1990 Oldsmobile 98 problems
The Oldsmobile 98 (spelled Ninety-Eight from 1952 to 1991, and Ninety Eight from 1992 to 1996) is the full-size flagship model of Oldsmobile that was produced from 1940 until 1942, and then from 1946 to 1996. The name – reflecting a "Series 90" fitted with an 8-cylinder engine – first appeared in 1941 and was used again after American consumer automobile production resumed post-World War II. It was, as it would remain, the division's top-of-the-line model, with lesser Oldsmobiles having lower numbers such as the A-body 66 and 68, and the B-body 76 and 78. The Series 60 was retired in 1949, the same year the Oldsmobile 78 was replaced by the 88. The Oldsmobile 76 was retired after 1950. This left the two remaining number-names to carry on into the 1990s as the bread and butter of the full-size Oldsmobile lineup until the Eighty Eight-based Regency replaced the 98 in 1997.
Occasionally additional nomenclature was used with the name, such as L/S and Holiday, and the 98 Regency badge would become increasingly common in the later years of the model. The 98 shared its General Motors C-body platform with Buick and Cadillac.
Since it was the top-line Oldsmobile, the series had the most technologically advanced items available, such as the Hydramatic automatic transmission, the Autronic Eye, an automatic headlight dimmer, and Twilight Sentinel (a feature that automatically turned the headlights on and off via a light sensor and a delay timer, as controlled by the driver), and the highest-grade interior and exterior trim.
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Common 1990 Oldsmobile 98 problems
The Oldsmobile Ninety Eight from 1990 is known for several common problems that have been reported by its owners. These issues range from engine and transmission problems to instrument cluster malfunctions.
One of the most frequently reported issues is engine noise, particularly a bearing knock, which was common on many 3.8-liter engines due to excessive clearance on the number-one main bearing.
Transmission problems are also prevalent in the 1990 Oldsmobile Ninety Eight. The 4T60E transmissions may drop out of drive while cruising, shift erratically, have no third or fourth gear, or no second and third gear due to a bad ground connection for the shift solenoids. This issue affects models from 1991 to 1994.
The instrument cluster is another problematic area in the 1990 Oldsmobile Ninety Eight. Common issues include speedometer failure, which can be caused by a faulty speed sensor or a damaged speedometer cable.
Temperature gauge failure is also a concern, as it can prevent drivers from knowing if the engine is overheating, potentially leading to engine damage or failure. This issue is often caused by a faulty temperature sensor or a damaged wiring connection.
Cluster displays can also have problems, such as faulty warning lights that may not alert drivers to important issues like low oil pressure, a malfunctioning fuel system, or an overheating engine. Damaged sensors or burned-out bulbs are usually the culprits when cluster displays aren't working properly.
In summary, the 1990 Oldsmobile Ninety Eight has several common problems that affect its engine, transmission, and instrument cluster. These issues can lead to safety hazards, decreased performance, and expensive repairs if not addressed promptly.
What does the 98 in Oldsmobile mean?
In 1941 both engines were offered on each series so to differentiate between the two the second digit was used to denote the number of cylinders, so the Custom Cruiser 90 was replaced with the Custom Cruiser 96 and 98. In 1942 Oldsmobile dropped the six cylinder Series 90 model leaving only the Custom Cruiser 98.
How much is a 1990 Oldsmobile?
The value of a used 1990 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight ranges from $1,102 to $7,823, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Why wont my Oldsmobile 98 start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile 98 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What was the last year of the Oldsmobile 98?
But personally, I feel like Oldsmobile died when they discontinued the 98 in 1996, as it was the last one to carry the torch lit by the brand in its mid-century heyday—big, American cars that transported us in comfort and style.
How much is a 1990 Oldsmobile?
The value of a used 1990 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight ranges from $1,102 to $7,823, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Why wont my Oldsmobile 98 start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile 98 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What does the 98 in Oldsmobile mean?
In 1941 both engines were offered on each series so to differentiate between the two the second digit was used to denote the number of cylinders, so the Custom Cruiser 90 was replaced with the Custom Cruiser 96 and 98. In 1942 Oldsmobile dropped the six cylinder Series 90 model leaving only the Custom Cruiser 98.
Where is the fuel pump on a 1990 Oldsmobile 98?
Best Answer
Fuel pump is in the gas tank.
1990 Oldsmobile 98 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile 98 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Oldsmobile 98 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Oldsmobile 98
The NHTSA has received 26 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Oldsmobile 98. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Oldsmobile 98 vehicles.
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-13
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TRUNK LID OPENED BY ITSELF WHEN PARKED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-26
- VIN: 1G3CW54C5L4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY SHEARED OFF WHILE DRIVING,. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND PULLED OVER. HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED HOME. CONSUMER WILL CONTACT THE DEALER THE NEXT DAY. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-04
- Fire: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WAS DRIVING 55MPH STEERING WHEEL CAUGHT ON FIRE. MANAGED TO PULL OFF ROAD, AND PUT OUT FLAMES. HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALERSHIP TO LOCATE CAUSE OF FIRE. MECHANIC WAS STILL WORKING ON VEHICLE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-19
- VIN: 1G3C954C5L4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING, THE BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR WENT BAD. THIS CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO BE INOPERATIVE. THE DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT THE HARMOIC BALANCER LOCATED IN THE ENGINE HAD WENT OUT. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE DETAILS. TS
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE LOCK ON THE DRIVERS SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED AND WOULD NOT LOCK, THIS PREVENTS THE DRIVER FROM WEARING THE SEATBELT, THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT REPLACING THE SEATBELT WAS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE THE COMPONENT HAD BEEN DISCONTINUED. NLM
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE LOCK ON THE DRIVERS SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED AND WOULD NOT LOCK, THIS PREVENTS THE DRIVER FROM WEARING THE SEATBELT, THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT REPLACING THE SEATBELT WAS NOT POSSIBLE BECAUSE THE COMPONENT HAD BEEN DISCONTINUED. NLM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DEFECTIVE TIRES
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-12
- VIN: 1G3CX54C5L4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ORIGINAL ABS PUMP MOTOR FAILED ON 10/10/99. THIS MOTOR WAS REPLACED WITH A GM ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT PART. THIS REPLACEMENT PUMP FAILED IN LESS THAN 30 DAYS AND WAS SUSPECTED AS BEING A FAULTY PUMP AND WAS AGAIN REPLACED WITH ANOTHER GM ORIGIAL PART. ON 07/12/99 THIS REPLACEMENT PUMP FAILED. ALL THREE FAILURES RESULTED IN LOSS OF BRAKING CAPABILITY. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3CW54C8L4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THIS PROBLEM OF CLEAR COAT, I WANT TO KNOW IF I REDO IT OR IS IT STILL UNDER WARRANTY
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-09
- VIN: 1G3HY14C3LH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FAILURE RESULTED IN TIRE BLOWOUT CAUSING DAMAGE TO VEHICLE (KELLY-SPRINGFIELD, ROCKY MTN.P 205/75R-14). *YC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-05
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: HORN WOULD INTERMITTENTLY SOUND OFF WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP, AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-14
- VIN: 1G3CW54C5L4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLING DUE TO FAILURE OF THE IGNITION MODULE/COIL AND IDLER AIR VALVE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-24
- VIN: 1G3CW54C5L4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FUEL AND EMISSION SYSTEM FAILED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-21
- VIN: 1G3CW54C5L4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VARIOUS GAUGES FAILED DUE TO FAILURE OF THE DASH CLUSTER.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-06-06
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKE FLUID IS LEAKING FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER ASSEMBLY. OWNER HAS ADDED A HALF OF CONTAINER OF BRAKE FLUID EVERY (2) WEEKS FOR THE PAST (5) YEARS. THE DEALER WAS NOT ABLE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-04-02
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-22
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN, POSSIBLE MALFUNCTION OF ABS BLOCK AND MODULATOR PRESSURE VALVE. NONVISUAL BLOCK OF WOOD APPEARS TO LAY UNDER BRAKE PEDAL DURING APPLICATION. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-07
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: PUT THE CAR INTO GEAR AND THE CAR JUST ACCELERATED TWICE FOR NO REASON. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-30
- VIN: 1G3CW54CXL4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL SENDING UNIT FAILURE, VEHICLE RUN OUT OF FUEL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-30
- VIN: 1G3CW54CXL4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: REPLACED SERPENTINE BELT TWICE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-30
- VIN: 1G3CW54CXL4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: REPLACED WATER PUMP TWICE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-30
- VIN: 1G3CW54CXL4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-30
- VIN: 1G3CW54CXL4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE FAILURE. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-15
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3CW54C3L4
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATIONS, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL/TWO ACCIDENTS/INJURIES. *SKD
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G3CW53C7L4
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE HEADREST IS NOT PROPERLY ANGLED FOR PROTECTION IN EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
1990 Oldsmobile 98 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Oldsmobile 98.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: THREADED INFLATOR COMPONENTS MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY WHICH MAY ALLOW COMPONENTS TO SEPARATE WHEN INFLATOR RECEIVES A SIGNAL TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG.
- Consequence: INFLATOR COMPONENT SEPARATION ALLOWS HOT COMBUSTION GASESTO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: REPLACE AIR BAG MODULES CONTAINING POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE INFLATORS.
Additional sources
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