1993 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 1993 Oldsmobile 98 problems
The 1993 Oldsmobile 98 Regency, like any other vehicle, has its share of common problems reported by owners. This article will discuss these issues in detail, focusing on the powertrain, transmission, engine, steering, and instrument cluster.
- Transmission Problems: The 4T60E transmissions in the 1993 Oldsmobile 98 Regency may experience various issues, such as dropping out of drive while cruising, shifting erratically, or having no third or fourth gear.
- Steering Noise: The upper-bearing mount in the steering column can get loose, causing a clicking noise that requires a new bearing spring and turn-signal cancel cam.
- Instrument Cluster Issues: Oldsmobile sedans, including the 1993 Oldsmobile 98 Regency, can experience instrument cluster problems such as speedometer failure, fuel gauge failure, and temperature gauge failure.
- Engine Noise: A rattling noise from the engine that lasts less than a minute when the car is started after sitting is often caused by automatic-transmission pump starvation or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. Although GM states that no damage occurs and has no fix for the problem, it can still be concerning for owners.
In conclusion, the 1993 Oldsmobile 98 Regency has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including powertrain, transmission, engine, steering, and instrument cluster issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these problems, ensuring the vehicle remains safe and reliable for its users.
How much is an Oldsmobile 98 worth?
A: The lowest recorded sale price was $1,000 for a 1973 Oldsmobile 98 on Aug 27 2022. Q: What is the average sale price of a Oldsmobile 98? A: The average price of a Oldsmobile 98 is $35,073.
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 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 an Oldsmobile 98 worth?
A: The lowest recorded sale price was $1,000 for a 1973 Oldsmobile 98 on Aug 27 2022. Q: What is the average sale price of a Oldsmobile 98? A: The average price of a Oldsmobile 98 is $35,073.
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 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.
1993 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
- Fuel system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Oldsmobile 98 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1993 Oldsmobile 98 complaints
The NHTSA has received 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Oldsmobile 98.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-04
- VIN: 1G3CW53L3P4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A SMELL OF FUEL IN AND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE REPAIR SHOP, WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS A FUEL LEAK IN THE PIPES CONNECTED TO THE FUEL TANK.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-19
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3CX53L0P4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY A PASSING MOTORIST THAT HER VEHICLE WAS IN FIRE. THE CONSUMER AND PASSENGER WERE ABLE TO ESCAPE THE VEHICLE WITH HELP FROM THE PASSERBY. ONCE THE CONSUMER AND PASSENGER EXITED THE VEHICLE IT ROLLED OFF THE ROAD AND BECAME FULLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE CONSUMER SUSTAINED A SPRAINED LEFT SHOULDER, KNEE SPRAINS AND BURSITIS. *AK *NM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-08
- VIN: 1G3CV531XP4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHEN ACCELERATING TO ENTER A HIGHWAY, THERE WAS A LOUD "CLUNK" AND ALL CONTROL WAS LOST AS I ENTERED THE HIGH SPEED LANE. THE ENGINE QUIT, NO BRAKES AND THE STEERING WHEEL JUST TURNED FREELY AND THE CAR ROLLED TO A STOP IN THE HIGH SPEED LANE. IT TURNED OUT THAT THE REAR FRAME BOLTS UNDER THE ENGINE FAILED AND FRAME AND ENGINE FELL DOWN, DISCONNECTIONS THE STEERING. LUCKILY, NO ONE WAS HURT AS OTHERS STOPPED TO DIRECT TRAFFIC AND PUSH THE CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CAR IS IN NEAR PERFECT CONDITION, NO VISIBLE RUST, NO FLUID LEAKS AND HAS ONLY 140,000 MILES. IT APPEARS THAT THE DESIGN MECHANISM TO MAKE THE ENGINE DROP IN A CRASH(TO PROTECT THE DRIVER) FAILED (RUSTED) WAY BEFORE IT SHOULD HAVE. THE OLDSMOBILE HOTLINE SAID THE CAR WAS PAST THE 100,000 RUST WARRANTY, WHAT DID I EXPECT? I HAVE HAD 3 OTHER OLDSMOBILES AND PUT OVER 250,000 MILES ON EACH ONE AND CERTAINLY EXPECTED SIMILAR RESULTS FROM THIS ONE. I BELIEVE THAT THE FRAME SHOULD NOT RUST OUT AND HAVE THE ENGINE FALL OUT BEFORE ANY OF THE NORMAL HIGH MILEAGE FAILURES SUCH AS TRANSMISSION, ENGINE, RADIATOR OR EVEN THE FAILURE OF THE BATTERY IN THE REMOTE LOCKING DEVICE. I BELIEVE THAT OLDSMOBILE SHOULD BEAR THE COST OF SOME OR ALL THE CHARGES TO REPAIR THIS. HAD IT HAPPENED 5 MINUTES LATER, I WOULD HAVE BEEN TRAVELING AT 70 MPH AND THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A TRAGEDY. IF THERE IS A GENERAL DEFECT, ALL OTHER OWNERS SHOULD BE NOTIFIED. *NLM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-10
- VIN: 1G3CV5310P4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED RANDOMLY WHILE I WAS DRIVING. THE VEHICLE DID NOT STRIKE ANY OBJECT NOR DID IT HIT ANY BUMP IN THE ROAD. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-24
- VIN: 1G3CW5CL1P4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON HIGHWAY 60 NEAR DUDLEY, MO @ 65 MPH, WHEN THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON. I TOOK THE NEARBY EXIT AND STOPPED AT A CONVENIENCE STORE. FILLED GAS TANK, EVERYTHING SEEMD TO BE WORKING FINE, SO I PULLED BACK ONTO ROAD, SOON AFTER THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED, AND HORN STARTED HONKING. I STOPPED, DISCONNECTED HORN, CUT AWAY BAG AND DROVE HOME. NOTIFIED COMPANY, AND PER THEIR REQUEST HAD DIAGNOSTICS TEST RUN AT BLACKWELL-BALDWIN OLDS IN POPLAR BLUFF, MO; NO CODES FOUND, MECHANIC SAID A SHORT IN THE STEERING COLUMN CAUSED THE DEPLOYMENT. MECHANIC SAID COLUMN WAS TIGHT, AND NO SIGN IT HAD EVER BEEN OPENED, BUT A WIRE WAS STRETCHED. HE SAID APPARENTLY THE STEERING WHEEL SNAGGED THE WIRE. OLDSMOBILE WILL ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY WHATSOEVER FOR THIS DUE TO AGE AND MILEAGE ON CAR, AND SAY I MUST BEAR ENTIRE COST OF TEST, REPLACEMENT, AND RESULTING EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS. SUGGESTED I CONTACT THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU IF I DIDN'T LIKE THEIR FINDINGS. SINCE WHEN DID AIRBAGS COME WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE? THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-17
- VIN: 1G3HN53L2PH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING ON FREEWAY, REVEALING 23 INCH LENGTH OF TIRE LOST, SEPARATION AT EDGES, AND TORN WIRE MESH( DOT NUMBER: A3MOFFA163 TIRE SIZE: P205/70R15 )
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-20
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: GAS GAUGE DOES NOT READ CORRECTLY. WHEN VEHICLE GETS TO ABOUT A QUARTER OF TANK IT CUTS OFF AT ANY STOP. *AK ENGINE MALFUNCTIONS. *YH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-27
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ANYTIME WHEN STARTING VEHICLE THE ABS LIGHT AND TRACTION LIGHT COME ON AND STAY ON. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: REAR CHILDREN SECURITY LOCKS FAILED.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: FRONT SEATS DESIGN DOES NOT ALLOW FOR SEATING TO LOCK INTO PLACE RESULTING IN POOR STABILITY.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-08
- VIN: 1G3CX53LXP4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS FAILURE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS WOULD COME ON AT UP TO 10MPH EVEN WHEN BRAKES WERE NOT APPLIED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-07
- VIN: 1G3NL5434PM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE DYNAMIC ELECTRONICS "ELECTRO LOCK" WAS DEFECTIVE CAUSING VEHICLE TO NOT START AT TIMES. THIS ITEM WAS LATER RECALLED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-12
- VIN: 1G3CX53L1P4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RUBBER DOOR GASKETS LEAKED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GCCS1945S8
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DURING A REAR-END COLLISION PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-11
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCES SURGING PROBLEMS. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-01-09
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FUSE THAT CONTROL TAIL LIGHT AND FLASHERS LIGHT BLOW OUT, REPLACE 4 TIMES. TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-01-09
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FUSE THAT CONTROL TAIL LIGHT AND FLASHERS LIGHT BLOW OUT, REPLACE 4 TIMES. TT
1993 Oldsmobile 98 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1993 Oldsmobile 98.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 1991 THROUGH JULY 1995. THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINE CAN SEPARATE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED IN LOW TEMPERATURES IN COMBINATION WITH HIGH TRANSMISSION LOADS.
- Consequence: VEHICLE FIRES CAN OCCUR DUE TO THE SPILLAGE OF TRANSMISSION FLUID.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINES.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1993 Oldsmobile 98 problems:
How reliable is a good 1993 Olds 98 Regency Elite? : r/Oldsmobile
Oct 23, 2020 ... Even if you get the common GM issues of "Crank position Sensor failure" or "Cam Position Sensor" these are actually cheap parts and fairly easy ...
Q&A: 1993 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight PCM Issues
Dec 22, 2013 ... It's located behind the glove box. It's accessible from under the passenger's side dash. Remove the insulator panel to gain access. graphic.
1993 Oldsmobile 98 Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 1993 Oldsmobile 98 repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Oldsmobile mechanics near you.
A few issues with an old 98 regency - GM Forum - Buick, Cadillac ...
Aug 10, 2015 ... Oldsmobile - A few issues with an old 98 regency ... 1993 oldsmobile 98 regency elite with a 3800 series V6. ... 8: Are there any known problems ...
1993 Oldsmobile 98 - Car hesitates and sometimes stalls after reach ...
Jul 4, 2014 ... It doesn't do it if accelerate slowly, less then halfish throttle. It also will try to stall when braking heavily. These problems do not ...
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