1982 Oldsmobile 88 problems
The Oldsmobile 88 (marketed from 1989 on as the Eighty Eight) is a full-size car that was sold and produced by Oldsmobile from 1949 until 1999. From 1950 until 1974, the 88 was the division's most profitable line, particularly the entry level models such as the 88 and Dynamic 88. The 88 series was also an image leader for Oldsmobile, particularly in the early years (1949–51), when it was one of the best performing automobiles, thanks to its relatively small size, light weight, and advanced overhead-valve high-compression V8 engine. This engine, originally designed for the larger C-bodied and more luxurious 98 series, also replaced the straight-8 on the smaller B-bodied 78. With the large, high performance V8, the Oldsmobile 88 is considered by some to be the first muscle car, although this title is disputed.
Naming conventions used by GM since the 1910s for all divisions used alphanumeric designations that changed every year. Starting after the war, Oldsmobile changed their designations and standardized them so that the first number signified the chassis platform, while the second number signified how many cylinders. A large number of variations in nomenclature were seen over this long model run — Super, Golden Rocket, Dynamic, Jetstar, Delta, Delmont, Starfire, Holiday, LS, LSS, Celebrity, and Royale were used at various times with the 88 badge, and Fiesta appeared on some station wagons in the 1950s and 1960s. The name was more commonly shown as numerals in the earlier years ("Delta 88", for example) and was changed to spell out "Eighty Eight" starting in 1989.
First generation (1949–1953)
Oldsmobile introduced the 88 badge in 1949. It was named to complement the already-existing 76 and 98, and took the place of the straight-8 engined 78 in the model lineup. The new car used the same new A-body platform as the straight-6 engined 76 but paired it with the new 303 cu in (5.0 L) Rocket V8 engine producing 135 horsepower (101 kW). This combination of a relatively small light body and large, powerful engine made it widely considered to be the first muscle car. The Rocket 88 vaulted Oldsmobile from a somewhat staid, conservative car to a performer that became the one to beat on the NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) circuits.
It won six of the nine NASCAR late-model division races in 1949, 10 of 19 in 1950, 20 of 41 in 1952, and was eventually eclipsed by the low-slung, powerful Hudson Hornet, but it was still the first real "King of NASCAR." This led to increased sales to the public. There was a pent up demand for new cars in the fast-expanding post-World War II economy, and the 88 appealed to many ex-military personnel who were young and had operated powerful military equipment.
The 88 enjoyed great success, inspiring a popular 1950s slogan, "Make a Date with a Rocket 88", and also a song, "Rocket 88", often considered the first rock and roll record. Starting with the trunk-lid emblem of the 1950 model, Oldsmobile would adopt the rocket as its logo, and the 88 name would remain in the Olds lineup until the late 1990s, almost until the end of Oldsmobile itself.
The 1949 model was equipped with an ignition key and a starter push-button to engage the starter. Pushing the starter button would engage the starter, but if the ignition key was not inserted, unlocking the ignition, the car would not start. The car was equipped with an oil bath air cleaner. At the bottom edge of the front fender directly behind the front wheel was a badge that said "Futuramic" which identified an Oldsmobile approach to simplified driving, and the presence of an automatic transmission. V8 Oldsmobiles were automatic-only in 1949 as Oldsmobile lacked a manual gearbox that could handle the torque of the new engine.1948 Oldsmobile Futuramic introduction In 1950, Oldsmobile offered a modified Cadillac manual gearbox for V8 models. The 88 now outsold the six-cylinder 76 lineup, which was dropped entirely after the 1950 model year. It had a 40 ft. turning circle. Hershel McGriff and Ray Elliot with the 1950 model won the 1950 Carrera Panamericana.
For 1951, the 88 became the entry-level Olds with the discontinuation of the six-cylinder 76 line, which meant that all Oldsmobiles were powered by Rocket V8s. An in-house manual transmission replaced the modified Cadillac gearbox, but as the 1950s progressed, manual shift became increasingly rare in Oldsmobiles and normally could only be obtained by special order. New this year was the more upscale Super 88 line on the new GM B-body which included restyled rear body panels, a more luxurious interior, and a slightly longer 120 in (3,048 mm) wheelbase as opposed to the 119.5 in (3,035 mm) wheelbase which had been standard since the 88's introduction. The station wagon was discontinued and would not reappear until the 1957 model year. New was an I-beam frame. Hydraulic power windows and seats were optional.
In 1952, the base 88 shared the Super 88's rear body panels and wheelbase, and came with a Rocket V8 and two-barrel carburetor while Super 88s came with a new four-barrel carburetor upping the output to 160 hp (119 kW). Other mechanical features were unchanged with styling changes amounting to new grilles, taillights, and interior revisions. New was the optional automatic headlight control.
For 1953, the base 88 was renamed the DeLuxe 88 for only this one year while the Super 88 continued as a more upscale version. Engines and transmission offerings were the same as 1952. Late in the 1953 model year, a fire destroyed GM's Hydra-Matic plant in Livonia, Michigan, which was then the only source for Hydra-Matic transmissions. The temporary loss of Hydra-Matic production led Oldsmobile to build thousands of its 1953 models with Buick's two-speed Dynaflow automatic transmissions until GM pressed its Willow Run Transmission plant into service to resume Hydra-Matic production. New options this year included Frigidaire air conditioning, power steering, and power brakes.
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Common 1982 Oldsmobile 88 problems
The Oldsmobile 88, produced from 1949 to 1999, was a full-size car known for its performance and luxury. However, the 1982 model year, in particular, had some common problems that owners often reported.
One of the most common issues was related to the engine. The 1982 Oldsmobile 88 offered three engine options: a standard Buick 231 cubic-inch V6 and two Oldsmobile V8s, including the 307 Rocket and 350 Diesel.
Another common problem reported by owners of the 1982 Oldsmobile 88 was related to the transmission. The transmission would sometimes slip, causing a loss of power and requiring costly repairs. This issue was often attributed to the engine's high mileage or poor maintenance, but it could also be a result of the transmission problems, as the transmission's slippage could put additional stress on the engine.
Rust was another significant issue for the 1982 Oldsmobile 88, as it was for many cars of the era. Rust could affect various parts of the car, from the body panels to the undercarriage, causing structural damage and reducing the car's value and safety. Rust was often a result of poor maintenance, road salt, and exposure to the elements, and it could be challenging to repair once it had set in.
In summary, the 1982 Oldsmobile 88 had some common problems that affected many owners. These issues included engine and transmission problems, particularly with the 350 Diesel engine and the transmission slipping, and rust, which could cause significant damage to various parts of the car. These problems could be costly to repair and often required regular maintenance to prevent them from occurring.
What year did Oldsmobile make the Delta 88?
Drive flagship the toronado for 1968 the overall. Design was a carryover. The 1969-88 series dropped the delmont.
What was the first year of the Oldsmobile 88?
1949
Oldsmobile 88 (a.k.a. Eighty Eight) was a car distributed via Oldsmobile division of General Motors. The car was first manufactured in the 1949 model year. It underwent many facelifts and redesigns over the years.
How much horsepower does a 1985 Oldsmobile Delta 88 have?
Specifications for Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Brougham Sedan 5.0 V8 Hydra-Matic, 142hp, 1985.
Why won't my Oldsmobile Delta 88 start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile 88 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Is the Oldsmobile 88 a muscle car?
In the first years of NASCAR, Oldsmobile's powerful 88 Coupe was the car to beat. In the earliest days of NASCAR racing, if a driver was winning races, chances are good that he was behind the wheel of an Oldsmobile 88 Coupe, arguably the first true American muscle car.
Why is it called Oldsmobile 88?
At its debut in 1949. The 88 was slotted between a smaller 76 model and the larger 98 model the latter lasting almost as long as the 88 did the 88's 5-liter V8 engine was promoted as the rocket V8.
What was the last year they made Oldsmobile 88?
1999
The Oldsmobile 88 (marketed from 1989 on as the Eighty Eight) is a full-size car that was sold and produced by Oldsmobile from 1949 until 1999.
What is the difference between Oldsmobile 88 and Super 88?
The Oldsmobile 88 remained the entry-level model, with two- and four-door sedans, and a two-door Hollywood hardtop. The Super 88 was the mid-line model, and it added a convertible to the same lineup.
1982 Oldsmobile 88 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile 88 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Structure problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1982 Oldsmobile 88 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1982 Oldsmobile 88 complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1982 Oldsmobile 88.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-04
- VIN: 1G3AN69Y8CX
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1982 OLDSMOBILE DELTA 88 EQUIPPED WITH A SPECTRA FUEL TANK. WHILE REFUELING THE FUEL TANK, FUEL OVERFLOWED ONTO THE GROUND. THE MANUFACTURER SUGGESTED THAT THE CONTACT HAVE THE FUEL TANK REPLACED BUT THE CONTACT DENIED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 117,000. UPDATED 10/4/11 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED ON AUGUST 6, 2011, HE PURCHASED A NEW SPECTRA GAS TANK. AFTER INSTALLING THE TANK, HE WENT TO THE GAS STATION. WHEN THE PUMP HANDLE WAS PULLED , IT WOULD SHUT OFF AND GAS WOULD SPLASH BACK ON THE CONSUMER. UPDATED 02/01/12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-09
- VIN: 1G3AY69N4CM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING CHAIN FAILED. *MJS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-12
- VIN: 1G3AY69N4CM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SYSTEM PROBLEMS, REPLACED CAP, ROTOR AND WIRING. *MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-04
- VIN: 1G3AY69N4CM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: MOTOR MOUNT AND TRANSMISSION MOUNT BROKEN, REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. *MJS
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-13
- VIN: 1G3AY69N4CM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE LEFT SIDE SWAYBAR BUSHINGS MISSING, THE STABILIZER LINK BUSHINGS ARE CRACKED, SPLIT AND BROKEN. *MJS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3AY69N4CM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE SHOES CRACKED. *MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3AY69N4CM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXHAUST TAILPIPE LEAKING AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER IS MISSING. *MJS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-27
- VIN: 1G3AY69N4CM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE MASTER CYLINDER HYDROBOOST UNIT EXPERIENCED LEAKING. *MJS
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3AN69Y8CM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BUMPER MOUNTINGS DETERIORATED, CAUSING BUMPER TO FALL OFF.
1982 Oldsmobile 88 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1982 Oldsmobile 88.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
- Summary: UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT RETAINER IN THE INJECTION PUMP MAY FAIL. THE THROTTLE VALVE COULD STICK, PREVENTING RETURN TO IDLE AND SHUT DOWN OF THE ENGINE BY THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT ASSEMBLY IN THE INJECTION PUMP AT NO COST TO OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1982 Oldsmobile 88 problems:
gas tank problem - ClassicOldsmobile.com
Oct 12, 2012 ... General Questions - gas tank problem - 83 Delta 88 307 Hey guys, I finally got the car back on the road a week ago. I painted the underside, ...
Oldsmobile 88 Problems and Complaints - 27 Issues
Top Oldsmobile 88 Problems · Car Won't Start Because of Anti-Theft System That Uses Raised-Chip Key · Engine Stalling Due to Mass Air Flow/Crankshift Position ...
New guy from NB - 1984 Delta 88 Royale Brougham Coupe ...
May 18, 2016 ... It looks really nice and the minor issues you mention should not be to hard to repair. How many miles are on it? It has 125,107km (77,737mi) I'm ...
Oldsmobile Diesel engine - Wikipedia
Simultaneous problems with GM's new THM200 automatic transmission made the overall problem worse. ... 1978–1985 Oldsmobile Delta 88; 1978–1984 ... In 1982, GM ...
Rear bumper falling off 1982 Olds 98 - ClassicOldsmobile.com
May 17, 2021 ... Rear bumper falling off 1982 Olds 98. Subscribe ... I am told this is a very common issue with ... I believe that any Ninety Eight or Delta 88 ...
Other years of Oldsmobile 88
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