While generally reliable, the Grand Prix wasn't without fault. Beware of fit and finish problems, especially inside the cabin.
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| While generally reliable, the Grand Prix wasn't without fault. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
Also, major recalls affected most model years. Initial 1997 cars were plagued with windshield wipers that could stop working, usually after operation under heavy load conditions such as accumulated snow or ice, due to separation between the drive pin and crescent in the crank arm assembly. The 3.1-litre engines of 1999 cars had engine control modules that were incorrectly manufactured. Model year 2000 cars had passenger side airbag modules that may have had an undersized inflator orifice. Similar problems affected 2001 models. Passenger airbag inflator
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| Whichever model, SE, GT or GTP, the 1997 to 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix is a decent and practical performer. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
modules were built without the correct amount of generant, which produces the gas that fills the airbag. Some had too little and others twice the dose, which could cause the module to explode. Most recalls should have been corrected.
Prices vary considerably within each model year, with top-line GTP models holding their market value strongest. Whichever model, SE, GT or GTP, the 1997 to 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix is a decent performer with four-door practicality - unless, of course, you opt for the coupe. As well, reliability is above average, making it a fairly good used car choice.
