1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue GLS 3.8 from North America
Summary:
Nice looking wheels, maybe a "Devil in Disquise..."
Faults:
Starting problem: Slow to turn over, at first attempt; I retry and then it's almost flooded. Our only remedy has been to turn the key to on (so all dash lights/radio are lit), then once lit I turn the key over to start. Then it starts right up. I have not had a stall situation on the road as others have stated. The prior owner did replace the MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR just before selling it; he said it was $200 for the repair.
Turn signals: Sporadically stop working, both at the same time. I don't get any action on the inside (lights not flashing inside, no blinking noise). Also verified from outside they do not work. This is very unsafe as it impacts how you communicate on the road, and your ability to safely drive, I believe this should be a recall.
Bussman fuses: I checked fuse panel on the turn signals. What I found interesting was that every single one was 'brown' on the metal (age or voltage problem?), no broken filament inside, however they were brown also as if they are being stressed and not blown, YET. I am changing all of ours just due to the 'soot' factor, and I figure it might as well be done to decrease the chance we blow one; a cheap precautionary fix.
Power steering: To parallel park you need to drive slow and crank the wheel hard, I feel as though there is no power steering when I need to do this.
Fogging windows: It is Fall, and I am having a lot of trouble getting the windows to defrost, though the temperature and blowers seem to work.
General Comments:
Unfortunately I think this car was misrepresented to me when I bought it as my son's first car. I am concerned as these problems seem to be prevalent. Perhaps my son will build some mechanical skills, learning from some of the experts and novices who have shared their wisdom here.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 18th November, 2010
10th Aug 2014, 03:26
The "Shortstar" V-6 is the little brother of the Northstar V-8 - check your oil level early and often ;)