Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera problems
The Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera is a mid-size car manufactured and marketed for model years 1982-1996 by the Oldsmobile Division of General Motors — over a single generation. Body styles included a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, and the 4-door wagon.
The Cutlass Ciera shared the front-wheel drive A platform with the Buick Century, Pontiac 6000 and Chevrolet Celebrity. As part of their legacy, together the A-bodies became widely popular as well as synonymous with GM's most transparent examples of badge engineering, highlighted almost indistinguishably on the August 22, 1983 cover of Fortune magazine as examples of genericized uniformity, embarrassing the company and ultimately prompting GM to recommit to design leadership.
Background
The Cutlass Ciera and its A-Body platform twins, featured MacPherson strut front suspension, body-color urethane bumpers, flush-mounted glass, front-wheel drive, and on many models, fuel injection.
The Cutlass Ciera shared the Cutlass nameplate with the smaller Cutlass Calais and the upscale Cutlass Supreme. Oldsmobile had previously used the Celebrity brand in the 1960s, but GM chose to give that name to Chevrolet. With the Ciera, Oldsmobile established Cutlass as sub-brand for its line of mainstream sedans and coupes.
Initially, the Cutlass Ciera and its platform mates were marketed as premium mid-sized cars, above the X-Body, from which they were derived, and the N-Body Calais, which would follow for 1985.
The Ciera and Cruiser replaced the rear-wheel drive G-Body Cutlass models, but strong sales kept the higher trim Cutlass Supreme in production until the 1988 model year when it was replaced by the W-Body models. As such, these front-wheel drive sedans carried the A-Body designation, previously reserved for their rear-wheel drive showroom companions. In order to keep both lines in production, General Motors rechristened the rear-wheel drive mid-sized platform as the G-Body beginning with the 1982 model year.
When the W-Body coupes were introduced for 1988, Oldsmobile reduced the number of options and configurations available. During the model years that followed, luxury and performance options such as FE3 suspension, auto calculator, bucket seats, leather seating areas, sunroofs, and full instrumentation were gradually eliminated.
Originally for 1990, the Cutlass Ciera, as with the rest of the A-body range, was intended to be phased out in favor of the more modern W-body midsized sedans. However, the Ciera, as well as its sister the Buick Century, continued to remain popular nearing the end of their initial runs. Thus, it was decided that the older Cutlass Ciera and Century would instead continue production alongside their proposed replacements, the Cutlass Supreme and Regal respectively, as lower priced alternatives.
After 1990, special editions of the Cutlass Ciera were dropped from the American market and by the end of 1991, the coupe was discontinued. Although reduced to two trim levels and two body styles, sedan and wagon, the Cieras remained the brand's best-selling line for 1996.
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Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera model years
Common Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera, several common problems have been identified:
- Speedometer and Odometer Malfunction: Complaints have been made about the speedometer and odometer not functioning correctly. This issue can lead to inaccuracies in speed monitoring and mileage tracking, impacting the overall usability of the vehicle.
- ABS Light On with No Brake Lights or Headlights: Some owners have experienced a situation where the ABS light is illuminated, and there are issues with the brake lights and headlights. This can pose safety concerns, affecting the visibility of the vehicle to other drivers and potentially compromising braking functionality.
- Engine Stalling When Gas Pedal is Pressed: Another reported problem is the engine stalling when the gas pedal is pressed, which can be a significant safety issue, especially during acceleration or when merging onto highways. This issue can lead to unexpected loss of power and control over the vehicle.
- Rough Idle: Owners have noted that the car may experience rough idling, which can affect the overall smoothness of the engine operation. A rough idle can lead to discomfort for passengers and potentially indicate underlying engine issues that need attention.
- Lower Intake Gasket Failure: The lower intake gaskets in the 3.1 V6 engine are prone to failure, causing overheating problems. This issue can lead to engine damage and overheating, impacting the car's reliability and performance.
- Transmission Issues: The 4T60-E transmission in the Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera may experience problems if not properly maintained. Regular pan drops and filter changes are recommended to ensure the longevity of the transmission. Flushing the transmission completely is advised against to prevent potential damage.
These common problems reported by owners of the Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera highlight various issues ranging from engine performance to electrical and transmission concerns. Addressing these issues promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the continued reliability and safety of the vehicle.
Is the Oldsmobile Cutlass reliable?
It ranks 6th in reliability out of 12 eligible Oldsmobile models. 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 Cutlass Supreme comes in at 2.41.
What year was the most popular Cutlass?
1983: Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme — 331,179 units sold
In 1983, the Cutlass Supreme again finds itself in a comfortably familiar spot as the best-selling car in the United States, wresting its throne back from the Ford Escort.
What year did they stop making the Cutlass Ciera?
Production of the Ciera ended on August 30, 1996. It was replaced in the U.S. by the N-body 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass, also built at the Oklahoma City assembly plant.
What are some facts about the Oldsmobile Cutlass?
First Generation Cutlass (1961-1963)
It featured a Y-body frame on a unibody construction with a 112-inch wheelbase and rocking a V8 engine that produced 155 horsepower. The new Cutlass was a compact car and Oldsmobile marketed it as the company's upscale model. This model had a similar design to the F-85 deluxe.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera years
We have researched Oldsmobile problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera model years:
- Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1989
- Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1988
- Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1986
- Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1990
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cutlass ciera model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera vehicles.
List of Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera complaints
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-28
- Date Complaint: 2005-05-31
- VIN: 1G3AM5130HD
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL MOVED WHILE BEING LOCKED IN POSITION. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT IT WAS DUE TO LOOSE BOLTS. *AK WHEN NEGOTIATING A CORNER, THE ENGINE IGNITION SWITCH INSIDE OF THE STEERING COLUMN DISCONNECTED, THE ENGINE STOPPED, THE POWER STEERING AND THE POWER BRAKES FAILED. THE STEERING WHEEL WOBBLED FROM SIDE TO SIDE. *SC
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2005-03-09
- VIN: 1G3AJ51R3KG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DRIVER HEARD A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC FOR CHECKUP, AND RESULTS SHOWED THAT ENGINE FAILED, AND WAS NO LONGER ABLE TO START AND OPERATE.*AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1986
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2004-04-20
- VIN: 1G3AM37W7GD
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT A STEERING PROBLEM. WHILE DRIVING AT A MODERATE SPEED AND MAKING A TURN IT BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER. WHEN VEHICLE WAS HALFWAY THROUGH THE TURN,IT VEERED, AND LANDED IN THE NEXT LANE. ALSO, THIS WAS THE SECOND ENGINE INSTALLED IN THIS VEHICLE. *AK THIS PROBLEM CAUSED THE TIRES TO WEAR. *SC
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-07
- Date Complaint: 2004-04-16
- VIN: 1G3AJ19R8GG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ENGINE PROBLEM : FOR THE PAST 3YRS.THE IGNITION MODULE CONTINUES TO GO BAD AND PREVENTS THE FUEL PUMP AND THE SPARK PLUGS TO WORK CAUSING THE ENGINE TO STALL OUT AND LAEVING ME STRANDED.WE REPLACED THE MODULE SEVERAL TIMES AND EVEN REPLACED THE DISTRIBUTOR AND THE PROBLEM CONTINUES. WE EVEN REPLACED THE COMPUTER JUST IN CASE IT WHAS GOING BAD.(5TIMES) OVER HEATED REPLACED FAN THERMO SWICTH 2 TIMES AND STARTED AGAIN SO WE HAD IT BYPASS SO THE FAN CAN STAY ON WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH ON.(3TIMES) TRANSMISSION: VEHICLE WOULD TURN ON EVEN ON D GEAR AND PROBLEM WITH THE SHIFTER WE HAD THE TRANSMISSION REPAIR 2 YEAR AGO AND KNOW THE REVERSE SOMETIMES DONT GO FLUID AND EVERYTHING IS OK. *AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-04
- Date Complaint: 2003-11-10
- VIN: 2G3AJ51R9H9
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT FAILURE ON PASSENGER SIDE FRONT, FAILS TO RETRACT.*AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-12
- Date Complaint: 2003-09-16
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ENGINE BLEW OUT WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2002-05-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2G3AJ51W2K2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALL INSTRUMENTS FAILED DUE TO FIRE IN THE TRUNK. THE CONSUMER SAYS THE POSSIBLE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS AN INSULATION SHORTING OUT. *YH
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2001-04-13
- VIN: 2G3AJ51W6K2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT DISENGAGE CAUSING CAR TO STALL IN TRAFFIC, WHEN STOPPING. *AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2001-03-07
- VIN: 1G3AM5137HG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT END OF VEHICLES FRAME HAS DIPPED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.*AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1988
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2000-11-09
- VIN: 2G3AJ51R7J2
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED A CRADLE BOLT LOSS ON RIGHT SIDE. DEALER NOTIFIED AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT VEHICLE THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT COVER UNDER MANUFACTURER'S RECALL DUE TO VIN. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2000-07-17
- VIN: 2G3AM51R1K2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER-SIDE SEAT-LAP BELT FAILS TO ENGAGE AND IF LOCKS, FAIL TO RELEASE. MICH HAS A MANDATORY SEATBELT LAW & I MUST USE THE PASSENGER-SIDE STUB-END TO CONNECT TO.*AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-30
- Date Complaint: 1998-09-28
- VIN: 1G3AG51R1H9
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: CONSUMER'S SON WAS DRIVING VEHICLE ABOUT 55 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE FRONT LEFT WHEEL (DRIVER'S SIDE) BECAME DEATACHED WITHOUT A REASON. CONSUMER'S SON SAID IT WAS A BRAKING FAILURE AND LOST STEERING CONTROL. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACTED. *AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1987
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-04
- Date Complaint: 1998-06-17
- VIN: 1G3AM1135HD
- Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
- Summary: VEHICLE WOULD SHIMMY AND AS THE SPEED INCREASED IT WOULD SHIMMY VERY MUCH. MECHANIC STATED THAT IT WAS A TIRE. FOUR TIRES WERE PURCHASED, VEHICLE STILL HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. MECHANIC STATES THAT IT IS A BROKEN LOWER RIGHT BALL JOINT. DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
- Date Complaint: 1998-03-11
- VIN: 2G3AJ51W6J2
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THIRD REPLACEMENT OF THE ELECTRONIC CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE.
Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 1988
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1996-11-22
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: EA87-006, COLD STEERING, HARD TO TURN, TEMPORARY OF LACK OF POWER . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
Recalls Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera 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 Cutlass ciera 1988
- 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 Cutlass ciera 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).
Latest negative Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera car reviews
Latest positive Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1990
I bought this car with 70000 k and it has never let me down. Other than brakes and exhaust (which is standard) I haven't had to do anything in the past 6 years. It now has about 200000 k and still runs fine. I would definitely buy another Oldsmobile anytime.
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Vehicle year: 1990
We drove our vehicle for 145,000 miles out of its 194,000 with minimal issues. The only necessary repairs were occasional radiator replacements, a cruise control replacement, and some brake concerns that never posed a safety issue. At a price point of less than $7000, it was an excellent investment. Although it has some rust issues due to inadequate washing, it remains a reliable and well-built vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 1990
I purchased this car for $600 because my girlfriend did not want to buy a car. I opted for a cheap one to replace the car I had sold her for the same price, which was also an Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera. It turned out to be the best investment I ever made, twice! Both cars were used and abused before I bought them, but they both loved me because I only had a few problems with them. They always started, which was the biggest plus. I used it while in my band and hauled equipment all the time with no signs of fatigue. It even helped a buddy move; we packed the car with 4 people, 1 baby, and most of their belongings. I was able to drive at 80 mph (tops off at 85) for 4 hours and 80 mph for 4 hours back home straight with no signs of fade or pain.
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Vehicle year: 1990
This car has been incredibly reliable. It's also comfortable, safe, and an absolute joy to drive. With 147,000 miles and still going strong, it's clear that this car is a true gem!
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Vehicle year: 1990
I received the car from my parents and after 13 years, it has clocked 209,000 miles. Surprisingly, the car still does not burn any oil. Apart from the routine maintenance, I have only had to change the alternator, starter, and a couple of fuel injectors. But, considering the mileage, it's not bad at all!
Are you having problems with your Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera?
Lawson O'Conner 2024-10-17
Vehicle year: 1990
The cost of repairs on this car was so high, I could have bought a Rolls Royce. The first seven years were good, but the last seven years were a financial hell.
Antone Barton 2024-08-02
Vehicle year: 1990
It seems like it breaks down quite often. We end up making payments for repairs as if it were a car.
Laverne Wilkinson 2024-07-27
Vehicle year: 1990
Hi there! I just wanted to share with you my experience with this amazing car that I got from my Grandpa Angelo back in '96. It had 42,000 miles on it then, and now it has 118K miles and still runs great! I've had very few problems with it, just some minor fuel injector issues at 60K and not-so-great brakes. Recently, the motor mounts have started to fade and the driver's side front power window relay switch panel stopped working, but overall it has been a joy to own. I couldn't ask for a more reliable car!
Linwood Treutel 2024-07-27
Vehicle year: 1990
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share a little bit about my family's car. It's a special car to us because my Grandfather bought it brand new in 1990. After he passed away, he handed it down to my parents, and a few years later, I received the car. It's been in our family for 13 years now, and we've had no major problems with it. The biggest repair we've had to do was just new brakes, and that was just a few months ago. This car has been incredibly dependable and has lasted through three generations. We're so grateful to have it in our family. Thank you for letting me share!
Braulio Zboncak 2024-07-08
Vehicle year: 1990
A great car, comfortable and well equipped. It's also pretty reliable and has cheap parts (very cheap) available. The car has good stability and is very comfortable, making it a great value for money.