1999 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 1999 Oldsmobile 88 problems
The 1999 Oldsmobile 88 is known for several common problems, including faulty shock absorbers, coolant system failure, leaking power steering fluid, and difficulty passing emissions tests.
One of the most common issues with the 1999 Oldsmobile 88 is faulty shock absorbers. Shock absorbers are essential for a smooth and comfortable ride, as they absorb the impact of bumps and potholes. When they fail, the ride becomes bumpy and jarring, and the car may even bounce excessively. This can lead to further damage to the suspension and steering systems, so it's important to address this issue promptly.
Another common problem with the 1999 Oldsmobile 88 is coolant system failure. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as leaks in the radiator or hoses, a faulty water pump, or a malfunctioning thermostat. When the coolant system fails, the engine can overheat, which can lead to serious damage. It's important to regularly check the coolant level and address any leaks or other issues promptly to prevent engine damage.
Leaking power steering fluid is another common problem with the 1999 Oldsmobile 88. This can be caused by worn or damaged seals or hoses, or by a leak in the power steering pump. When the power steering fluid leaks, the steering becomes difficult, especially at low speeds. This can be a serious safety issue, as it can make it difficult to control the car. It's important to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving.
The 1999 Oldsmobile 88 may also have difficulty passing emissions tests. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, a malfunctioning catalytic converter, or a rich fuel mixture. It's important to address these issues promptly to ensure that the car is compliant with emissions regulations and to prevent further damage to the engine.
In addition to these common problems, the 1999 Oldsmobile 88 may also experience engine overheating due to coolant loss, engine failure/stalling, steering trouble, malfunctioning exterior lights, service brakes issues, and faulty electrical systems. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, such as wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or manufacturing defects. It's important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure safe and reliable driving.
In summary, the 1999 Oldsmobile 88 is known for several common problems, including faulty shock absorbers, coolant system failure, leaking power steering fluid, and difficulty passing emissions tests. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, such as wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or manufacturing defects. It's important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure safe and reliable driving.
What is the value of a 1999 Oldsmobile 88?
The value of a used 1999 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight ranges from $237 to $1,256, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
What engine is in a 1999 Oldsmobile 88?
3.8 L V61999 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight / Engine
What does 88 mean in Oldsmobile?
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.
How much does a 1999 Oldsmobile 88 weigh?
3,455 lbs1999 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight / Curb weight
Anyway, the Olds 88 had long stopped being the bloat boat of its birth. It had changed from a rear-wheel-drive leviathan into a front-wheel-drive thing of almost reasonable proportions–albeit still large and heavy at 3,455 pounds.
What is the value of a 1999 Oldsmobile 88?
The value of a used 1999 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight ranges from $237 to $1,256, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
What does 88 mean in Oldsmobile?
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.
Who makes Oldsmobile 88?
General Motors
Oldsmobile (formally the Oldsmobile Division of General Motors) was a brand of American automobiles, produced for most of its existence by General Motors.
What was the first year of the Oldsmobile 88?
1949
Introduced in 1949, the Oldsmobile 88 was the automaker's mid-range model, nicer and more powerful than the base Olds 76, but not as elegant as the top-of-the-line Olds 98.
1999 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
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Oldsmobile 88 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Oldsmobile 88
The NHTSA has received 83 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Oldsmobile 88. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Oldsmobile 88 vehicles.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-14
- 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.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-03
- VIN: 1G3HC52KXX4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BODY IS BROKEN WHERE THE FRONT SUB-FRAME BOLTS TO. CUSTOMER WAS TOLD THAT THERE IS PERMANENT BODY DAMAGE TO THE BODY FRAME. THEY THEN SOLD THE VEHICLE UNDISCLOSED THE FACT THAT THE VEHICLE IS TOO DAMAGED TO DRIVE ON THE ROAD SAFELY.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-15
- VIN: 1G3HN52K6X4
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I CONTACTED GM BC THE TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN FOR THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR SAYS THE FUEL RAIL ALSO NEEDS REPLACED IF IT IS A DELPHI FUEL RAIL. THE REGULATOR ON THIS CAR HAS BEEN CHANGED BUT STILL HAS THE SAME DELPHI FUEL RAIL. THE CAR CURRENTLY HAS A GAS LEAK. WHEN I SEARCH THE VIN IT DOESN'T SHOW ANY RECALLS CURRENTLY BUT BASED ON THE TSB. THE RAIL SHOULD'VE BEEN REPLACED WITH A BOSCH. I AM A SERVICE TECH AT A PRIVATE SHOP. IF I WEREN'T A TECH I WOULDN'T HAVE KNOWN THE RAIL WASN'T REPLACED AND I MAY NOT HAVE NOTICED THE LEAK UNTIL I BURNT TO DEATH IN A FIREY CRASH. GM HAS NO ANSWER EXCEPT TO TAKE IT TO A DEALERSHIP WHERE THEY WANT TO CHARGE ME A RIDICULOUS DIAGNOSTICS FEE WHICH I REFUSE TO PAY, ESPECIALLY FOR A RECALL REPAIR THAT WASN'T DONE PROPERLY THE FIRST TIME.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-04
- VIN: 1G3HN52K8X4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: 1999 OLDSMOBILE 4.8L ENGINE WILL SHUT COMPLETELY OFF UNEXPECTEDLY WHILE DRIVING. THIS OCCURS BOTH AT HIGHWAYS SPEEDS OF 65 MPH OR AT SLOWER SPEEDS OF 35 OR 35 MPH. ALL OF THE POWER ASSISTED FEATURES SUCH AS POWER BRAKES AND STEERING ALSO STOP WORKING WHEN THE ENGINE STOPS. THE ENGINE SHUTTING DEFECT DOES NOT OCCUR DAILY AND IS UNPREDICTABLE. THE ONLY CHECK ENGINE CODE PRESENT WAS A "EGR VALVE" CODE. THE EGR VALVE WAS REPLACED AT THE COST OF $344.00. THE ENGINE SHUTTING OFF UNEXPECTEDLY DEFECT HAS CONTINUED TO OCCUR AFTER THE CHECK ENGINE REPAIR WAS COMPLETED. THIS IS AN EXTREME SAFETY ISSUE THAT APPEARS TO REPLICATE THE GM IGNITION SWITCH RECALL THAT THIS VIN IS NOT INCLUDED IN. FROM "GOOGLING" THIS DEFECT IT APPEARS TO AFFECT A LARGE NUMBER OF SIMILAR VEHICLES WITH 3.8L GM ENGINES AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-19
- VIN: 1G3HN52KXX4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WE BOUGHT THIS CAR IN DECEMBER, 2012 AND THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE CARFAX REPORT AT THAT TIME. TODAY, THERE IS A RECALL # 1999011 DATED 3/13/1999 FOR POWER TRAIN (TRANSMISSION 4T65E MANUAL VALVE LINK REPLACEMENT) NHTSA 99V089000. THIS OWNER NOR THE PREVIOUS OWNER DID NOT RECEIVE ANY KIND OF NOTICE FOR THIS RECALL. WAS THE SERVICE PERFORMED? WHAT HAPPENED? THANK YOU & HAVE A GREAT DAY !!! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-15
- VIN: 1G3HN52K7X4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE WILL RANDOMLY "KILL" AND IT HAPPENS SPORADICALLY - ALSO POSSIBLY SOMETHING IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IS FAILING - MANY DIFFERENT ISSUES WITH REFERENCE TO ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3HN52KOX4
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TRIED TO START CAR TO GO TO WORK IN THE MORNING OF 6-16-14. HEARD LOUD BOOM AND SMOKE STARTED POURING OUT FROM UNDER HOOD. OPENED HOOD AND ENGINE WAS ON FIRE. EXTINGUISHED FLAMES AND FOUND THE INTAKE MAINIFOLD HAD LITTERALLY BLOWN APART. THERE WAS A RECALL THAT SHOULD HAVE DEALT WITH THIS PROBLEM. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3HN52K7X4
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 OLDSMOBILE 88. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING 55 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS THE ENGINE OVERHEATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY A HOLE THAT HAD MELTED IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD, CAUSING COOLANT TO LEAK INTO THE MANIFOLD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,602 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 73,102.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-25
- VIN: 1G3HC52K1W4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE FIRST TIME I PUT THE CAR IN THE SHOP IS BECAUSE I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 45 MPH AND THE CAR SHUT OFF ON ME WHILE ENTERING THE FREEWAY. THE SECOND TIME WAS BECAUSE THE CAR WOULDN'T START UNTIL AFTER 15 MIN OR SO. I HAVE PAID $650 FOR MY IGNITION SWITCH TO BE CHANGED $280 FOR THE KEY LOCK CYLINDER WITH KEY CHANGED, AND $1150 FOR NEW HEAD GASKET AFTER CAR OVER HEATED CAUSE THE PLASTIC MANIFOLD GASKET MELTED AND CRACKED CAUSING THE CAR TO OVERHEAT. I HAVE DONE ALL OF THIS WITHIN A YEAR AND THE CRAZY THING IS THE CAR ISN'T STARTING AGAIN. I REALLY THINK YOU ALL SHOULD CONSIDER A RECALL ON THIS CAR BECAUSE IM WASTING MONEY ON A CAR I NEVER GET TO DRIVE EVEN AFTER I PAY FOR THE COSTLY REPAIRS. *JS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-29
- VIN: 1G3HN52K9X4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1999 OLDSMOBILE 88 PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED DUE TO HOT PIPE ROUTED NEAR IT (PER THE MECHANIC). THIS ALLOWED COOLANT AND OIL INTO THE ENGINE. ENGINE IS MAKING BAD CLANKING NOISE. COST TO REPLACE INTAKE, REPLACE PLUGS, NEW SENSOR WAS $1096. IT APPEARS FROM READING ARFC WEBSITE THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM AND MANUFACTURERS DEFECT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-17
- VIN: 1G3HN52K8X4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY OLDSMOBILE 88 YEAR 1999 HAD ENGINE FAILURE IN 2005 WITH ONLY 59,930 MILES. THE UPPER PLEMUM DESINTEGRATED ALLOWING COOLANT INTO THE CYLINDERS, LOCKING UP ENGINE. NO WARNING EXCEPT RAPID RAISE IN ENGINE TEMPERATURE ONLY ABOUT A MINUTE TO PULL OVER INTO A PARKING LOT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-22
- VIN: 1G3HN52K5X4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ON OCCASIONAL HARD ACCELERATION THE VEHICLE SHUDDERS AND DOES NOT ACCELERATE. THIS HAS CAUSED SAFETY CONCERNS WHEN MERGING WITH TRAFFIC. IT CAN ALSO SHUDDER AT PART THROTTLE BUT THAT'S MORE OF AN ANNOYANCE THAN SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-22
- VIN: 1G3HN52K4X4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 OLDSMOBILE 88. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE STEERING BECAME VERY LOOSE AND THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL. HE MANAGED TO PULL THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THERE WERE NO WARNINGS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THERE WAS A SHEARED BOLT BETWEEN THE RACK AND PINION AND THE SUBFRAME. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY BEING REPAIRED AT THE COST OF $750. THE CONTACT IS IN THE PROCESS OF NOTIFYING THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 130,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-11
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I BROUGHT MY CAR IN TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR AN OIL LEAK AND WHILE THERE THE MECHANIC ALSO CHECKED THE COOLANT LEVEL. IT WAS LOW. HE PRESSURE TESTED THE SYSTEM AND FOUND THE COOLANT CAP TO BE NOT SEALING PROPERLY. I PAID FOR MY REPAIRS AND LEFT. THE NEXT MORNING THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I BROUGHT THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY FOUND THE ENGINE WAS MISFIRING. THEY CHECKED THE COOLANT LEVEL AGAIN AND IT WAS DRY. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD MELTED AND COOLANT HAD LEAKED INTO THE ENGINE AND WAS CONSUMED BY THE ENGINE. NOW I NEED A NEW INTAKE MANIFOLD, GASKETS, SPARK PLUGS, WIRES, AND AN OIL CHANGE TO THE TUNE OF $800+. I HAVE SEARCHED ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND MANY SIMILAR COMPLAINTS. WHY DOES GM NOT DO ANYTHING. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS PLASTIC. PLASTIC DOES NOT BELONG IN AN ENGINE. I HOPE YOU MAKE THEM RECALL THIS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-23
- VIN: 1G3HN52K6X4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AFTER FUEL REGULATOR REPLACED FOR RECALL MY OLDS DELTA 88 STALLS OUT, FAILING TO RESTART. I HAVE HAD IT TOWED FOUR TIMES. HAVE HAD FUEL PUMP AND FILTER CHANGED TWICE - DID NOT SOLVE PROBLEM. IT STALLS WHILE DRIVING, UPON INITIAL STARTING AND AT STOPS. THIS PROBLEM IS "PERIODIC" AND MECHANIC HAS BEEN UNABLE TO DETERMINE PROBLEM. ENGINE RUNS VERY ROUGH, AND THEN FAILS TO START. HAD FUEL TANK DRAINED 3 TIMES NO SOLUTION YET! *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-03
- VIN: 1G3HN52K9X4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WAS DRIVING MY 99 OLDS 88 UP A HILL IN TN AND IT STARTED TO SHAKE AND LOSE POWER. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME HOME AND THE ENGINE WAS EXCESSIVELY HOT. ALL OF THE RADIATOR WOULD TAKE THE FLUID BUT NOTHING WOULD LEAK OUT. I PULLED THE CAR OVER AND WAITED FOR IT TO COOL DOWN BUT THEN AFTER THE 3RD TIME TRYING TO START IT, IT MADE A CLUNK NOISE AND WOULDN'T START ANY MORE. I WAS TOLD IT WAS A HYDRAULIC LOCK UP. CAR SAT FOR 5 MONTHS AND FINALLY GOT THE MONEY TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A COLLISION CENTER TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT. I WISH TO BE REIMBURSED AFTER IT IS FIXED. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-04
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I EXPERIENCED STALLS AND POWER SURGES. DEALER REPLACED FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR DUE TO RECALL. SIX MONTHS LATER CAR REACHED EXTREMELY HIGH TEMPERATURE THEN DIED. MECHANIC REPLACED CRACKED PLENUM. GASKETS, PIPES, ASSEMBLY, SEALS AND SENSOR RESULTING IN $1234 REPAIR BILL. CONTACTED GM AND GOT FULL REIMBURSEMENT AS VEHICLE HAS ONLY 37,000 MILES ON ENGINE. LESS THAN 250 MILES AFTER REPAIR, ENGINE PRODUCES LOUD KNOCKING NOISE AND LOSS OF POWER WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM TOWN 90 MILES FROM HOME ON JULY 4TH. MECHANIC SAYS ONE OF THE PISTONS/RODS IS BAD, MORE THEN LIKELY A RESULT OF THE PREVIOUS PROBLEMS. HAVE NOT BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN REACHING THE EXTREMELY HELPFUL CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE I WAS DEALING WITH FROM GM BUT I WILL NOT DROP THIS! LAST QUOTE FOR CURRENT REPAIR WAS $1100. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-12
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE REPLACED THE PLENUM IN MY 1999 OLDSMOBILE 88 TWICE NOW!!! I HAVE A 3800 MOTOR IN IT WITH 107,000 MILES ON IT. I HAVE TALKED TO MANY PEOPLE THAT HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THEIR PLENUMS ALSO AND MY MOTHER HAD TO CHANGE HERS WITH 40,000 MILES ON HER CAR! THE PLENUM IS MADE OF PLASTIC AND IS JUNK!!! GM NEEDS TO STEP UP AND TAKE CARE OF THIS PROBLEM, I HAVE SPENT OVER $1,000 FIXING THIS INFERIOR PART! I OWN 3 GM PRODUCTS AND I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER IF GM DOES NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS! *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-24
- VIN: 1G3HN52K6X4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: RECEIVED RECALL #04V090000 CONCERNING FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP AND HAD IT REPAIRED ON 3/18/2005. RECALL REPAIRS FAILED WHEN 4 DAYS LATER, ON 3/24/2005, THE MANIFOLD RUPTURED AND CAUSED WATER TO LEAK INTO THE OIL. HAD NOT TAKEN VEHICLE BACK TO DEALER. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-30
- VIN: 1G3HN52K2X4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE A 1999 OLDSMOBILE 88 BOUGHT IT IN SEPTEMBER 2003 THEN IN MARCH 04 THE ENGINE BLEW DUE TO LOSS OF COOLANT. THERE WAS NO INDICATION THAT IT LOST COOLANT. NOW A YEAR LATER, MARCH 2005, THE ENGINE LOST IT'S COOLANT AGAIN AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED . THE CAR NEVER WENT OVER SAFE TEMPERATURE. CALLED GM WHEN IT HAPPENED THE FIRST TIME. NO HELP AT ALL. I THINK THERE MUST BE APROBLEM WITH THESE ENGINES. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-01
- VIN: 1G3HN52K4X4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILED DUE TO A FAULTY UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD. *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE PART WAS MANUFACTURED OUT OF RECYCLED MATERIALS AND CAUSED COOLANT AND OIL TO ENTER THE CYLINDERS AND CREATED A HRDROSTATIC STATIC. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-03
- VIN: 1G3HN52K8X4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: AUTOMOBILE RUPTURED INTAKE MANIFOLD. GM THEN ACKNOWLEDGED THROUGH A RECALL THAT THIS WAS CAUSED BY A FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR AND GM WOULD TAKE CARE OF THE REPAIR BILL. MY OLDS DID JUST THIS AND MY DEALER SAID THAT THE PRESSURE REGULATOR COULD CAUSE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD TO RUPTURE. GM REFUSES TO HELP ME. MY VIN IS [XXX]. YOU FOLK SHOULD MAKE GM TAKE CARE OF THIS.*AK UPDATED 07/24/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-22
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COMPLAINT RECEIVED VIA E-MAIL. MY CAR WITH A 3800 SERIES 11 ENGINE RECENTLY BROKE DOWN DUE TO A CRACKED UPPER INTAKE PLENUM CAUSED BY THE EGR PIPE. THE SHOP PERFORMING THE REPAIRS SAID THIS WAS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM THAT THEY HAVE REPAIRED OFTEN. I COULD UNDERSTAND OTHER MOVING/MECHANICAL PARTS THAT ENDURE WEAR AND TEAR FAILING, BUT THIS IS A PART THAT SIMPLY BURNED OUT. I LIKE GM TO STAND BEHIND THIS PART INSTEAD OFF STICKING CONSUMERS WITH A $600.00 REPAIR BILL CAUSED BY THEIR POOR DESIGN. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-15
- VIN: 1G3HN52K2X4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR WAS RECALLED AND THE MANUFACTURER REPLACED IT WITH THE SAME TYPE OF REGULATOR WHICH LEAD TO A LEAK AND ALLOWED THE FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WHICH LEAD TO THE ANTIFREEZE GOING INTO THE OIL CAUSING THE ENGINE TO BACK FIRE AND EVENTUALLY RUINING THE ENGINE. PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-01
- VIN: 1G3HN52K2X4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: EXPERIENCED SERIOUS PROBLEMS WITH INTAKE MANIFOLD. *BF THERE WAS A BACKFIRE THROUGH THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WHICH PRODUCED A LOUD BANG AND SEVERE DAMAGE TO OTHER ITEMS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE PROBLEM SHE EXPERIENCED WAS THE SAME AS THE RECALL THAT WAS ISSUED. IT WAS DISCOVERED THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR WAS DEFECTIVE, HOWEVER THE CONSUMERS CLAIM FOR REIMBURSEMENT WAS DENIED. *JB
1999 Oldsmobile 88 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1999 Oldsmobile 88.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3800 V6 (L36) ENGINES AND CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, THE REGULATORS HAVE A MUCH HIGHER THAN USUAL RATE OF FUEL LEAKS. A LEAK CAN ALLOW FUEL TO ENTER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD THROUGH A VACUUM LINE. IF THE ENGINE DOES NOT START WHEN CRANKED, THE FUEL FROM THE LEAKING REGULATOR AND A MISTIMED SPARK CAN CAUSE A BACKFIRE.
- Consequence: THE BACKFIRE CAN RUPTURE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE RUPTURE OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD CAN DISPLACE A FUEL LINE, PULLING AN INJECTOR OUT OF PLACE, AND CAUSING A FUEL LEAK AND POSSIBLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS WITH IMPROVED DIAPHRAGMS. THE RECALL WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASED MAILINGS. PHASE 1 BEGAN ON JUNE 30, 2004, AND PHASE 2 BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4T65E AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE." A RETAINING CLIP, WHICH SECURES THE MANUAL VALVE TO THE LINKAGE OF THE TRANSMISSION DETENT LEVER, CAN BECOME LOOSE UNDER A COMBINATION OF POSSIBLE DRIVER SHIFTING MANEUVERS AND ALLOW THE LINK TO BECOME DISCONNECTED FROM THE MANUAL VALVE.
- Consequence: IF THE LINK DISCONNECTS, THE DRIVER'S INDICATED PRNDL STATE MAY DIFFER FROM THE HYDRAULIC STATE OF THE TRANSMISSION. IF THE DRIVER SELECTS 'DRIVE' AND THE TRANSMISSION IS ACTUALLY IN 'REVERSE', A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MANUAL VALVE/LINK ASSEMBLY WITH A REPLACEMENT MANUAL VALVE/LINK KIT, FEATURING A SPRING-TYPE FASTENER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Oldsmobile 88 problems:
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