Faults:

Just about everything. The car has needed extensive brake work, a full tune up, an alternator, a battery, crankshaft positioning sensor, coil packs, and now the engine is making odd sounds. The ride is not as smooth as I've been told it is. The armrests are loose, and there is a grease stain on the front seat. A hubcap has fallen off as well.

General Comments:

I bought my Olds 98 last year in the fall for $400. So far, I have been very disappointed with it. Everyone tells me how "reliable" these cars are. However, mine has been nothing, but problems. The power windows are slow, the brake pedal is spongy, and the car makes an odd creaking noise every time I get in it for about 30 seconds. I think that might be the body coming loose from the frame. Even performance is mediocre. I will admit that the seats are comfortable, and gas mileage is OK, but other than that, I can't really recommend an 89 Olds 98. They don't seem to be as reliable as I've been told. Hopefully this fall, I'll have enough saved up for another car. Next time, it will most likely be a used Accord or Camry. No more GM cars for me. Not after this nightmare.

Faults:

All parts bought from Autozone.

Starter at 215,000 miles - $65.00.

Alternator and belt at 216,000 miles - $80.00.

Both front struts at 220,000 miles - $60.00 each.

Inner tie rod at 225,000 miles - $20.00.

Computer at 227,000 miles - $80.00.

Radiator leaks at 230,000 miles - $55.00 (junk yard)

General Comments:

All owners of this car lived down a dirt road (reason for under-body work.)

This car was given to me by my grandparents and was the best car I have ever drove, regardless of the "granny" appearance.

Maintenance was not a big problem, Autozone always gave me the best prices and I had my Uncle or Dad fix my car.

I parked this car only because the radiator was leaking and I thought I needed a new car. I am now thinking of selling my new car (1999 Malibu LS) and driving this car again.

This car has EVERY option possible and has so many luxury features. I would buy one brand new if they still made them. Very comfortable and handles very well.

Faults:

Horn would go off by its self in cold weather.

Gas lines rotted out to the point of leaking at around 151000 miles. This cost almost $400 to repair.

Brake lines also rusted out and in need of replacement now.

Seats worn due to heavy use.

General Comments:

This has been overall a good car. However several expensive repairs just months after getting it were a bit discouraging. Guess rust is just part of life in the great northeast.

Other than that it has been a very reliable car, having no problems starting up, even in the bitter cold (-30F) weather this winter.

This beast is an excellent winter weather car, with very little slipping or sliding even in the worst of conditions.

Very strong car also, had a small crash with a Chevy S10 pickup, the S10 lost its back bumper while the beast only had a cracked turn signal.