5 Common Repairs on 3800 Cars

[@someidiot9343]

I would also say the plastic coolant elbows they get old and brittle and break pretty easily definitely replace them with the metal ones.

[@SalemDoyle]

Yeah, those are common too

[@glenhalstead2301]

Absolutely. Almost every 3800 vehicle needs to have those swapped out with the aluminum ones around the 100k mile mark. Not very hard to swap them out. That's one of the things I like about these cars. Fairly easy to wrench on yourself.

[@carnage50x]

That kinda goes with the intake gaskets. Every lower intake on these engines I've ever done. I always write up new aluminum elbows if they haven't already been done.

[@scottpeterson4873]

@@carnage50x quick question bought a 2000 gtp and found and valve rocker arms replaced at 34 k under warranty and again at 103 k with new head gaskets- what would cause this on the 3800SC or would it be lead foot behavior or a mechanic taking an old lady for a ride?

[@carnage50x]

@@scottpeterson4873 unsure. Rocker arms aren't a wear item. They don't just go bad. Possibly a manufacturer defect is the only plausible answer I can think of. What's odd is you don't have to pull the head to replace a rocker arm. Maybe there was a different issue that was corrected and Carfax just didn't get the whole story.

[@smpoinde]

You nailed it for me. When my 06 transmission temp gets close to 230 degrees it starts to clunk into gear. I’d just let it cool off and figured the sucker is about to go. Looks like I’m buying a solenoid. Thanks for the perfect explanation!

[@EzMDr]

Need more videos like this on 3800 V6. Thank you

[@SalemDoyle]

Will do

[@RyanPuckett1979]

Had all those problems already except intake gaskets... currently waiting on time off to do the transmission solenoids

[@SalemDoyle]

Yeah, its not a fun job, but not too bad

[@dylanosorio7937]

Thank you for this! picked up a 07 Grand Prix SC and this helped set some expectations as I go over her

[@phillipthethird42]

Just came across this video. The supercharger coupler has got to be my problem. I noticed the sound , and low boost. Thanks again for all of your videos , especially this one.

[@mattlee9052]

My 2001 grand prix gt non supercharged currently at 205k original transmission. I started using Lucas with my oil and I noticed a difference immediately

[@zaxxon25]

thanks for all the content ... been hunting for the right GTP and your tips and experiences have definitely helped me in the search process.

[@SalemDoyle]

Awesome

[@mrdeeds72]

Thanks for these! Much appreciated.

[@smpoinde]

Any videos per chance on the swapping the solenoids?

[@jaydeeee668]

2004 grand prix GT crapped the bed (NY rust through the whole car). Bought a 2005 impala SS. Can't wait to play with the L67.

[@jerbear7952]

Look on the bright side. We can fit a whole fleet of cars in a five gallon bucket. We don't need a big hoovie barn.

[@paulfarber701]

I'm having a trans issue in my 07 GP base. I believe it's the 1 to 2 shift solenoid. It's fluctuating in functioning properly only when starting out from a stop you must ease on the throttle the every other shift is perfect and smooth. Otherwise if you hit the pedal normally it will Rev and clunk into first.

[@SalemDoyle]

Solenoid is a possibility,

[@codygraham5419]

Thanks im replacing the pressure solenoid today definitely wasn't a fun job get too

[@christophertalley2687]

i have a 2005 3.800 and have had an oil leak replaced the pan and pan gasket and still worried about it, i don't have a back up ride any sugjestions

[@mobilecommunicationsnetwor5268]

Would be interesting to hear if changing the transmission fluid on a regular basis really does prolong its life.

[@phillipjarrett398]

I would think that would definitely help. Would love to hear input from someone more qualified than myself though....

[@Zach_CR]

@@phillipjarrett398 If you think about it though, how would we be able to even have good data in the first place? Transmission technology changes all the time, so it’s not like you can know in advance what the problems will be in 20 years. What we do have though, is the fact that transmissions are DESIGNED to have a change interval, so that’s really our only guidance. But plenty of cars go well past 300k without even breaking the seal so🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@marksokolski3517]

What about the mileage and trip odometer? Mine just quit working but all the other gauges work. Is there a fix besides replacing the cluster? If so, do you have a video?

[@smokinggunn9233]

It’s was helpful still waiting on trans cooler on red 2 door gtp tho or dipstick seal on transmission

[@mobilecommunicationsnetwor5268]

3800 V2, Test for coolant leakage with lower intake gasket. Check with inspection scope through throttle body. Critical, avoid hydro lock! Check for rusted brake lines from ABS front to rear. Important to check to avoid blow out of lines. Check subframe bushings, four total, two inside pull through allowing subframe to drop. Critical to check!

[@B-S1999]

Are the 2 rear subframe bushings easy to remove

[@SalemDoyle]

Sortov

[@aarongallagher8898]

Research transco 4t65e shift kit. I had max pressure code installed this kit 3 years ago still no problems

[@carnage50x]

My gtp has a bad wheel speed sensor harness on the left rear. It would go in/out and was super annoying because it would trigger the abs pump and traction control. I just disconnected the wire so it'll set a permanent DTC and fix it later. That was 2 years ago. Still haven't gotten around to repairing the harness

[@mattwilliams6504]

My 04 GTP with a little over 110,000 miles has an issue that feels almost like a slipping transmission. Not necessarily when shifting but accelerating in gear under moderate throttle. It resembles a bad throttle body, press on the gas to go and it almost feels like it's stumbling or the throttle isn't opening as it should. Transmission has always been serviced regularly, fluid is in great shape.

[@Sinfulxann]

Ignition control module the supercharged Monte Carlo ss and my current Buick lesabre another one I’d say in top 10

[@shawnrahm6254]

Could a O2 sensor bank 1 make my GTP shift to lower gears when just cruising it makes it so I have to give it more gas to downshift?

[@SalemDoyle]

No, o2 wont affect the trans

[@starhawke380]

1997 Buick Park Avenue 3800 series 2. Love this car, love the power train. Replaced the lower intake gaskets around 120k. Replaced the MAF around 150k. Replaced the front wheel bearings around 100k, 130k, 160k, 200k.... Why the factory bearing last 100k, but no replacement Ive found last more than 30k?

[@user-qc7dr3cd3q]

Buy Timken or SKF bearings only.

[@beaujohnson7508]

Hey man just got a 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix gtp 3.8 v6 I got a couple questions for you cause I’m trying to get it cross state

[@SalemDoyle]

Whats up?

[@pairsnpaint]

Another common repair, though minor, is the "Low Coolant Level" sensor. Mostly a simple replacement, but can you give any tips for an easy way to install that dang-blasted clip that holds it in?

[@SalemDoyle]

Best thing i can tell you is carefully. As long as you dont drop it you are ok.

[@shawnrahm6254]

I just got a 2003 Pontiac GTP limited edition blue badge I did notice upon inspection before purchase that the transmission fluid looked sooty, would you suggest a transmission flush? I've been told by many mechanics the sex is a big No-No due to the natural wear-and-tear metals that are needed

[@SalemDoyle]

I prefure the "drain and fill" meathod for an older trans

[@mikedramaman1589]

Great vid...I have 2003 Pontiac GTP, my sunroof is stuck closed, but it makes a clicking sound when I push the button to open it. Can you tell me what I'm up against and is it expensive to fix?

[@SalemDoyle]

Sounds like either the linkage is broken or the motor.

[@mikedramaman1589]

@@SalemDoyle Oh ok, I thought so. Is it expensive to fix?

[@SalemDoyle]

It can be, yeah

[@brianbrenner367]

I have several buick regals... the key fob gets weak or quick working... is there a transponder to replace? or other suggestions... Thanks

[@SalemDoyle]

The issue is usually the battery or the acctual part on the back of the buttons wearing out

[@brianbrenner367]

Agree with you on that... have replaced the batteries... and purchased a new key fob... same issue... works intermittently or only when very close to the car... wondering if the receiver in the car needs to be replaced?? is it in the dash?

[@SalemDoyle]

I am not sure but it may be in the back

[@elmarko9051]

Coolant elbows! But everything else you said too.

[@roz4747]

Sc oiled by engine oil system? Also are they interference engines?

[@SalemDoyle]

Sc has its own oil supply, and yes

[@jedediahwagner565]

You should have mentioned the intake manifold cracking and leaking coolant into the oil.

[@dylanherrtz]

P1811 is probable to the slamming into gear?

[@SalemDoyle]

Yes, pressure control solenoid

[@munoz98edgar]

I have a Buick Regal 2002 it kept stalling out after about 10 minutes of running I changed every sensor and on the motor from top to bottom of the car it did not do this before and the only code that it is showing is a fuel tank pressure I don’t kno what else to look for car doesn’t stay running longer then 2-3 minutes now it’s seems to be getting worse

[@SalemDoyle]

Check fuel pressure at the rail. Could be a fuel pump problem

[@officialdolladeeno10598]

Got a 05 Grand Prix GT. I changed the spark plugs and wires but now I get a sputter around 2500-3500 rpm I believe it’s my fuel filter what y’all think? I believe it’s that or my catalytic converter could be clogged?

[@SalemDoyle]

Did it do it before the plug change?

[@eazyagins]

What about the fuel pressure speed control resistor...?? Need to know location of it on my Buick regal gs

[@SalemDoyle]

On the grand prix its behind the battery, i would check there

[@eazyagins]

@@SalemDoyle ok thanks....👍🏼

[@clarkleakins879]

Have a 1997 Pontiac grand prix GT, 3800 not supercharger. Hard acceleration about 3500 to 4000 rpm terrible stumbles, almost shuts down, must lift off accelerator to allow upshift. Also does same when hard acceleration to downshift. Any recommendations how to diagnose and repair? Other than this, car is great, now 116k miles. Only repairs since 85k, 1 water pump, radiator, fuel filter.

[@SalemDoyle]

May be a clogged cat. Maybe try it with the downpipe loose and see if it doea better

[@mikeybear716]

I just got my 99 gtp! My dad had one back when I was in highschool always wanted one. My buddy who has a regal GS with alot of mods had the gtp that was originally turbo and he put a supercharger back on it. He just replaced the transmission in it before I got it. I have noticed it slams in to gear sometimes if I slow down to around 5 mph and go to take back off without fully stopping and sometimes it will act funny shifting into second when I take off full throttle like almost slipping then grabs second really hard enough to spin the tires. What could cause these symptoms?

[@SalemDoyle]

Could be diff things.. if you are worried you could just have a trans shop look at it. They usually diagnose for free

[@mikeybear716]

@@SalemDoyle ok cool thanks man

[@drome010381]

Okay have the 2005 base 3800 grand prix. Has had the intermittent slam into gear upon takeoff for 70,000 miles. Has started getting worse but still only like once per drive cycle. Going to replace the cover internals ie wiring, solenoids etc.. being that it has veen happening for 70,000 miles I am crossing my fingers. Slipping seems like it would become much worse, much quicker. Have already cleaned throttle body and verified MAF is talking.

[@kingavery8918]

I got a question can you put a supercharger grand prix throttle body on a base grand prix

[@SalemDoyle]

Depends on the year, 04 thru 08, yes, 03 back, no

[@kingavery8918]

@@SalemDoyle ok Thank's

[@SuperNovadose]

Thanks for the info Salem going to look at a low mileage(55k) GTP this week. Now that I learned some W body knowledge I'll know what to look for Thanks again and keep those videos coming

[@SalemDoyle]

Thanks, will do

[@SuperNovadose]

@@SalemDoyle So I went and looked at the car today and come to find out The guy rolled back the odometer I did a car fax and it was a 145000 mile discrepancy

[@SalemDoyle]

Ouch

[@SuperNovadose]

@@SalemDoyle So I showed them the carfax with the same Vin number as the car hes trying to sell and he goes that's not my car I don't know where they're getting that from

[@SmooeyGablooey]

Hi Salem, I have an 04 gtp. The abs and traction control lights have always been on, but now I am getting intermittent service brake notifications and brake dash light, and my powor steering goes on and off. The parking brake has also always been broke but I have never had this problem. Have you ever experienced this? Do you know whats wrong?

[@SalemDoyle]

Sounds like two diff issues, start by pulling the abs codes

[@MegaCuda70]

Where do you buy your lower intake gasket parts? Looking to replace the factory mold with steel. Thanks

[@SalemDoyle]

The best lowers are the ac delco aluminum ones for the 07 08 grand prix. Will fit other years too. I usually get them from zzp or rockauto.com

[@MegaCuda70]

@@SalemDoyle I have a 06, Series 3. Thanks for the great videos?

[@markuscoffey1646]

Hey man got an issue with my 2000 Grand Prix gt giving a bad shake on acceleration. I’ve already replaced the motor mount and passenger cv axle which were bad. Do you have any idea what else it might be. It currently only shakes around 45mph only on acceleration. Love the videos!! Thanks in advance.

[@SalemDoyle]

Possible issues are the other axle, or an issue with a tire.

[@warrenenglish8154]

Power steering/rack an pinion problems and fixes

[@FatalCorleone07]

Kinda random, but I'm out driving, heats rising a bit, and my car is doing little Jenks everytime it shifts. Not major jerk but you can feel it. It doesn't do this all the time though and this isn't the stock Trans. There is also no codes. Any ideas? Someone said motor or trnas mounts, idk

[@SalemDoyle]

Maybe. Or a small pressure problem with the trans

[@FatalCorleone07]

@@SalemDoyle do you think on a hot day when the Trans fluid gets hot, the solenoids act up? Cause it was just shifting fine all the way home just now

[@SalemDoyle]

Its possible

[@FatalCorleone07]

@@SalemDoyle should I just change all the Trans solenoids to be safe in the future?

[@SalemDoyle]

If you are going to take it apart you should

[@walterwilds6771]

2000 Pontiac Grand Prix Daytona 500 🏁Edition Only $300 cash🍀 🤑! I finally got my R. Lat.Control arms replaced, after working on it two days my lung collapsed🚭 ( Worth it 😂 ! Seriously I LOVE 💕 THIS CAR/🚀 ! ) Not kidding about 🫁 either.( nicotine patches now) So after over a year I'm a DRIVER🏎️🏁 again not a pedestrian 🚷 or a passenger 🚫 Thunderbolts⚡ installed tomorrow ! Synthetic oil and filter day after . Ordering replacement front struts before charging worn out Cooper's for Fresh set of Goodyear Eagle 🦅 RS-A Scored for Free 🍀🎰 Recently repaired my heads-up display 📺before attempting windshield replacement ( Hammer +shop vac makes removing the old one quick and easy) saves a ton of $ too ! Thanks for all your inspiration, content and knowledge . Hope & 🙏 your struggles are easier each day !

[@codygraham5419]

Mine was slamming in gear when I stop at a red-light after its warmed up

[@lawrencemeyers1212]

Timing cover gasket go bad bro water pump tensor pulley plastic coolant elbow break over time and ecm go out every 3 years rear main oil seal go bad to

[@SalemDoyle]

Im still on the same ecm since 1999

[@lawrencemeyers1212]

@@SalemDoyle I don't know maybe like that you're my year always through something goofy going around cuz I seen I went to the junkyard it was quite a few awaits in the junkyard and they didn't look like they had any collision problems or any collisions that caused them to be in a junk or something else causing them to be the junkyard like transmissions or I think oh it was a bad year for that for Pontiac when they headed depression

[@carnage50x]

I've never personally seen an ecm go bad on its own. The few, very few times were due from a negligent mechanic letting open wire connectors short. Or rodents chewing up harnesses and creating a short. Edit. Timing covers don't really go bad. The oil pan gasket does though. The main seals don't normally have issues unless oil maintenance wasn't kept up.

[@craigoutdoors30]

My tranny has 120k miles. Need to change the fluid

[@lawrencemeyers1212]

Bro you forgot about the valve cover leaks the rear main seal leaks on a man come on man I think I know about more than 3,800 than you do my just suck it cost too munch make 100% right now it running on 60 % rest rear main seal trans slip once every week valve cover gasket need replaced just did timing cover gasket on full tune up kind late on oil change I think 2000 miles over due and now my harmonic balancer makes a noise once in awhile too and I got this stat don't even static in my XM satellite radio and antenna wire not sure where that's at in that car ry base model but has five d I c buttons on it and this thing just my problem child

[@SalemDoyle]

nowhere did i say this was everything that can happen to a 3800 this is just a few common things

[@lawrencemeyers1212]

@@SalemDoyle valve cover gasket r very common to leak to bro

[@JonathanHaberski]

I had my head gasket go at around 125k