1995 Oldsmobile 88 3.8 V6

Summary:

Excellent vehicle for me; I am a senior

Faults:

So far nothing too expensive.

The wiring to the front speakers came loose, and the wiring to the auto seats back and forward came loose. Besides that, nothing.

I don't care for the front headlights; they aren't bright enough.

General Comments:

This car has outstanding room inside, is really good on gasoline, has lots of zip, and the transmission has no problem with smooth shifting. It just floats down the highway at a good travelling speed, and the seats are comfy.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th January, 2016

1995 Oldsmobile 88 Royale 3.8 V6

Summary:

Very reliable and safe family sedan

Faults:

Nothing serous yet. A small problem with the fuel gauge and no A/C.

General Comments:

I bought this car used from a girl who inherited it from her late Grandmother, who bought it new and took good care of it. The girl never drove it and only registered it, then sold it to me, so even though I am the 3rd owner, it's like I am the 2nd owner that has driven it.

I bought it in February of 2014. I guess I have not had it long enough to make a legitimate comment, as I have driven it only 3000 miles so far, but here it is anyway.

So far the car is running well. It has the 3.8 V6 engine, which at times refuses to start. It will turn over, but no start. I was told by my mechanic that it was an air intake that was sticking on it, as when I open the hood and slam it, it will start after that. I guess the slamming knocks something loose.

The gas gauge does work and shows actual fuel levels, but when I turn the ignition to start the car, the needle will shoot all the way over counter clockwise past the F (Full) mark, and then rest back where it should. I don't know if this is a common problem with this car, I haven't read anything about it online.

The A/C doesn't seem to be working. I don't think the pump is coming on.

But other than that, it does run very well and has new tires and brakes on it. OH, and the greatest thing is, I paid only $800.00 for it. It is a clean car inside and out, and although these cars don't hold much resale value, I still think I got a heck of a deal for $800.00.

I have found that with many cars, be it American or foreign, as I have owned many of both, a car will serve you better if you don't beat the hell out of it and do the maintenance on time.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd August, 2014

1995 Oldsmobile 88 Royal 3.8L

Summary:

Best car I ever owned

Faults:

Warped manifold (leaking) was replaced at 112,000 miles.

Water pump leak 118,000.

Idler pulley assembly at 121,000 broke.

Trunk lid spring broke at 131,00.

General Comments:

This car has performed perfect for 155,000 miles.

It is roomy, quiet, has good acceleration and gives good mileage (30 mpg on highway, even now.)

I plan on keeping it.

My question is: to keep it reliable should I replace the fuel pump? It works well now but I do not want to get stuck. Replacement pumps cost about $500.

How long do fuel pumps (like this one) last?

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th November, 2008

30th Nov 2008, 09:31

With 155,000 miles you're on very thin ice with the fuel pump.

Replace it now.

1995 Oldsmobile 88 Royal "Special Edition" 251 3.8L V6 Series II

Summary:

Transmission out in less than 6 months

Faults:

OK, I previously owned a 1995 Oldsmobile 88 Royal "Special Edition" with gold badging, which made it RARE. It had all power options for the year, including a moon roof and base 3.8L 3800 V6. The car was $1,500.00 out the door back in August 2004 with 114,000 miles. My dad (ex mechanic) told me not to buy it because the trans might be going. I thought otherwise. It had normal wear and tear.

REPAIRS:

Front brakes and rotors - 2 weeks after had car $400?

Moon roof seal started cracking after 3 months.

Transmission needed to be replaced/rebuilt after 5 months.

Lost the car due to the transmission slipping in and out of gears, and COULD NOT AFFORD the $1,600.00 rebuild on the trans due to a lack of employment.

General Comments:

Overall so far, this has been my favorite 1st luxury sedan to own, and I still miss it to this day!

These cars ride smooth, and have quick pickup for a full size big body sedan!

Big V6 power plant - did not have any problems.

GM's transmissions are not the best.

Anyone have comments, questions or same problems?

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th June, 2007