1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette problems
The Oldsmobile Silhouette is a minivan manufactured by General Motors for model years 1990–2004 over two generations.
Production ended when General Motors discontinued its Oldsmobile brand in 2004. GM continued to market badge-engineered variants of the U-body minivans, the Saturn Relay and the Buick Terraza for MY2005.
Background
General Motors' first attempt at producing a minivan to compete with the Chrysler minivans, the rear wheel drive, truck-based Chevrolet Astro and its twin, the GMC Safari failed to compete strongly against Chrysler's dominance in the minivan market in the 1980s. The 1990 Oldsmobile Silhouette and its sibling models, sold more successfully than the Astro/Safari predecessors.
First shown to the public in 1986, the Pontiac Trans Sport concept car featured futuristic styling, individually removable bucket seats with built-in stereo speakers, a gull-wing rear passenger door and extensive use of glass including a glass-paneled roof.
The Trans Sport was approved for production without the gullwing door and the glass roof. Chevrolet and Oldsmobile received production vehicles based on the Trans Sport with the Lumina APV and Silhouette respectively. While the Pontiac Trans Sport was targeted at sport- and style-oriented buyers, the Lumina was the value offering and the Silhouette targeted premium markets, competing with the Chrysler Town & Country.
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Common 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette problems
The Oldsmobile Silhouette, particularly the 1997 model, is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues are predominantly related to the engine, cooling system, transmission, interior, and windows.
- Cooling System Problems: The cooling system is another area where the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette experiences issues. There are 11 complaints (92%) about the cooling system in the second generation. Overheating can be caused by various factors, including a faulty water pump, a leaking radiator, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission issues are also prevalent in the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette, with 9 complaints (75%) in the second generation. This issue can lead to a jerky or rough ride and reduced transmission performance.
- Interior Problems: The interior of the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette also has issues, with 6 complaints (50%) in the second generation. This issue can lead to windows not functioning correctly, including not rolling up or down.
- Windows Problems: Windows problems are another area where the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette experiences issues, with 6 complaints (50%) in the second generation. This issue can lead to windows not functioning correctly, including not rolling up or down.
In summary, the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette has several common problems related to the engine, cooling system, transmission, interior, and windows. These issues can lead to reduced vehicle performance, safety concerns, and increased repair costs. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable.
How reliable is an Oldsmobile Silhouette?
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 Silhouette comes in at 3.
What is the mpg on a 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette?
Fuel Economy
| City | 16 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 23 mpg |
| Combined | 19 mpg |
When did they stop making Oldsmobile Silhouette?
2004
The Oldsmobile Silhouette is a minivan manufactured by General Motors for model years 1990–2004 over two generations. Production ended when General Motors discontinued its Oldsmobile brand in 2004.
Why won't my Oldsmobile Silhouette start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile Silhouette won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How reliable is the Oldsmobile Silhouette?
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 Silhouette comes in at 3.
What is the mpg on a 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette?
Fuel Economy
| City | 16 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 23 mpg |
| Combined | 19 mpg |
Why won't my Oldsmobile Silhouette start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile Silhouette won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
When did they stop making Oldsmobile Silhouette?
2004
The Oldsmobile Silhouette is a minivan manufactured by General Motors for model years 1990–2004 over two generations. Production ended when General Motors discontinued its Oldsmobile brand in 2004.
1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Silhouette problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Steering problems
- Structure problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette
The NHTSA has received 126 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette vehicles.
2006-08-29
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-04
- VIN: 1GHDX03E7VD
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE SLIDING DOOR ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY AFTER THE RECALL (01V264000, 04V597000 OR 01V067000) REPAIR WAS COMPLETED. THE DOOR OPENED WITHOUT WARNING, WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IDLING, BUT NO LONGER WORKED. THE DOOR ONLY OPERATED PROPERLY ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS. THE SERVICE DEALER STATED THE RECALL REPAIR WAS COMPLETED AND THERE WAS NOTHING ELSE TO BE DONE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. UPDATED 09/13/06*JB
2006-07-08
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-01
- VIN: 1G3NL52E61C
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET IN OUR 1997 SILHOUETTE WENT BAD. AFTER SPEAKING WITH THE REPAIR FACILITY AND PERFORMING SEVERAL SEARCHES ACROSS THE INTERNET, IT WAS OBVIOUS THAT GM HAD A DEFECTIVE PART. THE ORIGINAL GASKETS WERE MADE OUT OF PLASTICS, WHILE NOW GM IS CONSTRUCTING THEM OF A MORE NORMAL / ACCEPTABLE MATERIAL. WE WERE LUCKY AND CAUGHT THIS EARLY, BUT IF SOMEONE WERE TO HAVE THIS HAPPEN ON A HIGHWAY TRIP, OIL COULD LEAK OUT OR MIX WITH COOLANT CAUSING THE ENGINE TO SEIZE UP AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THIS REPAIR AVERAGES AROUND $800 TO $1200 FROM WHAT I COULD FIND. *JB
2006-06-11
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-08
- VIN: 1GHDT13W7T2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY HEADLIGHT WILL NOT GO OFF I HAD TO UNHOOK THE BATTERY TOO GET THEM TOO GO OFF I TRIED SEVERAL THINGS THE LIGHT SWITCH THAT ROLLS NOTHING HAPPENED I DON'T KNOW WHAT THIS IS I WAITED A FEW HOURS TRIED THIS AGAIN NOTHING THEY STILL STAY ON THE CAR ONLY HAVE 90000 MILES ON IT WHAT COULD THIS BE I NEED HELP WITH THIS MATTER THANK YOU FREDA COOPER. *NM
2005-12-04
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-02
- VIN: 1GHDX03E5VD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NO FLOOR HEAT IN 1997 OLDS SILHOUETTE. MECHANIC DID NOT FIND CAUSE OF PROBLEM BUT DID NOTE THAT AN UN ASSOCIATED PROBLEM WAS OCCURING. THE ORIGINAL PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET WAS FAILING. AFTER INVESTIGATING AND RESEARCHING I HAVE FOUND THAT BOTH THE LACK OF HEAT IN THE FRONT OF THIS VEHICLE AND WORSE YET THE FAILING OF THE GASKET ARE COMMON PROBLEMS WITH THIS VEHICLE. I AM SCHEDULED TO HAVE BOTH PROBLEMS TAKEN CARE OF ON 12/28/2005. THE ESTIMATE (NO TELLSING THE COST TO REPAIR THE HEAT UNTIL THEY GET INTO IT) WILL RUN AT LEAST $700. BASED ON THE PAST INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET REPAIRS THIS SHOP HAS DONE ON GM VEHICLES THE SHOP ESTIMATES THIS REPAI ALONE WILL COST AT LEAST $500. *NM
2005-07-18
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-14
- VIN: 1GHDX03E7VD
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: FRONT WINDSHIELD HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE IN 12 MONTHS. BREAK INITIATED IN UPPER DRIVER SIDE CORNER AND TRAVELS INTO FIELD OF VISION. WITH WINDSHIELD OUT, YOU CAN SEE SEVERE RUSTING AT THE CORNER, NO WHERE ELSE. THE RUST IS ALL THE WAY THROUGH THE ROOF PANEL AND IS NOT VISIBLE ONCE THE WINDSHIELD IS REPLACED. I WAS ADVISED NOT TO GO THROUGH ANY CAR WASHES, TO AVOID ANY UNDO PRESSUES ON THE DRIVERSIDE QUARTER OF THE ROOF AND WHEN IT BREAKS AGAIN TO HAVE THE WINDSHIELD REPLACED IN A BODY SHOP WHERE THAT SECTION OF THE ROOF CAN BE REPLACED SO IT WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN. THE WINDSHIELD REPAIR PERSON STATED THAT WHEN HE REPLACES A FRONT WINDSHIELD ON AN OLDS SILHOUETTE OR CHEVY VENTURE THAT IS NOT THE RESULT OF AN ACCIDENT, 99% OF THE TIME THE BREAK INITIATES AT ONE OF THE TOP CORNERS AND WHEN THE WINDSHIELD IS OUT, THERE IS SEVERE RUSTING IN THE SAME SPOTS. GIVEN THE SEVERITY OF THE RUST THROUGH, I EXPECT IT WILL LEAK INTO THE INTERIOR SOON.
2005-03-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-23
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: ROOF LEAKS, DESPITE ATTEMPTS TO BLOCK LEAKAGE, WATER HAS INFILTRATED THE FUSE PANEL REPEATEDLY, SHORTING THE HORN, CAUSING IT TO HONK AT RANDOM FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME. *AK
2005-02-17
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-22
- VIN: 1GHDX06E2VD
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: RECALL #01 V 264 000/SLIDING DOOR:INTERMITTENTLY THE AUTOMATIC SLIDING DOOR WOULD OPEN BY ITSELF WHILE DRIVING. THE DEALER HAS MADE REPAIRS ON THIS DOOR APPROXIMATELY 2 YEAR AGO, NOW THE PROBLEM IS RECURRING. *NM
2005-01-04
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-16
- VIN: 1GHDS04E0XD
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC SLIDING DOORS RATTLED AND REOPENED ONCE THE WERE SHUT. WHEN CLOSING THE DOOR IT LOCKS ON ITS OWN. ONCE THE VEHICLE LOCKS ON ITS OWN CONSUMER IS NOT ABLE TO GET OUT. CONSUMER TRIES TO OPEN THE DOORS WITH THE REMOTE CONTROL, BUT WITH NO LUCK. CONSUMER HAS TO WAIT UNTIL IT UNLOCKS TO EXIT.*AK
2004-11-05
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-03
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE HEADLAMP LENS FELL OFF. *AK
2004-05-28
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-11
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE'S HEADLIGHTS LENS FELL OFF WITHOUT WARRING. THE CAUSE HAS YET TO BE DETERMINED. *LA
2004-05-20
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-05
- VIN: 1GHDX06E8VD
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WHEN TURNING THE VEHICLE OFF, THE HORN CONTINUOUSLY SOUNDED AND ALL THE DOORS AUTOMATICALLY LOCKED. THE DOORS COULD NOT BE MANUALLY OPENED. THE CONSUMER HAD TO TURN THE VEHICLE ON AND WAIT FOR A PERIOD OF FIVE TO TEN MINUTES AND THEN TURN THE VEHICLE OFF TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE. ALSO, POWER STEERING FLUID HAD TO BE ADDED EVERY 10,000 MILES AND THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED DUE TO FAULTY GASKETS. THE ENGINE HAD BEEN REPLACED TWICE. *AK WHEN THE DOORS LOCKED, THE WINDOWS WOULD NOT OPEN, THE DASH LIGHTS AND OVERHEAD LIGHTS WOULD GO OUT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, THE POWER LOCKS WOULD CHATTER WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, THE LIGHTS WENT OUT IN THE DASH, THE DRIVER DOORS WOULD UNLOCK WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, ALL THE DOORS WOULD LOCK WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AND COULD NOT BE OPENED MANUALLY OR OPEN THE WINDOWS, ALL OF THE DOORS WOULD UNLOCK WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND WAS INTERMITTENT, THE LEFT DOOR WOULD NOT UNLOCK WHEN THE IGNITION WAS TURNED OFF, THE STEERING PUMP WENT DRY WHILE DRIVING AND THE PUMP WENT DRY 5 ADDITIONAL TIMES AFTER 1005K MILES, THE DOORS LOCKED WHEN THE IGNITION WAS TURNED OFF AND WOULD BE UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR(S) OR WINDOW, THE POWER WINDOWS WERE INOPERATIVE, THE DRIVER MIRROR WOULD SHAKE, THERE WAS MOISTURE IN THE HEAD LAMP, THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD GO DIM AT NIGHT WHEN THE HEATER WAS TURNED ON, THE LEFT REAR WINDOW RATTLED, THE WIRING CHAFFED ON THE STUD UNDER THE CARPET IN THE VEHICLE, AND THE ELECTRICAL REMOTE DID NOT WORK UNTIL THE CONSUMER WAS CLOSE TO THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE TIMES WHEN THE DOORS WERE LOCKED AFTER THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS OFF, THE HORN WOULD START BLOWING AND WOULD NOT SHUT OFF UNTIL THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS TURNED BACK ON. *SC THE POWER MIRROR WERE INOPERATIVE. *JB
2004-02-19
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-22
- VIN: 1GHDX03E2WD
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE PASSENGER'S SIDE ELECTRIC SLIDING DOOR WOULD NOT REMAIN CLOSED WHEN THE CONSUMER CLOSED IT, AFTER A FEW SECONDS, THE DOOR WOULD POP BACK OPEN. *AK THIS PROBLEM WAS RECALLED TWICE 01V264000 AND 01V067000). *NM
2004-01-22
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-26
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE SEPARATED WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
2004-01-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-15
- VIN: 1GHDX06E7VD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FAILURE OF INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET. WAS TOLD THIS IS A COMMON GM PROBLEM WITH THIS V-6 ENGINE. GM DENIED REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT.
2004-01-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-15
- VIN: 1GHDX03E8VD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED DEC. 2000. REPLACED BY DEALER. FAILED AGAIN 1,000 MILES LATER. REPAIRED BY DEALER. 8000 MILES LATER ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON-DEALER SAID WAS TRANSMISSION PROBLEM, WOULD NOT REPAIR -OUT OF WARRANTY. THIS BEEN A PERSISTENT PROBLEM, WHICH STARTED ON WARRANTY. CONTACTED OLDSMOBILE TO PUT ME IN CONTACT WITH LOCAL FACTORY REP. TOLD THEY WOULD NOT GIVE ME THE NUMBER AND THAT I WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND ON MY OWN.
2004-01-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-15
- VIN: 1GHDX03E4VD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE ISSUE WE RAN INTO LAST YEAR IS WHERE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET LEAKED CAUSING COOLANT TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE. WE TOOK IT INTO OUR LOCAL DEALER, PEARSON PONTIAC, GMS, OLDS IN SUNNYVALE, ON MARCH 21 2002. AROUND THAT TIME BOTH MYSELF AND THE DEALER, AT LEAST THAT IS WHAT I WAS TOLD, CALLED OLDSMOBILE CUSTOMER SERVICE ASKING FOR ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VAN WAS AT 41788 MILES, 5K MILES OUT OF MILEAGE WARRANTY, AND THE BELIEF ON MY PART THAT A MAJOR ENGINE REPAIR WAS NOT REASONABLE FOR A VAN WITH ONLY 41K MILES. WHY SAY THE COOLANT CAN LAST 150K MILES WHEN IT ALL LEAKS OUT AT 41K MILES? I WAS TURNED DOWN FOR ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. I BELIEVE I TALKED WITH JUSTIN AND THE CASE NUMBER WAS C06614725. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THE ISSUE AS A LEAKING INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET. AT THE SAME TIME HE DETERMINED THE LIFTERS SHOULD BE REPLACED ALONG WITH A LEAKING WATER PUMP. THE TOTAL COST WAS $1,709.72. BREAKDOWN WAS $1,130.84 FOR LABOR AND THE REST FOR PARTS AND SALES TAX. THE DEALER REPAIR ORDER NUMBER IS 56819. I'VE NEVER OWNED OR HEARD OF A VEHICLE WHICH HAD A INTAKE MANIFOLD COOLANT LEAK, WATER PUMP AND LIFTERS FAIL AT 41K MILES. MY WIFE AND I ARE NOT HARD ON OUR CARS. THIS COST WAS HIGH (OVER 5% OF THE ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE) AND SOMETHING WE DID NOT EXPECT TO INCUR.
2004-01-15
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GHDX03E9VD
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY
- Summary: RIGHT DOOR WINDOW INOPERATIVE-WOULD NOT GO BACK UP. LEFT DOOR WINDOW INOPERATIVE-WOULD NOT GO BACK UP. (DECEMBER 2002) WINDOW WIPER ARM RUBBED HOLE IN BRAKE LINE, CAUSED BRAKES TO FAIL RESULTING IN ACCIDENT.
2004-01-09
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-28
- VIN: 1GHDU06E7VD
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE COVER FOR THE HEADLIGHT JUST FELL OFF OF THE CAR. MY MECHANIC SAID THAT MOISTURE GOT INTO THE HEADLIGHT AND CAUSED THE GLUE TO FAIL. WE HAD TAKEN IT IN TWICE FOR THIS PROBLEM WHEN THE CAR WAS NEW.*AK
2003-10-24
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-23
- VIN: 1GHDX03E8VB
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR RECALL# 01V067000 SUBJECT: POWER SLIDING DOOR. THE DEALER MADE REPAIRS TO THE REAR PASSENGER SLIDING DOOR BUT THE PROBLEM CONTINUED. *JB
2003-08-28
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-27
- VIN: 1GHDU06E4VD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 10/27/01 - HAD TO REPLACE MOTOR DO TO INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET FAILURE INTERNALLY AT 62139 MILES. 08/27/03 - AGAIN VAN IS AT THE GARAGE WITH INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET PROBLEMS THE MILEAGE IS NOW 102000.
2003-04-08
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-06
- VIN: 1GHDX06E2VD
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: FRONT HEAD LIGHT LENS AND PARK LIGHTS HAD WATER IN THEM. SIDE PARK LIGHTS WERE LOOSE AND LEFT HEAD LIGHT COVER FELL OUT WHILE DRIVING. *JB PH
2003-03-28
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER REGARDING THE RACK AND PINION, AN APPOINTMENT WAS MADE, HOWEVER THE DAY BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT, CONSUMER RECEIVED A CALL FROM THE DEALER WHO STATED THEY HAD NO TOOLS TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. *JB
2003-03-04
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GHDX06EXVP
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SHOP FOR RECALL REPAIRS TO THE RACK AND PINION BEARING AND THE POWER STEERING. THIS RECALL REQUIRED THAT THE AIR BAGS,HORN AND CRUISE CONTROL BE RESET. THE DEALER REFUSED TO DO THIS BECAUSE IT WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL. *NLM
2003-02-06
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-01
- VIN: 1GHDX06E4VD
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: VEHICLE'S PASSENGER POWER SLIDING DOOR WILL NOT STAY CLOSE IN COLD WEATHER. DEALER NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. PH *TS
2003-01-29
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-01
- VIN: 1GHDX03EXVD
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BRAKE LIGHTS BURN OUT WITHIN 2 WEEKS OF REPLACMENT. BULB AND FILIMINT ARE IN GOOD CONDITION - PLASTIC BASE OF BULB IS MELTED AND IMPAIRS PROPER CONTACT WITH LIGHT BULB.
1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette.
2009-02-17
- Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONSTM" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN THE STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING IN THE HUB AREA.
- Consequence: A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-2492 AND PRESS 5.
2008-08-11
- Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
2007-03-12
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
2004-12-22
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH SECOND-ROW BUCKET SEATS OR CAPTAIN'S CHAIRS AND A POWER SLIDING DOOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, A PASSENGER USING THE INTERIOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE POWER SLIDING DOOR COULD BE INJURED.
- Consequence: IF A PASSENGER USES THE INTERIOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE POWER SLIDING DOOR AND HOLDS ONTO THE HANDLE WHILE IT IS BEING OPENED BY THE MOTOR, THE PASSENGER'S ARM MAY BE PUSHED INTO THE SEAT BACK OR ARMREST AND A WRIST OR LOWER ARM INJURY MAY RESULT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER SLIDING DOOR INTERIOR HANDLE ON THE PASSENGER-SIDE. IF THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER OR MANUAL SLIDING DOOR ON THE DRIVER-SIDE, THE INTERIOR HANDLE WILL ALSO BE REPLACED FOR APPEARANCE REASONS. NOTE: BEFORE THE VEHICLE IS SERVICED, GM ADVISES OWNERS TO NOT USE THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE DOOR. THE DRIVER CAN OPEN AND CLOSE THE DOOR FROM SWITCHES AT THE DRIVER'S POSITION OR BY USING THE REMOTE KEY FOB. THE DRIVER SHOULD TELL PASSENGERS TO USE THE SWITCH LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE DOOR TO OPEN OR CLOSE IT. THE DRIVER SHOULD USE THE OVERRIDE SWITCH TO PREVENT OPERATION OF THE POWER DOOR BY CHILDREN OR BY OTHERS WHO ARE NOT FAMILIAR WITH ITS USE. THE OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER MAILING WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASES WITH THE FIRST PHASE BEGINNING ON MAY 31, 2005. THE SECOND PHASE MAILING BEGAN ON JULY 18, 2005. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 31, 2005. PHASE 2 BEGAN ON JULY 18, 2005. PHASE 3 (FINAL PHASE) BEGAN ON AUGUST 24, 2005, TO ALL REMAINING CUSTOMERS. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668; OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
2002-11-04
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS HAVE LOWER PINION BEARINGS IN THE POWER RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE RETAINER TABS WERE NOT CRIMPED PROPERLY. THESE AND SOME OTHER RETAINERS USED IN VEHICLES ASSEMBLED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 1996 AND OCTOBER 31, 1997, 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 JANUARY 24, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
2001-08-21
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 1997-2001 CHEVROLET VENTURE, PONTIAC MONTANA/TRANSPORT, AND OLDSMOBILE SILHOUETTE MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS THAT WERE SERVICED IN CAMPAIGN 01013 (01V-067) FROM APRIL TO AUGUST 2001. ALSO 2001 CHEVROLET VENTURE, PONTIAC MONTANA, AND OLDSMOBILE SILHOUETTE MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS ASSEMBLED IN JANUARY THROUGH APRIL 2001. THESE VEHICLES HAVE INADEQUATE FRONT WELDS. IF A FRONT WELD FAILS, THE ACTUATOR CAN JAM IN THE UNLATCHED POSITION AND, WHEN THE SLIDING DOOR CLOSES, IT WILL NOT BE LATCHED.
- Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE POWER SLIDING DOOR CAN OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, PARTICULARLY WHEN THE VEHICLE ASCENDS A HILL, MAKES A TURN, OR TRAVELS OVER A ROUGH ROAD SURFACE. AN UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANT COULD FALL OUT OF THE VAN AND BE INJURED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF REQUIRED, INSTALL A NEW POWER SLIDING DOOR UNLATCH ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 22, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
2001-03-08
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH PASSENGER SIDE POWER SLIDING DOORS. THE DOOR CLOSES BUT MAY NOT BE LATCHED. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE POWER SLIDING DOOR CAN OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, PARTICULARLY WHEN THE VEHICLE ASCENDS A HILL, MAKES A TURN, OR TRAVELS OVER A ROUGH ROAD SURFACE.
- Consequence: AN UNRESTRAINED OCCUPANT COULD FALL OUT OF THE VAN AND BE INJURED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW UN-LATCH ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY TO THE POWER SLIDING DOOR. THIS RECALL HAS BEEN CONTINUED UNDER SAFETY RECALL 01V-264. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
1998-06-26
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH BUCKET SEATS OR A SPLIT BENCH SEAT IN THE SECOND (MIDDLE) OR THIRD (BACK) ROW. THE SEAT LATCH MECHANISMS ON BUCKET SEATS AND ON THE 40% PORTION OF THE SPLIT BENCH SEAT IN THE SECOND AND THIRD ROWS DO NOT HAVE PROTECTIVE COVERS.
- Consequence: WHEN ACTIVATING THE RELEASE MECHANISM TO ROLL A BUCKET SEAT FORWARD, A CUSTOMER'S FINGER(S) COULD BE SEVERELY INJURED OR SEVERED IN THEY ARE NOT KEPT CLEAR OF THE MECHANISM.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL PROTECTIVE COVERS ON THE OUTBOARD LATCH MECHANISMS ON ALL LEFT AND RIGHT HAND REAR BUCKET SEATS IN THE SECOND AND THIRD ROW, AND TO BOTH INBOARD AND OUTBOARD LATCH MECHANISMS ON THE CENTER REAR BUCKET SEAT AND THE 40% PORTION OF THE SPLIT BENCH SEAT.
1998-04-07
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEMS. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE ARM CAN CONTACT A BRAKE LINE WHICH IS CONNECTED TO THE TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM MODULATOR VALVE. THIS CONTACT CAN CHAFE THE BRAKE LINE RESULTING IN A BRAKE FLUID LEAK.
- Consequence: BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE CAN CAUSE REDUCED BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS AND INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A BRAKE LINE CLIP TO ENSURE PROPER CLEARANCE. ALSO THE BRAKE LINES WILL BE INSPECTED TO ANY DAMAGE CAUSED BY THIS CONDITION AND WILL REPLACE ANY DAMAGED LINES.
Negative 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette car reviews
Positive 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette car reviews
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I bought the Silhouette because it was the biggest minivan on the market and I couldn't afford the Honda or Toyota. I gave America a chance and the van has performed great. I drive from So Cal to Minnesota each year and it has great power in the mountains, with a 500 mile range on the road. It floats nicely at 75 mph and the seats are very comfortable with leather. Although I had some dealer problems with brake issues and intake manifold gasket, I would definitely buy it again, but from a different dealer.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette problems:
Olds Silhouette Engine and Transmission Problems — Car Forums ...
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/7905/oldsmobile/silhouette/olds-silhouette-engine-and-transmission-problems
Jun 3, 2007 ... My 1997 Olds Silhouette conked out on me (91K miles) -- it would go into the first gear when I started driving it, but lost power once it ...
Q&A: Gas Tank & Pump Issues | 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette
https://www.justanswer.com/oldsmobile/70yvv-oldsmobile-silhouette-gas-gauge-98-silhouette-works.html
Aug 14, 2012 ... Yes, the fuel level sender in the tank is the most common thing to cause this fuel gauge problem. The little finger that ride on the resistor of ...
Oldsmobile Silhouette - Page 26 — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/126/oldsmobile/silhouette/oldsmobile-silhouette/p26
Apr 8, 2000 ... I took it back to the same repair shop. The caliper on the passenger side had seized. The mechanic said it was a common problem.
I have a 2002 oldsmobile silhouette van and the security light is on ...
https://www.justanswer.com/gm/37w4f-2002-oldsmobile-silhouette-van-security-light.html
Mar 4, 2010 ... car should start .it is common problem . after you will start car it may not happen again or it may happen next day. needs to be taken to ...
Oldsmobile Silhouette Problems and Complaints - 26 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/oldsmobile/silhouette
Top Oldsmobile Silhouette Problems · Rear Lights May Not Work Due to Rear Light Socket Plate Failure · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil.
Other years of Oldsmobile Silhouette
Are you having problems with your 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette?
Kobe Stoltenberg 2024-10-16
Hi there! We purchased our Silhouette back in 2000 and opted for the extended warranty, which turned out to be a great decision. Unfortunately, we've had a few electrical issues with it and even had to tow it from Georgia to Indiana last spring due to a ball bearing issue in the engine. Just this week, the engine started acting up again, which is a bit frustrating. We've decided to look into getting a new vehicle soon, but we're grateful for the memories we've made with our Silhouette over the years!
Geovanni Franecki 2024-01-22
This van has proven to be unreliable, with multiple engine and transmission issues over the years. Despite some initial decent performance, the repeated need for expensive repairs has made it clear that this was not a wise purchase. It is safe to say that this van is mechanically unsound.