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Pontiac · Known Issues

2004 Pontiac Grand Prix Problems: 8 Known Issues

2004 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix has 8 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are Engine Oil Leak onto Exhaust Manifold - Fire Risk (Recall 15V-201 / 08V-118), Ignition Switch May Slip Out of Run Position (Recall 14V400000), 4T65-E Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting and Failure, 3.8L V6 Intake Manifold Gasket Coolant Leak ($947-$1,099 repair) and Grand Prix 3800 V6 Lower Intake Manifold (LIM) Gasket Failure ($400-$1,200 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $1,200. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Grand Prix Electrical2
  • Grand Prix Engine2
  • Grand Prix Safety/Recalls1
  • Grand Prix Transmission1
  • Grand Prix Cooling1
  • Grand Prix HVAC1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ
Get Started
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In This Article

  • Electrical2
  • Engine2
  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Transmission1
  • Cooling1
  • HVAC1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ

All 8 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS200820072006200520042003200220012000199919981997

On the 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, nHTSA campaign 14V400000 exactly covers 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles for unintended ignition-key rotation out of RUN caused by key-ring weight, road conditions or another jarring event. The resulting engine shutdown can also prevent air-bag deployment. The campaign-wide 5,877,718 total is multi-model, not Grand Prix social proof; the exact remedy is key-ring/key-slot or key-head modification, not switch replacement.

Common Symptoms

  • VIN and campaign completion checked
  • key-ring load removed pending remedy
  • unintended RUN-position movement documented
  • separate switch/cylinder faults diagnosed independently

How to Fix

Until the campaign remedy is confirmed complete, remove all other items and the key fob from the ignition-key ring as NHTSA directs. Check VIN/open-campaign status and ask the dealer to confirm current remedy availability and any charge in 2026. Diagnose separate switch/cylinder complaints independently. Do not buy an ignition switch, lock cylinder, key insert or cover from this page; campaign status, key configuration, failed path, part number and VIN fitment must be established first.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2001-2005 Pontiac Grand Prix, owners frequently report the key becoming stuck in the ignition cylinder, unable to be removed or unable to turn to start, due to wear in the ignition lock cylinder and shift-interlock/Park-position issues. This is among the most-reported complaints for the seventh-generation cars (notably 2002), distinct from the 14V400000 switch recall. It can leave the vehicle unable to start or the key trapped.

Common Symptoms

  • Key stuck in ignition
  • Key won't turn to start
  • Key won't return / can't remove key
  • Vehicle won't start

How to Fix

Verify the shifter is fully in Park and the brake/shift interlock is functioning; replace a worn ignition lock cylinder. Inspect the BTSI (brake-transmission shift interlock) solenoid and cylinder housing. Lubricating with the correct cylinder lubricant can help in mild cases.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • GM 15785106 uncoded ignition-lock cylinder kit

    Uncoded and not interchangeable with 2004-2005.

    GMPartsGiant
  • GM 19207987 ignition-lock cylinder with keys

    Confirm original part 19207987, VIN, key coding and theft-relearn needs.

    eBay / Pro Steering Columns

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $400

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 1997-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, 1997-2008 Grand Prix with the 3800 V6 (NA L36 or supercharged L67) — same LIM gasket failure mode as Bonneville and Buick variants. Particularly common on the supercharged GTP because higher boost pulls coolant past the eroded gasket faster.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Cascada

Common Symptoms

  • coolant loss
  • milky oil
  • overheating
  • sweet exhaust smell
  • rough idle

How to Fix

Updated Fel-Pro MS98003T gasket replacement ($400-$800). Replace UIM plenum simultaneously if cracked, and EGR stovepipe gasket. Drain Dex-Cool and switch to Zerex G-05 / Sierra HOAT. Check oil monthly for milky discoloration.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Fel-Pro MS 98014 T lower intake-manifold gasket set

    1997-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix 3.8L applications as cataloged, with engine-specific upper/supercharger gaskets and procedure selected separately.

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

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Manually Verified
High Confidence

On the 1997-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, on supercharged GTP models with the L67 (and the later L32 supercharged 3.8L), the Eaton M90 supercharger develops a noisy front coupler/isolator as the elastomer wears, producing a rattle or knock from the front of the blower. Owners report the rattle can return roughly 10,000 miles after a coupler replacement, and neglecting supercharger oil changes accelerates wear and reduces boost.

Common Symptoms

  • Rattle or knock from front of supercharger
  • Noise that changes with RPM
  • Loss of boost
  • Whining from blower

How to Fix

Replace the supercharger coupler/isolator (remanufactured nose units are available); change the supercharger snout oil at the recommended interval, and inspect the belt, idlers, and vacuum lines. Address recurring rattle promptly to avoid further blower damage.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • ZZPerformance Eaton supercharger coupler

    No supercharged 2008 Grand Prix; confirm blower and snout condition.

    ZZPerformance

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 1997-2004 Pontiac Grand Prix, nHTSA campaigns 08V118000 and 09V116000 cover affected 1997-2003 supercharged and naturally aspirated 3.8L Grand Prix vehicles for front valve/rocker-cover oil leakage and fire risk; campaign 15V201000 covers a bounded 2004 Grand Prix population. The campaigns identify oil reaching the exhaust-manifold area and prescribe improved front-cover/gasket work plus removal of specified plastic components. Their multi-model totals are not Grand Prix owner counts, and recall status/remedy completion must be checked by VIN.

Common Symptoms

  • VIN checked across all three campaigns
  • engine/build applicability identified
  • front cover/gasket leakage inspected
  • burning odor, smoke and parking precautions treated as safety-critical

How to Fix

Until the applicable campaign remedy is confirmed complete, follow NHTSA/GM precautions, including parking outside away from structures where directed; if a burning odor, smoke or active leak appears, stop safely and arrange inspection. Check the VIN for all applicable campaigns and ask a dealer to confirm current remedy availability and any charge in 2026. Do not buy a valve cover, gasket, oil-fill extension or wire retainer from this page; campaign, engine, build, completion state, part number and VIN fitment must be established first.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2001-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, the exact corpus supports 4T65-E shift and failure conditions throughout the frozen 2001-2008 range, but not one cause. Examples include P0756/P0757 shift faults, P0741/P0742 TCC paths, pressure-control and valve-body work, second-clutch shudder, V8 torque-converter conditions, slips/no drive/reverse and code-specific valve-body reconditioning (including 10025065 for 2001-2008). The frozen accumulator, clutch-pack, solenoid and pan-magnet explanation collapses distinct unit/RPO, calibration, hydraulic, electrical and mechanical paths.

This issue also affects: Buick Enclave, Buick Encore GX, Buick Regal

Common Symptoms

  • transmission RPO identified
  • codes and operating conditions captured
  • fluid, debris, cooler flow and pressure checked
  • electrical, hydraulic, converter and clutch paths separated

How to Fix

Identify the transmission by VIN/RPO and capture codes, freeze-frame, commanded/actual gear, shift timing and temperature. Inspect fluid/debris, cooler flow and line pressure, then follow the code- and unit-specific tree before solenoid, valve-body, converter, clutch or unit replacement. Do not buy a solenoid, valve body, clutch kit, accumulator, magnet or transmission from this page; unit/RPO, failed path, calibration, part number and VIN fitment must be established first.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 1997-2005 Pontiac Grand Prix, the 3.8L (3800) Series II V6 used in many Grand Prix models is prone to upper and lower intake manifold gasket failure, where the gasket degrades near the EGR/coolant passages and leaks coolant. Leaks can be external (visible coolant pooling, low coolant, overheating) or internal, allowing coolant to mix with engine oil and cause severe internal engine damage if driven. This is one of the most-reported problems for the platform and prompted multiple GM technical service bulletins.

Common Symptoms

  • Low coolant level
  • Coolant pooling or wet spots on engine
  • Engine overheating
  • Sweet coolant smell
  • Milky oil / coolant in oil
  • White exhaust smoke

How to Fix

Replace the upper plastic intake manifold and both upper and lower intake manifold gaskets, ideally with upgraded aluminum-reinforced aftermarket gaskets (e.g., Fel-Pro). Flush the cooling system and change the oil immediately if coolant contamination is suspected. Inspect the EGR stovepipe area where the plastic manifold commonly melts.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Fel-Pro MS 98014 T lower intake-manifold gasket set

    Confirm VIN engine and exact upper configuration.

    PartsGeek
  • Dorman 615-180 upper intake manifold

    Confirm VIN/year before purchase.

    CarParts.com

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$947 - $1,099

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 1997-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix, the blower motor resistor commonly fails, leaving the heater/AC fan working only on the highest setting or losing lower speeds (e.g., 1 and 2 dead while 3-5 work). Contributing factors include cowl water leaks dripping onto the resistor/connector and causing corrosion, and on 2004-2005 models a voltage spike from the wiper motor that can lock up the blower control module. The connector itself often melts and must be replaced.

Common Symptoms

  • Fan only works on highest speed
  • Some fan speeds missing
  • No airflow from vents
  • Burning smell from vents
  • Melted resistor connector

How to Fix

Replace the blower motor resistor and the wiring-harness connector together; replace the blower motor at the same time if worn to prevent repeat failure. For 2004-2005 control-module logic lockups, a GM TSB recommends installing a capacitor at the blower control module connector. Seal cowl leaks to prevent recurrence.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Dorman 973-408 blower-motor resistor and connector kit

    Confirm HVAC controls and connector; excluded from climate-control applications.

    PartsGeek
  • GM 22754990 blower-motor control module

    Confirm VIN and HVAC RPO/control type before purchase.

    GMPartsGiant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $250

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls11 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.

Campaign #14V40000003/07/2014

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2006-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT, GMC Envoy XL, 2006-2008 Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7x vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the headlamp driver module (HDM) may overheat and fail, causing the headlamps and daytime running lights to not illuminate.

Campaign #15V51900014/08/2015
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Pontiac Grand Prix problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Engine Oil Leak onto Exhaust Manifold - Fire Risk (Recall 15V-201 / 08V-118), Ignition Switch May Slip Out of Run Position (Recall 14V400000), 4T65-E Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting and Failure. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Pontiac Grand Prix reliable?

The 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix has 8 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Engine Oil Leak onto Exhaust Manifold - Fire Risk (Recall 15V-201 / 08V-118) and Ignition Switch May Slip Out of Run Position (Recall 14V400000) and 4T65-E Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting and Failure and 3.8L V6 Intake Manifold Gasket Coolant Leak and Grand Prix 3800 V6 Lower Intake Manifold (LIM) Gasket Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Pontiac Grand Prix problems?

Repair costs for known Pontiac Grand Prix issues range from $100 to $1,200, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1997-2004 Pontiac Grand Prix Engine Oil Leak onto Exhaust Manifold - Fire Risk (Recall 15V-201 / 08V-118)?

NHTSA campaigns 08V118000 and 09V116000 cover affected 1997-2003 supercharged and naturally aspirated 3.8L Grand Prix vehicles for front valve/rocker-cover oil leakage and fire risk; campaign 15V201000 covers a bounded 2004 Grand Prix population. The campaigns identify oil reachi… Severity: high.

What is the 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix Ignition Switch May Slip Out of Run Position (Recall 14V400000)?

NHTSA campaign 14V400000 exactly covers 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles for unintended ignition-key rotation out of RUN caused by key-ring weight, road conditions or another jarring event. The resulting engine shutdown can also prevent air-bag deployment. The campaign-wide… Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

STEERING

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.

Campaign #09E00500017/02/2009

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE

ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK IS MISSING THE ADHESIVE LAYER THAT BONDS THE BARRIER LAYER TO THE OUTER SHELL OF THE FUEL TANK.

Campaign #06V41900031/10/2006

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on April 2, 2015, that they are is recalling certain model year 2004 Buick Regal vehicles manufactured April 9, 2003, to June 1, 2003, 2004 Chevrolet Impala vehicles manufactured April 8, 2003, to June 23, 2003, and 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles manufactured April 7, 2003, to June 23, 2003. On May 18, 2015, GM expanded the recall to cover an additional 49,751 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles manufactured January 6, 2003, to June 25, 2004. In the affected vehicles, the valve cover gasket may leak.

Campaign #15V20100006/04/2015

+ 6 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2001-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix 4T65-E Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting and Failure?

The exact corpus supports 4T65-E shift and failure conditions throughout the frozen 2001-2008 range, but not one cause. Examples include P0756/P0757 shift faults, P0741/P0742 TCC paths, pressure-control and valve-body work, second-clutch shudder, V8 torque-converter conditions, s… Severity: high.

What is the 1997-2005 Pontiac Grand Prix 3.8L V6 Intake Manifold Gasket Coolant Leak?

The 3.8L (3800) Series II V6 used in many Grand Prix models is prone to upper and lower intake manifold gasket failure, where the gasket degrades near the EGR/coolant passages and leaks coolant. Leaks can be external (visible coolant pooling, low coolant, overheating) or internal… Repairs typically run $947-$1,099. Severity: high.

What is the 1997-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix Grand Prix 3800 V6 Lower Intake Manifold (LIM) Gasket Failure?

1997-2008 Grand Prix with the 3800 V6 (NA L36 or supercharged L67) — same LIM gasket failure mode as Bonneville and Buick variants. Particularly common on the supercharged GTP because higher boost pulls coolant past the eroded gasket faster. Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2001-2005 Pontiac Grand Prix Key Sticks / Won't Turn or Come Out of Ignition?

Owners frequently report the key becoming stuck in the ignition cylinder, unable to be removed or unable to turn to start, due to wear in the ignition lock cylinder and shift-interlock/Park-position issues. This is among the most-reported complaints for the seventh-generation car… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: medium.

What is the 1997-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure (Fan Stuck on High / Lost Speeds)?

The blower motor resistor commonly fails, leaving the heater/AC fan working only on the highest setting or losing lower speeds (e.g., 1 and 2 dead while 3-5 work). Contributing factors include cowl water leaks dripping onto the resistor/connector and causing corrosion, and on 200… Repairs typically run $100-$250. Severity: low.

What is the 1997-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix Supercharger Coupler Rattle (GTP / L67 Supercharged 3.8L)?

On supercharged GTP models with the L67 (and the later L32 supercharged 3.8L), the Eaton M90 supercharger develops a noisy front coupler/isolator as the elastomer wears, producing a rattle or knock from the front of the blower. Owners report the rattle can return roughly 10,000 m… Severity: low.