1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser problems

oldsmobile logo

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.

1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser

Social links

Common 1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser problems

The 1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser is a classic full-sized station wagon, known for its spacious interior and luxurious features. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems and complaints from owners.

One of the most frequently reported issues is related to vacuum hoses under the hood. Over time, these hoses can dry out and cause a range of problems, including idle issues, poor gas mileage, and rough running. Regular inspection and replacement of these hoses can help prevent these issues.

Another common problem with the 1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser is related to the transmission. Transmission problems can manifest in various ways, such as shifting delays, jumping or grinding during acceleration, and unusual noises. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including low transmission fluid levels, worn-out clutch plates, or a malfunctioning solenoid.

The air conditioning (A/C) system is another area where owners have reported problems. The A/C system can develop leaks, causing it to lose refrigerant and become less effective at cooling the interior. Additionally, the A/C compressor may fail, which can be costly to replace.

The headliner is another area where owners have reported issues. Over time, the headliner can sag, which can affect the appearance of the vehicle's interior. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, exposure to heat and moisture, and poor quality materials.

Finally, rust is a common problem with the 1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser, particularly in areas where the vehicle is exposed to road salt and other corrosive substances. Rust can affect various parts of the vehicle, including the frame, body panels, and suspension components. While rust can be treated, it's often a sign of more extensive damage that can be costly to repair.

In summary, the 1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser is a classic station wagon with a range of common problems and complaints from owners. These issues include vacuum hose failures, transmission problems, A/C system failures, headliner sagging, and rust. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues, but some may require more extensive repairs or replacement of parts.

1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser engine

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).

How much horsepower does a 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass have?

Engine: 2.8 L/135 hp MFI. Transmission: Front Wheel Drive Automatic. Body Style: 2DR Coupe.

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.

When was the last Oldsmobile 88 made?

1999

The Oldsmobile 88 (marketed from 1989 on as the Eighty Eight) is a full-size car that was sold and produced by Oldsmobile from 1949 until 1999. From 1950 until 1974, the 88 was the division's most profitable line, particularly the entry level models such as the 88 and Dynamic 88.

What engine is in a 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass?

Engine: 2.8 L/135 hp MFI. Transmission: Front Wheel Drive Automatic. Body Style: 2DR Coupe.

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 is the best engine for Oldsmobile?

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.

Who builds Oldsmobile engines?

Rocket Racing & Performance is a custom engine building facility that specializes in Oldsmobile Performance.

1988 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:

  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser.

1996-04-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 203AM8132J9
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: SOMETIMES ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
1996-04-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 203AM8132J9
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: SOMETIMES ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK

1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser.

1989-06-16
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
  • Consequence: SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
Leave your review of 1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser problems:

Q&A: Troubleshooting 1991 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser | JustAnswer
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1991 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser | JustAnswer
https://www.justanswer.com/car/0p2rd-having-tough-problem-1991-oldsmobile-custom.html

May 8, 2007 ... If gone, you have a problem with the EGR valve, EGR regulator or dirty passages. Common problem. The EGR is in the same place on both vehicles ...

Roast my 1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser 3 seat wagon : r ...
Roast my 1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser 3 seat wagon : r ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/RoastMyCar/comments/17unl0o/roast_my_1988_oldsmobile_custom_cruiser_3_seat/

Nov 13, 2023 ... 50 votes, 52 comments. 350K subscribers in the RoastMyCar community. Roast some rubber!

1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser - Hail The Traditional American ...
1988 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser - Hail The Traditional American ...
https://jackbaruth.com/?p=9463

Apr 4, 2018 ... Of all the GM wagons made in the final full-size, B-body station wagon years, I think I loved the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser the most.

Olds Custom Cruiser Instrument Cluster Issue - Ongoing | Chevy ...
Olds Custom Cruiser Instrument Cluster Issue - Ongoing | Chevy ...
https://www.impalassforum.com/threads/olds-custom-cruiser-instrument-cluster-issue-ongoing.1321230/

Apr 17, 2022 ... The Problem: When I installed my Custom Cruiser cluster, I had an issue where the the Tachometer pegged out at max reading and did not move ...

1990 Custom Cruiser Wagon - Broken Heater - ClassicOldsmobile ...
1990 Custom Cruiser Wagon - Broken Heater - ClassicOldsmobile ...
https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums/electrical-5/1990-custom-cruiser-wagon-broken-heater-42218/

Nov 25, 2011 ... Operate the cable while watching the bellcrank and it will become obvious as to the problem. This was so common a failure that Four Seasons used ...

Other years of Oldsmobile Custom cruiser

oldsmobile custom cruiser 1989 photo
Custom cruiser 1989
Oldsmobile

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
oldsmobile custom cruiser 1991 photo
Custom cruiser 1991
Oldsmobile

6

3

3

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
oldsmobile custom cruiser 1992 photo
Custom cruiser 1992
Oldsmobile

17

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
oldsmobile custom cruiser 1993 photo
Custom cruiser 1993
Oldsmobile

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
oldsmobile custom cruiser 1994 photo
Custom cruiser 1994
Oldsmobile

4

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
oldsmobile custom cruiser 1983 photo
Custom cruiser 1983
Oldsmobile

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser?

Add car complaint
1988 Oldsmobile Custom cruiser photo