people having idle problems. I just bought a 94 GTP from my Brother-in-law with the 3.4.
I agree, with any hoses and lines--good to always check. Anyways, the Ide Air Control Valve/Motor is the most likely cause if you got some miles on the car, Shop around though--I got mine at advance autoparts for 34 bucks--other stores went as high as 80 bucks!, Runs great now--a little rough, because the plugs got fowled with a rich mix and constant starts, once I do that fun job, it should run like a champ. Anyways a good checklist is, plugs, fuel filter, IACV, 02 sensor, if you go to autozone.com--you can print out instructions on how to test the sensors your self. Good luck!
I also have a 1994 pontiac grand prix gtp and have problems starting, especially when its cold. If your car won't start make sure your battery terminal connections are tight... I had the same problem. Most autoparts stores will test your battery and alternator for free.
I have a '94 Grand Prix 3.1 replaced the IAC (Idle Air Control) valve twice.
I had 94 grand prix GTP with the special edition package and I also had the idil problem where it would rev up almost to 4000 RPM's when cold. After tons of headache, it turned out to be a vacuum leak and after that was repaired the problem never returned.