1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme problems

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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.

1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme engine

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.

2003-12-11
  • 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

  1. Armani Crona 2024-07-09

    I purchased this car in 2009 as a 1997 model with 69,000 miles and it has been mostly reliable. Although the A/C does not work and the head gasket needed replacement, it has been trouble-free otherwise. The car's MPG is not very good, only about 17 city/23 hwy. It is not very fast and has poor handling with tremendous understeer and scarily poor brakes, as if the ABS does nothing. However, it performs well in snow and ice. The interior is not very comfortable but has decent space. The car has excellent visibility and is surprisingly quiet except for wind noise, although the ride is a bit jittery and not tied down.

  2. Jettie Krajcik 2024-03-29

    I bought the car at 148,000 kms and it's currently at 166,000. While I've had some major repair issues with the car, some of them were caused by my own modifications. I installed HIDs, a 400 Watt 4 channel amplifier with a 12 inch subwoofer, which unfortunately killed the alternator and caused the belt tensioner to break. I also needed all new brakes (rotors, pads and calipers all around). When I first purchased the car, it needed new tires and may now require new front and rear shocks. On the positive side, I made some major upgrades to the car, including installing a cone air filter for better performance and a high performance muffler for some low end sound and added horsepower. So far, I haven't had any head gasket problems since I had dexcool put in, which was removed by the previous owner.

Positive 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme car reviews

  1. Evan Wolf 2024-10-25

    WHAT I LIKE: The car has been almost trouble-free! I love how easy it is to handle and the responsive steering. The highway driving is superbly smooth and quiet, and the engine runs smoothly and quietly. The automatic shifting is silky smooth, and there is almost zero wind noise on the highway. The outstanding highway fuel economy of 35 mpg actual is a huge plus. The sound system is very nice, and I appreciate the auto/dual zone A/C and radio controls on the steering wheel. The car has reliable cold weather starting, and overall it is an outstanding vehicle in terms of ambience, comfort, economy, and reliability.

  2. Osbaldo Grant 2024-10-21

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my 97 Cutlass. It's been a great car for me! I've put on 35k miles since I bought it with 50k, and it's been very reliable and safe to drive. I did have to replace the alternator at around 80k and the brake pads, but other than that, it's been smooth sailing. Thanks for listening!

  3. Braeden Quitzon 2024-09-24

    My grandmother bought our Cutlass Supreme in 1997 for herself as a retirement gift. She loved the car putting 100k miles on it in 10 years with the alternator giving her problems once. At the age of 16 it was passed on to me as my first car. I put the car to it's ultimate test for another 100k miles of never changing the oil, accelerating fast and being constantly on the road with no issues. After 20 years of being in the same family a uncle hydroplaned it into a field totalling her out. The engine and transmission was still running perfect. The air conditioner knobs and the radio knobs being made of cheap plastic tended to fall off and the clips would break. The power window on the driver side stopped working about two years after the car was purchased new and warranty wouldn't cover it. Not a fast vehicle compared to today's standards, but a very reliable vehicle after years of abuse. I actually have been looking for another one to say the least.

  4. Logan Lindgren 2024-09-15

    I can tell you're a proud owner of this car! It corners like it's on rails and has plenty of power to spare. And let's be honest, it's beautiful. I love the kicked-out tail lights and spoiler, and the body moldings are great looking too. This car just looks mean and means business.

  5. Ricardo Zulauf 2024-09-04

    I bought this car brand new back in '97 and it has been a reliable companion ever since. With 95,000 miles on the clock, it has never failed to start or given me any reason to worry. While I did experience a coolant leak, which is a common issue among GM cars that use dexcool, it was easily fixed with a replacement of the upper intake gasket. The only downside to this was the cost of $600. Apart from that, the car has been running smoothly. Although the build quality is not the best, I have had to glue a few parts inside the car back together. Standard maintenance costs can be high, and it does tend to wear out brakes and tires faster than other cars. However, with regular oil changes and tune-ups, it has been a great car overall.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme problems:

1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
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Aug 5, 2012 ... 1990 oldsmobile cutlass supreme 3.1l. Ran fine, next attempt to start no fuel after start. Starts then dies.

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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
Q&A: 1996 Olds Cutlass Supreme - Common Issues & Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/car/0vue3-oldsmobile-cutlass-supreme-96-3-1l-v6.html

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 ...

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1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Problems and Complaints - 19 ...
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1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme photo