1983 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser problems
The Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser is an automobile that was manufactured and marketed by Oldsmobile from 1971 until 1992. Marking the return of Oldsmobile to the full-size station wagon segment, the Custom Cruiser was initially slotted above the intermediate Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, ultimately above the later mid-size Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser.
For three generations, the Custom Cruiser shared the General Motors B platform with the Buick Estate, Pontiac Safari, and the Chevrolet Caprice (initially Chevrolet Kingswood) station wagons. Within Oldsmobile, the Custom Cruiser shared its trim with the Oldsmobile Delta 88 and Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. During 1985 and 1986, all three GM mid-price divisions downsized their B-platform full-size sedans, leaving the Custom Cruiser with no sedan counterpart. After the discontinuation of the Cutlass Supreme Classic, the model line became the sole Oldsmobile sold with rear-wheel drive.
Following the 1992 model year, production of the Custom Cruiser was discontinued. Alongside an extensive redesign for 1991, Oldsmobile had already initiated station wagon alternatives, introducing both the Oldsmobile Silhouette minivan (1990) and Oldsmobile Bravada mid-size SUV (1991). In total, Oldsmobile produced 451,819 Custom Cruisers over 21 years. Following the discontinuation of the model line, GM ended full-size station wagon production after 1996, becoming the final American-brand manufacturer to do so at the time.
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Common 1983 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser problems
The Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser 1983 is a full-size station wagon produced by Oldsmobile. While the specific model year of 1983 does not have many documented issues, there are some common problems associated with the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser and Oldsmobile vehicles of the era, particularly those equipped with the Oldsmobile Diesel engine.
- Transmission Failures: The Oldsmobile Diesel engine was also plagued by transmission troubles, with seven out of nine cars supplied to CARB (California Air Resources Board) suffering transmission failures. This, combined with camshaft issues with gasoline V8s, led to a Federal Trade Commission complaint in 1980.
- Rust and Corrosion: As with many vehicles of the era, rust and corrosion can be an issue, particularly in areas with harsh winter conditions or coastal environments. The Custom Cruiser's body and undercarriage should be inspected for signs of rust, especially if the vehicle has been stored for an extended period.
- Electrical Issues: Electrical problems, such as non-functioning power window motors and intermittent speedometer squeaks, can occur in older vehicles. These issues may not significantly impact the vehicle's performance but can be annoying for the driver.
- Air Conditioning Failure: The air conditioning system may fail or perform poorly, especially in older vehicles. This can be a significant issue, particularly in hot climates or during long trips.
- Suspension and Handling: For those looking to modify their Custom Cruiser, suspension and handling upgrades can be a challenge. While coilovers are a preferred solution, they can be difficult to find for this specific model. Lowering the vehicle without cutting springs may require custom solutions or aftermarket parts, which can be expensive.
While the 1983 Custom Cruiser may not have specific issues, it is essential to be aware of these common problems associated with Oldsmobile vehicles of the era, particularly those equipped with the Oldsmobile Diesel engine. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these issues, ensuring the vehicle remains safe and reliable for years to come.
What was the last year of the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser?
1992
Following the 1992 model year, production of the Custom Cruiser was discontinued. Alongside an extensive redesign for 1991, Oldsmobile had already initiated station wagon alternatives, introducing both the Oldsmobile Silhouette minivan (1990) and Oldsmobile Bravada mid-size SUV (1991).
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.
What is the rarest Oldsmobile?
1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais Wyoming Centennial Edition Is Junkyard Treasure. One of the rarest of all special-edition Oldsmobiles, complete with manual transmission.
Who made the custom cruiser?
Oldsmobile Custom
The Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser was a Full-Size Vehicle, manufactured by Oldsmobile for three generations, from 1971-1992.
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.
What was the last year of the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser?
1992
Following the 1992 model year, production of the Custom Cruiser was discontinued. Alongside an extensive redesign for 1991, Oldsmobile had already initiated station wagon alternatives, introducing both the Oldsmobile Silhouette minivan (1990) and Oldsmobile Bravada mid-size SUV (1991).
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 Oldsmobile stop?
After the tremendous success of the 1970s and 1980s, things changed quickly for Oldsmobile, and by the early 1990s the brand had lost its place in the market (as annual sales had fallen from a record high of 1,066,122 in 1985 to just 402,936 in 1993), squeezed between other GM divisions, and with competition from new ...
1983 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Custom cruiser problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1983 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-13
- VIN: 1G3AP35Y4DX
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CLASP ON SEAT BELT DISCONNECTED. RESULTING IN NOT SECURING THE STRAP TO THE BUCKLE. TT
Additional sources
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