1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme problems
The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme is a mid-size car produced by Oldsmobile between 1966 and 1997. It was positioned as a premium offering at the top of the Cutlass range. It began as a trim package, developed its own roofline, and rose during the mid-1970s to become not only the most popular Oldsmobile but the highest selling model in its class.
It was produced as a rear-wheel drive two-door hardtop, sedan, and station wagon into the 1980s, and a convertible through 1972. In 1988 Oldsmobile sought to capitalize on the brand equity of the Cutlass Supreme marque by replacing it with a downsized front-wheel drive model based on the GM10 platform W-platform.
When production ended there was no direct replacement for the Cutlass Supreme, although the Intrigue introduced for 1998 was designed in size and price to replace all the Cutlass models.
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Common 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme 1997, common problems with this car include:
- Engine Issues:
- Owners have reported various engine-related problems, such as stalling, rough idling, and poor performance. These issues can be attributed to factors like worn components, fuel system malfunctions, or ignition problems.
- Electrical Problems:
- Electrical faults are a common concern among Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme owners. These issues may manifest as malfunctioning lights, power window failures, or issues with the engine control module (ECM), leading to starting difficulties and poor fuel economy.
- Transmission Troubles:
- Transmission problems, including slipping gears, delayed shifting, and fluid leaks, have been reported by owners. These issues can significantly impact the car's performance and drivability, requiring timely repairs or replacements.
- Cooling System Concerns:
- Overheating and coolant leaks are issues that some Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme owners have faced. These problems can lead to engine overheating, reduced efficiency, and potential damage if not addressed promptly.
- Suspension Challenges:
- While less common, some owners have experienced suspension issues with the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme 1997. Problems with the suspension can affect the car's handling, comfort, and overall driving experience.
- Window and Door Lock Problems:
- Owners have reported issues with power windows getting stuck or malfunctioning, as well as problems with door locks not functioning correctly. These issues can be inconvenient and compromise the car's security.
By addressing these common problems promptly through proper maintenance and timely repairs, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme owners can ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles.
How much is a 1997 Cutlass Supreme worth?
The value of a used 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme ranges from $247 to $1,011, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
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 engine is in a 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme?
3.1 L V61997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme / Engine
Is a Oldsmobile Cutlass a muscle car?
Introduced as the top trim level in Oldsmobile's compact F-85 Series, the Cutlass evolved into a distinct series of its own, spawning numerous variants, including the 4-4-2 muscle car in 1964, premium Cutlass Supreme in 1966, and outright performance Hurst/Olds in 1968, as well as the Vista Cruiser station wagon.
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.
How much is a 1997 Cutlass Supreme worth?
The value of a used 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme ranges from $247 to $1,011, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Is a Oldsmobile Cutlass a muscle car?
Introduced as the top trim level in Oldsmobile's compact F-85 Series, the Cutlass evolved into a distinct series of its own, spawning numerous variants, including the 4-4-2 muscle car in 1964, premium Cutlass Supreme in 1966, and outright performance Hurst/Olds in 1968, as well as the Vista Cruiser station wagon.
Is a Cutlass Supreme a Chevy?
The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme is a mid-size car produced by Oldsmobile between 1966 and 1997.
1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE LOWER PINION BEARINGS IN THE POWER RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE RETAINER TABS WERE NOT CRIMPED PROPERLY. THESE RETAINERS COULD FAIL AND PERMIT THE BALL BEARINGS TO ESCAPE.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE PINION SHAFT CAN BE FORCED UPWARD DURING LEFT TURNS AND BACK DOWN AS THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED BACK AND TO THE RIGHT. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL NEED TO EXERT MORE EFFORT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL, SIMILAR TO A VEHICLE WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED STEERING. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES EVEN FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL REQUIRE MUCH HIGHER EFFORT TO TURN LEFT AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TURN THE WHEEL AS MUCH AS INTENDED. WITH THE MAXIMUM PINION SHAFT MOVEMENT, WHICH REQUIRES INTERNAL GEAR COMPONENT DAMAGE, THE DRIVER CAN ENCOUNTER HIGH RESISTANCE TO TURNING LEFT, FOLLOWED BY UNINTENDED POWER ASSIST TO THE RIGHT. IN ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW LOWER PINION BEARING UNLESS INSPECT OF THE EXISTING BEARING INDICATES THAT REPLACEMENT OF THE GEAR ASSEMBLY IS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
Negative 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme car reviews
Positive 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your Cutlass Supreme! This is actually your second one, right? That's amazing! The first one is still running great after 175,000 miles - that's really impressive. I can see why you traded it in for a 1997 2dr SL - the sporty spoiler accent is a really nice touch. It's great to know that this car is so reliable and requires little maintenance. Plus, it's really cool that the 1997 year is the last of the
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Awesome car! It runs great and is very low maintenance. The ride is awesome and it's super comfy too!
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I can tell you that I really love my Cutlass. It has only left me stranded once, and that was my fault (I did a repair and forgot to put a part back on properly). It's an absolute blast to drive.
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Hi there! I just wanted to share that I recently got my 2nd Cutlass Supreme! My first one unfortunately got totaled only 4 months after I bought it, but I was lucky enough to find another one that caught my eye at a used car dealership. Even though it has a few dings and scratches, it's still a beautiful car. I've always been a fan of Oldsmobile and the Cutlass, and who knows, maybe my next one will be the convertible with the 3.4 litre 24 valve dual cam engine! Thanks for listening.
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I absolutely love the Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme! It's such a sleek and sporty car that really catches the eye. When the redesign came out in 1992, I was head over heels and knew I had to have one. I've been lucky enough to have one and it's been fantastic! The only minor issue I've had is with the brakes, which can be a bit finicky and expensive to replace if not caught in time. Overall, it's been an awesome experience!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme problems:
1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Top 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Problems · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil · Engine Starts and Stalls Due to Secutiry System Fault · AC Blower ...
Q&A: 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme - Common Issues ...
Aug 5, 2012 ... 1990 oldsmobile cutlass supreme 3.1l. Ran fine, next attempt to start no fuel after start. Starts then dies.
1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme - Why won't my Oldsmobile ...
Jan 12, 2018 ... My 97 Cutlass Supreme has recently begun having serious issues. For the past month or so there has been a steady coolant leak.
Q&A: 1996 Olds Cutlass Supreme - Common Issues & Solutions
Oct 6, 2007 ... Have a oldsmobile cutlass supreme 96 with a 3.1L V6 that seems to taking on air in the coolant system. I used the - Answered by a verified ...
1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Problems and Complaints - 19 ...
Top 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Problems · Failed Fuel Pump Can Cause Engine to Stall · High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid · Intake Manifold ...
Other years of Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme
Are you having problems with your 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme?
Torey Carter 2025-10-24
I've loved this car but it's given me persistent cooling system problems with no end in sight. I think I'm finally going to retire this one. I've had water pumps, hoses, radiators (!!) and gaskets replaced and it's still leaking and causing problems. Everything else has been more than fine, so this is frustrating. (145k miles) It's very hard to work on this car because everything is packed in so tight and in difficult spots to reach. Small tasks can take multiple days.
Khalil Hessel 2025-10-23
Your car has been reliable, but there was a minor issue with the intake manifold due to a design flaw in all GM vehicles. It seems that Dexcool antifreeze is not chemically compatible with the gaskets used on the intake, which can cause leaks and internal engine damage. Unfortunately, GM has not yet offered any warranty or solution to this problem, and class action lawsuits are currently in progress. However, if you remove the Dexcool antifreeze, your car should be good to go! On a positive note, during a 1,000 mile trip, we were able to achieve an impressive 34 mpg round trip. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Lucio Gutkowski 2025-10-06
Hello! I wanted to share my experience with this car. In my opinion, it's a great car as long as you take good care of it. I've heard some people say that the head gasket can be a problem due to the fluid, but I haven't experienced that myself. I think it all comes down to how you drive it. Personally, I saved this car from being crushed and it had 176,000 miles on it when I bought it. Now it's at 180,000 miles and it's still running well! The alternator was replaced and the transmission has a slight slip, but overall it's a good running car. In terms of fuel efficiency, I get around 24 to 29 miles per gallon. If you're claiming to get 30 or more, just make sure you're not going downhill! Let me know if you have any questions or want to chat more about this car.
Aaron Funk 2025-06-07
I really love this car! It's actually my second car, after my 1980 Malibu. When I bought my Oldsmobile, it already had 134,000 miles on it, but I've had it for 2 years now and everything except the alternator is still the original part. Now it has 234,562 miles on it and it still runs strong! I've even put a few performance parts on it and taken it out to the local drag strip, where it ran a low 14. But besides all of that, it's just a really good car. I've taken it to North Carolina 3 times since I've had it and there have been no problems. All you have to do is change the oil every 3000 miles, or do what I do and change the oil every month and the spark plugs every 3 months. Thanks for reading my review!
Darrin Legros 2025-04-25
This car has been great overall. Despite a lack of drink holders and some issues with plastic knobs and panel inserts falling off, the interior is still roomy and comfortable for riding.