Oldsmobile Calais problems
The Oldsmobile Calais is a compact car that was manufactured and marketed by Oldsmobile from 1985 through 1991, superseding the Oldsmobile Omega and named after the city of Calais, France. Renamed the Cutlass Calais for 1988, and briefly available in 1987 as the limited edition GMO Quad 4, the Calais shared the GM N platform with the Pontiac Grand Am and the Buick Skylark/Buick Somerset — and was superseded by the Oldsmobile Achieva in 1992.
The first production model (VIN 1G3NT27UXFM200001), was a white Calais Supreme two-door with a gray velour interior. Equipped with an automatic transmission and the 92 horsepower, 151 CID pushrod four-cylinder engine (also known as GM's "Iron Duke" Tech-IV), this particular model was outfitted with nearly every available option, including wire wheel covers. While this front-wheel drive car is maintained by the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum in Lansing, Michigan, it was one of more than 700 vehicles that made up the GM Heritage Collection of historically significant vehicles that date back to the early 1900s. The Calais Supreme was auctioned in April, 2021, and sold for $8,585.
In 1987, the Quad 4 engine was developed and became available in a special limited edition of the Calais called the "GMO Quad 4". Early television ads touting the new engine's abilities showed video of the Calais GMO Quad 4 racing around city streets (the submodel was dropped, however the Quad 4 engine continued to be available for several years afterward). Another, later special Cutlass Calais model was the 1990 to 1991 Quad-442. It used a high-output version of the four-cylinder coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission. This same High Output version was also available in the top-of-the-line Cutlass Calais International Series.
The International Series was available as both a 2-door or a 4-door and featured exclusive options for the Calais range including lower front and rear facias, lower rocker extensions, and quad-tipped sport exhaust. Changes inside include thickly bolstered sport seats which feature driver-side power controls and were available in cloth with leather accents or full leather. The International Series came standard with power locks and windows with driver's side auto-down, a multifunction Driver Information Center in the center console, full gauges, cruise control, and the uplevel FE3 sport suspension. The standard engine for the International was the new-for-1990 Quad 4 H.O. although the normal Quad 4 L.O. and automatic transmission were an option. Optional equipment on the International series included keyless entry and a Delco CD player.
Previously, the Cutlass Calais nameplate was used on top-line versions of the Cutlass Supreme coupé (differing from the Supreme only in minor trim details) from 1978 to 1984. There was also a Cadillac Calais model, sold from 1965 to 1976.
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Oldsmobile Calais model years
Common Oldsmobile Calais problems
Oldsmobile Calais cars, produced from the mid-1980s to the late 1990s, have been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
- Fuel Gauge Failure: Another common issue is the failure of the fuel gauge, which can cause the driver to run out of gas unexpectedly, leading to potential safety hazards. The problem is often caused by a faulty fuel-sending unit, which is responsible for measuring the amount of fuel in the tank and sending that information to the gauge.
- Temperature Gauge Failure: Oldsmobile Calais cars can also experience temperature gauge failure, which can lead to engine damage or failure due to overheating. This is often caused by a faulty temperature sensor or a damaged wiring connection.
- Faulty Warning Lights: Faulty warning lights in the instrument cluster can also be a problem in some Oldsmobile Calais cars. When these lights fail, the driver may not receive important alerts about problems with the vehicle, such as low oil pressure, a malfunctioning fuel system, or an overheating engine. Damaged sensors or burned-out bulbs are usually the culprits when your cluster display isn't working.
- Engine and Transmission Issues: Oldsmobile Calais cars, particularly those with the Quad 4 engine, have been reported to have issues with engine and transmission performance. These problems can include rough idling, stalling, and difficulty shifting.
- Electrical Problems: Some Oldsmobile Calais owners have reported experiencing electrical issues, such as problems with the car's battery, alternator, and starter motor. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty wiring, corrosion, and damage to electrical components.
- Suspension and Steering Issues: Oldsmobile Calais cars have also been reported to have issues with the car's suspension and steering systems. These problems can include excessive play in the steering wheel, difficulty steering, and a rough ride. These issues can be caused by worn out or damaged suspension and steering components.
- Body and Paint Issues: Some Oldsmobile Calais owners have reported experiencing problems with the car's body and paint. These problems can include rust, dents, and paint chips. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to the elements, accidents, and normal wear and tear.
- Interior Issues: Oldsmobile Calais cars have also been reported to have issues with the car's interior. These problems can include worn out upholstery, broken interior trim, and malfunctioning climate control systems. These issues can be caused by normal wear and tear, accidents, and faulty components.
- Quality and Reliability Issues: Oldsmobile Calais cars have been reported to have issues with overall quality and reliability. These problems can include frequent breakdowns, expensive repairs, and a lack of parts availability. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor design, manufacturing defects, and inadequate maintenance.
In conclusion, Oldsmobile Calais cars have been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These problems can include issues with the instrument cluster, engine and transmission performance, electrical systems, suspension and steering, body and paint, interior, and overall quality and reliability.
Are Oldsmobile cars reliable?
Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system. A higher number means you can expect more significant problems. The average Oldsmobile score is 3.73 while the Intrigue comes in at 4.25.
Is the Cutlass a good car?
Owns this car
I am very pleased with this cars all around design, power, and reliability. The cutlass I own is in great shape even though it is 16 years old and has 250,000 miles under the hood. The feel of the motor is great. It has excellent acceleration without going overboard.
What was the most popular Oldsmobile?
Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera (1982–1996) – popular selling upscale mid-sized car based on GM's A platform. During its run, the Cutlass Ciera was Oldsmobile's best-selling model.
Was Oldsmobile considered a luxury car?
At various times in its existence, Oldsmobile was able to pass as a luxury vehicle manufacturer. But most of the time, GM used Oldsmobile to fulfill a middle ground in terms of its luxury level.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Oldsmobile Calais years
We have researched Oldsmobile problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Oldsmobile Calais cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Oldsmobile Calais model years:
- Oldsmobile Calais 1989
- Oldsmobile Calais 1988
- Oldsmobile Calais 1990
- Oldsmobile Calais 1986
- Oldsmobile Calais 1987
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Oldsmobile Calais model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Oldsmobile Calais years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Oldsmobile Calais car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Oldsmobile Calais , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Seats problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Oldsmobile Calais vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Calais model years
A total of 9 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Calais model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Calais model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 114 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Oldsmobile Calais . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Oldsmobile Calais vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Oldsmobile Calais 1987
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2004-01-15
- VIN: 1G3NF14U5HM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL PUMP/BALANCER ASSEMBLY ON 2.5L 151CI. TECH 4 (NOT SURE ON SPECIFIC YEARS) CAN CRACK FROM NORMAL WEAR, AND DESTROY CRANK SHAFT AND ENGINE. THE BALANCER ASSM. AND OIL PUMP ARE LOCATED IN OIL PAN. A SIMPLE REPLACEMENT OF OIL PUMP ASSM. WHEN LIFTER NOISE IS PRESENT, OR WHEN METAL FILINGS ARE FOUND IN OIL, WILL SAVE YOU FROM REPLACING ENGINE. THIS ASSEMBLY WILL EVENTUALLY STOP PUMPING OIL AND RUIN ENGINE. SAVE YOURSELF TIME AND MONEY AND DO-IT-YOURSELF. BUT DON'T DRIVE THE CAR WITH THESE PROBLEMS! THIS PUMP WILL RUN YOU $275 AT DEALERSHIP, BUT THIS BEATS A NEW ENGINE. I HAVE SEEN THIS TO BE THE MAIN CAUSE OF FAILURE IN HIGH MILEAGE ENGINES OF THIS KIND. GM DOESN'T COVER OR CLAIM TO KNOW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND. I HOPE THIS HELPS YOU.
Oldsmobile Calais 1986
- Date Of Incident: 1992-06-15
- Date Complaint: 2004-01-15
- VIN: 1G3NF69L3GM
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE,TIRES,WHEELS,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. I BOUGHT IT USED 2 YEARS AGO FOR $1000.00 AND HAVE SPEND CLOSE TO $2000.00 JUST KEEPING THE THING RUNNING. I NOW AM IN THE PROCESS OF REPLACING THE ELECTRIC COMPUTER MODULAR AND THAT IS COSTING ME ANOTHER $440.00 AND NOT THERE IS A LOUD GRINDING AND BANGING COMING FROM THE FRONT END WHEN I DRIVE IT. I HEARD THAT THIS CAR WAS A GOOD MODEL AND FOUND OUT ON MY OWN IT IS A NIGHTMARE ON WHEELS. I AM A SINGLE MOTHER, STUDENT WITH NOT MUCH MONEY AND I DEPEND ON A RELIABLE CAR . THIS MODEL HAS SPENT MORE TIME PARKED THAN IT HAS BEEN DRIVEN. I WOULD LOVE TO SET THIS CAR ON FIRE IT HAS MADE MY LIFE SO STRESSFUL. I WILL NEVER IN MY LIFE EVER OWN ANOTHER OLDSMOBILE.
Oldsmobile Calais 1986
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-20
- Date Complaint: 2002-06-21
- VIN: 1G3NF27U5GM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AACHEN AUTO REPLACE THREE TIMES IN 2 YEARS, NOW 24 HOURS AFTER LAST REPAIR, WILL NOT REPLACE OR TOW FOR FREE. AACHEN AUTO/KEB IS AVIDING PHONE CALLS AND NOT GIVING ME AN ALTERNATIVE TOPAYING FOR THEIR FAULTY ALTENATOR AGAIN.*AK
Oldsmobile Calais 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2001-09-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3NT54NXLM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN PUTTING VEHICLE INTO REVERSE IT TOOK OFF AT HIGH SPEED WITHOUT APPLICATION OF ACCELERATOR PEDAL. VEHICLE STOPPED AFTER HITTING TREE AND FENCE. DEALER HAS SEEN THE VEHICLE.*AKAS A RESULT OF THE ACCIDENT THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED, THE DRIVER ALSO SUSTAINED INJURIES, BROKEN RIBS, CRACKED COLLAR BONE, SPINE INJURY AND HEADACHES. *NLM
Oldsmobile Calais 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2001-08-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G3NT54NXLM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WENT OUT OF CONTROL AT A HIGH SPEED WHEN THE DRIVER PUT GEAR IN REVERES TO BACK OUT OF PARKING LOT, AND CAUSED ACCIDENT SERIOUSLY INJURING THE DRIVER AND DAMAGING THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED INVESTIGATION BY THE MANUFACTURER. (THE ADDRESS IS THE OWNERS FATHER)*YH
Oldsmobile Calais 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2001-08-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G3NT54NXLM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WENT OUT OF CONTROL AT A HIGH SPEED WHEN THE DRIVER PUT GEAR IN REVERES TO BACK OUT OF PARKING LOT, AND CAUSED ACCIDENT SERIOUSLY INJURING THE DRIVER AND DAMAGING THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED INVESTIGATION BY THE MANUFACTURER. (THE ADDRESS IS THE OWNERS FATHER)*YH *TR
Oldsmobile Calais 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2000-11-07
- VIN: 1G3NL14U7KM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 35MPH ON A STREET APPROACHING A STOP LIGHT, ROUGH IDLE/ VEHICLE RAN HOT, AND TURNED OFF WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
Oldsmobile Calais 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-20
- Date Complaint: 2000-03-27
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3AJ51W7KG
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SEATS
- Summary: REAR ENDED WHEN STOPPED AT LIGHT BY SUB COMPACT SPEEDING AT APROX. 30 MPH. BOTH FRONT SEATS FOLDED BACK TO REAR SEATS (NON RECLINING TYPE) REAR DOORS JAMMED .MED. *AK
Oldsmobile Calais 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2000-02-02
- VIN: 1G3NT54D8JM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY FAILED. *MJS
Oldsmobile Calais 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2000-02-02
- VIN: 1G3NT54D8JM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CRACKED ENGINE HEAD. *MJS
Oldsmobile Calais 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1999-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON SMOOTH PAVEMENT AT 30 MPH REAR LEFT STRUT BROKE LOOSE FROM ITS MOUNTING AND BUSTED THROUGH THE TRUNK. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
Oldsmobile Calais 1989
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-28
- Date Complaint: 1999-08-18
- Fire: 1
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 25-30MPH VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. HAD NO WARNING. NOTICED FLAMES AROUND FLOORBOARD & COMING FROM THE TRUNK. PULLED OVER & LEFT VEHICLE. THE FUEL TANK EXPLODED. RECALL FOR FUEL LINE #92V150000. *AK
Oldsmobile Calais 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-20
- Date Complaint: 1999-03-22
- VIN: 1G3NT14D5JM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VERY COMMON PROBLEM FOR ALL QUAD-4 ENGINE HEADS. NO HELP FROM OLDSMOBILE DUE TO AGE/MILEAGE. *AK
Oldsmobile Calais 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1999-03-19
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TRUNK RUSTED OUT DUE TO LEAKAGE.
Oldsmobile Calais 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1999-02-18
- VIN: 1G3NF54D7KM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR THIS VEHICLE.
Latest 5 recalls Oldsmobile Calais
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the Oldsmobile Calais.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Oldsmobile Calais 1986
- Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Model: Oldsmobile Calais 1985
- Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Model: Oldsmobile Calais 1987
- Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Model: Oldsmobile Calais 1989
- Report Received Date: 1992-10-19
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY COULD CRACK OR SEPARATE AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKING IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COULD RESULT IN ANUNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
- Model: Oldsmobile Calais 1988
- Report Received Date: 1992-10-19
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY COULD CRACK OR SEPARATE AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKING IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COULD RESULT IN ANUNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
Are you having problems with your Oldsmobile Calais?
