1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme SL 3.4 DOHC from North America
Summary:
A great car with lots of options for the money
Faults:
85,000 - Timing chain snap.
90,000 - Transmission rebuilt.
100,000 - Transmission failure, new transmission installed.
103,000 - Alternator failure.
After passing 105,000, many small plastic pieces have started to fall apart. Radio controls, climate controls, sunroof pieces, door panels all falling apart.
General Comments:
Since the new transmission has been installed, car has been overwhelmingly reliable. Optional 3.4L engine performs flawlessly and have had no mechanical trouble with the engine at all. This car is a great performer, but it has typical wear and tear for a car with high mileage. Gas mileage is pretty average for a V6, I normally run 22 normal and 28 highway. I love this car and it has been great for the money, but I would recommend the 3.1L models for reliability and maintenance costs (alternator was over $500 to replace due to its inconvenient location, the engine is crammed in as tight as possible). Leather, sunroof, and auto climate are nice touches for the low price.
This has been a great temporary vehicle and I plan to replace it in the next month or so with an Aurora.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 14th November, 2004
9th May 2006, 20:46
I've known people that have had Auroras. Just make sure you don't get the year they first made them and get it checked out because I've heard they are pieces of junk and expensive to fix. This guy I know has a 2004 and the transmission went out last year. I don't know if they are that great. They do look cool though!