Gas Cap Rant

[masquerader01]

So I just got rif of my 04 Grand Am and replaced it with an 07 Grand Prix. I also have an 07 Torrent.

On both the Grand Am and the Torrent the spring mechanism inside the gas cap wore out preventing you from being able to tighten the cap enough to get a good seal. On the Grand Am I was alerted to the problem because my check engine light came on. Didn't concern me on that car because I put alot of miles on it...and therefore a lot of gas. However I bought the Torrent brand new and after 25k miles that gas cap had a spring problem. Rather than driving 25 miles to my dealer I jsut bought an after market one at Pep Boys...problem solved...six dollar part vs 12 dollars in gas and wasted time to get to the dealer. But still...annoying on a new car....

Now my 07 Grand Prix is having the same problem. The spring has not failed yet...but it sure seems close as it barely clicks now when I tighten it. Is this a design flaw and a common problem with Pontiac?

Also i called my dealer about and got the ho-hum you'll have to come in...don't know it that's covered song and dance...So I said fine I'll just go to Pep Boys. That's when he warns me not to use after market caps because they don't seal right. Is this true? I've never had a problem before...

['97ventureowner]

i don't know if they are the same, but Rock Auto, (www.rockauto.com) carries A C Delco gas caps for your '07. They list the following for the GP with the 3.8 and 5.3 ( GP, GP GT, and GP GXP):ACDELCO Part # GT284 {replaces GT277 #10372244, 15258231, GT277}
CAP,F/TNK FIL for $11.72 .

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by masquerader01

Is this a design flaw and a common problem with Pontiac?

Not to my knowledge. However, keep in mind that the AC Delco name on parts doesn't mean much anymore since there are quality issues and most parts are now outsourced for manufacture.

Originally Posted by masquerader01

That's when he warns me not to use after market caps because they don't seal right. Is this true? I've never had a problem before...

Obviously the dealer would prefer that you buy from them with their ridiculous parts markup on price. Nothing wrong with aftermarket brands like Stant.