1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 problems
The Oldsmobile 88 (marketed from 1989 on as the Eighty Eight) is a full-size car that was sold and produced by Oldsmobile from 1949 until 1999. From 1950 until 1974, the 88 was the division's most profitable line, particularly the entry level models such as the 88 and Dynamic 88. The 88 series was also an image leader for Oldsmobile, particularly in the early years (1949–51), when it was one of the best performing automobiles, thanks to its relatively small size, light weight, and advanced overhead-valve high-compression V8 engine. This engine, originally designed for the larger C-bodied and more luxurious 98 series, also replaced the straight-8 on the smaller B-bodied 78. With the large, high performance V8, the Oldsmobile 88 is considered by some to be the first muscle car, although this title is disputed.
Naming conventions used by GM since the 1910s for all divisions used alphanumeric designations that changed every year. Starting after the war, Oldsmobile changed their designations and standardized them so that the first number signified the chassis platform, while the second number signified how many cylinders. A large number of variations in nomenclature were seen over this long model run — Super, Golden Rocket, Dynamic, Jetstar, Delta, Delmont, Starfire, Holiday, LS, LSS, Celebrity, and Royale were used at various times with the 88 badge, and Fiesta appeared on some station wagons in the 1950s and 1960s. The name was more commonly shown as numerals in the earlier years ("Delta 88", for example) and was changed to spell out "Eighty Eight" starting in 1989.
First generation (1949–1953)
Oldsmobile introduced the 88 badge in 1949. It was named to complement the already-existing 76 and 98, and took the place of the straight-8 engined 78 in the model lineup. The new car used the same new A-body platform as the straight-6 engined 76 but paired it with the new 303 cu in (5.0 L) Rocket V8 engine producing 135 horsepower (101 kW). This combination of a relatively small light body and large, powerful engine made it widely considered to be the first muscle car. The Rocket 88 vaulted Oldsmobile from a somewhat staid, conservative car to a performer that became the one to beat on the NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) circuits.
It won six of the nine NASCAR late-model division races in 1949, 10 of 19 in 1950, 20 of 41 in 1952, and was eventually eclipsed by the low-slung, powerful Hudson Hornet, but it was still the first real "King of NASCAR." This led to increased sales to the public. There was a pent up demand for new cars in the fast-expanding post-World War II economy, and the 88 appealed to many ex-military personnel who were young and had operated powerful military equipment.
The 88 enjoyed great success, inspiring a popular 1950s slogan, "Make a Date with a Rocket 88", and also a song, "Rocket 88", often considered the first rock and roll record. Starting with the trunk-lid emblem of the 1950 model, Oldsmobile would adopt the rocket as its logo, and the 88 name would remain in the Olds lineup until the late 1990s, almost until the end of Oldsmobile itself.
The 1949 model was equipped with an ignition key and a starter push-button to engage the starter. Pushing the starter button would engage the starter, but if the ignition key was not inserted, unlocking the ignition, the car would not start. The car was equipped with an oil bath air cleaner. At the bottom edge of the front fender directly behind the front wheel was a badge that said "Futuramic" which identified an Oldsmobile approach to simplified driving, and the presence of an automatic transmission. V8 Oldsmobiles were automatic-only in 1949 as Oldsmobile lacked a manual gearbox that could handle the torque of the new engine.1948 Oldsmobile Futuramic introduction In 1950, Oldsmobile offered a modified Cadillac manual gearbox for V8 models. The 88 now outsold the six-cylinder 76 lineup, which was dropped entirely after the 1950 model year. It had a 40 ft. turning circle. Hershel McGriff and Ray Elliot with the 1950 model won the 1950 Carrera Panamericana.
For 1951, the 88 became the entry-level Olds with the discontinuation of the six-cylinder 76 line, which meant that all Oldsmobiles were powered by Rocket V8s. An in-house manual transmission replaced the modified Cadillac gearbox, but as the 1950s progressed, manual shift became increasingly rare in Oldsmobiles and normally could only be obtained by special order. New this year was the more upscale Super 88 line on the new GM B-body which included restyled rear body panels, a more luxurious interior, and a slightly longer 120 in (3,048 mm) wheelbase as opposed to the 119.5 in (3,035 mm) wheelbase which had been standard since the 88's introduction. The station wagon was discontinued and would not reappear until the 1957 model year. New was an I-beam frame. Hydraulic power windows and seats were optional.
In 1952, the base 88 shared the Super 88's rear body panels and wheelbase, and came with a Rocket V8 and two-barrel carburetor while Super 88s came with a new four-barrel carburetor upping the output to 160 hp (119 kW). Other mechanical features were unchanged with styling changes amounting to new grilles, taillights, and interior revisions. New was the optional automatic headlight control.
For 1953, the base 88 was renamed the DeLuxe 88 for only this one year while the Super 88 continued as a more upscale version. Engines and transmission offerings were the same as 1952. Late in the 1953 model year, a fire destroyed GM's Hydra-Matic plant in Livonia, Michigan, which was then the only source for Hydra-Matic transmissions. The temporary loss of Hydra-Matic production led Oldsmobile to build thousands of its 1953 models with Buick's two-speed Dynaflow automatic transmissions until GM pressed its Willow Run Transmission plant into service to resume Hydra-Matic production. New options this year included Frigidaire air conditioning, power steering, and power brakes.
Social links
Common 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Oldsmobile Delta 88 1989, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Ignition Coil Failure: One of the most common issues reported is ignition coil failure. Symptoms include rough engine running, stalling, loss of power, and difficulty starting the car. This problem can be resolved by replacing the ignition coils.
- Radiator Problems: Owners have experienced radiator problems such as leaks or clogs, leading to overheating and potential engine damage. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are crucial to prevent severe issues.
- Brake Issues: Worn brake pads and rotors can result in reduced braking performance, noise, and vibration. Regular replacement and maintenance of brake pads are essential to ensure safety on the road.
- Oil Leaks: Over time, gaskets and seals in the engine can wear out, causing oil leaks. Regular oil changes and replacing worn gaskets can prevent this issue from escalating.
- Timing Belt Replacement: The timing belt is critical for engine synchronization, and a broken belt can lead to severe engine damage. Regular replacement is necessary to avoid engine issues.
- Spark Plug Replacement: Worn spark plugs can decrease engine performance and fuel efficiency. Regular replacement of spark plugs is vital for optimal engine operation.
- Battery Replacement: A failing battery can cause starting issues, leading to potential starting failures. Regular battery replacement is crucial to avoid being stranded due to a dead battery.
These common problems with the Oldsmobile Delta 88 1989 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise to ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.
How many miles per gallon does a Delta 88 get?
16 combined
1984 Oldsmobile Delta 88
| EPA MPG | Owner MPG Estimates |
|---|---|
| 1984 Oldsmobile Delta 88 6 cyl, 3.8 L, Automatic 3-spd | |
| Regular Gasoline | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| 16 combined city/highway MPG 14 city 19 highway 6.2 gals/ 100 miles | |
| 1984 Oldsmobile Delta 88 8 cyl, 5.0 L, Automatic 4-spd |
Is the Oldsmobile 88 a muscle car?
In the first years of NASCAR, Oldsmobile's powerful 88 Coupe was the car to beat. In the earliest days of NASCAR racing, if a driver was winning races, chances are good that he was behind the wheel of an Oldsmobile 88 Coupe, arguably the first true American muscle car.
What does 88 mean in Oldsmobile?
Oldsmobile introduced the 88 badge in 1949. It was named to complement the already-existing 76 and 98, and took the place of the straight-8 engined 78 in the model lineup.
Why won't my Oldsmobile Delta 88 start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile 88 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What does 88 mean in Oldsmobile?
Oldsmobile introduced the 88 badge in 1949. It was named to complement the already-existing 76 and 98, and took the place of the straight-8 engined 78 in the model lineup.
Why won't my Oldsmobile Delta 88 start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile 88 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What was the last year Oldsmobile Delta 88?
Model years for Oldsmobile 88 (1949 to 1999)
How many miles per gallon does a 1988 Oldsmobile Delta get?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 1988 Oldsmobile Delta 88 | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Regular Gasoline |
| 20 MPG 17 26 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 5.0 gal/100mi | |
| MPG estimates for 2016 and older vehicles may have been revised Learn more | View Original EPA MPG |
1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Delta 88 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-16
- VIN: 1G3HY54C9K1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TRAVELING AT 30 MPH THE ENGINE QUIT , LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO A PARKING LOT , COULD HAVE BEEN BAD IF TRAFFIC WAS HEAVY, I COULD HAVE BEEN HIT. HAD TO CALL A TOW TRUCK TO TAKE IN FOR REPAIRS , FOUND THE TWO OF THE IGNITION COILS AND THE IGNITION COIL MODULE FAILED. COST $500 TO REPAIR. *TR
1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88.
- 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 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 problems:
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale Stalling ...
Nov 23, 2020 ... This is a common symptom of a failing injector. Next time problem happens check resistance of injectors to see which one is much different then ...
5.0 307 olds engine expierences - ClassicOldsmobile.com
Apr 19, 2011 ... ... Delta 88 and dont know much about the orig 307 engine please talk about your exp and any issues with a 307 my current engine has only 56k orig.
1990 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Q&A: Common Problems & Recalls
Jun 21, 2021 ... I have a 1990, Delta 88 Oldsmobile. There have been problems with it recently. It was taken to two different shops, for - Answered by a ...
1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 problems - DoItYourself.com Community ...
Apr 13, 2020 ... Passenger Cars, Mini Vans, SUV Service and Repairs. (No Trucks) - 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 problems - Problems with my 1989 Oldsmobile I own ...
Q&A: 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88 - Common Issues & Solutions
Mar 20, 2015 ... I have 1989 olds delta 88 with 3.8 engine have no spark changed module,coils,cam and crank sensor still no spark - Answered by a verified ...
Other years of Oldsmobile Delta 88
Are you having problems with your 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88?
Leave your review of 1989 Oldsmobile Delta 88