Monday, April 7, 2014
How to Replace the Ignition on a 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
The 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix (available as a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan) typically has a six-cylinder 3.8-liter engine. The purpose of the ignition module is to control the electrical current to the spark plugs. The ignition module in the 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix is on top of the engine. The procedure for replacing the ignition module is similar for all Pontiac Grand Prix models with a 3.8-liter engine made from 1997 to 2000.
Instructions
- 1
Disconnect the cable for the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench. This will reduce the risk of electrocution while replacing the ignition assembly.
2Label the wires to the spark plugs with tape to facilitate the installation of the new ignition module. You must reconnect the spark plug wires to their correct locations on the ignition assembly. Disconnect the spark plug wires from the ignition coils.
3Remove the mounting screws for the ignition coils with a socket wrench and disconnect the ignition coils from the ignition module. Remove the fasteners for the ignition module and disconnect it from the engine.
4Install the ignition coils to the new ignition module and fasten the retaining screws for the ignition coil. Torque the retaining screws to 40 inch-lbs. with a torque wrench.
5Connect the spark plug wires to the ignition coils according to the labels you made in step 2. Attach the cable to the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
How to Replace the O2 Sensor in a 95 Pontiac Bonneville SSEI
The 1995 Pontiac Bonneville SSEI engine has one oxygen sensor that detects the oxygen saturation in the exhaust and relays the information to the engines computer to regulate the fuel consumption. When a sensor fails, the "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon" light may illuminate on your dash. If the light is on and your fuel mileage has significantly decreased, replace the sensor as soon as possible to save needless expense.
Instructions
- 1
Raise the hood of the Bonneville. Locate the oxygen sensor threaded into the exhaust manifold near the front of the engine compartment.
2Pull the electrical connection apart to disconnect it from the sensor. Remove the sensor with a wrench.
3Coat the threads of the new sensor with electrical anti-seize compound. Install it by hand to avoid cross-threading. Torque the sensor to 30 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.
4Push the electrical connector together until it clicks. Lower the hood.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Pontiac Engine Problems

Engine problems in certain Pontiac Vibe and Grand Prix vehicles led General Motors to conduct safety recalls in 2008, 2009 and 2010. Manufacturing defects in these Pontiac engines may result in potentially deadly traffic accidents or engine fires.
2010 Recall
In November 2010, General Motors recalled certain 2005-through-2008 model year Pontiac Vibes for a manufacturing defect in the engine control module. The circuit board may crack, which may result in the engine not starting or the engine shutting off while the vehicle is in use.
2009 Recall
In May 2009, General Motors recalled certain 1997-through-2003 model year Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles equipped with 3.8-liter V-6 naturally aspirated engines for a condition in which drops of engine oil may become deposited on the exhaust manifold through hard braking. An engine compartment fire could occur.
2008 Recall
In April 2008, General Motors recalled certain 1997-through-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles equipped with 3.8-liter Supercharged V-6 engines over a defect that may cause an engine fire. Gasket temperatures in the cars front rocker covers may become high enough to cause early degradation of the front rocker cover gasket and oil seepage.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
2000 Pontiac Bonneville Starting Problems

On February 16, 2004, General Motors informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it would be recalling certain 2000 Bonneville Pontiacs for an issue causing drivers to experience backfires if the engine was not starting when cranked. Owners of this model experiencing starting problems should contact NHTSA to determine whether their vehicles were affected by this recall.
Cause
2000 Bonnevilles equipped with 3800 V6 L36 engines and certain Delphi Fuel pressure regulators may experience a high level of fuel leaks that can let fuel into the intake manifold. The manufacturer reports that if the engine doesnt start when cranked, the car may backfire from the regulator fuel leak.
Consequence
If the Bonneville backfires, the intake manifold may rupture. A rupture could cause the fuel line and fuel injector to displace, leading to a fuel lead or fire that could cause injury or property damage.
Solution
Take affected vehicles to authorized dealers to have a new fuel pressure regulator installed. Call NHTSA or the manufacturer with the VIN number of the vehicle to verify that it was recalled, if necessary, or to find out where to take the car for free repair.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
How to Replace a Fuel Pump on a 1970 Pontiac 350
A 1970 Pontiac 350 is a common term for a 1970 Pontiac Firebird with a 350-cubic inch engine. This car used a mechanical fuel pump with a single action diaphragm to deliver fuel to the engine. A push rod between the camshaft and the fuel pump rocker arm operates the fuel pump. The fuel pump in a 1970 Pontiac Firebird is not adjustable or repairable, so you must replace it when it fails.
Instructions
- 1
Disconnect the fuel intake line and the fuel outlet line from the fuel pump on the lower right side of the engine. Close the open end of the fuel intake line with a clamp.
2Remove the bolt from the right front mounting boss with a socket wrench. Fill this hole with a longer 3 / 8 inch bolt to hold the push rod for the rocker arm in place.
3Disconnect the mounting bolts and washers for the fuel pump with a socket wrench. Detach the fuel pump and gasket from the engine.
4Coat the mating surfaces of the new fuel pump and the engine with sealer. Install the new fuel pump and gasket to the engine, and attach the mounting bolts and washers for the fuel pump.
5Remove the temporary bolt in the right front mounting boss, and connect the permanent bolt with a socket wrench. Remove the clamp from the fuel intake line, and connect the fuel lines to the fuel pump. Check the fuel system for leaks.