I was looking at some information on the Grand Prix and ran across a list of trouble areas for the vehicle that lists the issue and the years it pertained to and thought it might be useful here.


Brake noise: During moderate application, the rear brakes make a moaning sound. New pads are available to correct the problem. (1998-99)

Check-engine light: Chafed wiring harness near the A/C accumulator can cause check-engine light, no-start, ABS warning light, stalling, or poor drivability. (1999-2001)

Coolant leak: The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (1997-2004)

Coolant leak: Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1997-03)

Cruise control: If the cruise control cancels when the wipers are running, the cruise control module and ground wires must be replaced. (1997-98)

Door handles: On white cars, the door handles turn yellow from the lock-cylinder grease. The company will replace the cylinders under warranty and there is a colorless grease available. (1997-99)

Doors: The power door locks fail due to a rubber part breaking on the actuator arm inside the door. (1997)

Engine misfire: The 3800 engine develops an ignition miss because the grease in the spark-plug boots causes them to crack. (1997-98)

Engine noise: Ticking on cold startup may be due to excessive piston pin to bore clearance. (1997-98)

Engine temperature: Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)

Poor transmission shift: The transmission may not shift out of third gear because the wires from the torque-converter switch rub and short out on the air-cleaner housing. (1998)

Tail/brake lights: If water leaks into the left taillight housing, it must be replaced with a countermeasure housing. (1997)

Wipers: The windshield wipers may not park at the bottom of the windshield because water gets into the motor assembly and freezes. (1997-98)

Wipers: The wipers may not stop in the correct position due to a problem with the wiper motor bracket. (2002)