1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass problems
The Oldsmobile Cutlass was a series of automobiles produced by General Motors' Oldsmobile division between 1961 and 1999. At its introduction, the Cutlass was Oldsmobile's entry-level model; it began as a unibody compact car, but saw its greatest success as a body-on-frame intermediate. The Cutlass was named after Vought F7U Cutlass, as well as the type of sword, which was common during the Age of Sail.
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. These included the 4-4-2 muscle car in 1964, the upscale Cutlass Supreme in 1966, the high-performance Hurst/Olds in 1968, and the Vista Cruiser station wagon.
By the 1980s, Oldsmobile was using the Cutlass as a sub-marque, with numerous vehicle lines bearing the name simultaneously. The compact Cutlass Calais, midsize Cutlass Ciera, Cutlass Cruiser station wagon, and flagship midsize Cutlass Supreme were among the models available during this time.
In the 1990s, Oldsmobile began moving away from its traditional model lines, with other legacy vehicle nameplates like the 98 and 88 being discontinued in 1996 and 1999, respectively. The Cutlass name was likewise retired in 1999 in favor of the all-new Oldsmobile Alero, ending nearly 40 years of continuous Cutlass production.
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Common 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass problems
The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, produced between 1961 and 1999, was a popular vehicle with a diverse range of models and trims.
- Engine and Starter Issues: The 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme was known to have engine and starter problems. These issues could manifest in various ways, such as the engine not starting or cranking without starting. One common cause was a problem with the starter solenoid wires. The insulation could get cooked by exhaust heat or get welded to the exhaust pipe, preventing the starter from engaging properly.
- Neutral Safety Switch Failure: The neutral safety switch, which prevents the car from starting in gear, was another problematic component in the 1976 Cutlass Supreme. If the switch fails, the car may not start at all, as reported by a forum member who replaced the switch but still experienced issues. In some cases, the neutral safety switch could be bypassed to start the car, but this is not recommended as a permanent solution, as it could lead to safety concerns.
- Fusible Link and Ignition Issues: A fusible link, located at the junction block at the firewall, could also cause problems in the 1976 Cutlass Supreme. If this link is broken, the car may have parking lights but little else in terms of electrical functionality. This issue could be related to ignition-related problems, which would affect the car's ability to start and run properly.
- Rust and Body Issues: Rust was a common problem for cars of the era, and the 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme was no exception. The car's body and undercarriage could be susceptible to rust, especially if the car was driven in areas with harsh winter conditions or high humidity. This could lead to structural issues and cosmetic problems, affecting the car's overall value and safety.
In summary, the 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme had several common problems, including engine and starter issues, neutral safety switch failure, fusible link and ignition problems, and rust and body issues. These problems could significantly impact the car's performance, safety, and value, making regular maintenance and inspections essential for owners of this model.
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.
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.
How many miles per gallon did the Oldsmobile Cutlass get in 1980?
20 miles per gallon
The top-selling car in 1980 was the Oldsmobile Cutlass. Gas mileage on this vehicle averaged 20 miles per gallon (17 city/23 highway). By 2023 the Honda CR-V claimed the title as the most popular two-wheel drive car. The CR-V reported mileage at 31 miles per gallon (28 city/34 highway).
What was the last year they made the Oldsmobile Cutlass?
| Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Oldsmobile (General Motors) |
| Production | 1965–1997 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Personal luxury car (1966-1988) Mid-size (1988-1997) |
What engine is in a 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass?
Beginning in 1975, a 250-cid inline six-cylinder engine sourced from Chevrolet became the base standard for Cutlass through 1976, with a 260-cid V-8 or the venerable 350 as upgrade options. The base engine was changed to the Buick 231-cid V-6 for 1977.
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.
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.
What engine did the Cutlass have?
For 1973–74, the 350 Rocket V8 with four-barrel carburetor and 180 horsepower (130 kW) was the standard Cutlass Supreme engine with a 250-horsepower 455 Rocket offered as an option.
1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Cutlass problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Visibility problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNSPECIFIED.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE USE OF FIBERGLASS INSULATION UNDER THE HOOD BECOMES A PROBLEM WHEN THIS MATERIAL IS DISTURBED. THIS CAUSES PREMATURE FAILURE OF THE BLOWER AND ALSO ALLOWS PIECES OF FIBERGLASS TO BE BLOWN INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, ENDANGERING PASSENGER HEALTH.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
- VIN: 3M57R6D
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK LEAKS. TT
1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass problems:
1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass Reviews - Carsurvey.org
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Apr 1, 2008 ... 72 olds cutlass 350ci car starts fine drive for a while stop ... Customer reply. Reply to Lurch's Post: When ...
Garage find: 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon
Jul 4, 2012 ... It's a common problem associated with these 1970s and newer models that have been parked for a while. Know of a junkyard I need to visit or want ...
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