1985 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Quad 4, the Calais shared the GM N platform with the Pontiac Grand Am and the Buick Skylark/Buick Somerset — and was superseded by the Oldsmobile Achieva in 1992.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.
Social links
Common 1985 Oldsmobile Calais problems
The 1985 Oldsmobile Calais, a front-wheel-drive vehicle, was a part of the GM's J-platform cars that faced several issues, leading to a subpar driving experience. The car was criticized for being a generic GM cookie-cutter car, lacking the sporty image it once had.
One of the most common problems with the 1985 Oldsmobile Calais was engine issues. The Cutlass Calais ranked 1st in reliability among 12 Oldsmobile models, but still, owners made 2 complaints over 3 model years, mostly about engine problems.
The 1985 Oldsmobile Calais also suffered from water leak problems due to the shared cowl and water leak issues with other J-body cars. This issue was known to affect the car's interior, causing damage to the dash and other components.
Another problem with the 1985 Oldsmobile Calais was the handling. Despite the car's reputation for handling better than other vehicles in its class, it still had issues with pulling to one side, which could be attributed to alignment or suspension problems.
The 1985 Oldsmobile Calais also had issues with the interior components, such as the dash pad top separating from the dash binnacle, which could lead to rattling and other issues. The car's technology, such as the torque converter switch, was also known to fail, causing the car to stall or have other issues.
The 1985 Oldsmobile Calais's electrical system was also prone to problems, with alternators known to fail, causing the car to have starting issues or other electrical problems.
In summary, the 1985 Oldsmobile Calais had several common problems, including engine issues, vacuum problems, water leaks, handling issues, interior component issues, electrical problems, and air conditioning issues. These problems could lead to significant repair costs and a subpar driving experience.
What engine is in a 1985 Cutlass?
The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme coupe and sedan were stock with a 3.8-liter V6, 2 barrel engine, while a 5-liter (305 CID) V8 engine was available at extra cost. The transmission is a 3-speed automatic with torque converter clutch. Where the rear is a multi link.
How much is an Oldsmobile Calais?
The average Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais costs about $41,045.73. The average price has increased by 35.3% since last year. The 4 for sale on CarGurus range from $7,995 to $59,900 in price.
What year did the Cutlass Calais come out?
| Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais | |
|---|---|
| Also called | Oldsmobile Calais (from 1985–1987) |
| Production | 1984-1991 |
| Model years | 1985-1991 |
| Assembly | Lansing, Michigan |
What is the best Oldsmobile engine ever made?
The 7.0 L (6,967 cc; 425.2 cu in) big-block was the first tall-deck "big block," produced from 1965 through 1967. It is arguably the best engine Olds made in the muscle car era, although it never made it into a "muscle car". It used a 4.126 in (104.8 mm) bore and 3.975 in (101.0 mm) stroke.
What engine is in a 1985 Cutlass?
The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme coupe and sedan were stock with a 3.8-liter V6, 2 barrel engine, while a 5-liter (305 CID) V8 engine was available at extra cost. The transmission is a 3-speed automatic with torque converter clutch. Where the rear is a multi link.
Who made the Calais car?
Oldsmobile
The Calais was the Oldsmobile version of the N-Body (see: Pontiac Grand Am, Buick Skylark/Somerset), and it became the Cutlass Calais starting in the 1988 model year and continuing through its final model year of 1991.
How much is an Oldsmobile Calais?
The average Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais costs about $41,045.73. The average price has increased by 35.3% since last year. The 4 for sale on CarGurus range from $7,995 to $59,900 in price.
What year was the Cutlass Calais made?
| Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais | |
|---|---|
| Also called | Oldsmobile Calais (from 1985–1987) |
| Production | 1984-1991 |
| Model years | 1985-1991 |
| Assembly | Lansing, Michigan |
1985 Oldsmobile Calais car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Calais problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Steering problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Oldsmobile Calais vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Oldsmobile Calais complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Oldsmobile Calais.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1987-01-01
- VIN: 1G3NF27L6SC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING COLUMN WHEEL HAS CRACKED ON TWO OCCASIONS, INDICATOR LIGHT LEVER ALSO BROKE OFF. TT
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1987-01-01
- VIN: 1G3NF27L6SC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: STEERING COLUMN WHEEL HAS CRACKED ON TWO OCCASIONS, INDICATOR LIGHT LEVER ALSO BROKE OFF. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-12-22
- VIN: 1G3NF27UXEC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SMOKE COMING FROM ENGINE. *SD
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-28
- VIN: 1G3NF27U5FM
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: HOOD LATCH FAILED AFTER RECALL REPAIRS, CAUSING HOOD TO FLY UP. (86V-1210) *AW
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3NT27U7FM
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: FRONT HOOD LATCH CAME APART, HOOD FLEW BACKWARDS, SMASHING WINDSHIELD/BENDING HOOD. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-02
- VIN: 1G3NT27U7FM
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE LEAK.
1985 Oldsmobile Calais recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1985 Oldsmobile Calais.
- 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).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SMALL CRACKS MAY DEVELOP IN THE BODY PILLAR AROUND THE DOOR STRIKER BOLT HOLE.
- Consequence: CRACKS WOULD INCREASE LEADING TO DIFFICULTY IN CLOSINGTHE DOOR AND MIGHT ALLOW DOOR TO COME OPEN DURING A CRASH, INCREASINGLIKELIHOOD OF INJURY TO OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: INSTALL INNER AND OUTER REINFORCEMENT PLATE ON BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT BODY PILLARS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: THE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH MAY BE INCORRECTLY ALIGNED, OR MAY EXHIBIT A BINDING CONDITION OF THE LATCH PIVOT. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN THE PRIMARY HOOD LATCH NOT BEING COMPLETELY ENGAGED TO THE HOOD, THE HOOD COULD UNEXPECTEDLY OPEN WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE HOOD MAY CONTACT THE WINDSHIELD REDUCING THE FORWARD VISION AREA OF THE DRIVER AND A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: THE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH WILL BE REPLACED AND INSPECT THE PRIMARY HOOD LATCH POP-UP LEVER.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:SPRINGS
- Summary: THE THROTTLE RETURN SPRING ASSEMBLY MAY FAIL PREVENTING THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO THE CLOSED (IDLE) POSITION WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS RELEASED. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: ENGINE SPEED MAY NOT DECREASE AND LOSS OF ACCELERATOR CONTROL COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: REPLACE THROTTLE RETURN SPRING.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
- Summary: A LOSS OF BONDING ADHESION BETWEEN THE PAINT AND THE WINDSHIELD OPENING AREA COULD ALLOW THE WINDSHIELD TO SEPARATE DURING A 30 MILE PER HOUR FRONTAL BARRIER TEST REQUIRED BY FMVSS 212, WINDSHIELD RETENTION. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: WINDSHIELD SEPARATION DURING AN ACCIDENT COULD RESULT IN AN UNBELTED OCCUPANT BEING EJECTED FROM THE CAR AND SEVERLY INJURED.
- Remedy: REMOVE AND REINSTALL WINDSHIELD IF A LACK OF PAINT BONDING IS EVIDENT.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1985 Oldsmobile Calais problems:
CC Capsule: 1985 Oldsmobile Calais Supreme - A Happy Baby ...
May 10, 2019 ... Scrupulously maintained, the car has not had any major problems. The only significant repair required so far has been a new valve cover gasket.
The Most Famous 1985 Oldsmobile Calais? | Barn Finds
Sep 8, 2021 ... Biggest problem was vacuum issues. I replaced a lot of rubber lines. This would be nice to own, but is over priced. Like 1. Reply. Avatar ...
79 Corvette Door Lock Mechanism Very Stiff - CorvetteForum ...
Mar 7, 2009 ... Is this a common problem? ... 1978 to 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais ( All Four Doors ) ... 1977 to 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme ( All Four Doors )
1978 Cutlass Calais - ClassicOldsmobile.com
May 7, 2013 ... Production of the '78 Cutlass Calais Coupe (it came only as a coupe) was 40,842. That's low compared to the number of Cutlass Supreme Coupes ...
Oldsmobile Diesel engine - Wikipedia
Simultaneous problems with GM's new THM200 automatic transmission made the overall problem worse. ... Low quality diesel fuel was a common ... 1978–1985 Oldsmobile ...
Other years of Oldsmobile Calais
Are you having problems with your 1985 Oldsmobile Calais?
Leave your review of 1985 Oldsmobile Calais