1996 Pontiac Grand Prix Electrical system Problems

“Problem is with factory passenger's key ii security system. Vehicle will most of the time, but will not start at times. The owner's manual states that if this occurs wait three minutes then it will start exactly three minutes later. I have talked with several other people who own the same type of vehicle and have or have had the same problem. I spoke with a service department supervisor at a Pontiac dealer and he stated that he has replaced a barrel full of the key cylinders and not the security system module. …”

“Vechicle ABS light came on all interior and external lights dimmed, once vechicle was shut off it would not restart. Battery was replaced it worked fine for about 1 week. I was informed the alternator was not putting out enough amps, so the alternator was replaced and 1 week later same problem again so alternator was replaced a 2nd time. That same day the problem was repeated. It seems when the ABS light comes on all the power from the battery is drained.”

“Vehicle on 4th alternator at 63,000 miles. Alternator failure in this vehicle can occur suddenly, with little or no warning, at any speed, leaving driver with limited ability to control vehicle. Voluntary manufacturer recall 8/99, spark plug wires replaced to better handle electrical loads. Problem improved but not resolved. Other vehicle owners have same experience and complaints including at NHTSA website. Vehicle model & year with 3.4 litre engine unable to sustain normal electrical loads. Alternator failure occurs every 1-2 years, always when air conditioner operating. …”