1992 Oldsmobile 88 3.8L from North America

Summary:

I would recommend this to anyone who wants a comfortable solid and reliable performer

Faults:

I've read all of the other reviews and the repairs to this car have been typical.

Over it's life I've replaced two water pumps and one alternator/generator.

Had an engine mount replaced at around 250,000.

CV joints & struts. Brakes a couple of times.

NEVER have had any exhaust work done (and I live in a Northern climate with corrosives used for snow removal).

Non-power (no lumbar) passenger seat uncomfortable on long trips.

Can get up to 30 MPG on long trips.

General Comments:

Bottom line... after owning this beaut for fourteen years, I've put a lot of miles on this car, taken care of it, and it has served me faithfully. I've had several Oldsmobiles and this car by far has been the best I've ever owned. Right now at 268,000 the transmission is finally giving out (slow to shift into third and then overdrive). I plan to have the transmission rebuit. I would definitely buy another Olds 88 if I could find a low mileage car. It's been great!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th July, 2006

1992 Oldsmobile 88 3.8 Liter from North America

Summary:

Luxury for a cheap price

Faults:

New brakes and rotors at 92,000 Miles when bought.

New Motor Mount at 92,000 Miles.

New rear shocks at 98,000 Miles.

General Comments:

I Bought the car with 92,000 miles for 1,850 dollars.

This car is rather quick despite its heavy weight.

Engine is very powerful and always starts in the winter.

Seats are very comfortable and you can fit 6 people in car easily.

Haven't had any problems with motor or transmission.

Not good suspension, but once replaced shocks it handled better.

Can get 26 Miles Per Gallon on Highway

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th November, 2005

1992 Oldsmobile 88 3.8 from North America

Summary:

A solid

Faults:

Air conditioning needed a recharge.

Vehicle computer control for the air conditioning failed due to the fan/blower motor connector shorting.

Harmonic balancer failure (a common problem with the 3800 series engines).

Water pump failure.

General Comments:

Despite the problems, this car runs well. The water pump and harmonic balancer failures happened when I just started it, so no damage was done. I drive it 70 miles round trip every day, and it is a cruiser on the freeway at 70-75. The gas mileage is great. I am looking to buy another 88 (LSS) so I have something with more pep. A very underrated car, & I hope it stays that way!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th August, 2004

1992 Oldsmobile 88 LX 3.8L from North America

Summary:

Bullet-proof reliability in a low cost package

Faults:

Very little.

Brake pads were replaced, but due to driving it so much.

Interior trim on doors it starting to "peel" off.

Alternator replaced at 177,000 km.

General Comments:

When I got my license and my dad handed me the keys to his '92 Olds, I was somewhat disappointed. After a few minutes of driving it I fell in love with it. It handles with confidence and speed. Brakes are very good. It'll stop on a dime and give you nine cents change. Interior room to spare. Massive trunk, big enough for 4 golf bags.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th August, 2004

1992 Oldsmobile 88 LSS 3.8L V6 from North America

Summary:

A competent sport touring sedan

Faults:

The CV joint boots have failed four (4) times.

The dealer repaired the intake manifold coolant leak at 25,000 miles. This is a known issue.

The dealer replaced the pistons after I complained on three separate occasions about a tapping noise. There was a "silent recall" for this problem.

The tiny lights for the radio controls mounted on the steering wheel failed just after warranty. The dealer wanted $500 to replace them!!

The transmission was replaced with a re-manufactured unit at 3,000 miles. No trouble since then - but the fluid is changed every three years.

Right now, the electronic climate control is acting strange, but I think it's just the air conditioner needs a charge.

The control module for the anti-lock brakes/traction control failed at 87,000 miles. This is another known issue. Dealer estimate was $850 for parts and labor. I bought the part for $200 and had it installed for $100.

I was geting a "Check Engine" light off and on for a year. The code indicated that the EGR valve was bad. I eventually fixed it by simply unplugging all of the wire harness connections at the ECM and then reinserting them. It must have been a speck of corrosion on a connection.

The most aggravating problem is the paint job. It has a metallic blue top coat over a silver base coat. The blue is delaminating in little blister like patches. GM knew about this, but let it go.

The usual parts have been replaced, including front struts, brakes, battery, alternator and water pump. The rear air struts are original, as is the exhaust system.

General Comments:

While there may seem to be a lot of repairs, I've owned the car for over nine years and 75,000 miles.

It handles and rides very well. The ride is firm, and the heavy duty suspension provides excellent control. Also, the anti-lock brakes have saved my butt a couple of times.

The leather seats are very comfortable and fully adjustable. The sound system is average, but includes a cassette and a CD player. The electric antenna motor died a few years ago, but reception is still very good.

The best part is that the car has been paid for for six years. It has NEVER left me stranded. I intend to drive it for a long time.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th June, 2003