avg. life of a 3.8

I am doing a little car shopping for my sister, and I think she would like a newer body style 98+ grand prix. What is the avg. life of a 3.8? Also, I seem to remeber reading about transmision problems in these cars. About what mileage does that come into play? Are there any other common problems I should be looking for when I am test driving?

There are people that have 300k+ on their Grand PRix's with very few problems. The trans issues seem more common in the GTP models, and the non-supercharged models have a problem with coolant leaking from a cracked upper plenum. I would suggest a 99-up model, as they have an upgraded upper plenum (and other subtle changes that enhance reliability) that is less likely to fail. I would advise against the SE model equipped with the 3100 engine, and spend the few bucks on a Car Fax report before purchasing. Look for water in the passenger floorboard (there is a cowl leak problem on the passenger side). Shine a flashlight at the odometer, and if you can see silver between the numbers, the odometer has most likely been tampered with. The only other issues are heater blower motor resistors going out (you'll lose speeds 1-4 over time, cheap easy fix) and hub bearing issues (common on all FWD cars, especially in pot-hole prone areas). I absolutely LOVE my 99 GT. I chose the GT over the GTP because I like the fact that the GT can run 87 octane, the GTP requires premium fuel. It's a daily driver, so I don't need the extra power the Supercharger provides. If power is important, the GTP is the way to go. There are several owners of GTP's that will agree, and my next Grand Prix will most likely be a GTP. They are easily and relatively cheaply modded to beat V-8 Mustangs and most Ricers, so there is another reason to opt for the GTP.

My line of thinking is the GTPs would be run a little bit harder and also there would be more maintainence issues to deal with because of the supercharger.

My line of thinking is the GTPs would be run a little bit harder and also there would be more maintainence issues to deal with because of the supercharger.

that's the main reason i went with a GT, plus what people were asking for GTP's was just stupid...

Like any used car I would run it throught the mill and check it out thoroughly no matter what model Grand Prix it is.

The GTPs are not prone to any more failure than a SE or GT model, however, GTP owners have a tendency to hot rod them more and dog them.

GTP owners have a tendency to hot rod them more and dog them.
Just the nature of the beast.

Yeah she is just turning 16. I think the GTP would be overkill for her. The 3.1 isn't even an option in my mind, there is nothing wrong with that motor but I trust the 3.8 a lot more. If she wants a ride in a fun car I will take her for a spin in my 95' 9C1. Its no camaro, but it will walk all over most mustangs minus the new GT.

Thanks for the pointers, I will keep them in mind when I am out shopping. She doesn't turn 16 till the end of april, so I have some time to shop. I'll keep you posted with what I find.

The 3800 is a very reliable engine. If you keep it maintained and there aren't any flaws, it should run just fine. Make sure she is getting the fluids and oil changed regularly :).

At least you are considering a V6 over the I-4 engines most 16 year olds get for their first car. My younger brother still has his Ford Escort and whenever I'm forced to drive the thing, I curse at it :).

Mines a 2000 and the only non-routine maintence I've had to put into the car is that my plug wires were arcing at 45k causing random misfiring.

Overall though, I love my GT as a daily driver. It has plenty of power, smooth ride and decent gas miliage for how heavy the car and how big the engine is.

Is anybody interested in getting body kit for grand prix.I have one for sale.My e-mail is [email protected]