1997 Oldsmobile Achieva SL 3.1L V6

Summary:

This car was thrown together.

Faults:

The major problem with this car is that is has always run too hot. The temp gauge is almost always up to the line right before the red. Every time I would take it back to the dealership, they balked me, but always ended up replacing something, either to pacify me, or to bilk the warranty company, or both. When the engine finally blew at 80,000 miles (the day after they replaced the thermostat, which was the 12th time I had it in for overheating), they finally realized that I knew what I was talking about. After the engine rebuild, it was OK for a couple months, but now it is starting to run too hot again.

General Comments:

I am pleased with the acceleration and gas mileage of this car.

It has a killer sound system.

I like the styling of the car.

However, the good points are clouded by the engine overheating and the arrogance of the dealership service personnel.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 18th December, 2002

1997 Oldsmobile Achieva Sedan V6

Summary:

Great bargain if you maintain it properly

Faults:

The electronic tracking system and the Anti-Lock Braking System light won't go off.

The check gages light stays on.

The water pump was replaced within 1 year of ownership of the car.

The ignition would not turn the car on after a part was replaced because of a recall.

Motors went out on all the windows in 2000.

Fuel tank door has to be pryed open in order to purchase gasoline for the car.

General Comments:

The car gets great gas mileage on the highway.

The sound system is fantastic.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st November, 2002

1997 Oldsmobile Achieva SL 2.4L

Summary:

Expensive to repair

Faults:

In this order, I have replaced master power window switch twice, coil, alternator, front brakes twice since used purchase, water pump (front seal shot.. noticed this on other comments here), bought front seat cover as it has worn poorly, paint job did not hold up very well.

General Comments:

I will say that the car has been reliable with exception of water pump. I expect the replace something on air conditioning as I lived in Florida while owning it. For some reason tires wear poorly on this vehicle. I would say that it is not a comfortable car for a tall person, say over 6 feet, but then either was my Sunbird.. also a GM product. The 2.4L quad 4 engine is expensive to repair. Most typical parts like alternator, serpentine belt, timing chain, water pump require lots of labor to fix or replace. Engine is designed such that a lot has to come off in order to replace something.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st August, 2002

1997 Oldsmobile Achieva

Summary:

A great first time car for a nice price.

Faults:

I had to replace the alternator at 75,000 miles.

I replaced the rotors and pads at 80,000 miles.

General Comments:

I like the way that I feel safe when my son and I are in the car.

I like the way that it looks like a sports car.

I like how the car is small enough to fit in "little spaces," but big enough for my son and I to feel like we have enough room.

The quick acceleration is a plus too.

Not enough leg room in the back it's a little cramped for an adult.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd August, 2002

1997 Oldsmobile Achieva SL 2.4L

Faults:

Two weeks after I bought the car the low coolant light came on. Bought coolant filled it up, and the light didn't go off. Changed to switch, and after a 2 weeks it happened again. Had the car checked out and it turned out to be the water pump front seal. Changed that for $400.

Moved and during the move the anti-lock brake system light and the Traction system light came on and wouldn't go off. They only come on in warm weather. During the winter they are fine.

My driver's seat is broke. They said the track wore out. Will cost $300 to fix.

Replaced a O2 sensor.

Replace both front and back brakes.

Driver's side lock/unlock switch works when it wants too.

General Comments:

The car is reliable. Only general maintainence, besides the water pump.

In general, I really like the car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 13th May, 2002