Oldsmobile problems
Oldsmobile (formally the Oldsmobile Division of General Motors) was a brand of American automobiles, produced for most of its existence by General Motors. Originally established as "Olds Motor Vehicle Company" by Ransom E. Olds in 1897, it produced over 35 million vehicles, including at least 14 million built at its Lansing, Michigan factory alone.
During its time as a division of General Motors, Oldsmobile slotted into the middle of GM's five passenger car divisions (above Chevrolet and Pontiac, but below Buick and Cadillac). It was also noted for several groundbreaking technologies and designs.
Oldsmobile's sales peaked at over one million annually from 1983 to 1986, but by the 1990s the division faced growing competition from premium import brands, and sales steadily declined. When it shut down in 2004, Oldsmobile was the oldest surviving American automobile brand, and one of the oldest in the world, after Peugeot, Renault, Fiat, and Opel.
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Oldsmobile models
Common Oldsmobile problems
The Oldsmobile Delta, produced between 1965 and 1988, had several common issues across different models and generations. One of the most common problems was with the car's engines, particularly in the fourth generation (1986-1988) models. These engines were prone to oil leaks, which could lead to low oil pressure and engine damage if not addressed promptly. Additionally, the V6 engine in these models had a reputation for developing vacuum leaks, which could cause rough idling and poor fuel economy.
Another common issue with the Oldsmobile Delta was with the car's transmission. The 4-speed automatic transmission, in particular, was prone to developing shifting issues, which could cause the car to hesitate or jerk during acceleration. In some cases, the transmission could fail altogether, requiring a costly replacement.
Electrical issues were also common with the Oldsmobile Delta, particularly in the fourth generation (1986-1988) models. Many owners reported problems with the car's power windows, locks, and interior lights. These issues were often caused by faulty wiring or switches, and could sometimes be difficult to diagnose and repair.
Suspension problems were also common with the Oldsmobile Delta, particularly in the fourth generation (1986-1988) models. The car's front suspension, in particular, was prone to developing worn bushings and ball joints, which could cause clunking noises and poor handling. Additionally, some models had issues with the rear suspension, which could lead to sagging and a rough ride.
The Oldsmobile 88, produced between 1949 and 1999, also had several common issues. One of the most common problems was with the car's transmission. Many owners reported issues with the car's automatic transmission, including slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and rough shifting. These issues could often be addressed by regularly inspecting the transmission and fluid every 30,000 miles.
Another common issue with the Oldsmobile 88 was with the car's electrical system. Many owners reported problems with the car's electrical components, including faulty wiring, blown fuses, and malfunctioning sensors. These issues could often be addressed by replacing the faulty components or repairing the wiring.
Instrument cluster problems were also common with Oldsmobile sedans, including the 88. One of the most common problems was with the speedometer, which could fail or give incorrect readings. This issue was often caused by a faulty speed sensor or a damaged speedometer cable.
Other common instrument cluster problems included failure of the fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights. These issues could be caused by faulty sensors, damaged wiring, or burned-out bulbs. In some cases, these issues could be addressed by replacing the faulty components or repairing the wiring.
Overall, the Oldsmobile Delta and 88 had several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. These issues could often be addressed by regularly maintaining the car and addressing any issues promptly. However, some issues, such as transmission failure or electrical problems, could be more costly to repair and may require professional diagnosis and repair.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Oldsmobile models
We have analysed all the complaints filed against Oldsmobile cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Oldsmobile models:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Oldsmobile brand.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Oldsmobile models
We have also compiled a table for you with the number of complaints about specific models of Oldsmobile cars:
Distribution of Oldsmobile car problems by type
Based on an anlyse of all Oldsmobile related complaints and concluded that the most common problems with Oldsmobile cars are the following:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
Below is a graph with statistics on all Oldsmobile vehicle components and the number of complaints about them.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Oldsmobile models
A total of 595 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Oldsmobile models
There were a total of 407 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Oldsmobile models
There were a total of 619 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Oldsmobile models
There were a total of 38 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
The NHTSA has received 10020 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Oldsmobile Oldsmobile. Below are 15 recent complaints about various Oldsmobile models. In order to research complaints about a particular brand you need to select it from the list of available models above.
List of the last 15 complaints about Oldsmobile models
Oldsmobile Aurora 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3GR64H424
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The Frame has rust under door panel broke Car Frame body near battery cave in hole and rusting hole in trunk near spare tire.
Oldsmobile Alero 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3NL52EX4C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: Airbag no deployment Loss of power steering Brakes to floor Car died Recall ignored prior and still today after set up now off their schedule Friendly Chevrolet rich Gardner
Oldsmobile Alero 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3NL52EX4C
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Friendly Chevrolet 62704 has refused the open recall on my vehicle after being on schedule for tommrow 8a.m Service Manager Sir Richard said it's a waste of time and not my issue.
Oldsmobile Intrigue 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-10
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3WS52K5WF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The engine had a fire and the ignition switch is very hard Do turn, it would be available for inspection. The fire happen while driving down the highway. I have an appointment set with dealership. No prior inspections have been made and no indications of anything.
Oldsmobile Alero 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3NF52E03C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. The contact stated while driving approximately 5 MPH and crossing an intersection, a speeding police vehicle crashed into the driver's side of the vehicle and the front driver's side wheel was bent. The air bags failed to deploy and the contact hit her chest against the steering wheel. Additionally, the left side of the contact' body hit the driver's side window. The contact was knocked unconscious for approximately 30 minutes. The police officers removed the driver's side door and assisted the contact out of the vehicle. The emergency units transported the contact to the hospital, where she spent one night. The contact was then transported to another hospital where she spent two weeks. The contact sustained severe head, collarbone, neck, and back pain. Additionally, the contact sustained chest pain bruises, and a broken left foot. The contact was then sent to a rehabilitation center where she spent one week. The contact was then transported to her residence by emergency units. The contact stated that she had not been able to work properly and she had been depressed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot, where it was totaled. A police report was filed. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-18
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3NL52T81C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The car will shut off while driving/idling. There are no check engine lights. Took it to get the latest recall fixed that had to do with this and they just gave us new keys. It did not remedy the situation! Now we are paying to fix it because it is still shutting off while driving.
Oldsmobile Aurora 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3GR64H424
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: I am adding new parts to this vehicle 100 000 tune up
Oldsmobile Bravada 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-18
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1GHDT13S142
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was in a full impact collision driverside front took all impact of another vehicles front end. NO airbags deployed in my 2004 bravada!!
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-26
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3NL52E51C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V400000 (Electrical System) and requested to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The consumer stated the vehicle was junked 3 or 4 yrs ago because of the computer going out on the vehicle.
Oldsmobile 88 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-16
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1g3hn52k7x4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 1999 Oldsmobile 88. The contact stated that while reversing out of a driveway, the front end of the vehicle lowered without warning. Due to the failure, the contact lost power steering assist as the steering wheel would spin with no control. The vehicle had yet to be diagnosed or repaired for the failure. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,300.
Oldsmobile 98 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-10
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-18
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3CX52K8T4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 1996 Oldsmobile 98. The contact stated while driving at 10-15 MPH, the driver's side air bag deployed inadvertently. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the road. The vehicle was drivable; however, the contact's boyfriend pushed the vehicle in the nearby parking lot with assistance of a bystander. The vehicle was towed to the residence of the contact's friend. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.
Oldsmobile Bravada 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-18
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-21
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1GHDT13S622
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Front Control arm broke at the frame. There is a recall for this control arm issue for a 2002 Bravada but, my vin was not included. 01V126000 is the NHTSA. The control arms fractured causing separation from the frame. Bravada is at service shop and they have confirmed the frame separation from control arm. This is very dangerous and has caused it to be unsafe and deadly.
Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-02
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3NL52F62C
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: 1. Security turns on while driving, making the vehicle to spin but not drive normally on road or highway when driving 2. Horn malfunctioning, stops working when security turns on while driving 3. Seatbelt warning and airbag light flashing when security turns on while driving, seatbelt becomes locked preventing driver from being able to move to check blind spots or rear while driving 4. Emergency lights become disabled when security lights turn on Key ignition was inspected and fixed according to recall. The above are things that have been noticed by new driver/owner. Only drive when necessary to avoid traffic accidents. Do not have money to pay a dealership or GM to check problems. These problems occurred since day 1 after purchasing the vehicle.
Oldsmobile Bravada 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1GHDT13S822
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was merging onto the interstate going approximately 35 mph, I spun out on black ice across three lanes of traffic and smashed into the guard rail. The airbags DID NOT deploy during this accident, even when the car rolled back and hit the wall again. Since the airbags did not deploy, I suffered trauma to my chin and inside my mouth. I have facial cellulitis, and I needed to receive 3 stitches inside my mouth to stop the bleeding. This happened because my face hit the steering wheel, rather than being protected by the airbag. There were no warning lights on the vehicle prior to failure. The airbags not deploying could have potentially injured me greatly if I had been going any faster.
Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-02
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G3NK52FX2C
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Kept cutting off won't stay crunk long ignition is jammed loud screeching noises from the springs alternator might be the reason electrical issues fuel pump I had to leave my car at a friend's place I'm not working due to the COVID pandemic not able to afford repairs I really need my transportation someone referred me to this site
Latest 5 Oldsmobile recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 449 recalls involving various Oldsmobile models.You can learn more about the model you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Oldsmobile Intrigue 1999
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-26
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 1998-1999 Chevrolet Lumina and Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1997-2004 Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix, 2000-2004 Chevrolet Impala, and 1998-2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles. The affected vehicles were previously repaired under recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, and 15V-201 to address the possibility that engine oil may drip onto the hot exhaust manifold.
- Consequence: Engine oil that drips onto the hot surface of the exhaust manifold may result in a fire.
- Remedy: The remedy applied under recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, and 15V-201 did not adequately remove the safety risk. Under the improved remedy, dealers will replace the engines front valve cover and gasket. Vehicles that are covered by recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, or 15V-201 that have not yet received the original remedy will instead receive the improved remedy under the original recall number. The recall began on February 19, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Oldsmobile customer service at 1-800-442-6537 and Pontiac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15757. Note: Until the improved remedy has been applied, owners are advised to park their vehicle outside since the fire risk exists even when the vehicle is unattended.
- Model: Oldsmobile Intrigue 1998
- Report Received Date: 2015-10-26
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 1998-1999 Chevrolet Lumina and Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1997-2004 Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix, 2000-2004 Chevrolet Impala, and 1998-2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles. The affected vehicles were previously repaired under recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, and 15V-201 to address the possibility that engine oil may drip onto the hot exhaust manifold.
- Consequence: Engine oil that drips onto the hot surface of the exhaust manifold may result in a fire.
- Remedy: The remedy applied under recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, and 15V-201 did not adequately remove the safety risk. Under the improved remedy, dealers will replace the engines front valve cover and gasket. Vehicles that are covered by recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, or 15V-201 that have not yet received the original remedy will instead receive the improved remedy under the original recall number. The recall began on February 19, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Oldsmobile customer service at 1-800-442-6537 and Pontiac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15757. Note: Until the improved remedy has been applied, owners are advised to park their vehicle outside since the fire risk exists even when the vehicle is unattended.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 2000
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
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