1996 Oldsmobile Achieva problems
The Oldsmobile Achieva is a front-wheel drive compact sedan and coupe that was introduced by Oldsmobile for the 1992 model year. The Achieva was based on the GM N-body platform, which it also shared with its siblings the Pontiac Grand Am and Buick Skylark. The Achieva replaced the GM N-body Cutlass Calais after its final 1991 model year, and ended production after the 1998 model year.
Overview
The Achieva is a compact car produced by the General Motors' Oldsmobile division from 1991 until 1998 and was available as a sedan or coupe. It was offered in four different trim levels during its production run: S, SC, SL, and SCX. Available engines included different versions of the Oldsmobile-developed 2.3 L Quad 4 engine: the base single-cam L40 "Quad OHC", the DOHC LD2, the high-output LG0, and the special "W41" variant of the LG0 Quad 4 used in the SCX model. All were replaced for 1996 by a revised 2.4 L version. A pair of V6 engines were also offered including the Buick-sourced 90° 3.3 L "3300" V6, which was later replaced by Chevrolet's 60° 3.1 L "3100" V6. While a 5-speed manual transaxle was initially offered as the standard base transmission, most Achieva models were sold with 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transaxles. 1998 was the final model year for the Achieva, after which it was replaced in the Oldsmobile lineup by the Alero for the 1999 model year.
Initial production
The Achieva was first seen as a concept car at the 1991 Chicago Auto Show, positioned to replace Oldsmobile's compact Calais models. The Calais and Achieva share the same front wheel drive N-body architecture including identical wheelbase. The Achieva started regular production for the 1992 model year. It was offered in four different trim levels: S and SL, available on both coupes and sedans, and the sporty SC and SCX coupes. The base S offered a 120 hp (89 kW) 2.3 L "Quad OHC" 4-cylinder, while the SL had the DOHC 160 horsepower (120 kW) Quad 4 engine standard that was optional on the S model. A 160 hp (120 kW) 3.3 L V6 engine was optional for the SL. The SC coupe had a standard 180 hp (130 kW) high-output Quad 4 with 5-speed manual transmission or a 3 speed automatic, with the 3.3 L V6 being an option.
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Common 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva problems
The 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva has several common problems based on complaints from owners, which include issues with the fuel system, engine, transmission, and ignition system.
- Engine Problems: Owners have reported driveability symptoms such as long or hard starts, chuggle, rough idle, and light or intermittent misfire due to clogged fuel injectors. This issue can be caused by poor fuel quality or infrequent fuel filter changes. The engine may also experience coolant loss, visible coolant leakage, low coolant lamp on, or coolant odor caused by coolant leakage due to a faulty radiator assembly.
- Transmission Issues: Internal fluid leaks in the lo and reverse clutch circuit can cause clutch pistons to partially apply, leading to a faulty transmission. This issue can be resolved by replacing the lo and reverse clutch return spring, spring retainer, and snap ring with a new design clutch, Belleville return spring, and spiral retaining ring.
- Ignition Problems: Owners have reported issues with the ignition system, such as the key getting stuck in the second position after turning off the car. This issue can be caused by a faulty ignition key cylinder or a passlock security problem, which can be resolved by disabling the security system by cutting the yellow wire while the car is running and then turning it off.
In summary, the 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva has several common problems that can affect the fuel system, engine, transmission, and ignition system. These issues can be diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic or auto repair shop. It is important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle and ensure safe and reliable operation.
What happened to the Oldsmobile Achieva?
While a 5-speed manual transaxle was initially offered as the standard base transmission, most Achieva models were sold with 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transaxles. 1998 was the final model year for the Achieva, after which it was replaced in the Oldsmobile lineup by the Alero for the 1999 model year.
What caused Oldsmobile failure?
Oldsmobile, one of the oldest American car brands, faced challenges that ultimately led to its downfall. Similar to Plymouth and Pontiac, Oldsmobile suffered from a lack of brand identity and differentiation (as you might see, there is an area-curing mistake in every example so far).
Why did GM get rid of Oldsmobile?
The Aurora caused only a minor stir, however, and by 2000 GM announced plans to phase out the Oldsmobile brand due to dwindling sales. On April 29, 2004, after 106 years, the last Olds rolled off the assembly line.
Who made Oldsmobile engines?
Oldsmobile V8 engine
| Oldsmobile V8 | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Oldsmobile division of General Motors |
| Also called | Rocket V8 |
| Production | 1949–1990 Lansing Assembly (engine block and heads) Saginaw Metal Casting Operations |
| Layout |
Who made the Achieva car?
General Motors' Oldsmobile
The Achieva is a compact car produced by the General Motors' Oldsmobile division from 1991 until 1998 and was available as a sedan or coupe. It was offered in four different trim levels during its production run: S, SC, SL, and SCX.
1996 Oldsmobile Achieva car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Achieva problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva
The NHTSA has received 100 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-22
- VIN: 1G3NL52T5TM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I BOUGHT MY DADS 1996 OLDSMOBILE ACHIEVA, ON ABOUT THE 7-22-13, HE HAD IT AT OUR MECHANICS CAR LOT FOR SALE AND MY TRUCKS TRANSMISSION STARTED FAILING ON ME SO I PURCHASED MY DADS CAR, WENT TO PICK IT UP AND NOW AFTER 2 DIFFERENT MECHANICS AND 5 WEEKS LATER THEY STILL CAN'T GET MY CAR FIXED SO IT WILL RUN,THIS IS WHAT IT DOES,SECURITY LIGHT COMES ON AND OFF FLASHING UNTIL IT COMES ON FULLY ALL THE TIME,DIES AND REFUSES TO START, SO I DONE SOME LOOKING ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND OUT THAT JUST ABOUT ALL OF THE ACHIEVA, MALIBU'S,BASICALLY ALL G.M. CARS FROM EARLY 90'S- UPPER 90'S ALL HAVE THIS PROBLEM AND IT CAN HAPPEN WHILE THE CAR IS BEING DRIVEN IN SOME CASES, SO I FILL LIKE IF THIS IS NOT TOOK CARE OF IT COULD CAUSE A WRECK,FIRE OR AN ACCIDENT OF SOME KIND BEING IT IS THE # 1 THING TO GO WRONG WITH THIS KIND AND YEAR MODEL'S OF OLDS-ACHIEVA, JUST WAS WONDERING IF MY CAR GOT MISSED ON RECALL OR IF IT SHOULD BE RECALLED, I'M ABOUT HALF WAY AFRAID TO DRIVE IT EVEN IF IT GETS FIXED, THAT IT WILL DO IT AGAIN AND ME BE DRIVING IT NEXT TIME, PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE IS ANY HELP FOR MY CAR TO GET RECALLED.. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-01
- VIN: 1G3NL12T7TM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 OLDSMOBILE ACHIEVA. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 5 MPH WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE ENGINE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR A MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN DID NOT QUALIFY FOR NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER 07E015000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 134,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-21
- VIN: 1G3NL52TXTM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 OLDSMOBILE ACHIEVA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS UNDERGOING AN OIL CHANGE, THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE TRANSAXLE HAD AN OIL LEAK NEAR THE CV JOINT. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 76,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000. UPDATED 07/08/08. *BF THE TRANSAXLE SEAL WAS LEAKING FLUID NEAR THE CV JOINT. UPDATED *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-13
- VIN: 1G3NL12T8TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FRONT AIR BAGS (DRIVER AND PASSENGER) DEPLOYED FOR NO APPARENT REASON. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3NL52T3TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER IN VEHICLE SUSTAINED SERIOUS EYE INJURY DUE TO A FAULTY AIR BAG ON THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE - . *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-19
- VIN: 1G3NL52T2TM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE CONTINUALLY REFUSES TO START DUE TO PASS LOCK AND LEAVES US STRANDED. DEALER REPLACED IPC AND IGNITION SWITCH TWICE, BUT PROBLEM REMAINED. SPENT $1000, AND ITS STILL THE SAME. READING ALL THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH VARIOUS GM VEHICLES SHOWING, THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-05
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PASS LOCK 1 SECURITY SYSTEM WILL NOT ALLOW THE CAR TO START. THE CAR THINKS THAT I AM STEALING IT AND DOES NOT ALLOW GASOLINE TO FLOW TO THE FUEL INJECTORS. TOOK IT TO GARAGE AND COST $500 TO REPLACE THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER PANEL WHICH HOUSES THE SECURITY SENSORS. *AK
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-18
- VIN: 1G3NL52T1TM
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE AIR BAG LIGHT WENT ON AND STAYED ON IN MY 1996 OLDSMOBILE ACHIEVA. I WAS REFERRED TO MY DEALER BY MY MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED A AIR BAG SAFETY MODULE PROBLEM THAT WAS RECALLED BY GM AS PER "ALL DATA". THE DEALER REFERRED ME TO GM WARRANTY HOTLINE WHEN THE VIN # DID NOT MATCH A RECALL THROUGH THE GM DATABASE. THE ENTIRE REPAIR WAS ESTIMATED BY THE DEALER TO BE APPROXIMATELY $3000.00 USING VINTAGE AUTO PARTS ON THE HARNESS FOR THE MODULE. THIS SAFETY ISSUE WAS CAUSED BY A BODY LEAK THAT COLLECTED WATER AND SHORTED OUT THE SAFETY MODULE. I CAN'T DRIVE THE VEHICLE DO TO THE DANGER OF POSSIBLE INFLATION OF THE AIRBAG WITH OUT WARNING, AS PER THE RECALL NOTICE THAT GM SAYS NEVER OCCURRED. GM WON'T HELP IN THE REPAIR BECAUSE ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 100,000 MILES AND MET THE 10 YEAR MARK ON 10/31/06. I'VE BEEN WARNED NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS PROBLEM BY THE GM DEALER, WHILE BEING PRESENTED WITH A $3,000.00 REPAIR BILL ON A CAR THAT IS IN GOOD RUNNING ORDER OTHERWISE. IT SEEMS GM SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS PROBLEM.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-21
- VIN: 1G3NL12M6TM
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE HAZARD LIGHTS FAILED. AFTER DOING RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET, THE CONTACT NOTIFIED THE SERVICE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER ABOUT A NHTSA RECALL # 96V250000, REGARDING THE EXTERIOR LIGHTING: HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS. THE SERVICE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G3NL12T0TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY 1996 OLDS ACHIEVA SOUTHBOUND ON I-271 IN NE OHIO BOTH FRONTAL AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. CONDITIONS WERE GOOD. PAVEMENT WAS DRY. THERE WAS NO TYPE OF IMPACT. CAUSED ME TO SWERVE AND NEARLY LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. HAVE SEVERE CHEST PAINS. I AM TRYING TO GET SOMETHING DONE TO CORRECT THIS NOW. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-21
- VIN: 1G3NL52M3TM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DT: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED 3 TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A SERVICE STATION AND PUT ON THE COMPUTER, BUT THEY COULDN'T FIND WHAT WAS WRONG. THE INTAKE GASKET BLEW TWICE ALLOWING WATER IN THE ENGINE. *AK *NM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-28
- VIN: 1G3NL52M3TM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND UPON COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP LOWER BALL JOINT DISENGAGED AND TIRE CAME OFF. THE RIGHT FRONT FENDER ON PASSENGER'S SIDE WAS COMPLETELY DAMAGED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-17
- VIN: 1G3NL52T2TM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR WAS AT DEALER ON 8/17/99 WHO HAD TO REPLACE THE SENSOR-OX 3.682 PART DUE TO A SHORTED RELAY AND DAMAGED SENSOR AT A COST OF $337.44. THE ALTERNATOR OVERHEATED AND BURNED AND HAD TO BE REPLACED JUNE 29, 2001 AT A COST OF $453.98, INCLUDING TOWING OF THE CAR TO THE SERVICE STATION. THE SERP BELT WAS ALSO DAMAGED AND REPLACED. ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE, THERE ARE NUMEROUS ENTRIES LISTED FOR THE SENSOR, SERP BELT, AND ALTERNATOR REPAIRS. ALL OF THESE REPAIRS OCCURRED BEFORE THE OFFICIAL RECALL ON FEBRUARY 27, 2002 (RECALL FOR DEALER TO INSTALL RELAY KIT TO PREVENT SHORT AND IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE AND FIRE). THE BUILD DATES INVOLVED WERE 5/1/95 7/31/96, MINE WAS BUILT WITHIN THESE DATES, DECEMBER 1995. WOULD LIKE TO BE REIMBURSED FOR REPAIRS PAID FOR PRIOR TO FEDERAL RECALL (791.42). *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-01
- VIN: 1G3NL52T2TM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONER LEAKS COOLANT AND NEEDS TO BE REPEATEDLY SERVICED BECAUSE AIR CONDITIONER BLOWS WARM AIR. AIR CONDITIONER CHECKED WHEN UNDER WARRANTY 4/1/98 AND DEALER STATED RECHARGED A/C. HOWEVER, COOLANT NEEDED TO BE ADDED 5/28/99, 5/12/00, 4/29/01, 6/9/04 FOR A TOTAL COST OF $482.48. DYE INJECTED AND NO LEAK NOTICED. LEAKAGE OCCURS OVER MONTHS WHERE DYE NOT DETECTABLE. SOMETHING IS DEFECTIVE AND CAUSING THE COOLANT TO LEAK OUT OVER TIME.*AK
INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-04
- VIN: 1G3NL52MXTM
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THERE WAS AND INTERIOR LIGHTING FAILURE. THE DOME LIGHT CAME ON AND REMAINED ON. RECALL WAS ISSUED FOR THIS PROBLEM, BUT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK *SC
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END CRASH. UPON IMPACT, AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-15
- VIN: 1G3NL12M7TM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LEAKY INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-15
- VIN: 1G3NL12T9TM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ALTERNATOR,SERP BELT TENSIONER, SERP BELT, R& R ALTERNATOR,R & R BELT TENSIONER ... THE TENSION ACUTALLY BROKE OFF AND DESTROYED THE OTHER PARTS. HOW CAN THIS HAPPEN???? FOR ONLY 43000 MILES ON THIS CAR THATS RIDICULOUS... ANY HELP HERE/?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-06
- VIN: 1G3NL52T8TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: IN REGARDS OF YOUR DEFECT INVESTIGATION# IQ3001, I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH MY CONTROL MODULE, ITS NOT WORKING NOW DUE TO IT GOT WET, NOW MY AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON AND I'M JUST WAITING FOR IT TO DEPLOY WHEN I'M DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, SO MAYBE THEN WHEN IT KILLS SOMEONE A RECALL WILL BE DONE ON IT. IT IS A POOR LOCATION FOR THE MODULE ANYWAYS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-08
- VIN: 1G3NL52T5TM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE CUTS OFF AND ANY SPEED FOR NO REASON. THEN IT TAKES ANYWHERE FROM 2 TO 7 MINS TO GET IT RESTARTED AND THAT IS ONL;Y IF U PUT IT IN "N" AND TURN IT ALL THE WAY OFF, THEN BACK ON. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD. IS IT GOING TO TAKE A DEATH B4 GMC SEARCHES FOR THE PROBLEM. THIS HAPPENS ON THE FREEWAY OR STREET.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-07
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE INTAKE GASKET LEAKS COOLANT AND A KNOWN PROBLEM THAT GM APPARENTLY DOESN'T CARE ABOUT. IT HAPPENS TO MANY OF ITS V6 3.1 AND 3.4 ENGINES AND COULD CAUSE SEVER DAMAGE TO THE CAR'S ENGINE WHICH LEADS TO POTENTIALLY SERIOUS PROBLEMS IF NOT REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE MANUFACTURER DOESN'T WANT TO PERFORM RECALLS, THEREFORE, WHO WANTS TO PAY TO FIX SOMETHING THAT'S NEEDED TO BE RECALLED? *LA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3NL52M4TM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER FOR RECALL# 02V070000 SUBJECT: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: IGNITION SWITCH. AFTER THE REPAIR, IGNITION SHORT CIRCUITED,CAUSING A FIRE IN THE DASHBOARD. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-26
- VIN: 1G3NL12M7TM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET LEAKED COOLANT. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-25
- VIN: 1G3NL12M2TM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE ALTERNATOR WAS NOT CHARGING AND THE BATTERY FAILED AS THE RESULT OF THE DEALER?S POOR RECALL REPAIR PREVIOUSLY IN WHICH WIRING HARNESS AND A RELAY WERE INSTALLED. *YH
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G3NL52T6TM
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SEAT BELT FAILED. *YH
1996 Oldsmobile Achieva recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMP MODULES / MODULE RESERVOIR ASSEMBLIES (MRA) THAT WERE SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE MRAS VENT AND FUEL RETURN TUBES WERE REVERSED. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN THE VEHICLE NOT RUNNING CORRECTLY (IDLE ROUGH AND/OR STALL) DUE TO AN OVERLY RICH FUEL BLEND OR THE VEHICLE'S EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CARBON CANISTER MAY LEAK FUEL.
- Consequence: A STALLED VEHICLE CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. A FUEL LEAK CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE MRAS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 1-877-335-7443.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE ENGINE FAILS TO START AND THE DRIVER HOLDS THE KEY IN THE "START" POSITION FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD, HIGH CURRENT FLOWS THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND SOMETIMES PRODUCES ENOUGH HEAT TO MELT INTERNAL SWITCH PARTS.
- Consequence: IF THE SWITCH IS DAMAGED, A FIRE COULD OCCUR IN THE STEERING COLUMN, EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF AND THE KEY REMOVED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RELAY KIT IN THESE VEHICLES TO PREVENT HIGH CURRENT FROM FLOWING THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 27, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR THE INTERIOR LAMPS TO COME ON UNEXPECTEDLY WHILE THE VEHICLES ARE BEING DRIVEN. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 101, "CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS."
- Consequence: THE INTERIOR LAMPS COMING ON UNEXPECTEDLY COULD STARTLE A DRIVER CAUSING A MOMENTARY LOSS OF CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL RUN A DIAGNOSTIC TEST ON THE LAMP CONTROL MODULE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE IT.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS
- Summary: THE FRONT AND/OR REAR HAZARD WARNING LAMPS (FOUR-WAY FLASHERS) DO NOT FLASH WHEN THE HAZARD SWITCH IS ACTIVATED. THIS FAILS TO COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: IF THESE LAMPS WERE NOT FLASHING, OTHER VEHICLES WOULD NOT BE AWARE THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS STOPPED INCREASING THE RISK OF AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS OR VEHICLE OWNERS WILL INSPECT FOR PROPER FUNCTION OF THE HAZARD WARNING LAMPS. IF NECESSARY, DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HAZARD LAMP SWITCH.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: DURING DEPLOYMENT OF THE PASSENGER AIR BAG, THE AIR BAG FABRIC CAN SNAG ON A REINFORCEMENT INSIDE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL, CAUSING THE EXPANDING AIR BAG TO LIFT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL PAD AND THEN DEPLOY UNDER THE INSTRUMENT PANEL INSTEAD OF THROUGH THE DOOR IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.
- Consequence: IN A CRASH, THE FRONT SEAT PASSENGER COULD RECEIVE MORE SEVERE INJURIES IF HE OR SHE CONTACTS A BROKEN REINFORCEMENT OR IF THE SNAGGING AFFECTS THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL PADS AND, IF NECESSARY, INSTALL A PLASTIC EDGE PROTECTOR TO THE INSTRUMENT PANEL PAD REINFORCEMENT. ON CERTAIN EARLY-PRODUCTION VEHICLES, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL PAD WILL BE REPLACED.
Negative 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva car reviews
Positive 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva car reviews
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This has been a great car! The only thing I've had to take it to the shop for was a water pump at around 60,000 miles. The front brakes do wear out quickly, but overall I'm really happy with it. I just changed the transmission oil at 130,000 miles and it's still running smoothly. I really like this car!
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I test drove many cars, including a '94 Mustang GT, and this one beat them all. It zips to 60mph, is super comfortable, has a very nice look, and great handling. The car can whip around turns and the engine produces a nice roar when the gas is floored. For the power, I average around 28mpg. It's very, very nice. You get Camaro/Mustang/Firebird performance in a smaller, more economical design. It also has a large trunk space too.
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I've owned this car since it was new and it has been both reliable and efficient. I make sure to follow the manufacturer's specifications for maintenance, treating it as if it were a Japanese car. I plan to continue using this car for several years to come. While it may not be the most attractive vehicle and is relatively inexpensive, I'm not too concerned about it being stolen.
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This is a great mid-sized car! The gas mileage is fantastic and the air conditioner is awesome. It also has good pick-up and a pretty cool design. However, it's worth noting that parts can be expensive due to the four-quad engine design.
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Hello there! I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I've had it for 3 years now and it's been very reliable. I know there are some bad reviews out there, but in my opinion, many people just don't take care of their cars and maintain them like they should. Have a great day!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva problems:
Oldsmobile Achieva will no longer start. Out of ideas. Do you have ...
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Oldsmobile Achieva Problems and Complaints - 35 Issues
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Q&A: 1997 Oldsmobile Achieva Security System Issues
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1996 Oldsmobile Achieva Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Oldsmobile mechanics near you.
Q&A: Troubleshooting 97 Oldsmobile Achieva Starting and Stalling ...
Jul 28, 2019 ... They did the relearn procedure and it worked fine until a couple weeks ago, when the problem started every so often and getting more frequent ...
Other years of Oldsmobile Achieva
Are you having problems with your 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva?
Blair Bogan 2024-11-28
I had my car for only one year and at first I was pretty satisfied with it. The car picked up quickly, especially when I needed to drive through pesky freeway traffic. But now, unfortunately, I am having engine and radiator problems. The mechanic informed me that antifreeze is leaking internally and mixing with my engine oil, so now I am forced to either donate my car or junk it.
Chris Schoen 2024-11-25
Bot 96 achieved SC in Aug 98. It had 12.5k miles. By Feb99, the vehicle left me sitting 6 times. The engine would stall, sputter, and the panel lights would flash on/off before the engine died. It took at least 10 minutes to restart the engine due to security sensors. Under warranty, Olds dealerships had lots of difficulty diagnosing the issue. In Fall 99, the dealer kept the vehicle for 3 weeks. Despite the maintenance and manufacturer's efforts, they couldn't find the problem. The solution was to replace all sensors. After 3 years and 67k more miles, the car was okay. However, I still thought about when it would leave me sitting again. Finally, it did in Nov 02 and Jan03 with 3 stall outs. The maintenance found no problem, but I wasn't comfortable with the vehicle. I gave it away for a tax writeoff.
Maxime Rutherford 2024-07-24
I've owned this car for three years now and it has met my expectations. Despite having to travel long distances for work and school, the car has reliably gotten me to my destinations. While I have experienced issues with the rotors wearing out prematurely, the car's gas economy is impressive. The 2.3L engine provides adequate pickup for passing and driving on hills. However, the design of the car's hood means that even minor accidents require a full replacement. Additionally, the seats can be uncomfortable for individuals over six feet tall, causing back pain during long trips. Getting into the car can also be a bit of a challenge. Overall, the car has served me well and I would recommend it to others.
Keshawn Lind 2024-06-01
I bought this car as a second vehicle for weekend driving. I really liked the car and found the quad 4 engine to be pretty responsive. Although the head cracked on the quad 4 engine, I decided to keep the car because of my fondness for it. I wanted more power from the car, so I replaced the engine with a 3.1 V6 engine and rewired the entire car. Despite the headaches that came with the job, I managed to get it back on the road with the V6 engine. Not only does it still get great gas mileage, but it also has fantastic power now. I plan to keep it until it falls apart because I love driving it around just for the fun of it.
Adolf Ruecker 2024-04-16
Hi there! I'm happy to share that my experience with this car has been surprisingly good. I decided to purchase it because of a large GM-card rebate and because I wasn't a fan of the plastic-clad Pontiac Grand AM (its platform sister). I'm pleased to say that my repair history has been very good - very little has gone wrong, other than what was expected. For example, the water pump failed at 95,000 miles - not a cheap repair, but after 95,000 miles, that's not too bad.