1997 Oldsmobile Aurora problems
The Oldsmobile Aurora is a luxury sedan, manufactured and marketed by General Motors from 1994 until 2003 over two generations — sharing platforms with Buick Riviera and using the Cadillac-derived G platform. At the time of production, the Aurora was the flagship vehicle in the Oldsmobile lineup. It originated as the 1989 Oldsmobile tube car concept.
The Aurora replaced the Toronado coupe and eventually the Oldsmobile 98, LSS and Regency in the Oldsmobile range — using V8 and V6 engines. It was equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.
Origins
Early design work on what would become the Aurora began as early as the late 1980s with the 1989 Oldsmobile Tube Car engineering concept, designed by Bud Chandler. In addition to the overall similar shape, the Tube Car featured many detailed elements that were later found on the production automobile, including a full-width taillamp, wraparound rear windshield, and frameless windows. Unlike the eventual production car, the Tube Car used a pillarless hardtop design with suicide doors. The final production design was signed off on in July 1989, originally set for a 1992 start of production.
By the Aurora's introduction, Oldsmobile sales had fallen from a record high of 1,066,122 in 1985 to 402,936 in 1993; rumors of the division's demise were rampant, which GM at the time firmly denied. Competition from Acura, Infiniti and Lexus offered similar products that benefited from superior durability and reliability reputations. GM developed the Aurora to rejuvenate Oldsmobile as a result. The Aurora bore no Oldsmobile badging save for the radio-CD-cassette deck and engine cover (during focus group testing, potential customers had been repelled when they learned the Aurora was in truth an Oldsmobile). At one point, then-division head John Rock (who had recently arrived from the GMC division) proposed using the Aurora name to replace the Oldsmobile brand entirely and offer cars in a similar fashion to GM's nascent Saturn division (a plan ultimately nixed by the GM higher-ups, though for a period Saturn's no-haggle pricing was implemented). Instead, the Aurora used a stylized A emblem, foreshadowing a similar restyling of Oldsmobile's corporate "rocket" emblem for 1997.
One bizarre footnote of development was a 1993 incident where a prototype Aurora, driven by freelance car reviewer Tim Dunne, was nearly totaled after a four-foot log fell from a Michigan Department of Natural Resources truck (Dunne was able to maneuver the Aurora so much that only the right front wheel was struck); this subsequently led then-governor John Engler to purchase an Aurora (Engler having been a life-long Oldsmobile customer).
Oldsmobile subsequently borrowed Aurora styling cues for its Intrigue and compact Alero models.
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Common 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora problems
The Oldsmobile Aurora, produced between 1995 and 2003, is known for several common problems, particularly in the engine, transmission, and cooling system. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Blown head gasket and engine failure: The 1997 Aurora has been specifically mentioned as having a high incidence of blown head gaskets, which can lead to eventual engine failure. This issue seems to be more prevalent in the 1997 model, but it can also affect other years.
- Overheating: The 1998 Aurora has been reported to overheat and shut off, which can be caused by various issues, including coolant leaks or problems with the cooling system. This issue can also affect other model years.
- Transmission trouble: The Aurora, along with other Oldsmobile models, is known to have transmission problems. These issues can range from transmission failure to trouble shifting gears. The 1997 and 2001 model years seem to be particularly affected.
- Coolant leaks: Leaking coolant is a common problem in the Aurora, which can lead to overheating and other engine issues. This problem has been reported in various model years, including the 1997 and 2001 models.
- Fuel level sensor failure: The Aurora's fuel level sensor can fail, causing inaccurate readings on the fuel gauge. This issue has been reported in the 1997 and 2001 model years.
- Leaking valve cover gaskets: The 4.0 V8 engine used in the Aurora is known for oil leaks and burning oil, particularly in the valve cover gaskets. This issue can be expensive to fix, with costs ranging from $200 to $800, depending on the severity of the leak and the labor charges.
- Water pump failure: The water pump is another common problem area in the Aurora's 4.0 V8 engine. The water pump can fail, leading to engine overheating and potential engine damage. Replacing the water pump can cost between $200 and $500, depending on labor charges and the cost of the pump itself.
- Alternator failure: The alternator is another component that can fail in the Aurora. This issue can cause the battery to drain, leading to difficulty starting the car or even causing the car to stall while driving. Replacing the alternator can cost between $200 and $500, depending on labor charges and the cost of the alternator itself.
In summary, the Oldsmobile Aurora has several common problems, particularly in the engine, transmission, and cooling system. These issues can be expensive to fix and may require frequent repairs. It is essential to stay on top of regular maintenance and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the car's reliability.
What is the top speed of a 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora?
That makes the '97 Aurora sort of a smoking gun sedan, with a rated top speed conservative stated by Oldsmobile as 135 miles per hour.
Who makes the Aurora engine?
The Oldsmobile Aurora Indy V8 engine is a 3.5-liter to 4.0-liter, naturally-aspirated, V-8 Indy car racing engine, designed, developed and produced by Oldsmobile, for use in the IRL IndyCar Series; from 1996 to 2001.
What happened to the Oldsmobile Aurora?
The second generation Aurora went into production on November 1, 1999, and went on sale in February 2000 as a 2001 model. The last V6-powered Auroras was assembled on June 21, 2002. The final 500 Auroras ended production on March 28, 2003.
How fast can an Oldsmobile Aurora go?
Performance
| 0 - 30 mph | 3.2 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 90 mph | 17.9 s |
| 0 - 100 mph | 22.5 s |
| 1/4 mile | 16.5 s @ 86.0 mph |
| Top speed | 217 kph (135 mph) |
What is the top speed of a 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora?
That makes the '97 Aurora sort of a smoking gun sedan, with a rated top speed conservative stated by Oldsmobile as 135 miles per hour.
Who makes the Aurora engine?
The Oldsmobile Aurora Indy V8 engine is a 3.5-liter to 4.0-liter, naturally-aspirated, V-8 Indy car racing engine, designed, developed and produced by Oldsmobile, for use in the IRL IndyCar Series; from 1996 to 2001.
What happened to the Oldsmobile Aurora?
The second generation Aurora went into production on November 1, 1999, and went on sale in February 2000 as a 2001 model. The last V6-powered Auroras was assembled on June 21, 2002. The final 500 Auroras ended production on March 28, 2003.
How fast can an Oldsmobile Aurora go?
Performance
| 0 - 30 mph | 3.2 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 90 mph | 17.9 s |
| 0 - 100 mph | 22.5 s |
| 1/4 mile | 16.5 s @ 86.0 mph |
| Top speed | 217 kph (135 mph) |
1997 Oldsmobile Aurora car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Aurora problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora
The NHTSA has received 134 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-02
- VIN: 1G3GR62C4V4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT OBSERVED A FUEL ODOR WITHIN THE ENGINE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE EXTERIOR BRAKE LIGHTS AND HEADLIGHTS ILLUMINATED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT THE ENGINE BEING STARTED. THE CONTACT HAD TO REMOVE THE BATTERY FROM THE VEHICLE IN ORDER FOR THE LIGHTS TO REMAIN OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL INJECTORS, FUEL PUMP, AND SPARK PLUGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT INQUIRED IF THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); HOWEVER, THERE WERE NO OPEN RECALLS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 197,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-02
- VIN: 1G3GR62CXV4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: USED THE REMOTE START FEATURE DURING 24 DEG WEATHER AND THE DRIVER SIDE REAR FIXED WINDOW SHATTERED. POSSIBLE CAUSE WOULD BE A SHORT IN THE REAR WINDOW DEFROST UNIT, WHICH COMES ON WHEN USING REMOTE START IN COLD WEATHER.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-14
- VIN: 1G3GR62CXV4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY STALL. IN ADDITION, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE A MIST WAS PRESENT COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND THE ENGINE WOULD NOT START. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE NUMBER 8 CYLINDER FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-06
- VIN: 1G3GR62C5V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ON MARCH 4, 2004, A RECALL WAS ISSUED FOR MY CAR - COMPONENTS FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: DELIVERY: HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS. NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V110000. NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA04003. I WENT TO THE DEALER IN 2004 AND THEY REPLACED MY FUEL RAIL. THEY DID NOT REPLACE THE FUEL RETURN LINE. THE RECALL STATES "ADDITIONALLY, THE 1995 MODEL YEAR USES A UNIQUE UNDERHOOD FUEL RETURN LINE THAT MAY CRACK. CRACKING OF THE FUEL RAIL OR RETURN LINE TUBING CAN RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. CONSEQUENCE: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE." MY CAR IS A 1997. THE RETURN LINE HAS, SO FAR, CRACKED FOUR TIMES AND EACH TIME I WAS FORTUNATE TO NOT HAVE THE CAR CATCH ON FIRE WHILE I DROVE TO MY MECHANIC WHO WAS ABLE TO SPLICE IT. IT IS NOW TOO SHORT TO SPLICE ANYMORE AND I HAVE NO DOUBT IT WILL CRACK AGAIN. TODAY I WENT TO A LOCAL DEALER AND HE SAID REPAIR/REPLACEMENT OF THE LINE IS NOT COVERED UNDER THIS RECALL. IT IS THE SAME DANGEROUS PROBLEM FOR WHICH THE 1995 AURORA WAS RECALLED. I AM RETIRED AND LIVING SOLELY ON SOCIAL SECURITY. I DO NOT HAVE MONEY TO GET THIS FIXED (THE DEALER SAID MINIMUM $500 AND COULD GO BEYOND $1,000). I SEE NO REASON WHY THIS SHOULD NOT BE COVERED. IT IS A FAULT OF THE MANUFACTURER USING SUBSTANDARD "RUBBER" OR WHATEVER IS CRACKING WHICH CAN NOT HANDLE THE EXTREMELY HIGH PRESSURE OF THE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM IN THAT LINE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3GR62C9V4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BOTH REAR BRAKE LINES ARE SO EXTREMELY CORRODED IT ACTUALLY RUSTED THROUGH THE METAL BRAKE LINES IN SEVERAL DIFFERENT LOCATIONS ON BOTH REAR BRAKE LINES AND IS LEAKING IN LARGE AMOUNTS AT THE SEVERE CORRODED SPOTS OF THE LINES. ALSO THE FRONT BRAKE LINES ARE ALSO EXTREMELY CORRODED THEY JUST HAVE YET TO CORRODE COMPLETELY THROUGH THE METAL LINE AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID YET BUT CAN GUARANTEE THEY WILL IN LESS THAN 20K MILES EASILY! AND THE MASTER CYLINDER IS NOT DIVIDED INTO 2 DIVIDED AND SEPARATE RESERVOIRS FOR THE FRONT AND REAR DISTRIBUTION BRAKING HYDRAULIC POWER IN CASE THE REAR BRAKE PRESSURE WOULD NOT BE ENOUGH FOR THE REAR CALIPERS TO WORK OR IF THE OPPOSITE HAPPENED TO THE FRONT AND ITS BECAUSE FLUID STARTED LEAKING: THAT WAY THERE IS STILL FLUID LEFT IN THE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR FOR EITHER THE FRONT BRAKES OR REAR BRAKES, WHICHEVER LINE(S) AREN'T LEAKING AND SO THE REMAINING BRAKING AXLE STILL HAS REMAINING EXCESS BRAKE FLUID TO STOP. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-08
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH MY 1997 OLDS AURORA. IT HAS NO POWER AT ALL. BEFORE NOW I HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE CAR TAKING A LONG TIME TO START. I ALSO HAD A PROBLEM WITH CLEAN KEY, WAIT 3 MINUTES. A PROBLEM WHERE IT SEEMS AS IF THE BATTERY WAS DISCONNECTED OVERNIGHT BECAUSE THE INFORMATION CENTER WAS RESET AS IF THE POWER WAS LOST WHILE SITTING. I ALSO HAVE HAD NUMEROUS OVERHEATING PROBLEMS THAT EVEN THE MECHANIC COULD NOT FIGURE OUT ON THIS CAR AFTER CHECKING IT OVER FOR DAYS, THEY JUST SAID THAT THEY DID NOT UNDERSTAND IT BECAUSE THE CAR WAS REGISTERING HOTTER THAN THE MACHINE THAT THEY USED TO CHECK THE TEMPERATURE WITH. WAS NOT ABLE TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. CAN'T DRIVE THE CAR FAR AT ALL BECAUSE IT OVERHEATS BEFORE EVEN GOING TWO MILES. NOW I HAVE NO TYPE OF POWER, NO INSIDE LIGHTS, NO HORN, THE REMOTE WON'T WORK. NO LIFE AT ALL. ALL THE FUSES ARE GOOD. CAN'T EVEN GET ANY POWER BY CONNECTING IT TO A CHARGER OR JUMP STARTING THE CAR. NOTHING AT ALL WORKS. THE CAR IS LIFELESS!!!!!!!! I LOVE THIS CAR AND I HAVE HAD THIS CAR SINCE 2004. *TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-02
- VIN: 1G3GR62C9V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MY 1997 OLDS AURORA STARTED LEAKING GAS FROM THE PLASTIC FUEL LINE UNDER THE HOOD.I HAD REMEMBERED THERE WAS A RECALL ON THIS AND CALLED OLDSMOBILE AND THEY TOLD ME MY CAR WAS NOT UNDER THE RECALL #04014. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW THIS COULD BE SINCE THEY FIGURED THIS OUT IN 2004 AND MY CAR WAS MADE IN 1997... THE DATE ON THE PLASTIC FUEL LINES IS 5/10/1996. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-17
- VIN: 1G3GR62C8V4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT WAS TURNING IN REVERSE APPROXIMATELY 2 MPH WHEN HE HEARD A LOUD POP. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND SHUT OFF. THE CONTACT THEN NOTICED A LARGE AMOUNT OF FLUID LEAKING FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT THEN DISCOVERED A BOLT WAS MISSING FROM THE STEERING RACK TO THE FRAME. THE RACK AND PINION HOUSING WAS ALSO FRACTURED AND THERE WERE SEVERAL RUSTED BOLTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-11
- VIN: 1G3GR62C4V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA (VIN [XXX] WITH A RECALLED FUEL RAIL. THE FUEL RAIL SPRING A PINHOLE LEAK, WHICH WAS SPRAYING ATOMIZED GASOLINE ON THE ENGINE BLOCK. THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS FUEL RAIL, BUT WHEN I CALLED THE OLDSMOBILE RECALL HOTLINE, THEY TOLD ME THAT THE REPAIR HAD ALREADY BEEN PERFORMED. SINCE THE FUEL RAIL WAS STILL THE OLD STYLE NYLON ONE AND NOT THE STAINLESS STEEL ONE SPECIFIED IN THE RECALL, I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP WHERE THE SERVICE WAS PERFORMED (AW GOLDEN IN READING, PA) TO INQUIRE AS TO WHY THE NYLON FUEL RAIL WAS STILL IN PLACE. THEY INFORMED ME THAT THE FORMER OWNER HAD NEVER COME BACK TO GET THE RECALL DONE. I WAS NEVER INFORMED OF THIS PROBLEM UNTIL I HAD FUEL LEAKING ONTO MY ENGINE BLOCK AND DUE TO OLDSMOBILE'S SYSTEM, WHICH HAS THE RECALL MARKED AS COMPLETE, I CANNOT GET THE RECALL SERVICE DONE. WHAT GOOD ARE SAFETY RECALLS IF THE MANUFACTURER CAN MARK THE RECALL COMPLETE WITHOUT PERFORMING THE WORK? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-14
- VIN: 1G3GR62C3V4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. I HAVE OWNED THIS VEHICLE FOR THE PAST 6 YEARS. OVER THE PAST YEAR, I HAVE NOTICED SOME "PLAY" IN THE TILT STEERING COLUMN. MY RESEARCH HAS REVEALED AN INHERENT PROBLEM THAT THESE MODEL OF CARS HAVE HAD WITH THE PIVOTS IN THE STEERING-TILT MECHANISM BACKING THEMSELVES OUT. ONE DAY I CLIMBED INTO THE CAR TO BACK DOWN THE DRIVEWAY, AND THE WHOLE STEERING ASSEMBLY JUST PLOPPED INTO MY LAP. I SUSPECTED THE PIVOTS WERE TO BLAME, SO I BEGAN REMOVAL OF THE JUNK AROUND THE STEERING COLUMN, ENOUGH TO GET A VIEW OF THE PIVOTS, AND TO MY DISMAY, I DISCOVERED THAT THE PIVOT ON ONE SIDE HAD WORKED LOOSE, BUT THE CAST METAL THAT SURROUNDS THE PIVOT ON THE OTHER SIDE HAD BROKEN COMPLETELY. I CAN THINK OF NO OTHER REMEDY THAN TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE COLUMN. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3GR62C3V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. WHEN THE CONTACT STARTED THE VEHICLE, IT IGNITED INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND CUT THE INCORRECT WIRES FOR THE BATTERY. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 120,000. UPDATED 05/27/09 *BF UPDATED 05/29/09.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3GR62C0V4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I OWN A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA, ON 4/25/2009 WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY THE UNDERNEATH OF MY CAR BURST INTO FLAMES. I PULLED OVER AND LUCKILY MY MOTHER WAS FOLLOWING AND SHE HAD EXTINGUISHER IN HER VEHICLE. I TOOK VEHICLE TO REPAIR SHOP AND WAS TOLD THAT FIRE WAS CAUSED BY REAR MAIN SEAL LEAKING OIL DIRECTLY ONTO EXHAUST PIPE AND THAT THIS VEHICLE IS KNOWN FOR THAT AND THAT GM IS AWARE OF THE DEFECT IN THAT SEAL THAT'S WHY THERE IS A SERVICE BULLETIN ON IT. IT TURNS OUT AFTER MUCH RESEARCH THAT THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE WHO HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. WHY IS THE MANUFACTURE ALLOWED TO PUT A DEFECT PART IN THE VEHICLE THAT PUTS CONSUMERS AT RISK AND NOT BE RESPONSIBLE TO FIX IT. I HAD MY 2 YR OLD SON AND MY 4 MO OLD DAUGHTER IN THE CAR. GM WAS REQUIRED TO FIX THE FUEL RAIL SYSTEM DUE TO FIRE SAFETY, I BELIEVE THIS PROBLEM DESERVES THE SAME ATTENTION, SINCE OIL AND HEAT DO NOT MIX AS WELL IT'S JUST AS DANGEROUS, I WILL BE CONTACTING MY ATTORNEY GENERAL. PLEASE NOTE: GM HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THE REAR MAIN SEAL IS FAULTY AND WILL FAIL, CAUSING OIL TO LEAK ON EXHAUST MANIFOLD. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-30
- VIN: 1G3GR62C8V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT NOTICED A HUGE PUDDLE OF GASOLINE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. SHE CALLED THE DEALER IN REFERENCE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS) AND SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT. THE TECHNICIAN AT THE DEALER INSPECTED HER VEHICLE AND REPLACED THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE REPAIR, THE CONTACT SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE. THE DEALER STATED THAT, ACCORDING TO THE REMEDY, THEY WERE NOT REQUIRED TO INSTALL A REVISED CHASSIS FUEL RETURN LINE AND THE CONTACT WOULD HAVE TO PAY $400 FOR THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED AGAIN. THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 200,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-23
- VIN: 1G3GR62C4V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS OR TURNING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED A GAS SMELL. HE THEN NOTICED THAT FUEL LEAKED ALL OVER THE FUEL COMPARTMENT. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS), ALTHOUGH THE FAILURES WERE IDENTICAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE FUEL LINE PIPE. THE VEHICLE WILL BE REPAIRED AT A LATER DATE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,010 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 123,050.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3GR62C4V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. WHILE PARKING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT SMELLED GASOLINE THROUGH THE VENTS IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. HE TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED SMOKE UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FUEL LINE WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 150,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-11
- VIN: 1G3GR62CXV4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. IN NOVEMBER OF 2007, THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE DEALER REPLACED SOME OF THE HOSES, BUT THERE ARE THREE HOSES THAT ARE LEAKING FUEL. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT SHE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE ADDITIONAL REPAIR. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 146,037.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-23
- VIN: 1G3GR62C1V4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE PARKED, ON A HOT DAY, MY PARKING LIGHTS CAME ON AND WILL NOT GO OFF. I HAVE TO DISCONNECT & RECONNECT THE BATTERY TO SAVE IT FROM DISCHARGE EVERY TIME I DRIVE IT. IM AFRAID IT MAY CATCH FIRE (FROM OTHER REPORTS I'VE HEARD.) *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-10
- VIN: 1G3GR62C1V4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: HAD LOTS OF PROBLEMS, A/C COMPRESSOR FAILED 3 YEARS AGO DURING WARRANTY, THEN THERE WAS SHORT CIRCUIT IN STEERING WHEEL THAT WAS REPLACE, SOON AFTER FUEL GAUGE SENSOR WENT HAYWIRE THIS REQUIRED CHANGING THE SENSOR, FUEL PUMP AS WELL AS FUEL TANK ( PROBABLY THE DEALER CHEATED BY DOING ALL THIS WORK, FILED COMPLAINT TO BOTH GM AND ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE),OXYGEN SENSOR WENT BAD, ONE DAY ALL TURN SIGNALS STATED FLASHING WHILE JUST PARKED, REPLACED SENSORS AND WIRING, THEN AGAIN TURN SIGNAL SENSOR WENT BAD, SOON AFTER STARTING IGNITION SENSOR HAD TO BE REPLACED SINCE STARTING WAS HARD, THEN CAME THE ELECTRONIC KEY FAILING THAT NEEDED BOTH THE KEY & LOCK REPLACEMENT,NOW STILL AT TIMES THE KEY REFUSES TO START THE CAR, STARTED TO SEE RADIATOR LEAK THAT IS QUITE MYSTERIOUS I.E, AFTER A FEW WEEKS LEVEL GOES DOWN BUT CAN NOT FIND THE SOURCE, REAR WINDOW CONTROL FAILED , DASH BOARD LIGHTS WENT OUT THAT NEEDED REMOVING THE ENTIRE PANEL & REPLACING BULBS, NOW THE BIG PROBLEM OF LOW SPEED STALL ON THE ROAD I.E. IT STALLS IN SLOW TRAFFIC OR WHILE STOPPED AT LIGHT OR TAKING SLOW TURN, FILING A FULL REPORT WITH GM AGAIN FOR RECALLING ALL AURORA'S FROM ROAD ELSE BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS & EVEN DEATHS, CLASSIC EXAMPLE OF PRODUCING A BAD QUALITY HIGH END LUXURY CAR. MY OTHER 10-15 YRS OLD CARS ARE RUNNING FAR BETTER THAN THIS LEMON CAR. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-02
- VIN: 1G3GR62C4V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: APRIL 2007: FUEL RAIL AND LINE DEGRADED AND CRACKED SPILLING GAS INTO ENGINE COMPARTMENT. REPAIR MADE AT NON-DEALER AUTO REPAIR CLOSE TO HOUSE @ 350.00. QUIRK CHEVY, BRAINTREE SAID THEY INSPECTED IN 2005 AND SAID THAT WAS ALL THEY HAD TO DO. CAR WAS NEVER INSPECTED...LAST VISIT TO QUIRK IN BRAINTREE WAS IN 2003. ULTIMATELY, GM AGREED TO PAY CLAIM IN JUNE OF 2007. HAVE NOT RECEIVED PAYMENT. WHEN GM IS CONTACT, THEY SAY THEY'LL SEND THE CHECK NEXT WEEK... THEY HAVE SAID THAT EVERY WEEK SINCE AUGUST. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-30
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3GR62C7V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MY SON WAS DRIVING MY 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA ON THE FREEWAY WHEN THE DRIVER'S REAR SIDE OF THE CAR BURST INTO FLAMES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-04
- VIN: 1G3GR62C0V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT TOOK A LONG TIME AND HE NOTICED A POTENT GASOLINE SCENT. WHEN HE TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE, HE SMELLED A STRONG GASOLINE SCENT AGAIN. HE HAS NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER. HE NOTIFIED THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 91,937.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-06
- VIN: 1G3GR62C6V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT SMELLED FUEL INSIDE THE VEHICLE WHILE THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING. WHEN HE LIFTED THE HOOD, HE NOTICED FUEL LEAKING FROM THE FUEL LINE AND ONTO THE MOTOR. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED FOR NHTSA RECALL NUMBER 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM) AT 111,000 MILES. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 113,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-01
- VIN: 1G3GR62C1V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE # 04V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE DEALER WAS WILLING TO REPLACE THE FUEL RAIL, BUT NOT THE FUEL LINE. THE DEALER CLAIMED THAT THE RECALL WAS ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION AND NOT FULLY BY THE MANUFACTURER. THEY ALSO STATED THAT THE REPAIR AGREEMENT ONLY COVERED REPLACING THE FUEL RAIL. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-21
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G3GR62C6V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, BLACK SMOKE EMANATED FROM UNDER THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. WITHIN 8 SECONDS OF THE CONTACT EXITING THE VEHICLE, FLAMES WERE OBSERVED COMING FROM UNDER THE FRONT WHEEL WELLS, AND FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE HOOD MELTED, THE ENGINE WAS BURNED COMPLETELY, THE FRONT AXLE MELTED TO THE POINT OF PREVENTING ANY MOVEMENT OF THE FRONT WHEELS, AND THE ENTIRE DASH WAS MELTED. THE VEHICLE WAS CONSIDERED A TOTAL LOSS. POLICE AND FIRE REPORTS WERE TAKEN. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DETERMINED THAT THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS A FUEL LEAK. THERE WAS A NHTSA RECALL #04V110000 WHICH PERTAINS TO THE PIPINGS AND FITTINGS TO THE FUEL SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-17
- VIN: 1G3GR62C5V4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE NOTICED STRONG GASOLINE ODOR. WITH ENGINE RUNNING A FINE MIST OF GASOLINE WAS SHOOTING ACROSS ENGINE COMPARTMENT FROM A PINHOLE IN A PLASTIC FUEL DELIVERY LINE (HIGH PRESSURE?) NEAR THE FITTING CONNECTING IT TO THE METAL FUEL RAIL LINE. (FUEL RAIL WAS REPLACED 6/05 UNDER RECALL #04014) NEITHER THE LEAK NOR THE PINHOLE IS VISIBLE WHEN ENGINE IS NOT RUNNING. EXTREME FIRE HAZARD! VEHICLE CURRENTLY AT GM DEALERSHIP FOR REPLACEMENT OF FUEL LINES (LINES MARKED NON-REPAIRABLE) (REPAIR ESTIMATE APPROX $500). WEB SEARCH REVEALED NUMEROUS SIMILAR COMPLAINTS. CONTACTED OLDS CUSTOMER SERVICE AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO DUE TO THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE. APPEARS TO BE A HIGH-HAZARD SITUATION THAT COULD EASILY RESULT IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, INJURY AND/OR DEATH. *NM
1997 Oldsmobile Aurora recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L V8 ENGINES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE NYLON TUBING USED IN THE FUEL RAIL CONSTRUCTION MAY DEGRADE AND CRACK. ADDITIONALLY, THE 1995 MODEL YEAR USES A UNIQUE UNDERHOOD FUEL RETURN LINE THAT MAY CRACK. CRACKING OF THE FUEL RAIL OR RETURN LINE TUBING CAN RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL WITH A NEW STAINLESS STEEL FUEL RAIL. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSTALL A REVISED CHASSIS FUEL RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 2, 2004, FOR 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA VEHICLES. OWNERS OF 1995 CADILLACS AND 1996-1997 OLDSMOBILE AURORA WERE SENT LETTERS ON AUGUST 6, 2004. ADDITIONAL LETTERS TO OWNERS WILL BE FORTHCOMING. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Negative 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora car reviews
Positive 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora car reviews
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The car drives like a dream, but unfortunately it has not been very reliable. All repairs have been big ticket items and super expensive! The aluminum block V-8 has been a particular disappointment, running like a champ but requiring a complete reseal at 100,000 miles which cost $3000.
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I became the second owner of this beauty in 2000 when she had 82k on the odometer. As she approaches her 25th birthday, she has clocked 212k on the odometer. Although she has a minor oil leak and the check engine light comes and goes, I ensure that she is regularly serviced and my mechanic takes good care of her. She has a few dents and scratches, mostly due to my husband's driving, but I don't plan on parting with her. It's always fun seeing people trying to figure out what kind of car she is. Those who recognize her are mostly people who once had one, and they all say they wished they had kept theirs. I just hope she keeps going as long as I do!
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Your car drives like a dream! Although it may be costing you a fortune to drive, the ride is so smooth and it handles beautifully. When I went shopping for a good used Taurus, I only test drove it because I thought it was pretty, but once I drove this machine, I was sold. You paid 4800.00 which was probably too much, but it's clear that you love this car!
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This car has been great! It's amazing that yours has 220000 Km on it.
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I just bought an Aurora 97 with 106k miles. It's a lovely looking car, and I adore all the features it has. This car runs very smoothly and quickly. I've only had it for a few weeks, but I hope to keep it for a long time.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora problems:
Q&A: Common Problems with 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora V8
Sep 13, 2011 ... It should be cold at the bottom and hot at the top if it was clogged. Can you use a pressure tester on it and figure out where the pressure is ...
1997 Oldsmobile Aurora Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Top 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora Problems · Head Light Operation Issues · Stalling Due to Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure · Rubber Transmission Cooler Lines Can ...
Oldsmobile Aurora Engine Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jun 2, 2007 ... 97 Aurora just replaced crank shaft sensors, but the car still wants stall when idling and warmed, but when it gets ready to stall and you give ...
4.0 longterm reliability | Aurora Club of North America (ACNA) Forum
Jan 2, 2005 ... What are the common problems on ... GM did a good job with the 1995+ L47 engine ... 97 or something that fixed the more common causes of oil leaking ...
Oldsmobile Aurora Transmission — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Sep 11, 2007 ... To follow up my last post, I have found two problems with this transmission. A common problem with regards to fourth gear is that the fourth ...
Other years of Oldsmobile Aurora
Are you having problems with your 1997 Oldsmobile Aurora?
Trystan Hettinger 2024-11-05
If you are considering purchasing one of these automobiles, I would like to share my experience with you. In my opinion, this car has not met my expectations. The interior is not up to the mark and the ride quality is not satisfactory. Additionally, I have faced some issues with starting the car. I hope this information helps you make an informed decision.
Tyrel Renner 2024-10-04
You might expect a car that costs $36,000 to be reliable. Unfortunately, this has not been the case for me. The radio broke (right after it came back from the dealer), the fuel regulator broke (after a recall to fix the fuel rail), and the ignition broke after I had gone to the dealer to have a computer check that would fix it.
Norval Marquardt 2024-09-06
You have a nice car with plenty of power, but it seems to lack handling. It can be a bit hard to park and the ride is so-so. Additionally, it seems to depreciate rather quickly. I'm 5'11
Webster Simonis 2024-09-05
This car had a lot of potential! It boasts a powerful 4.0L V8 engine and a transmission that complements it well. However, the quality is subpar. I owned mine for over three years and I lost track of how much I spent on repairs. Everything was expensive, not just a little bit either! During that generation, GM had issues with their paint/primer, which resulted in a class action lawsuit (my car looked terrible like someone keyed it- but no one did). I encountered suspension problems, fuel delivery/injection problems, electrical problems, cooling system problems, and more! If GM had improved the quality, I would have bought three of these because they are a blast when they're running. Oh well...
Francesco Wiza 2024-06-23
At 57,000 miles, my Aurora required a new air conditioner compressor and a replacement of the aluminum Northstar V8 engine block due to cracking. Although they run great, the cost of constant repairs is exorbitant.