1987 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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Common 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera problems
The 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera is a mid-size car that has been popular among car owners for its affordability and reliability. However, like any other car, the Cutlass Ciera has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most common problems with the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera is transmission issues. Some owners have reported that the transmission does not release when coming to a stop, especially when leaving the interstate. This problem is often caused by a faulty torque converter that fails to release, leading to a shuddering or jerking sensation when the car is stopped.
Another common problem with the Cutlass Ciera is engine performance issues. Some owners have reported that the engine stalls or hesitates when accelerating, particularly when the car is cold. This problem is often caused by a faulty fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter, which can prevent the engine from receiving the necessary fuel to run smoothly.
Additionally, some owners have reported problems with the car's electrical system. This includes issues with the car's battery, alternator, and starter motor, which can cause the car to have difficulty starting or running. These problems are often caused by a faulty electrical component or a loose connection, which can prevent the electrical system from functioning properly.
The Cutlass Ciera is also prone to rust, particularly in areas where salt is used to treat roads during the winter months. This can lead to corrosion of the car's frame and body panels, which can weaken the car's structure and affect its safety. Regular maintenance and inspection of the car's underbody can help prevent rust and extend the car's lifespan.
Finally, some owners have reported problems with the car's suspension and steering systems. This includes issues with the car's shocks, struts, and tie rods, which can affect the car's handling and ride quality. These problems are often caused by wear and tear on the car's suspension components, which can degrade over time due to normal use.
In summary, the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera is a reliable and affordable car that has been popular among car owners for many years. However, like any other car, the Cutlass Ciera has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years. These include transmission issues, engine performance problems, electrical system issues, rust, and suspension and steering problems. Regular maintenance and inspection of the car's key components can help prevent these problems and extend the car's lifespan.
Is an 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.
How much is a 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera worth?
A: The lowest recorded sale price was $4,500 for a 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser on Nov 4 2023. Q: What is the average sale price of a Oldsmobile Ciera? A: The average price of a Oldsmobile Ciera is $8,400.
What year did they stop making the Cutlass Ciera?
1996
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.
How much horsepower does the Cutlass Ciera have?
160 horsepower
How fast is the 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera? The 1995 Cutlass Ciera boasts 160 horsepower.
Is an 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 body styles did the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme have?
In addition to the Colonnade hardtop coupe, the Cutlass Supreme was also offered in a four-door Colonnade sedan (with six-window styling and frameless door windows) as well as six-and-nine passenger station wagons - the wagons with the woodgrain exterior trim were marketed under the Vista Cruiser nameplate previously ...
How much horsepower does the Cutlass Ciera have?
160 horsepower
How fast is the 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera? The 1995 Cutlass Ciera boasts 160 horsepower.
What was the last Oldsmobile 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. As a result, the 1996 Cruiser wagon was the final Oldsmobile station wagon model produced.
1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-28
- 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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-07
- 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
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-04
- VIN: 2G3AJ51R9H9
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT FAILURE ON PASSENGER SIDE FRONT, FAILS TO RETRACT.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-12
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ENGINE BLEW OUT WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-01
- VIN: 1G3AM5137HG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT END OF VEHICLES FRAME HAS DIPPED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.*AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-30
- 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
SUSPENSION,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-04
- 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
1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera.
- 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).
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass ciera problems:
87 Cutlass Ciera problem - ClassicOldsmobile.com
Mar 1, 2007 ... Cutlass - 87 Cutlass Ciera problem - It started out every once in a while, its now getting more frequent. When coming to a stop, ...
Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera Problems and Complaints - 27 Issues
Top Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera Problems · Power Window Motors May Fail From Overheating · Inside Door Handles May Break · Failed Fuel Pump Can Cause Engine to Stall.
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oldsmobile cutlass ciera timing chain — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jun 23, 2001 ... According to Batco and some Internet sites, this is a very common problem with GM automatic transmission engines, but once the TCC solenoid ...
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Nov 23, 2010 ... 1994 oldsmobile cutlass supreme with 3.1 engine...... ... Pete and 87 other Oldsmobile ... I have a 1995 oldsmobile cutlass ciera and it has a ...
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