Normally, we get our recall notices directly from NHTSA, but since the fed's search section is down for maintenance, we'll rely on Kyle's tip to point us to GMInsideNews. The forum for all things General-related has posted a directive addressed to all Buick and Pontiac dealers regarding an upcoming recall issued by NTHSA that affects the 1997-2003 Buick Regal GS and the 1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP fitted with the 3.8-liter supercharged V6.
Both models apparently have a problem with oil leaking onto the exhaust manifold under hard braking. If the oil makes it underneath the manifold's heat shield, it's possible that it could ignite a small flame which could spread to the spark plug covers. The engine fire normally happens five- to ten-minutes after the vehicle has been shut down, and GM is suggesting that all of the 207,542 vehicles affected shouldn't park inside garages, carports or other parking structures until the required fix is completed. The recall notices were sent out today, so we'd suspect that dealers should have the necessary parts in stock by the end of the month.
Until NHTSA's site gets back online, follow the source link below for the full directive.
[Source: GMInsideNews]
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Reader Comments (Page 2 of 2)
elprogramer @ Mar 14th 2008 5:12AM
I spent the last two years in Flint building the 3800, and believe me when I say that the workers of Buick (or what's left of it) have pride in that motor.
I'm very much saddened that these ever left our doors. :/
CEMan @ Mar 14th 2008 5:38AM
They are just Pontiacs and Buicks. Why not let them burn? As long as no one is injured, what is the loss?
elprogramer @ Mar 14th 2008 5:49AM
Why don't you just shut up.
sw @ Mar 14th 2008 8:19AM
Financial loss, loss of time, if you had somewhere extremely important to be, I'd consider that a loss. I do like Japanese cars more than North American cars but you do have to give credit where it's due and the 3800's in my opinion were the second best engine that GM's ever made (first one being the current Z06 engine)
MaxPower @ Mar 14th 2008 6:36AM
that's an american revolution!
CEMan @ Mar 14th 2008 11:51AM
WoW!!
Seems elprogramer has a little problem with freedom of speech and the right to ones own opinion. He also does not understand sarcasm.
I could be as petulent as you elprogramer, but I am an ADULT and have RESPECT for other people and the opinions they have. Therefore I will leave the childishness to you little man.
Have a nice day el.
elprogramer @ Mar 14th 2008 2:42PM
Petulant? You insult me and my kin. Did I do that to you? Don't claim moral superiority when you're the one being rude and brutish.
Volk @ Mar 14th 2008 9:07PM
Freedom of speech you say? Then I have to say that all the post demonstrates is level of stupidity, arrogance, and ignorance of the author. Just out of curiosity - what are you doing for living? Ah, I know, you are the lead designer for M5 perhaps.
margeo182 @ Mar 14th 2008 8:38PM
Sheeple, I had a `98 LS that just spontaneously combusted too. I'll let you know if I find any info.
tekdemon @ Mar 15th 2008 5:40AM
These spontaneously combusting stories are a little too popular here!
I'm thinking I'd rather have an engine that just broke early on instead of a reliable engine that burns my garage down with it at 300K.
lilfarmgal @ Mar 18th 2008 7:24PM
Our 1999 Buick Regal GS caught fire last August, about 10 minutes after being shut off. Totally burned up in the engine...so hot that the bumper melted completely off. Insurance wouldn't pay (Auto Owners) said we weren't negligent in any way. Wouldn't even pay for the clean up on my daughters cement driveway. It was a nice car, but we had trouble with some melted spark plug wires at one time. We are out of a car on this deal......don't ever leave children unattended in these cars!!!!!
Jack in CA @ Apr 14th 2008 7:35PM
My sisters 98 Buick is in this recall list. It caught fire in March of 2006 and burned up in the garage and took my classic GTO with it. I am spear-heading a possible lawsuit against GM. So if you or anyone you know has had this fire please email me at buickpontiacfire@hotmail.com
Jack.