GXP ~ In over my head?
The LS4 cars can have other problems, too, but they're minor annoyances compared to the cost and hassle of replacing the transmission.
That all said, they're fun cars to drive and have a lot of style. It just comes at a cost!
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I'm happy that you've been fortunate enough to not have a problem, but there are nearly 200 different people on the trans problem thread to whom this has been much more than just a fuss. It's a very real and costly problem.
Bingo!
The only way you can really be assured your trans is done right is to go with a rebuild from someone who actually understands why they have the problems that we're experiencing. TEP is the builder that a lot of us have gone to, and we're all happy with the results. There are other builders out there who know, but you'll basically need to interview the trans shop to see if they know anything about this trans and how to make them last. Because the LS4 is relatively rare, many shops don't about our specific problems, and they assume our trans is the same as the one in the 3800SC cars, which is not the case. Since TEP is well-known to be the foremost LS4 trans builder, we go to him because it takes the guesswork out of choosing the right guy. We know we're getting quality. The only downside is, it takes some time to get a trans from him because he's so busy.
Sorry to ramble, but I want to make sure you have all of the facts.
Something tells me this is going to be a totally different scenario. Best not to try to compare the two models. Already shopping for mufflers.
Great handling, 0-60 in under 6 seconds and great brakes that are easy on the wallet to replace. I also believe that the gxp has a very nice interior and offers great comfort. The heated seats are a plus!
The ls4 is very easy to work on. I should know since I've pulled the heads 3 times. The transmission is a little scary.. When it works, it shifts great and the loose converter is fun.
The loose converter is why a trans cooler is suggested.
I love my car and I have done it wrong more then it has done me wrong.
Keep in mind that cartuning was the first to put down 500 whp with a ls4 and 4t65e. Kevin added different valve springs and left the rest of the motor stock. The trans was upgraded later in life.
I have a question for you, Do you have kids?
Anyway, I was seriously considering the purchase of a Pontiac GXP. However, the more research I do, the more I get that lump in my stomach that makes it harder to sign the document.
http://www.surreytruckcentre.ca/used...ccf0ad777fcf65
This is the one I was looking at
VIN: 2G2WC55C681113263
According to Carproof, it was originally a US Fleet Vehicle which was shipped up to Canada and went through 2 owners before ending up at the dealership. As you can see, the calipers were painted grey for some reason. Other than that, everything else looks good on it. Car went through inspection and it passed. Rear rotors and pads were replaced as well. Tranny shifted fine when I drove it. May need wheel bearings, though.
I do enjoy the car a lot but as said earlier, not sure about the long term reliability of it. But to put it in perspective, I don't drive a great deal on a yearly basis. My current car is a 1998 Lincoln Continental (4.6 V8 FWD) which I've owned for the past 8 years. In that time, I've only accumulated 51,000 miles on it. I don't work far and all my errands are done locally. My car has had issues of its own (some leaks and steering issues) but the tranny has been fine and it's currently at 102k miles.
I do not intend to mod the car other than a tranny cooler, lighting and intake + exhaust.
I guess my question is, if I drive the GXP the same way I drive my Conti, can the tranny still last? Seems like such a tossup with these mismatched engine / tranny vehicles. My Continental is mated to a Taurus 4spd. It too is like glass but mine has been smooth so far. Throw of the dice eh?
So yeah, I feel like I'm in over my head and possibly over analyzing the situation but any help you experienced guys can give, I'd really appreciate it! Thanks.



