The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is a mid-size car that was part of the Grand Prix's fifth generation, produced from 1997 to 2003. It was offered as a coupe or sedan, with notable trims like the GT and the high-performance GTP. Known for its sporty styling and available supercharged engine, the Grand Prix appealed to buyers seeking a more performance-oriented American sedan/coupe with a distinct look.
The Good
The 1997 Grand Prix offered an engaging driving experience with its available powerful engines, comfortable ride for its class, and distinctive sporty design. It provided good value for those seeking performance without a premium price tag, appealing to both the thrill-seeker and the budget-conscious driver.
The Bad
Owners should be aware of potential issues with the transmission, interior electronics, and the aging plastic components, especially in higher mileage examples. Some early models also experienced exhaust manifold leaks.
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix was available with two primary engine choices:
- A 3.8L naturally aspirated V6 engine.
- A 3.8L supercharged V6 engine (found in the GTP trim).
- Horsepower:
- The naturally aspirated 3.8L V6 typically produced around 190-200 horsepower.
- The 3.8L supercharged V6 in the GTP model offered significantly more power, often around 240 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy varied depending on the engine and driving conditions, but generally, expect figures in the range of 17-20 MPG in the city and 25-28 MPG on the highway for the naturally aspirated V6. The supercharged engine would be slightly less efficient.
- 0-60 Times: Performance varied significantly. The base V6 models could achieve 0-60 mph in the mid-to-high 8-second range. The GTP, with its supercharged engine, was considerably quicker, often achieving 0-60 mph in the low-to-mid 7-second range.
- Towing Capacity: The Pontiac Grand Prix was not designed for significant towing. Its towing capacity, if equipped for it at all, would be very limited and generally not a primary feature or consideration for this vehicle.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE (Standard): Typically included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, cruise control, and a basic stereo system.
- GT: Added sportier suspension, alloy wheels, fog lights, upgraded interior trim, and often a more powerful exhaust system.
- GTP: Featured the supercharged V6 engine, performance-tuned suspension, leather seating (often optional), dual exhaust, and enhanced interior/exterior styling cues. Optional features across trims could include premium audio systems, sunroofs, and antilock brakes.
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1997 |
| Make | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Prix |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | BOWLING GREEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.8 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Have?
The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, like many vehicles of its era, is known for a few recurring issues that owners and prospective buyers should be aware of. One of the most frequently reported problems is with the automatic transmission. These transmissions, particularly the 4T60-E variant, can be prone to wear and tear, leading to slipping, harsh shifting, or complete failure, especially in higher mileage vehicles or those that haven't had regular fluid changes. Another common concern revolves around interior electronics. Issues like faulty power window motors, climate control system malfunctions, and inconsistent gauge readings have been noted. The dashboard illumination can also be a problem, with dead pixels or dimming lights.
The 3.8L V6 engines, while generally robust, can develop issues such as intake manifold gasket leaks, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating if not addressed promptly. Some owners have also reported issues with the exhaust system, including manifold cracks or rusted components.
While there weren't widespread, major recalls specific to the 1997 model year that significantly impacted overall long-term reliability, it's always prudent to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for any applicable recalls.
In terms of long-term reliability, the Grand Prix's reputation is somewhat mixed. While the powertrain can be durable with proper maintenance, the aging electrical components and suspension wear are common points of failure. The supercharged GTP models, while offering exciting performance, can be more susceptible to maintenance-related issues if not cared for meticulously. Regular maintenance, especially transmission fluid flushes and addressing minor issues proactively, is key to extending the life of a 1997 Grand Prix.
The 3.8L V6 engines, while generally robust, can develop issues such as intake manifold gasket leaks, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating if not addressed promptly. Some owners have also reported issues with the exhaust system, including manifold cracks or rusted components.
While there weren't widespread, major recalls specific to the 1997 model year that significantly impacted overall long-term reliability, it's always prudent to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for any applicable recalls.
In terms of long-term reliability, the Grand Prix's reputation is somewhat mixed. While the powertrain can be durable with proper maintenance, the aging electrical components and suspension wear are common points of failure. The supercharged GTP models, while offering exciting performance, can be more susceptible to maintenance-related issues if not cared for meticulously. Regular maintenance, especially transmission fluid flushes and addressing minor issues proactively, is key to extending the life of a 1997 Grand Prix.
How long will the 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix can reasonably be expected to reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report achieving well over 200,000 miles with consistent oil changes, transmission fluid services, and addressing any minor issues promptly. The engine, particularly the 3.8L V6, is known for its durability. However, the major weaknesses that emerge over time are typically the automatic transmission and various interior electrical components. Suspension wear, such as worn-out struts and bushings, is also common after years of service. The long-term durability heavily relies on the owner's commitment to preventative maintenance and timely repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix offered a mix of standard and optional features for its time, focusing on comfort and convenience rather than cutting-edge technology.
Built-in Tech and Entertainment: Standard equipment usually included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Higher trims or optional packages often upgraded this to an AM/FM stereo with a CD player, and some models featured premium sound systems with multiple speakers. Features like power windows, power door locks, and cruise control were common, enhancing driver convenience. Optional climate control systems provided more precise temperature management than basic AC.
Driver-Assistance Features: Antilock Braking System (ABS) was often available as an option, providing improved braking control, especially in slippery conditions. Traction control was also an option on some models, particularly those with the more powerful engines, to help prevent wheel spin during acceleration.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seat belts were, of course, standard. Some higher trims might have offered optional side-impact airbags or enhanced seatbelt systems.
Crash-Test Ratings: For the 1997 model year, the Pontiac Grand Prix received mixed results in crash testing. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it generally received four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger impacts, indicating a good level of protection in head-on collisions. Side-impact protection ratings were also generally good for the era. However, it's important to remember that safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since 1997, so these ratings should be viewed within the context of its time.
Built-in Tech and Entertainment: Standard equipment usually included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Higher trims or optional packages often upgraded this to an AM/FM stereo with a CD player, and some models featured premium sound systems with multiple speakers. Features like power windows, power door locks, and cruise control were common, enhancing driver convenience. Optional climate control systems provided more precise temperature management than basic AC.
Driver-Assistance Features: Antilock Braking System (ABS) was often available as an option, providing improved braking control, especially in slippery conditions. Traction control was also an option on some models, particularly those with the more powerful engines, to help prevent wheel spin during acceleration.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seat belts were, of course, standard. Some higher trims might have offered optional side-impact airbags or enhanced seatbelt systems.
Crash-Test Ratings: For the 1997 model year, the Pontiac Grand Prix received mixed results in crash testing. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it generally received four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger impacts, indicating a good level of protection in head-on collisions. Side-impact protection ratings were also generally good for the era. However, it's important to remember that safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since 1997, so these ratings should be viewed within the context of its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix had a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that typically ranged from around $19,000 for base models up to $27,000 or more for the GTP trim with options. These cars experienced rapid depreciation in their first few years, a common trait for American sedans and coupes of that era.
Currently, the used market prices for a 1997 Grand Prix are generally very low, often ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and trim level. Well-maintained examples, especially the GTP models, might fetch slightly more. Factors severely affecting resale value include the overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), rust, transmission health, and mileage. Limited availability of pristine examples means that any well-preserved car can stand out.
Currently, the used market prices for a 1997 Grand Prix are generally very low, often ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and trim level. Well-maintained examples, especially the GTP models, might fetch slightly more. Factors severely affecting resale value include the overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), rust, transmission health, and mileage. Limited availability of pristine examples means that any well-preserved car can stand out.
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Cost of Ownership
The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is generally considered economical to own, especially in the used market. Insurance costs are typically modest, reflecting its age and market value. Fuel economy, while not class-leading by modern standards, is reasonable for its performance, particularly with the naturally aspirated V6. Maintenance costs are relatively low due to the widespread availability of parts and the simplicity of the mechanics. However, repair costs can escalate if major issues arise, such as transmission failure, which can be a significant expense. Overall, as long as it has been maintained, it remains an affordable car to keep on the road.
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Safety Rating
NHTSA
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/Header/Muffler/tail Pipe
Recall date
2015-10-26
Recall no.
15v701000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 1998-1999 Chevrolet Lumina and Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1997-2004 Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix, 2000-2004 Chevrolet Impala, and 1998-2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles Were Previously Repaired Under Recalls 08v-118, 09v-116, and 15v-201 TO Address THE Possibility That Engine OIL MAY Drip Onto THE HOT Exhaust Manifold.
Consequence
Engine OIL That Drips Onto THE HOT Surface OF THE Exhaust Manifold MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
THE Remedy Applied Under Recalls 08v-118, 09v-116, and 15v-201 DID NOT Adequately Remove THE Safety Risk. Under THE Improved Remedy, Dealers Will Replace THE Engines Front Valve Cover and Gasket. Vehicles That ARE Covered BY Recalls 08v-118, 09v-116, or 15v-201 That Have NOT YET Received THE Original Remedy Will Instead Receive THE Improved Remedy Under THE Original Recall Number. THE Recall Began ON February 19, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Oldsmobile Customer Service AT 1-800-442-6537 and Pontiac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15757. Note: Until THE Improved Remedy HAS Been Applied, Owners ARE Advised TO Park Their Vehicle Outside Since THE Fire Risk Exists Even When THE Vehicle IS Unattended.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date
2015-10-26
Recall no.
15v701000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 1998-1999 Chevrolet Lumina and Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1997-2004 Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix, 2000-2004 Chevrolet Impala, and 1998-2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles Were Previously Repaired Under Recalls 08v-118, 09v-116, and 15v-201 TO Address THE Possibility That Engine OIL MAY Drip Onto THE HOT Exhaust Manifold.
Consequence
Engine OIL That Drips Onto THE HOT Surface OF THE Exhaust Manifold MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
THE Remedy Applied Under Recalls 08v-118, 09v-116, and 15v-201 DID NOT Adequately Remove THE Safety Risk. Under THE Improved Remedy, Dealers Will Replace THE Engines Front Valve Cover and Gasket. Vehicles That ARE Covered BY Recalls 08v-118, 09v-116, or 15v-201 That Have NOT YET Received THE Original Remedy Will Instead Receive THE Improved Remedy Under THE Original Recall Number. THE Recall Began ON February 19, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Oldsmobile Customer Service AT 1-800-442-6537 and Pontiac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15757. Note: Until THE Improved Remedy HAS Been Applied, Owners ARE Advised TO Park Their Vehicle Outside Since THE Fire Risk Exists Even When THE Vehicle IS Unattended.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
Recall date
1999-12-16
Recall no.
99v348000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Windshield Wipers MAY Stop Working DUE TO A Separation Between THE Drive PIN and Crescent IN THE Crank ARM Assembly.
Consequence
Driver Visibility Could BE Reduced, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect These Vehicles FOR THE Presence OF A Plastic Water Deflector And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Wiper Motor Crank ARM and Install A Water Deflector. ON Vehicles Receiving A Replacement Crank ARM and NEW Water Deflector, Dealers Will Also Apply Additional Sealing Material TO Improve Water Deflection Away From THE Crank ARM Assembly and Will Install A Reinforcement TO Improve THE Performance OF THE Wiper Park Mechanism.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 99091.owner Notification Began MAY 25, 2000.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737 or Buick AT 1-800-521-7300.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering:rack and Pinion
Recall date
2002-11-04
Recall no.
02v286000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Vehicles and Mini Vans Have Lower Pinion Bearings IN THE Power Rack and Pinion Assembly IN Which THE Retainer Tabs Were NOT Crimped Properly. These and Some Other Retainers Used IN Vehicles Assembled Between January 1, 1996 and October 31, 1997, Could Fail and Permit THE Ball Bearings TO Escape.
Consequence
IF This Occurs, THE Pinion Shaft CAN BE Forced Upward During Left Turns and Back Down AS THE Steering Wheel IS Moved Back and TO THE Right. IF THE Pinion Shaft Moves Further, THE Driver Will Need TO Exert More Effort TO Turn THE Steering Wheel, Similar TO A Vehicle Without Power Assisted Steering. IF THE Pinion Shaft Moves Even Further, THE Driver Will Require Much Higher Effort TO Turn Left and MAY NOT BE Able TO Turn THE Wheel AS Much AS Intended. With THE Maximum Pinion Shaft Movement, Which Requires Internal Gear Component Damage, THE Driver CAN Encounter High Resistance TO Turning Left, Followed BY Unintended Power Assist TO THE Right. IN ANY OF These Conditions, A Crash Could Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A NEW Lower Pinion Bearing Unless Inspect OF THE Existing Bearing Indicates That Replacement OF THE Gear Assembly IS Necessary. Owner Notification Began January 24, 2003. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737, or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 02049.also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
Recall date
2007-03-12
Recall no.
07e021000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators, P/Nos. Fp10020-11b1, Fp10026-11b1, and Fp10027-11b1, Sold After January 9, 2007, AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. THE Universal Pressure Regulators (Upr) Were Produced Without AN O'ring and Retainer.
Consequence
Fuel MAY Leak, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy
Delphi Will Notify Owners and Replace THE UPR Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 23, 2007. Owners CAN Contact Delphi AT 877-411-8770.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed BY General Motors.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date
2008-03-12
Recall no.
08v118000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
GM IS Recalling 207,542 MY 1997-2003 Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix Vehicles Equipped With A 3.8l Supercharged V-6 Engine. These Vehicles Have Higher Front Rocker Cover Gasket Temperatures, Creating THE Potential FOR Earlier Degradation OF THE Front Rocker Cover Gasket and Eventual OIL Seepage.
Consequence
Certain Underhood Fires MAY BE Caused BY Drops OF Engine Oil, From Seepage or Spillage, Being Deposited ON THE Exhaust Manifold Through Hard Braking. IF THE Manifold IS HOT Enough and THE OIL Runs Below THE Heat Shield, IT MAY Ignite Into A Small Flame And, IN Some Instances, THE Fire MAY Spread TO THE Plastic Spark Plug Wire Channel and Beyond.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Engines Front Valve Cover and Front-Valve-Cover Gasket With NEW Parts OF AN Improved Design and Remove THE Engines Plastic Cover and Plastic Oil-fill-tube Extension, Along With THE 1-3-5 Spark Plug Wire Retainers, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During MAY 2016. , Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During MAY 2016. Until THE Remedy IS Completed, GM Strongly Recommends That Owners Observe THE Following Important Precautions (1) That Owners DO NOT Park Their Vehicle IN A Garage, Car Port, or Other Structure; (2) IF Owners Notice A Burning Odor, They Should Have Their Dealer Inspect THE Vehicle. THE Dealer Will Inspect THE Vehicle Without Charge; (3) USE Premium Fuel (91 Octane or Higher) IN THE Vehicle AS Recommended IN THE Vehicle's Owner Manual. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080 or Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668, or Through Their Website AT <A Href=http://Www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Notes
GM Recall NO. 07035. Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date
2009-04-08
Recall no.
09v116000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling 1,497,516 MY 1997-2003 Buick Regal, MY 1998-2003 Chevrolet Lumina, Monte Carlo and Impala, MY 1998-1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue, MY 1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix Vehicles Equipped With A 3.8l V6 Naturally Aspirated Engine. Some OF These Vehicles Have A Condition IN Which Drops OF Engine OIL MAY BE Deposited ON THE Exhaust Manifold Through Hard Braking.
Consequence
IF THE Manifold IS HOT Enough and THE OIL Runs Below THE Heat Shield, IT MAY Ignite Into A Small Flame and MAY Spread TO THE Plastic Spark Plug Wire Channel and Beyond Increasing THE Risk OF AN Engine Compartment Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Engines Front Valve Cover and Front-Valve-Cover Gasket With NEW Parts OF AN Improved Design and Remove THE Engines Plastic Cover and Plastic Oil-fill-tube Extension, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During MAY 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Oldsmobile AT 1-800-630-6537, and Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668 or Http://Www.pontiac.com or Http:www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 09047.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Steering
Recall date
2009-02-17
Recall no.
09e005000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman IS Recalling 979 Steering Knuckles, Dorman P/Nos. 697-902 and 697-903, Sold Under Dorman's "OE Solutions<sup>tm</Sup>" Brand Name, and Napa P/nos. 7-8502 and 7-8503 Which Were Sold FOR Replacement USE ON THE Various Vehicles Listed Above. A Potential Material or Design Defect Could Result IN THE Steering Knuckle Breaking IN THE HUB Area.
Consequence
A Broken Steering Knuckle Could Result IN Loss OF Steering Control and A Possible Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Dorman Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Defective Steering Knuckles Free OF Charge and Reimburse THE Repair Facility or Owner FOR Labor. THE Recall Began ON February 23, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dorman's Toll-Free Hotline AT 1-800-523-2492 and Press 5.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Dorman Steering Knuckles and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Insurance
Insurance for a 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix competed in a crowded segment of mid-size sedans and coupes against rivals like the Ford Taurus/Sable, Chevrolet Lumina, Dodge Intrepid, and some import competitors such as the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord.
Performance: The Grand Prix, especially the GTP model with its supercharged V6, often held an advantage in raw acceleration and sporty driving dynamics compared to more comfort-oriented rivals like the Taurus or Camry. Its aggressive styling also set it apart.
Features: In terms of features, the Grand Prix was competitive, offering power amenities and available upgrades common to the segment. However, it might have lagged behind some competitors in terms of more advanced technology or interior refinement found in the Japanese rivals.
Reliability: This is where the Grand Prix often faced challenges compared to its import counterparts. While the engines were generally robust, the GM transmissions of this era had a reputation for being less durable than those in Toyota or Honda vehicles. The domestic rivals like the Taurus also had their share of reliability concerns.
Price: The Grand Prix offered a compelling value proposition, providing V6 power and sporty styling at a competitive price point, often undercutting similarly equipped import models.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Grand Prix, especially the GTP model with its supercharged V6, often held an advantage in raw acceleration and sporty driving dynamics compared to more comfort-oriented rivals like the Taurus or Camry. Its aggressive styling also set it apart.
Features: In terms of features, the Grand Prix was competitive, offering power amenities and available upgrades common to the segment. However, it might have lagged behind some competitors in terms of more advanced technology or interior refinement found in the Japanese rivals.
Reliability: This is where the Grand Prix often faced challenges compared to its import counterparts. While the engines were generally robust, the GM transmissions of this era had a reputation for being less durable than those in Toyota or Honda vehicles. The domestic rivals like the Taurus also had their share of reliability concerns.
Price: The Grand Prix offered a compelling value proposition, providing V6 power and sporty styling at a competitive price point, often undercutting similarly equipped import models.
Alternatives:
- For similar performance and American muscle feel: A Ford Mustang GT of the same era might offer more pure RWD performance, though in a different body style.
- For better overall reliability and refinement: The Toyota Camry or Honda Accord are excellent choices, though they typically sacrifice sporty driving dynamics for comfort and bulletproof reliability.
- For a comparable American sedan with a sportier edge: A well-maintained Dodge Intrepid R/T or Chrysler Sebring Coupe might offer a similar blend of performance and style, though reliability can be equally variable.
Final Verdict: Is the 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix a Good Sedan?
The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a car with a sporty look and a decent amount of power for its price point. It's best suited for individuals who appreciate a more engaging driving experience than typical sedans of its era and are comfortable with the potential for moderate maintenance.
It is worth buying, particularly in the used market, if found in good condition with a documented maintenance history. The GTP trim is highly recommended for enthusiasts who value its supercharged performance. It's crucial to buy a 1997 Grand Prix that has been well cared for, as transmission issues can be costly. Avoid vehicles with signs of neglect or major leaks. As a daily driver, it offers decent comfort and a bit of excitement, but it's not the most reliable long-term choice without consistent upkeep.
It is worth buying, particularly in the used market, if found in good condition with a documented maintenance history. The GTP trim is highly recommended for enthusiasts who value its supercharged performance. It's crucial to buy a 1997 Grand Prix that has been well cared for, as transmission issues can be costly. Avoid vehicles with signs of neglect or major leaks. As a daily driver, it offers decent comfort and a bit of excitement, but it's not the most reliable long-term choice without consistent upkeep.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.