Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | |||||
| 3055 | 3055 | 10021347 | Numerous electrical conditions which include windshield wipers, turn signal lamps, air bags, stop lamps, and hazard lamps. *kb | 04/05/2007 | |
| 3055 | 01/01/2004 | 10009595 | Harness chaffing on instrument panel to knee bolster bracket causing numerous electrical conditions. *tt | 10/08/2004 | |
| 09242002 | 09/24/2002 | 10008625 | Erratic speedometer, possible transmission no shift and/or cruise control inoperative. *tt | 08/10/2004 | |
| 01758 | 01/01/2004 | 10006382 | Code b1327 diagnostics missing. *mr | 04/30/2004 | |
| 021903 | 02/19/2003 | 10002560 | Engineering would like to inspect any vehicle before the actual repair is performed when the repair diagnosis leads to replacing the body control module (bcm), for battery drain, intermittent no start, ipc display intermittently interrupted | 09/05/2003 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION | |||||
| 022003 | 02/20/2003 | 10002562 | Engineering would like to inspect any vehicle before the actual repair has been performed where the repair diagnosis leads to replacing the ignition lock cylinder for an intermittent or hard no start type of condition or customer complaint. | 09/05/2003 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING | |||||
| 01740 | 01/01/2004 | 10006270 | Cross injector wires causing misfire at steady state speed and rpm, malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated, and a p0300 set. sit bulletin 1460291. *tt | 04/27/2004 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - FRONT UNDERHOOD | |||||
| 3648 | 10018915 | Hesitation on acceleration after internal engine repairs - check injector harness orientation. *tt | 01/24/2006 | ||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | |||
| 03/01/2009 | 50000 | ||
| Coolant leaked into engine caused problems, wouldn't start half the time, couldn't fill up without gas pump cutting off constantly (took 20 minutes to fill up). took car to dealer and other shops spent tons of money problem not solved. got so feed up with this car i pulled the tags and bought a honda. it is really unfair how the manufacturer of this car was allowed to get away with putting out such an inferior product. there should have been a major recall on any number of these problems. i was never notified of any recalls or the class action law suit. | |||
| 12/31/2012 | 91000 | 1 | |
| Sometimes, when applying the turn signals, the turn signal does not activate, even though the turn signal lever is in the correct position. the relay does not click, and the turn signals do not flash. also, at random times, the turn signal relay can be heard clicking rapidly on and off when the turn signals are not turned on. the turn signals do not turn on when this occurs, just the relay in the dash clicks. as stated, this happens randomly and can go on for hours over a long drive. *tr | |||
| 12/31/2012 | 91000 | ||
| Sometimes, when applying the turn signals, the turn signal does not activate, even though the turn signal lever is in the correct position. the relay does not click, and the turn signals do not flash. also, at random times, the turn signal relay can be heard clicking rapidly on and off when the turn signals are not turned on. the turn signals do not turn on when this occurs, just the relay in the dash clicks. as stated, this happens randomly and can go on for hours over a long drive. | |||
| 11/15/2009 | 30000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand-am. the contact stated that he attempted to start the vehicle but it failed to turn over. the contact mentioned that he attempted to restart the vehicle multiple times. also, the contact stated that the horn would go off by itself at different hours of the day and in order to deactivate it he had to push on the horn multiple times. in addition, the contact also mentioned that the steering wheel did not lock after shutting the vehicle off. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who was unable to diagnose the problem. however, the mechanic advised the contact that the failure might be cause by an electrical issue and he would need to consult with his local dealer. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was approximately 30,000 and the current mileage was approximately 50,000. pmb | |||
| 06/08/2005 | 60000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the anti-theft security system engaged erroneously, preventing him from starting the vehicle. the contact mentioned that the anti-theft warning lamp illuminated and he had to restart the vehicle in order to reset the system. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 60,0000 and the current mileage was 160,000. kmj | |||
| 11/15/2009 | 30000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand-am. the contact stated that he attempted to start the vehicle but it failed to turn over. the contact mentioned that he attempted to restart the vehicle multiple times. also, the contact stated that the horn would go off by itself at different hours of the day and in order to deactivate it he had to push on the horn multiple times. in addition, the contact also mentioned that the steering wheel did not lock after shutting the vehicle off. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who was unable to diagnose the problem. however, the mechanic advised the contact that the failure might be cause by an electrical issue and he would need to consult with his local dealer. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was approximately 30,000 and the current mileage was approximately 50,000. pmb | |||
| 06/08/2005 | 60000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the anti-theft security system engaged erroneously, preventing him from starting the vehicle. the contact mentioned that the anti-theft warning lamp illuminated and he had to restart the vehicle in order to reset the system. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 60,0000 and the current mileage was 160,000. kmj | |||
| 11/15/2009 | 30000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand-am. the contact stated that when he went to start his wife's vehicle it would not turn over. the contact would have to restart the vehicle approximately a total of 7 times. in addition, the contact also had failures with the horn going off by itself at different hours of the day. the contact would have to push on the horn multiple times before it would shut off. the contact has also had a failure with the steering wheel not locking when he shuts the vehicle off. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for all 3 failures and they were unable to diagnose it. the mechanic advised him that it may be an electrical issue which he would have to consult with his local dealer. the vehicle has not been repaired for any of the 3 failures. the failure mileage was approximately 30,000. the current mileage was approximately 50,000. tb | |||
| 06/08/2005 | 60000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the anti-theft security system engaged erroneously, preventing him from starting the vehicle. the contact mentioned that the anti-theft warning lamp illuminated and he had to restart the vehicle in order to reset the system. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 60,0000 and the current mileage was 160,000. kmj | |||
| 06/08/2005 | 60000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the security system engaged preventing him from starting the vehicle. the contact mentioned that the theft warning lamp illuminated and he had to restart the vehicle in order to reset the system. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 60,0000 and the current mileage was 160,000. pm | |||
| 09/11/2012 | 198000 | 1 | |
| We began having problems starting our car, the security light was on and stayed on. some days it would start and others it wouldn't and then it eventually would not start at all. after being in the shop for a week and stumping the mechanics, we still have not solved the issue. everything has been checked from the fuel pump to the sensors and they all tested good. our ignition went bad and since we had it replaced it has been bad. this car has left us stranded places with three small kids. we have to leave the key in the on position for about ten minutes then turn to off then start and sometimes it takes three or four times before it works. *tr | |||
| 09/11/2012 | 198000 | ||
| We began having problems starting our car, the security light was on and stayed on. some days it would start and others it wouldn't and then it eventually would not start at all. after being in the shop for a week and stumping the mechanics, we still have not solved the issue. everything has been checked from the fuel pump to the sensors and they all tested good. our ignition went bad and since we had it replaced it has been bad. this car has left us stranded places with three small kids. we have to leave the key in the on position for about ten minutes then turn to off then start and sometimes it takes three or four times before it works. | |||
| 06/15/2010 | 100000 | 1 | |
| Car will not start at times....it hesitates to start. alot of gm vehicles have this same problem. gm needs to fix this problem with a recall. *tr | |||
| 06/15/2010 | 100000 | ||
| Car will not start at times....it hesitates to start. alot of gm vehicles have this same problem. gm needs to fix this problem with a recall. | |||
| 08/25/2012 | 115000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the ignition failed to recognize the key. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the failure was due to an electrical short in the steering column. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the failure and current mileage was 115,000. pmb | |||
| 08/25/2012 | 115000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the ignition doesn't recognize the key due to an electrical outage in the steering column as diagnosed by a dealer. the vehicle had not been repaired. the vin was unavailable. the failure and current mileages were 115,000. dt | |||
| 04/19/2011 | |||
| Car will not start at times. i have been on a forum and alot of people have the same problem. its the security safetylock(faulty). | |||
| 04/18/2012 | 182000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am . the contact stated that while driving 35 mph and making a turn, the turn signals failed to illuminate. the contact activated the emergency hazard lights so that the turning signals would function. the vehicle was not taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis . the vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but offered no assistance to the contact. the failure mileage was 182,000 and the current mileage was 182,200. kmj | |||
| 04/18/2012 | 182000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am . the contact stated that while driving at 35 mph, making a turn the turning signals failed to illuminate. the contact pressed the emergency hazard lights on so that the turning signal will function properly once again. the vehicle was not taken into an authorized dealer to be diagnosed . the vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and did not offer any assistance to the contact. the failure mileage was 182,000 and the current mileage was 182,200.cv | |||
| 03/28/2012 | 112000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the directional signals failed. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to have a diagnostic performed. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 112,000. kmj | |||
| 03/28/2012 | 112000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated the vehicle directional signals failed. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to have a diagnostic performed. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 112,000. li | |||
| 02/23/2012 | 147000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact was driving approximately 60 mph and noticed an extremely small amount of smoke emitting from the steering column. in addition, over the past five years a clicking noise would emit from the instrument panel area. the clicking malfunction stopped whenever engaging the hazard warning control device. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 147,000. | |||
| 02/23/2012 | 147000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact was driving approximately 60 mph and noticed an extremely small amount of smoke emitting from the steering column. in addition, over the past five years a clicking noise would emit from the instrument panel area. the clicking malfunction stopped whenever engaging the hazard warning control device. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 147,000. kmj | |||
| 11/25/2011 | 120000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am se1. the contact stated that the keys could not be removed from the ignition. this failure occurred at least three times in the past and the ignition switch was replaced once before. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who would replace the ignition switch for a second time at the owner | |||
| 11/25/2011 | 120000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am se1. the contact stated that the keys could not be removed from the ignition. this failure occurred at least three times in the past and the ignition switch was replaced once before. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who would replace the ignition switch for a second time at the owner | |||
| 11/25/2011 | 120000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am se1. the contact stated the keys cannot be removed from the ignition. this failure has happened at least three times and the ignition was replaced. the failure has happened once again. the vehicle was towed to a mechanic shop who will replace the ignition a second time at the owners expense of $600. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage was 120,000. mw | |||
| 11/09/2007 | |||
| For no reason the horn would start blowing constantly while it was parked, locked up, in the driveway. pulled the fuse to stop it. next day, replaced the fuse and it was ok. few months later it did it again. had three occurances after that. local dealer wants $100.00 plus just to check it out and wouldn't tell me if there was a recall or problems with that. searching the web lately, i found many complaints of similar electrical issues. i have my daughter driving it to college and want the horn working. i don't feel i should pay someone to repair this when it's an issue of the electrical system being defective. i have had this car since new and want my daughter to have the horn working correctly and not going off at will. i replaced the horn ring contact in the steering column and that was not the problem. how do i get this repaired? it is a safety issue driving it with no horn and i shouldn't have to pay for a defect' please respond to me on this issue. thanks jim palo at az3jrm@cox.net or 623-214-9976 | |||
| 10/09/2010 | 78000 | ||
| Beginning in october 2010, the security light showed up on my car dashboard. it briefly was lit and would disappear. over the next few weeks and months, my car would randomly not start and the security light would flash on. i had to have the car towed each time to the dealership which at the time of arrival, the car would then run and the light had disappeared. i was told there was nothing that could be done unless the car was not working. this was very costly in tows and missing work. then i noticed as i would be driving, random single puffs of smoke coming from the steering wheel column. i described it to the dealership and they thought i was crazy. after this happening over and over finally i was told the ignition switch had been fried and needed to be replaced before a fire started and the car would not start again. i wish there would be a recall as i see this seems to be a common and expensive repair problem in pontiac grand am's. what would have happened if my car had started on fire as i was driving! | |||
| 06/20/2011 | 98000 | ||
| My car randomly fails to start. we disconnected the battery to check the terminals. terminals were clean. as we were tightening the nut on one of the terminals the vehicle started by itself. the keys were not in the vehicle. | |||
| 02/20/2011 | 152482 | ||
| Tl - the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that her vehicle stalled. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed a fuse blown from the ignition module, wires broken and shorted, connectors of coil pack smoking and burning. they repaired and rerouted the power steering pressure hose because the hose was putting pressure on the wiring and connector. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offered any assistance. the vehicle was repaired. the failure and current mileage was 152,482. pm | |||
| 03/01/2009 | |||
| 2003 pontiac grand am - turn signals as well as hazard lights not working. also hood not closing/locking properly, very dangerous. purchased from lima auto mall in lima, ohio. | |||
| 02/20/2011 | 152482 | ||
| Tl - the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that her vehicle stalled. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed a fuse blown from the ignition module, wires broken and shorted, connectors of coil pack smoking and burning. they repaired and rerouted the power steering pressure hose because the hose was putting pressure on the wiring and connector. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offered any assistance. the vehicle was repaired. the failure and current mileage was 152,482. pm | |||
| 03/01/2009 | |||
| 2003 pontiac grand am - turn signals as well as hazard lights not working. also hood not closing/locking properly, very dangerous. purchased from lima auto mall in lima, ohio. | |||
| 02/20/2011 | 152482 | ||
| Tl - the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that her vehicle stalled. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed a fuse blown from the ignition module, wires broken and shorted, connectors of coil pack smoking and burning. they repaired and rerouted the power steering pressure hose because the hose was putting pressure on the wiring and connector. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offered any assistance. the vehicle was repaired. the failure and current mileage was 152,482. pm | |||
| 03/01/2009 | |||
| 2003 pontiac grand am - turn signals as well as hazard lights not working. also hood not closing/locking properly, very dangerous. purchased from lima auto mall in lima, ohio. | |||
| 02/20/2011 | 152482 | ||
| Tl - the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that her vehicle stalled. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed a fuse blown from the ignition module, wires broken and shorted, connectors of coil pack smoking and burning. they repaired and rerouted the power steering pressure hose because the hose was putting pressure on the wiring and connector. the manufacturer was contacted who did not offered any assistance. the vehicle was repaired. the failure and current mileage was 152,482. pm | |||
| 03/01/2009 | |||
| 2003 pontiac grand am - turn signals as well as hazard lights not working. also hood not closing/locking properly, very dangerous. purchased from lima auto mall in lima, ohio. | |||
| 02/07/2011 | 91000 | ||
| My girl friends 03 pontiac grand am gt just stopped starting....it ran fine today..then when we got home and shut the car off for about an hour then came back out to leave i turned the key and nothing! like all the lights and everything works..i took a screw driver and tried jumping the starter and it just spins freely and dosent engage the flywheel..it's happend once before..what's the problem and how do i fix it? we need it fixed asap!!! | |||
| 01/20/2011 | 109000 | ||
| 03 grand am. to start off with, i had the same random clicking sound. i bought a new switch from advanced, and the problem was fixed. for years now the security light will come on when driving randomly, but the car will not shut off or not turn on. but now i am having major electrical issues with everything else. sometimes cruise control cuts off on its own. when i start the car sometimes nothing electrical will come on. sometimes the instrument panel will but not the a/c controls or headlights. or vise verse. it is all random. it will eventually come on when driving. if i drive in the dark, i have to have my headlights, so there is an issue. i do not want to wait until a recall is made because pontiac does not care about us because we already paid for the car. i just want to know how to fix it. i cannot afford dealer prices. so does anyone know how to fix the issues? | |||
| 01/10/2009 | 102630 | ||
| The security light in my car flashs and my car wont start leaving me & my kids stranded. this happens all the time. we have changed the fuel pump and now we are being told to change the brain or the inigition. tired of being stranded w my kids! | |||
| 04/05/2010 | 50000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. he entered the vehicle and upon turning the key in the ignition it would not start. he replaced the battery but the vehicle again would not start. the vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop where he was informed the vehicle would not start due to a failure of the security system. the vehicle was repaired and he was also informed of a method to bypass the failure in case it recurs. the failure has since recurred 20 times. during the most recent failures the horn would also begin to sound. after the final failure the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer to be repaired. the failure mileage was 50,000 and the current mileage was 85,000. the vin was unavailable. sm. | |||
| 01/01/2010 | |||
| I have 3 different problems with my 2003 grand-am and after doing research i've found out that numerous of others are experiencing the same problems. 1st complaint-the pass lock security. when i go to start my car the engine will not turn over. this may happen several times a day. my last grand-am did the same thing. i found that you have to turn to key to the on position and wait 10 minutes. on saturday i had 4 stops to make and all 4 times it would not start. 2nd complaint- i've almost gotten rear ended due to the fact my turn signals do not work all the time. iv'e read on several post sights that people are having the same problem. several said that when the hazard button was replaced it the problem was resolved. 3rd problem and the most serious. several times this year from out of nowhere my accelerator pedal sticks. twice i was at a stoplight and had my foot off the brake pedal and all of a sudden my car just took off, thank goodness i was not close to the car in front of me or i would have rearended that car. my husband told me to look and see if there were any recalls on my car. i did and i found out that 2003 grand ams were having this same problem. i called gm and reported the problem and was told that my vin# did not fall within the vin range!!! i'm having the same problem and my vin# is not in the same range????...i don't get it. why are these problems not being looked into by gm? if several people are having the same exact proplem why is gm not doing anthing about it? | |||
| 05/26/2010 | 97068 | ||
| This is regarding a 2003 pontiac grand am. there is defiantely a defect with the security/electrical system. i have read countless complaints about the same exact problem hundreds of people are having with the same exact car, and they are all asking, why is there not a recall??? it origianlly started back in march of 2010 with the car turning over when started, then shutting off right away with the seceurity light flashing on the dash. after a bit of research, i learned that i could just turn the key to the acc and wait 10 minutes and the system will reset. but this would happen every 2 weeks or so, and makes the car pretty unreliable, just for that fact. then about two weeks ago 5/26/10 i was driving home and it shut off on the highway. on the highway. i could have gotten killed. now it won't start at all and it's because the electrical system wont let it. if so many people have the same complaint, why is there not a recall? this is defiantely a safety issue if it is shutting off while driving. i understand that gm has gotten a rect goverment bail out and a huge recall like this will not look good on the resume, but how can they expect to stay in business when they are knowingly putting out systems that fail? it's frustrating, because my car is perfect, all except for this one problem that is quite costly. i am also reading that others are dropping hundreds to fix this problem, only to have the same issue occur within weeks. i just don't have that kind of money to play around with, and i'd rather not worry that every time i drive my car that it might just shut off on me. it could get me killed, and that's a reality. it could do the same to thousands of people that have the same exact car. who wants that much blood on their hands? | |||
| 07/30/2009 | 98000 | 1 | |
| After pumping gas came back to my car and it wouldn't start. i had power but it wouldn't turn over. banged on fuel line, replaced spark plugs. put it in neutral and pushed it out of the gas terminal. eventually figured out that if i put my key in accessory mode and sat for 10-15mins to wait for the security light to stop blinking that my car would start back up again. it was fine for a month then happened again. this time we thought it was the fuel line. had it towed to a garage. eventually started after putting it in accessory again. a part of the bcm was cleaned. now this issue has been happening more and more frequently, to the car not starting almost every other day. while it hasn't been diagnosed, most likely it is an issue with the passlock security system. the past 4 times the car hasn't started, i put my key in acc and sat for 10 mins then it starts back up again. *tr | |||
| 08/28/2009 | 77343 | 1 | |
| There are no warning signs, i have had no previous problems. i go to start my car and it just won't start. this happened to me twice in one week (this week). one time it was at 11:30pm and i was stuck in my car for 2 hours waiting for a tow truck. the tow truck driver suggested that i follow some steps to reset the security passlock system. i followed his instructions and nothing happened that night. then next morning it started no problem. the exact same thing happened to me again last night after work and i had to have my car towed home. i tried to follow the steps to reset the passlock system which has been said to restart your car within 15 - 30 minutes. i tried it a few times throughout the night and nothing. once again, i go to start my car in the morning and it started no problem. *tr | |||
| 08/17/2009 | 70000 | 1 | |
| I have a 2003 pontiac grand am v6. i bought it in 2005 from the dealer. since then i've had to replace my ignition 3 times. the alarm system would go off in the middle of the night. the security signal would blink and my car would not and will not today for the 3rd time start. it has cut off on me on the freeway, i would pull over and the car start up after about 10 min. the sar not starting has been going on since i bought it most times it starts, but when it doesn't the tellme i have to replace my ignition. im beginning to think its much more than that. *tr | |||
| 06/30/2009 | 84000 | 1 | 02/14/2009 |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact noticed that whenever the vehicle was turned off, it would fail to restart immediately. the failure occurred intermittently and without warning. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer. the current and failure mileages were 84,000. updated 08/14/09. *lj the consumer stated the problem was within the security system. the turn signals would click while driving. updated 08/14/09.*jb | |||
| 01/23/2009 | 80000 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. the contact stated that the vehicle stalls and shuts down numerous times within three feet of her home. the entire vehicle loses power. sometimes the vehicle will restart within five minutes or it will start and shut off at least four times before finally moving again. there are no warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel before or after the failure. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and they stated that the security system was the cause of the failure. the dealer is charging $800 for the repair, but there is no guarantee that the failure will not recur. the failure mileage was 80,000. | |||
| 12/23/2008 | 1 | ||
| I own a 2003 pontiac grand am gt which i purchased brand new in 2003. the issue i along with many other gm owners am dealing with is the 'passlock' passive security system. my vehicle began experiencing problems with the passlock system at just 55,000 miles (which is absurd.) the problem is that the passlock system won't properly recognize a valid vehicle key and will require the driver to leave the key in the ignition in the on position for ten minutes before the vehicle can be started. after researching the problem online and speaking with other gm owners, my problem is in no way an isolated incident and is a definite widespread problem among gm owners that have their vehicle equipped with passlock. it is ridiculous for gm not to identify the issue as being recall-worthy. a colleague of mine had a similar instance occur in his honda accord which was ultimately fixed with honda issuing a recall on the vehicle. i feel that the recall is imperative based on the amount of money it would cost to fix this problem along with the issues that may occur when having to wait ten full minutes before leaving for your destination (for example, a wife in labor enroute to a hospital.) i realize gm's first and foremost concerning issue is their financial crisis and ability to stay afloat, but i am feeling quite fed up with their lack of quality such as: knobs falling off, brand new rattling cars, plastic fasteners for everything, having to remove half of my front end to change a headlight bulb, etc. the passlock issue was the straw on my camel's back.*tr | |||
| 06/25/2007 | 80000 | 1 | |
| I have been having trouble starting my car it will crank but not turn over but after a few tries it will finally start. it is a common problem within other grand ams. i have spent money on the problem but yet no one can find the problem. *tr | |||
| 08/26/2008 | 1 | ||
| Passlock security system would not allow my car to start. this has been an ongoing problem. i do not feel that i should have to pay gm for them to fix something that has documented problems. *tr | |||
| 03/08/2008 | 45000 | 1 | |
| The ignition switch failed and had to be replaced. the problem was that the car would turn on, but no electrical systems (power windows/locks, radio, climate control) would come on when the car started. would magically come on a few miles down the road. problem was becoming worse, and check engine light came on. *tr | |||
| 11/24/2007 | 75000 | 5 | 11/10/2003 |
| Horn blows when no one is around the car, or just driving down the road. last time this happened the horn burnt out, the cruise control kicks in when not even on, the blinker makes a blinking sound inside the car. *tr | |||
| 10/29/2007 | 42887 | 1 | 09/30/2005 |
| My 2003 pontiac has a clicking in the dash underneath the hazard switch. when i turn on turn signal the clicking goes in rhythm with the signals but when i turn the signals off it continues to click, sometimes fast sometimes slow. this is very annoying and i am afraid there may be a short that may cause a fire. i have checked the internet and come to find that many pontiac owners are experiencing the same problem. they have told pontiac about this problem and they just ignore the complaints. i feel there should be a recall on this problem with all the complaints of this matter. this problem seems to be occurring in many pontiac's ranging from 1995 to 2004. i have a 2003 grand am gt. i hope that you have received many complaints for this problem because through my investigating this problem i have found so many with the same problem. pontiac has to fix this problem before someone's vehicle catches on fire and burns a house down with an attached garage. please look into this matter and let me know what is going on. *jb as well my battery is discharging now over night, i have to put a charger on it to keep it charged, the battery has the right voltage, as well as the alternator is the correct charging voltage, and the starter is drawing the correct voltage when it does start, all this started when the flasher sticker started 3-wks ago........ help !!!! *tr | |||
| 02/22/2006 | 5 | 02/22/2006 | |
| Several times since purchasing my 2003 pontiac, there is intermittent clicking coming from the hazard switch area in the instrument panel and several instances of tail light, turn signal, and hazard light failure. have had the problem diagnosed by a mechanic and was told it is coming from the multi function switch in the steering column and will cost more than $300 to fix. i have found other reports of this malfunction from pontiac owners from 1999 up through 2004 and have not been able to find a recall for anything other than the hazard switch. my hazard switch has been replaced and did not alleviate the problem. *jb | |||
| 10/10/2006 | 34000 | 1 | 03/01/2002 |
| Dt*: the contact stated while trying to start the vehicle, it would not start. there were lights illuminated on the dash board which indicated the battery was working. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that a security feature caused the vehicle to stall. the mechanic recommended that if this occurred again the key should be turned to the on mode without completely starting the vehicle. the key needed to sit in that position for ten minutes then turn the vehicle off for 5 minutes. after this process, the vehicle should start normally. if the vehicle does not start repeat the previous step two times. the manufacturer was contacted and a complaint was taken. *nm | |||
| 03/23/2006 | 1 | 01/23/2006 | |
| Fast clicking sound(sounds like the blinker is going but it is not) very irritating and i have read online that a lot of people have this problem and pontiac will not recall it. and it costs over 400 dollars to fix. *jb | |||
| 08/22/2006 | 64090 | 1 | 08/05/2003 |
| No prior warning. car died in middle of freeway. unknown or unable to duplicate problem. *jb | |||
| 09/19/2005 | 19000 | 3 | 12/26/2002 |
| Dt: while driving the vehicle stalled. the first time it happened was february 2004, and the second time it was in july 2004. the most recent time it stalled was september 19, 2005. the first time they thought the fuel injectors were clogged. the second it was that computer needed reprogramming. and the third time they said the fuel pump/sensor needed to be replaced. the problem still occurred even after they made the adjustments. *ak | |||
| 07/20/2005 | 9500 | 10 | |
| 2003 pontiac grand am stalls while driving has happened 10 times in the last two months pontiac dealer has looked at the car twice for a total of 5 days and has not been able to duplicate the problem no parts have been replaced we were almost rear ended on 4 different occasions. *jb | |||
| 06/26/2005 | 34000 | 3 | 07/23/2003 |
| My 2003 pontiac grand am security system has failed 3 times now leaving me stranded and requiring the car to be towed to a pontiac dealership. the security system when it fails....shuts down the engine. i'm lucky that i haven't been hit yet when this happens. *jb | |||
| 02/10/2005 | 1 | ||
| While driving headlights and interior lights flashed on and off. driver took vehicle to the dealer for inspection, mechanic determined that an electrical short was the cause. *ak | |||
| 09/01/2004 | 2 | ||
| While driving at night the headlights are very dim. consumer states there is an electrical problem. consumer has taken the vehicle to the dealer twice. consumer states he was denied service, which resulted in a fire.*ak | |||
| 10/20/2003 | 3200 | 1 | 10/20/2002 |
| Car died while driving. engine shut off, lights shut off. *la | |||
| 12/01/2002 | 8 | 10/12/2002 | |
| There were problems with the battery, ignition switch, wiring. *mr the computer was replaced, a battery was installed, wiring was tightened, a key ignition was added, and the switch lights/dash component(problem not specified). when the brakes were applied at a speed of 40 mph, the lights would act erratic along with the rpm going down. the rpm and light problem would occur almost everyday and sometime the vehicle would shut down. the consumer no longer operates the vehicle and requested either a new vehicle or a refund. (model gt) scc | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS | |||
| 02/10/2007 | 179000 | 100 | 01/11/2007 |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. after the contact turned the steering wheel with the turn signal activated, the signal clicking sound continued. occasionally, the sound would stop after a few seconds, and at other times, it would continue. the clicking sound would also occur when the vehicle was started. the vehicle has not been taken to the dealer. the current mileage was 181,000 and failure mileage was 179,000. *updated 04/30/08 *bf the consumer stated the fuse box is also giving her problems sometimes the gauge lights will not come on and may not start after attempting to fix the defect. updated 04/23/08 *tr | |||
| 08/10/2003 | 3 | 06/10/2003 | |
| I purchased this vehicle in june 2003 with 1695 miles on it. one month later it's in the shop because there was water leaking in through the moonroof's open/close button and the trunk failed to open using the remote or the button on the driver's door. the dealer had the windshield resealed and fixed the connection problem for the trunk. now the vehicle's fog lamps go on and stay on for no reason, even when the vehicle is turned off. i had to take the fuse out for the weekend until i can take it into the dealership. this is the second electrical problem i've had and the car only has 4200 miles on it. *ph | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION | |||
| 01/04/2010 | 58000 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. when the contact attempted to start the vehicle she noticed that the key would not turn inside of the ignition switch. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer. the ignition cylinder was replaced 3 years prior to the recent failure. the current and failure mileages were 58000. | |||
| 02/01/2008 | 48000 | 10 | 09/30/2007 |
| Car stalling in starting. car would attempt to turn over without success. taken to 2 mechanics who could not identify the problem and one stated they could not even duplicate the problem. after getting stranded over a 2 week period around the holidays, the car was taken to the dealership which stated the module and coil needed to be replaced. paid $500 to replace the items to be stranded the same day the car was picked up from service. was then told it was short in the new module which shorted the pcm (?). 2 weeks later the car began acting up again with the same issue for me to take it to a different dealership, for them to lock my cylinder and then want to charge me $700+ dollars for them to repair something they broke. then advised me that i would have to pay that for them to fix the lock cylinder and ignition switch for them to continue diagnosing the problem. *tr | |||
| 06/23/2007 | 80000 | 1 | 03/01/2004 |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am. when the key was turned in the ignition, the vehicle did not start. the contact stated that the failure could be with the path-lock system. the vin and engine size were not available. the current and failure mileage were 80,000. | |||
| 11/27/2006 | 51840 | 1 | 04/22/2006 |
| Dt*: the contact stated when the key was turned in the ignition, the vehicle did not start. previously, a roadside service was contacted, who shifted the vehicle into neutral, and the vehicle started. on this occasion, shifting the vehicle into neutral did not work. the vehicle was taken to a service dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the problem. the manufacturer was also notified.*ak | |||
| 08/15/2006 | 40195 | 3 | |
| For several months the security light on my 2003 pontiac grand am would come on and would not go off until i stopped the car let it sit for awhile. on 8/15/2006 the car would not start and had to be towed to goodyear. the goodyear store informed me that they could not start the car and suspected that the computer was bad since they could not get a negative feed to the fuel injectors. they suggested that i tow the car to a dealer. i had the car towed to the dealer when the car was unloaded it started. i was informed by the service person that it appeared to be a result of the ignition not being able to identify the chip on the key. after they diagnosed the problem i was told that it was the ignition lock cylinder was activating the kill switch and that it had shorted the bcm thereby preventing the car from starting. i was also informed that i would have to replace both of them or the car could shut down at any time. the car has 40,000 miles and is out of warranty the cost to replace these items was $752.00. i have noticed on several websites that this problem is common to this vehicle and is very expensive to repair. furthermore, based on the information provided at the dealer this could happen while driving which could cause an accident. *nm | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - ANTI-THEFT CONTROLLER | |||
| 12/01/2009 | 74797 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 pontiac grand am with a factory installed security system. while approaching a parking lot, the vehicle stalled. she was able to turn the key in the ignition and all electrical components of the vehicle were operating, however the vehicle would not start. the vehicle was towed to the dealer where they replaced the entire computer system in the vehicle. on a later date, the failure occurred a second time. the vehicle was towed to a local service shop. the mechanic found the security system was defective. he advised putting the key into the ignition in the on position without starting, wait for the red security system light to stop blinking (10-15 minutes) and then proceed to start the ignition. on a separate occasion, the failure occurred again. the contact followed the mechanic's previous advice and was able to start the vehicle. the manufacturer had not yet been contacted. no additional repairs were made to the vehicle. the failure and current mileages were 74,797. | |||
| 09/10/2009 | 102999 | 1 | |
| Malfunction in the security system, where the car will not start. a 2003 pontiac grand am. when go to start the security systems acts as if someone is stealing the car, which our son is just trying to start his car to go to school. he was stranded at a gas station 3 months ago, & just last night stranded at a car wash. he had to push his car back home, since, everything was closed at the time. i have also noticed that, there have been many other people that has had the same problems with their vehicle as our son has. the car space automotive forums has got a whole list of complaints on their web-site of alot of people having the same and similar problem with their vehicle. the security pass lock problems, where the security light comes on flashing & then it shuts the car down, where then it will not start, until it is reset or fixed. *tr | |||
| 09/01/2008 | 74500 | 1 | |
| A local pontiac dealership worked on my car for unrelated issues. when i went to pick up my car, the dealership could not find my keys. i had to get a spare set of keys from my home and finally pick up my car. after this incident occurred, i noticed the security light would come on randomly. eventually, it would not start. also on a random basis. this has happened countless times and i am absolutely frustrated. it is now happening on a weekly basis. i can't afford for this to happen any longer. the pontiac dealership has advised me that it will cost $400+ for this to be fixed. again, i am unable to do that. i keep very good maintenance on my car and this is out of my control. i have re-set the passlock system as the pontiac dealership has advised me to and now it is happening more often. this is ridiculous and i should not have to deal with a situation like this. *tr | |||
| 02/01/2008 | 48000 | 10 | 09/30/2007 |
| Car stalling in starting. car would attempt to turn over without success. taken to 2 mechanics who could not identify the problem and one stated they could not even duplicate the problem. after getting stranded over a 2 week period around the holidays, the car was taken to the dealership which stated the module and coil needed to be replaced. paid $500 to replace the items to be stranded the same day the car was picked up from service. was then told it was short in the new module which shorted the pcm (?). 2 weeks later the car began acting up again with the same issue for me to take it to a different dealership, for them to lock my cylinder and then want to charge me $700+ dollars for them to repair something they broke. then advised me that i would have to pay that for them to fix the lock cylinder and ignition switch for them to continue diagnosing the problem. *tr | |||
| 01/25/2008 | 153 | ||
| Passlock system doesn't allow car to start. *tr | |||
| 08/07/2007 | 25750 | 1 | 07/10/2003 |
| Passlock system on 2003 pontiac grand am gt made my daughters car go dead and it would not start. left her stranded on side of road. car was towed and passlock system reprogrammed. total cost of $250.00. *tr | |||
| 06/24/2007 | 47212 | 2 | 07/31/2003 |
| Passlock theft deterrent system activates for no reason, which shuts down fuel pump and will not allow car to start. *jb | |||
| 06/17/2007 | 29414 | 1 | 04/19/2007 |
| On a trip to the mountains ignition:anti-theft controller failed to start. family stranded in mountains. $213 tow . i was told it would cost between $450 and $1000 to get it fixed. still won't start after following owner's manual instructions. i would like to know how to disable it to prevent being stranded in future. | |||
| 05/29/2007 | 87000 | 1 | 05/18/2006 |
| Passlock system on 2003 pontiac grand am made my daughters car go dead and it would not start. left her stranded on side of road for hours. come to find out, this is common problem with pontiac grand ams. would this not justify a recall? don't know if this qualifies, but sure needs looking into. agree? *tr | |||
| 03/28/2007 | 69925 | 1 | 02/25/2005 |
| While driving home as i do everyday and the 2003 pontiac grand am spatters and stalls. tried several times to start it up again, but no luck. the security pass lock malfunctioned, and have tried the reset procedure as described by the manufacturer, but no luck. car cannot be driven, and there is no recall on this ongoing problem.*ak | |||
| 07/25/2006 | 61587 | 1 | 08/05/2003 |
| Security feature failure on 2003 ponitac grand am. light had been flashing off and on. gm stated this is isolated incident. fortunately, car was in driveway, but had to be towed to dealership. repair was $469. gm also stated no active recalls, but dealership informed computer update from 2003 needed. gm customer service is poor. have had problems with brake, but will investigate further. will research if same as other complaints. *nm | |||
| 04/15/2006 | 74486 | 5 | 08/12/2004 |
| The car will not turn over properly because the passlock/securtiy systme is failing.i have to turn the ignition on to the on position wait 10 minutes until starts again. this is not very safe for myself and my family. *nm | |||
| 11/25/2005 | 50574 | 1 | |
| Without any prior warning, gm passlock security system failed resulting in the inability to start the vehicle. this resulted in lone female driver to be stranded in a high crime area. *nm | |||
| 05/29/2005 | 56939 | 1 | |
| Wife and child stranded by melted passlock ignition sensor, part number 12458191. no previous symptoms of problem. found on various web sites other people had same, expensive problem. car was less than 2 years old with less | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - MODULE | |||
| 02/01/2008 | 48000 | 10 | 09/30/2007 |
| Car stalling in starting. car would attempt to turn over without success. taken to 2 mechanics who could not identify the problem and one stated they could not even duplicate the problem. after getting stranded over a 2 week period around the holidays, the car was taken to the dealership which stated the module and coil needed to be replaced. paid $500 to replace the items to be stranded the same day the car was picked up from service. was then told it was short in the new module which shorted the pcm (?). 2 weeks later the car began acting up again with the same issue for me to take it to a different dealership, for them to lock my cylinder and then want to charge me $700+ dollars for them to repair something they broke. then advised me that i would have to pay that for them to fix the lock cylinder and ignition switch for them to continue diagnosing the problem. *tr | |||
| 07/25/2003 | 131 | 1 | 07/14/2003 |
| Purchased brand new 2003 pontiac grand am on july 14, 2003. fuel pump failed two weeks later, leaving owners stranded and in need of a tow. fuel pump was replaced, but there was 0 pressure to the fuel. after diagnostics, found loose wire at ignition module. tightened. car runs now. | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - SWITCH | |||
| 02/01/2008 | 48000 | 10 | 09/30/2007 |
| Car stalling in starting. car would attempt to turn over without success. taken to 2 mechanics who could not identify the problem and one stated they could not even duplicate the problem. after getting stranded over a 2 week period around the holidays, the car was taken to the dealership which stated the module and coil needed to be replaced. paid $500 to replace the items to be stranded the same day the car was picked up from service. was then told it was short in the new module which shorted the pcm (?). 2 weeks later the car began acting up again with the same issue for me to take it to a different dealership, for them to lock my cylinder and then want to charge me $700+ dollars for them to repair something they broke. then advised me that i would have to pay that for them to fix the lock cylinder and ignition switch for them to continue diagnosing the problem. *tr | |||
| 07/09/2007 | 51000 | 2 | |
| Ignition switch/cylinder went bad again within 2 years after being replaced while under warranty. *tr | |||
| 11/15/2006 | 50000 | 4 | 08/01/2004 |
| The vehicle is a 2003 pontiac grand am se 4-door. i bought the car used from hertz with 23000 miles. since november 2006 it failed to start on 4 occasions. the first time the shop replaced the battery. two weeks later it failed again , usual scenario is for all dash lights to be displayed, but only a click or no indication that a connection had been made when ignition key was turned. this time, shop said starter failed. next week, car wouldn't start again. shop towed car and reprogrammed system. in april 2007 same problem occurred. dealer replaced ignition switch. *ak | |||
| 05/10/2007 | 40500 | 3 | |
| Security light on, car won't start. *tr | |||
| 09/01/2004 | 31000 | 3 | |
| The ignition switch/rear hub assembly, and fan motor, have been either serviced and/or replaced due to fluids leaking out. check engine light was on, and the vehicle was still leaking fluid. the vehicle was towed to the dealer for repairs. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING | |||
| 07/26/2005 | 25000 | 2 | 07/22/2005 |
| The turn signal relay randomly starts clicking, will not stop untill car is turned off. the relay has been replaced by the dealer once and it worked for 2 days, if i play with the turn signal stick on the steering column i can get it to stop, but as soon as i let go the clicking begins again | |||
| 07/07/2003 | 2000 | 2 | 05/06/2003 |
| I have a 2003 pontiac grand am gt coupe that i bought new. it has been in the shop twice since may when i bought it. the problem was that pontiac's lancing plant did not finish the car befor they put it out for sale. there were ground wires missing and some that were not connected or hooked up backwards. this caused several different problems including having the alternator and battery ruined. i called pontiac to get the address of the plant that made the car so i could report the problem to them and was treated like i was stupid buy ean dunkin the person on the phone. they offered a smart care package plan for up to 12000 miles as compinsation for the inconvenience. i became upset by the way the man was talking to me and asked for a $1000 rebate and the service package. he told me he would have to call back. when he did he said no and withdrew the offer for the service package. i asked to speak to a supervisor and with in an hour i had a contact phone number and accepted the service package. i just got the letter and it says that it will take 8 weeks to process. by then i will have had two oil changes as it is due for another and the 12000 mile limit they put on will be almost over. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - INTERIOR/UNDER DASH | |||
| 12/11/2006 | 1 | 05/12/2004 | |
| My 2003 pontiac has a clicking in the dash underneath the hazard switch. when i turn on turn signal the clicking goes in rhythm with the signals but when i turn the signals off it continues to click, sometimes fast sometimes slow. this is very annoying and i am afraid there may be a short that may cause a fire. i have checked the internet and come to find that many pontiac owners are experiencing the same problem. they have told pontiac about this problem and they just ignore the complaints. i feel there should be a recall on this problem with all the complaints of this matter. this problem seems to be occurring in many pontiac's ranging from 1995 to 2004. i have a 2003 grand am gt. i hope that you have received many complaints for this problem because through my investigating this problem i have found so many with the same problem. pontiac has to fix this problem before someone's vehicle catches on fire and burns a house down with an attached garage. please look into this matter and let me know what is going on. *jb | |||
| 04/01/2006 | 59000 | 1 | 08/12/2003 |
| I am having the same turn signal issue( hazard switch) in my 2003 grand am that gm issued a recall on for the 2000, 2001 models. why is the 2003 excluded from this recall??? *jb | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK | |||
| 08/10/2003 | 3 | 06/10/2003 | |
| I purchased this vehicle in june 2003 with 1695 miles on it. one month later it's in the shop because there was water leaking in through the moonroof's open/close button and the trunk failed to open using the remote or the button on the driver's door. the dealer had the windshield resealed and fixed the connection problem for the trunk. now the vehicle's fog lamps go on and stay on for no reason, even when the vehicle is turned off. i had to take the fuse out for the weekend until i can take it into the dealership. this is the second electrical problem i've had and the car only has 4200 miles on it. *ph | |||