Pontiac Grand Prix - 2000-2005

montanafan

Could this be the 2005 Grand Prix GXP engine they are talking about? (Taken from a GM Media press posting 9/19)

Stephens said GM plans to introduce displacement on demand technology on a new, front-wheel-drive 5.3L Gen IV V-8.

This new V-8 is the first engine in the 50-year history of GM's famed small block V-8 that has been designed and produced for front-wheel drive, transverse mounted application. It is expected to deliver 290 hp (216 kw) and 325 lb-ft (440 Nm) of torque.

rayainsw

"V8 Bonneville is Rear Wheel Drive."

It is not now RWD, and has not been for many years.

Cheers,
- Ray
Thinking it MAY be someday, but

sputterguy

OK, I'll say it again. Oops! Although now I'm reading that the Bonneville is both FWD and RWD. If it is RWD that just makes my point which is why would Pontiac put only a 275hp version in the car. Like I said, they could get that hp just by putting an intercooler on the supercharged 3.8. As for the Five Hundred, when I heard that the first thing I did was check it out here in Edmunds. I guess I was expecting something retro so I was disappointed when I saw it. And if it only has 210hp, then what is the point. Why bother bringing back the name?

sputterguy

Thanks. I thought maybe I could tell where that engine came from but I never heard of a 323. Must be a new engine. And thanks for the conversion factor..

exalteddragon1

Has anyone seen a 2005 GP? The one reportedly with the NAV option? I would love to look/drive one of those.

When will the GP have a V8? Meybe the Nav option could only be orderred with the V8???

Thanks...

bigdaddycoats

Have not seen on e with nav yet. V8 I belive in 06 GP GXP.

sputterguy

This place went dead all of a sudden. This might be a good time to ask if anybody else has had a headlight problem. Not the one where the lense falls off due to moisture in the headlamp that Pontiac has a TSB for that says the moisture isn't a problem. I'm talking about an intermittant problem where the headlights suddenly go out and then come on later usually about the time I'm at a shop telling the mechanic my headlights don't work. I thought I fixed this problem last year for about $800 but after about six months it happened again. Other than that this car has been just wonderful.

dan165

Never heard of it? No problems here.

montanafan

Don't know if this helps, but over the years I have seen posts around about strage problems in the last generation GP being caused by Ignition Power issues. Think replacing the ignition switch fixed these cars. Can't remember if headlights was one of the issues. Very shy on details, I know, but try a search here or at a GP specific site.

What was done last time?

sputterguy

I should have stated this is a 98 GTP just in case the year and model come up. I've seen some of those posts and I've never had any other problems so I don't think it's ignition switch related. Anyway, the mechanic showed me a schematic and said it had to be the headlight dimmer switch which is mounted on the steering column. That is probably why it cost so much. That worked for a couple of days. The next thing he did which was free this time, was replace (I can't remember what it was called) a disk drive sized switch that plugged in under the dash. Personally I would have tried that first before going into the steering column. I had about six months of trouble free driving after that. I really thought it was fixed. Then they went out again. Then them came on again. They've been on and off again a couple of times since then. I'm beginning to think there is something loose somewhere and I'll have to find that before this gets fixed for good....

tmarshall

I have had three separate occasions where the "Check Gas Cap" warning appears on the trip computer. Dealer has cleaned connections and replaced cap. No Fix Yet. Has anyone else had this problem?

miked2

Hi, I'm new at so so please bear with me.
My daughter has a 94 Grand Prix GT with 84,000 miles on it. Mechanically it runs great. The problem is getting it started. When turning the ignition key most of the time it starts right up, but sometimes you get nothing, no clicking, nothing. If you keep trying to start it, it will eventually start. Sometimes 2,3 or 5 attempts to get it to start. The battery is good, the terminals have been cleaned. This problem was originally noticeable about 2 years ago, I replaced the starter and cleaned the ground connection.
The same problem occurred, I then put the original starter back. The problem is getting more frequent now and I would like to get it repaired. Any suggestions would be greatly appricated. Thank you.

sputterguy

Hi Mike,

Not that I know anything about cars but it looks like you have cleaned, fixed, or replaced just about everything except the ignition switch. Are you sure that it doesn't have something loose or worn? Anyway, good luck!

miked2

Thanks for the advice Sputter. I just ordered a new key with the same resistor that the original keys have. If that doesn't work I will probably try the Ignition switch. Thanks again.

ken1967

It turns over but won't start. I have spark and fuel and all fuses seem good, even put starting fluid in and still won't start

ocmike3

You might check to make sure the starter solenoid is getting 12V. If there is a bad connection/higher resistance in the line between and the solenoid isn't getting full voltage it can act dead.

idntnvu

My dad's '98 GT had the problem where the lenses fall off and they had major condensation inside. He finally broke down and ordered a new set of healights off of Ebay, and not only did they really enhance the looks of the car, but it also drastically improved night driving. If anyone else is out there who has had this problem (not the one you're having sputterguy), I would suggest you shell out the $120 for new lights, because it's well worth it.

sputterguy

I did have that problem too but did manage to replace the headlight on my own. I have to admit it took me awhile to figure it out. Crazy way they have the headlight hooked into the turn signal. It cost me $85 for one light. I would have replaced the other side but it was such a pain doing the one I said forget it. Now I have one crystal clear headlight and one dull one. It's probably best to replace them both if you have the time and energy...

rkw2

I don't understand GM's thinking. i read today that in 2006 Buick will replace the Le Sabre with a new vehcile. It is expected to have a 6 speed auto transmission and a v8 made for front wheel drive. Guess the old geysers who drive it want teh newest and most powerful technology. If it were up to me, I'd put them in the Pontiac Grand Prix and G6. But then what do I know?????

rayainsw

Interesting that when I came to the Budget Rental Counter in Colorado Springs (reserved a "full size" because I wanted my daughter and I to be relatively comfortable while we did a lot of driving in 2 days) they asked if I wanted a Grand Prix.
 
I expected a GT1 or GT2 (I think that's what they are called) - but it ended up being a White GTP! All in all, a very pleasant rental experience. Up the Rocky Mountains to over 10,000 feet, it was quite comfortable and responsive.
 
So - if anyone is on the fence about a purchase, and wants a truly extended test drive - just F.Y.I. And, I do not monitor this group regularly, since I no longer own a GP - so, if this has been posted before, I apologize . . .

Cheers,
- Ray
 
Go Sox . . .

bigdaddycoats

Marking the 50th anniversary of the legendary small-block, GM Powertrain will showcase its new 5.3L LS4 V-8 engine, which will debut in the 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix GXP. The 5.3L LS4 V-8 represents the first time that the small-block will be offered in a front-wheel-drive car.

The LS4 produces approximately 300 horsepower and 300 lb.-ft. of torque. It also incorporates Displacement on Demand technology (DOD), which helps the vehicle realize fuel economy gains of up to 12 percent in certain light-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising, by seamlessly alternating between eight- and four-cylinder operation.

When matched with the inherent smoothness and torque of the V-8 configuration, the LS4 delivers strong performance - 90 percent of torque is available between 1500 rpm and 5600 rpm - and surprising economy. It's a combination most competitors' V-6 offerings can't match.

taken from here;

http://www.media.gm.com/

ocmike3

didn't you also post this on the G6 forum - go check out response there. Funny this is a question about Buick on a Pontiac forum???

tmarshall

I have heard from a reliable source that the GP will have the Northstar V8, available spring 2006. If GM fixes the other 2004 cheapo cost cuts (cup holders in rear, home link, dual zone AC, auto dimming rearview) this will be a home run. The imports couldn't touch this.

hammen2

See above - going to be a 300 hp LS4 engine, not a NorthStar.

exalteddragon1

should have a Nav system, hell i think the GP can be had with one aswell. I hope they finish the deal and put both nav and Xenons into the GXP for 2006. Along with the V-8 the GP can finally attract people who previously thought it was primitive.
But, unless they change the body, it will be a tough sell. The rear sea room is horrible, you get much more room in a Maxima. And thats very bad for Pontiac.
Speaking of rear seat room, since the GP and the G6 are so similar overall in proportion (at least they seem to be to the naked eye) does anyone here think the g6 will steal sales from the GP?

dan165

I don't see the GP getting a Northstar. I see an all new G8 maybe getting one, but thats a few years off.

idntnvu

Dad got just the headlights themselves, he didn't have to replace the signal lamps. I think it took him all of 45 minutes to an hour to install both lights. On normal repairs such as this, he always has something go wrong and delay him, but he said this was a very simple, quick fix. He ordered his lights from a place on Ebay that sells OEM GM parts, and I think he paid about 60 bucks a piece for them, and you can buy how ever many you want, just specify which side it is, left or right. You may want to check that out and replace that dull lens.

sputterguy

Thanks for the info. Like I said, I managed it but what a hassle. From Pontiac, the headlights cost $85 including the bulb. After checking with Kragens and they wanted $195, I was quite happy to pay only $85. I had forgotten about it until you mentioned how good the new ones looked. Now I want to do it but I'll need to summon up some mental energy first before I tackle the other headlight.

midlifecrisis

The navigation system is definitely available in the 05 GP. Although it is a $2300 option!

It even shows you in the HUD which way to turn.

tmarshall

Heard again tonight from a second rock solid source: The GP will get the Northstar v8 and be available spring of '06'.

montanafan

"Heard again tonight from a second rock solid source: The GP will get the Northstar v8 and be available spring of '06'."

While you source may be "rock solid" and ultimately correct, the 2005 Grand Prix GXP features a 5.3L small block V8 and will be available in the spring of 2005 as a 2005 model.

See www.pontiac.com in the "Coming Vehicles Section".

dan165

I hope GM doesn't price the GXP out of this world. If it's priced right there with the CTS, you can bet a lot of people would just move up to a Caddy inspite of the lower HP.

yurakm

Concerning Cadillac pricing.

My wife notice something strange with a car delivering pizza yesterday. After looking better it turned to be a nice new angular Caddy!

ocmike3

Here is intro story on GXP

http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?n=173&sid=173&a- rticle=7693

rayainsw

“The front wheels measure 18 x 8 inches and are mounted on P255/45R18 W speed-rated tires, while the rear wheels measure 18 x 7 inches and are wrapped by P225/50R18 W speed-rated tires. The wider front wheels ( !!! ) help the Grand Prix GXP achieve more neutral cornering characteristics, while bolstering overall handling and braking of the high-performance sedan.”
- from the GM press release re: 2005 GP GXP
[I added the ( !!! )]

This is probably the most bizarre engineering ‘feature’ I have heard about recently. . .

- Ray
Wondering how the handling will feel in an emergency maneuver . . .

etcb

Ive had my GTP for year. I like the car except fot one thing. The steering makes a squeaking noise when turning and with a excessive play like the steering linkage is loose or binding. I explained this to the my dealer sevic guy and he says its a common problem and GM is replacing the steering column system with a newly design one. He explained futher that the steering column has a poorly designed knuckle joint. On the other hand, the TSB says that my problem is acutually caused by a faulty sterring gear assembley. Is anyone experiencing this problem?

ETCB

montanafan

I you have seen a TSB on a steering gear problem then bring it to your dealer's attention. They may only have seen TSBs that were issued by GM, and GM hasn't issued any about faulty steering gears.

sputterguy

I've had flawless steering in my GTP for six years. I don't remember even adding fluid in all that time although I probably have. If I were you I would keep bugging them because that's not right. There is a problem there and it could be a safety issue.

rerun

I have a 2004 Grand Prix GT. This car has numerous rattles and vibrations especially in the back passenger door area. Dealer claims to never hear them. Does anyone else experience this problem?

midlifecrisis

Yup - I have the same noise coming from the back seat doors.

I'm taking my GT2 in tomorrow to have a steering noise looked into. It just started last week.

Otherwise the car has been pretty good at 23K miles.

dan165

Nothing for me but I never use my back doors so maybe that's why.

sputterguy

I would have to switch the tires just for the looks. I would never be comfortable with larger tires up front.

rerun

Has your dealer attempted to fix the noise coming from your back seat doors? If so, what did they do?

I am really disappointed with my car. It feels cheap, and I noticed today that my brakes have started squeaking--I only have 10,000 miles.

I suspect this will be my last GM car. If American companies are losing faithful customers like me, their future is not too bright....

mrrogers

The new Consumer Reports Buyer Guide Book is out, and it lists the Grand Prix as very reliable. Since it is now built in the same plant where the most reliable American car, the Buick Regal, was built, it makes sense that the reliability is much improved. I have a 2004 GT1 with 45,000 miles, and the only service I have done is oil, filters, transmission fluid change, and tire rotations.
     Concerning the vibration in the rear doors, I do not have it. I did grease the stops in the front of each door to reduce the noise when opening and closing the doors.

sputterguy

Check out the GTO. It has a much higher build quality, the handling and performance speak for themselves, and right now they are giving killer deals. Depending on your personal situation, you might be able to affordably upgrade to a car you are satisfied with.

carguy58

Sometimes certain cars are lemons. There is problems with cars with every make and model out on the road today. My family has had 3 Grand Prix's(1988, 1999, and 2002.)The 88 had the most problems of the 3 GP's in the family with starting and shutting off problems. That problem was cured but I attribute to being a first year model more than anything else. The 99 there was no problems and with the 02 we had a little problem but definately not severe. We had a 92 Grand AM in the family and that car had tons of problems in the 6 years of ownership.

As for the Grand Prix's reliability Consumer Reports gives the Grand Prix's with the base engines a bullseye for excellent reliability. However they don't recomend the 04 Grand Prix's with the supercharged engine.

daisyman

GM is doing it with Cadillac, when in the world will they ever produce a RWD 4 door performance Pontiac sedan?

Why do they insist on the lame FWD set up?
(larger wheels/tires on front) what a joke!

hammen2

Zeta is coming - expect a new RWD coupe (GTO, Lemans) and sedan (G8, Bonneville, or Grand Prix) for either the 2007 or 2008 model years... based on the same platform as the Holden VZ Commodore

http://www.holden.com.au/www-holden/action/vehicleentry?vehicleid- =4

with engineering by Holden.

--Robert

huskerfan_1

Oh my. I am looking to buy a new GP. I was considering the GTP, but after reading this, maybe not. A GT 2 will be less expensive of course. You know the GM cars just don't look good this year and the interior of the GP is not very attractive. I am really limited on my selection. I first considered a Impala SS, but the stupid dealer would not budge on price. I am selling my '97 Aurora (not tight enough and sporty)with only 73,000 (perfect) miles. Does anyone have any suggestions on the new GM's for 2004 or 05?

johnclineii

Yeah, check with more than one Chevrolet dealer. If the first dealer you talked to can sell the SS to someone else for full price, why does his refusal to sell it for less to you make him stupid????