Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (automatic and manual transmissions, CVT, axles, driveshaft, 4WD/AWD).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1995 Pontiac Grand Prix owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
The rear axle of this front wheel drive vehicle broke during a low speed curve. This caused the right rear wheel to go sailing off and caused the driver initially to lose control of the car. No oncoming traffic was involved. The car did hit the curb blowing the front tire and then hit a traffic sign. The insurance commpany totalled the car. The manufacturer will not deal with me.
All of the paint on the trim molding has come off. After repeated attempts to talk to the manufacturer and told basically to get lost I gave up and haven't purchased another Pontiac since. Of course, our family has made three new car purchases since then but none of them Pontiac.
I purchased this car with low mileage and have cared for it exceptionally well and I have had two major equipment failures. These should not occur at such relatively low mileage totals. I understand some models of pontiacs have had recalls for the brake system, but I was told this model does not have a recall for that equipment. I will defintely consider another model of car other than this one within the next year because of my frustration.
Transmission failed w/o warning at 53K miles; dealer will replace with rebuilt at my cost; dealer rep told me that that transmission isn't made anymore-the new one is entirely different. Just had transmission serviced at 45K with no problems. Seen on other web sites that others have had the same problem-defective? Dealer just says these things happen...
Cassette player failed to work. Error 13 reported on display. No way to reset, and will no longer play tapes. Also, fuse cover falls off when opening the passenger's side door. In adddition, transmission would not shift out of second gear/ ABS brake failure and cruise control cable fell off its housing, resulting in cruise control failure.
1995 Pontiac Grand Prix in which I own had the same exact transmission failure as did two other owners who have the same exact vehicle. Failure of transmission occurred within 30 to 60 days of my own failure. Quotes given as to replacement of transmission are $1,800 to $2,200 by dealerships and transmission repair shops.
Alternator burned out, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly which almost caused a crash. Also, at 29,000 tranmission system malfunctioned due to the clutch in 4th gear breaking. Dealer could not determine the cause. But replaced the alternator and transmission system. Please provide further information.
For a car with only 80,000 miles on it the transmission should not have failed especialy since it has been in the shop about 8 times since I bought it 2 years ago. The car is always kept up with scheduled changes and never abused but still the car breaks down and GM should consider the 1995 Grand Prix a lemon.
The u joint steering sphere broke in half and left the steering wheel inoperative. Consumer states air bag light coming on and radio controls are not working, also 2 nd gear start not working, which contain a gear short, also head lamp bezels are warped at bottom, headlamp was replaced .
The transmission selector lever is very difficult to put into position. It is very difficult for me and especially difficult for my very small wife. It seems like a severe binding is present, it has become progressively worse over time. Will be taking it to the dealers this week.
Transmission complaints in other Grand Prix years
Frequently asked questions
How common are transmission problems on the 1995 Pontiac Grand Prix?
NHTSA has 31 complaints about the transmission & drivetrain of the 1995 Pontiac Grand Prix, 18% of the model year's 169 complaints. The component named most often is automatic transmission (22 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1995 Pontiac Grand Prix transmission problems?
No. NHTSA lists no transmission & drivetrain recall for the 1995 Pontiac Grand Prix, though it has 3 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1995 Pontiac Grand Prix transmission problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 85,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 3 crashes, 0 fires and 2 injuries and 1 death to transmission & drivetrain problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.