I have 2 cars which recall notices have been received: a 1999 3.8 k Grand Prix and a 2001 3.8 k Monte Carlo SS.
The notice says the front valve cover and gasket will be replaced with an improved design, and the plastic "beauty cover" and oil fill tube will be removed. No notice of what they will be replaced with.
I called GM and one dealer and was told that only if the front valve cover was leaking, would a repair be made. The dealer said no parts were available until the middle of March. The parts mentioned were a new valve cover gasket if a leak was found.
I called a second dealer and was told that a new valve cover and gasket, along with a new o ring for the oil filler tube, would be installed even if no leaks were found. This second dealer took my phone number and said he would order the parts and call me to make an appointment when the parts were in. He said the valve cover gasket was on back order but the other parts were available.
Man, is GM ever screwed up. I was wondering if anyone has had this repair done or received a recall notice.
I have checked both cars, and I can find no leaks around the valve covers. The Monte Carlo has 38,000 miles and the Grand Prix 172,000 miles. The grand prix has had a new intake manifold and new Fel-pro valve cover gaskets installed.
There have been over 1,500 car fires because the oil leaks onto the exhaust manifold. The recall notice recommends parking the cars outdoor as 85% of the fires start with the cars unattended.
I would be interested in any feedback or experience you had regarding this problem.