1991 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 1991 Oldsmobile 98 problems
The Oldsmobile 98 from 1991 is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues range from electrical problems to engine and transmission concerns.
- ABS Light due to Brake Lamp Failure: The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light may illuminate due to a failing brake lamp. This can be caused by a blown bulb or a wiring issue. It is essential to address this issue promptly, as a functioning ABS system is crucial for safe driving.
- Replace Spark Plugs Every 30,000 Miles: Regular maintenance is necessary for the 1991 Oldsmobile 98. The spark plugs should be replaced every 30,000 miles to maintain optimal engine performance and prevent misfires.
- Replace Engine Coolant Every 30,000 Miles: Another critical maintenance task is to replace the engine coolant every 30,000 miles. This helps prevent overheating and ensures the longevity of the engine.
- Fuel System Issues: Some owners have reported intermittent engine cut-out and restart issues. These problems can be caused by fuel pressure issues, such as a faulty fuel pump or clogged fuel filter. It is recommended to check these components to resolve the issue.
- Ignition System Problems: Issues with the ignition system, such as a failing crank sensor or ignition module, can cause the wipers and radio to stop working when the ignition is at START/RUN. These problems can be challenging to diagnose and may require the assistance of a professional mechanic.
- Vacuum Brake Booster Failure: A hissing or "whooshing" sound from the dashboard when the brake pedal is pressed can indicate an issue with the vacuum brake booster. This is often caused by a failed rubber diaphragm in the booster, which allows vacuum to bypass internally. Inspecting and replacing the booster as necessary can resolve this issue.
- Flasher Unit Failure: Intermittent problems with turn signals and horn function can be caused by a faulty flasher unit. In some cases, the turn signal switch may also be at fault, especially if the horn issue started simultaneously.
These common problems with the 1991 Oldsmobile 98 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs. Addressing these issues can help ensure the vehicle's longevity and safe operation.
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.
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 is a 1995 Oldsmobile 98 worth?
The value of a used 1995 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight ranges from $14 to $80, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Where is the fuel pump on a 1990 Oldsmobile 98?
Best Answer
Fuel pump is in the gas tank.
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.
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 is a 1995 Oldsmobile 98 worth?
The value of a used 1995 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight ranges from $14 to $80, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
How much does a 1991 Oldsmobile weigh?
Used 1991 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight - Specs & Features
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Cargo capacity, all seats in place | 20.2 cu.ft. |
| Turning circle | 39.4 ft. |
| Ground clearance | 5.6 in. |
| Curb weight | 3,607 lbs. |
1991 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Oldsmobile 98 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1991 Oldsmobile 98
The NHTSA has received 65 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Oldsmobile 98. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1991 Oldsmobile 98 vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-07
- VIN: 1G3CV53L1M4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I SMELLED WHAT SEEMED TO BE BURNING WIRE COMING FROM INSIDE MY VEHICLE WHILE I WAS DRIVING. SHORTLY THEREAFTER I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. SUBSEQUENTLY, THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE I WAS OPERATING THE VEHICLE.*AK
CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-20
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: THE BUCKLE ON THE HARNESS WILL NOT FIT INTO THE LATCH BETWEEN THE CHILD'S LEGS. CONSUMER HAS TO HOLD THE TWO SECTIONS OF THE BUCKLE TOGETHER WITH BOTH HANDS IN ORDER TO GET THE SYSTEM TO WORK. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-20
- VIN: 1G3CW53L1M4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT AIRBAG LIGHT FLASHED AND DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. CAUSE IS UNKNOWN. TS
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE IN MOTION DRIVING THROUGH RAIN, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WILL NOT GO FAST ENOUGH TO KEEP THE WINDSHIELD CLEAR. CONSUMER HAD TO PULL TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD UNTIL THE RAIN SUBSIDED. *JG *YH
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE JACK WHICH IS SUPPLIED IN THE VEHICLE, IS DIFFICULT TO HANDLE. THE INSTRUCTIONS SAY TO LOCATE THE GROOVE IN THE LIFT HEAD OF THE JACK INTO THE NOTCH OF THE FRAME FOR SAFETY RATION. THIS VEHICLE IS NOT EQUIPPED WITH ANY NOTCHES. THE BUMPER DOES NOT SUPPORT THE WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE WHEN USING THE BUMPER JACK. *JG *YH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE IGNITION MODULE HAS A POTTED SEALER WHICH ENCAPSULATED THE MODULE WIRES. THE SEALER MELTED AND LEAKED. *JG *YH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE EMERGENCY FLASHER ACTIVATION SWITCH. THE CENTER ACTIVATION PORTION CANNOT BE DEPRESSED TO ENERGIZE THE FLASHER. IT IS MOUNTED INTERNALLY AND THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN MUST BE DISASSEMBLED. TO REPAIR OR REPLACE. *JG THE ARROWS FOR TURN SIGNALS WAS NOT VISIBLE. *YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ANTIFREEZE IS LEAKING ONTO PASSENGER'S SIDE OF VEHICLE ON FLOOR. THERE IS ABOUT A HALF INCH OF ANTIFREEZE ON FLOOR. PLEASE ADD VIN. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3CW53LOM4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 3.8 ENGINE--SHUTTER ALSO AT THE 70 MI.PER HR. SPEED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-11
- VIN: 1G3CW53L0M4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER HAD NOTICED A STRONG VIBRATION COMING FROM ENGINE. HAD TAKEN VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND THEY REPLACED ENGINE VALVE TO FIND A SOLUTION, BUT DID NOT HELP AND THE PROBLEM STILL THERE. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-10
- VIN: 1G3CW53LXM4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: PANIC STOP TO AVOID HITTING CAR IN FRONT THAT STOPPED SHORT TO AVOID DOG IN ROAD. BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR, VERY LONG STOPPING DISTANCE, STEERED AROUND CAR AHEAD AVOIDING ACCIDENT. BRAKE PEDAL DID NOT RETURNTO NORMAL FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES OF PUMPING AND TEST STOPS, PROCEEDED WITH JOURNEY NORMALLY. BROUGHT CAR TO DEALER NEXT DAY. PARKING BRAKE CABLE REPLACED BUT NO FAULT FOUND IN BRAKING SYSTEM. NOTE ABS OUT OF SERVICE FOR 8 MONTHS BUT SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED WHEN ABS WAS NOT DISABLED IN LAST 2 YEARS, I HAVE READ OTHER REPORTS OF SIMILAR INCIDENTS WITH THIS MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-10
- VIN: 1G3CW53L5N4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 40MPH ON HIGHWAY AND DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG WENT OFF WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. HE WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND CONTROL HIS VEHICLE. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 163CW54C06K
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS REAR ENDED AT ABOUT 25-30 MPH, AND FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BROKE ON RIGHT SIDE OF SEAT. CONTACTED MANUFACTURER. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-05
- VIN: 1G3CW53L3M4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 91 V 198 00/AUTOMATIC: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED PROBLEM WITH SHIFTING OUT OF GEAR INTERMITTENTLY WHEN PARKED ON A UPPER GRADE. DEALER / MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3CW53L2M4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING SMOKE COMING FROM STEERING COLUMN. CONTACTED DEALER, DEALER NOTICED WIRES WITHIN THE STEERING COLUMN WERE MELTED. CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM WAS NOT DETERMINED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-07
- VIN: 1G3CW53L2M4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCING AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN STEERING COLUMN, CAUSING DAMAGE TO WIRING HARNESS AND OTHER PARTS, REPAIRS WERE DONE BY INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. *AK A BROKEN BULB SHORTED OUT AND BURNED THE SURROUNDING PLASTIC. THE BURNING REACHED THE STEERING COLUMN TRAVELING THE WIRES AND DAMAGED SWITCH ASSEMBLY, WIRING HARNESS, HORN ASSEMBLY AND MORE. *YH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-01
- VIN: 1G3CW53L0M4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING APPLIED BRAKES AND VEHICLE VIBRATED. CONTACTED LOCAL MECHANIC AND HE REPLACED MASTER CYLINDERS/ROTORS, AND ABS BRAKES.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3CW53L6M4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: ABS LIGHT ILLUMINATES ON THE DASH PANEL, WHEN IT ILLUMINATES ABS SYSTEM WILL GO INTO EFFECT WHEN DRIVING. DELAER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. DEALER SAID THAT THE ABS SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED TO FIX THE PROBLEM, BUT THE OWNER DIDN'T COMPLY BECAUSE OF THE COST. VEHICLE LATER TAKEN TO A SPECIALIST, SAID THAT THE WHEEL SENSORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, NOT THE ABS SYSTEM. OWNER WANTS MANUFACTURER TO PAY FOR REPAIR EXPENSES. *AK *ML
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: NOT AVAILAB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 5MPH IN SLOW TRAFFIC, PRESSED ON BRAKES AND PEDAL WENT STRAIGHT TO THE FLOOR. CONSUMER REAREDNDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. CONSUMER INDICATED THIS HAPPENED FREQUENTLY. DEALER WILL BE CONTACTED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, IT WAS HARD WITH EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE INTERMITTENTLY. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED . PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHR INFORMATON. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-07
- VIN: 1G3CW53L6M4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THIS IS TOTAL BREAK FAILURE.PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR. THREE PUMPS & BRAKES WORKED FINE. HAD SYS.PURGED & MASTER CYLINDER REPLACED BY OLDS DEALER. THIS SAME INCINDENCE OF TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKES HAS HAPPENED FOUR TIMES NOW. FIRST TIME WAS IN 1994, LAST TIME HAPPENED TODAY.11/16/1999 ALSO HAD REPLACED 2ND MASTER CYINDER. ONE & ONE HALF YRS. AGO. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-05
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WHILE USING THE JACK (PART # 14063553) IT DROPPED DUE TO THE METAL OF WHICH JACK IS MADE OFF NEEDS TO BE "HEAT TREATED" IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN THE JACK. THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED INJURIES. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-13
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AIR BAGS DEPLOYED-NO INJURIES INCURRED. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-20
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT ABOUT 2-3MPH, DRIVER'S AIRBAG DEPLOYED UNEXPECTEDLY WITHOUT A DIRECT FRONTAL IMPACT DUE TO A DEFECTIVE SOLENOID SENSOR IN THE STEERING COLUMN. THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON JUST BEFORE THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED, NOT ENOUGH TIME FOR THE OCCUPANT TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE. CURRENTLY AT THE DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3CW53L3M4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 40-50 MPH SMOKE STARTED TO COME FROM THE DASH, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE AND DRIVER HAD TO JUMP OUT TO BORROW A FIRE EXTINGUISHER TO PUT FLAMES OUT. DEALER NOT AWARE OF THE PROBLEM *AK *ML
1991 Oldsmobile 98 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1991 Oldsmobile 98.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: THE CONSOLE MOUNTED SHIFT LEVER MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE BRACKET CAUSING LOSS OF GEAR INDICATOR REFERENCE AND SHIFT SELECTOR OPERATION.
- Consequence: THE DRIVER CAN PLACE THE GEAR SHIFTER IN THE PARKPOSITION WITHOUT SETTING THE PARKING BRAKE AND THE TRANSAXLE MAY NOT ACTUALLY BEIN PARK, RESULTING IN UNEXPECTED VEHICLE MOVEMENT IF THE VEHICLE IS STOPPED ON AGRADE. ALSO, THE DRIVER CAN PLACE THE GEAR SELECTOR IN DRIVE OR REVERSE WITHOUTTURNING THE ENGINE OFF AND THE TRANSAXLE MAY NOT BE IN THE POSITION INDICATED,CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO MOVE IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION. BOTH CONDITIONS CANRESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: INSTALL TWO TRANSAXLE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE RETAINING CLIPS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL:MECHANICAL
- Summary: WHEN APPLIED, THE PARKING BRAKE LEVER ASSEMBLY MAY RELEASE ONE OR MORE TEETH, REDUCING THE CABLE LOAD TO THE REAR BRAKES.
- Consequence: DEPENDING ON THE EXTENT OF THE LEVER RELEASE AND ROADLEVEL. THE PARKING BRAKE MAY NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE, ALLOWING IT TO ROLL, WHICHCOULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. VEHICLE DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 105.
- Remedy: REPLACE PARKING BRAKE LEVER ASSEMBLY.
Additional sources
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