Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
The 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix has a moderate number of recalls and owner complaints, particularly concerning the electrical and engine systems. Key issues include potential engine oil leaks, ignition problems, and brake system concerns. Although not overwhelming, these issues suggest a cautious approach during inspection and a thorough test drive to ensure reliability.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns and 454 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #15V701000 Engine Oil Dripping On Manifold may Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V201000 Engine Oil Dripping On Manifold may Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V400000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E025000 FMVSS 108/REPLACEMENT HEADLAMPS/AMBER REFLECTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E005000 STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING/LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #05V046000 FMVSS 124/ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V287000 GM/FRONT BRAKE CALIPER BOLT TORQUE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V299000 GM/FRONT FRAME REAR BODY MOUNT BRACKET FRACTURE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V331000 GM/FMVSS 135/REAR BRAKE HOSE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 107 complaints
- Engine 98 complaints
- Steering 64 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 41 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 41 complaints
- Structure 33 complaints
Of the 454 complaints on file, 46 report a crash and 58 a fire; across all 454 complaints, owners report 47 injuries and 2 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine oil leaks onto exhaust
How to check: Inspect engine for oil drips near exhaust manifold.
Ignition key issues
How to check: Test if the ignition key works smoothly and airbag light is off.
Brake component torque issues
How to check: Check that front brake calipers are secure and not loose.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any abnormal engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard lights for warnings.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low-speed driving
What to check: Check steering responsiveness.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or unresponsive
- 04
Braking test
What to check: Test brakes for firmness and noise.
Red flag: Squealing or grinding sounds
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking movements
- 06
Cruise at highway speed
What to check: Monitor for steering and alignment issues.
Red flag: Steering pulls left or right
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- What recall repairs have been completed?
- Have you experienced any engine issues?
- Has the ignition system been serviced?
- Are there any known electrical problems?
- When were the brakes last serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance service history
- Vehicle title and registration
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.