2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue GX 3.5 liter from North America
Summary:
Easily the best car I've ever owned
Faults:
Blown rack and pinion steering at 70000km.
Coolant leak from a cooling pipe - transmission had to be removed to fix a gasket at 102000kms.
Rough starts caused by "sticky" throttle body.
Seized E-brake cable.
Signals stopped working; only the cornering lights would light up when signaling. The signal flasher, aka: the four way button on dashboard had to be replaced
General Comments:
It drives and handles VERY well.
I had to replace the rack and pinion unit, but I believe that was because the car was a rental vehicle before I owned it, and possibly could have been beaten on a bit. And just before it went, I had to avoid an accident, which almost spelled the end for this car; thank you traction control! After that, the steering was loose, and the car wandered all over the road when driving at any speed.
I have noticed the lights flickering on occasion. I have taken it to the dealership and nothing was found, and I notice it only when the car shifts at about 60km/h when it's damp outside. Unless it gets worse, I won't worry about it, especially since it seems like a common bug.
The coolant leak was slow; I had only to top up about once a month, but I had to get it fixed, which cost me an arm and a leg, and haven't had any serious problem since; no regrets.
The sticky throttle and seized E-brake cable ocurred after I had stored the car for winter, and wasn't much money to fix.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 4th July, 2008
5th Jul 2008, 17:25
Unfortunately, I didn't save my invoice when I bought the button from the dealership, but replacing the button should fix the signal problem, it was about $110 cdn brand new, wasn't difficult to replace myself, the button pulls out of the dash from the inside after you remove the center vents, clips right back into place. You may save some cash finding one at a scrapyard too.
4th Jul 2008, 10:09
I have a 2000 Intrigue with 197,000 miles on it and all I've replaced was the air pump. It's a great car. I'm having problems with my blinkers and hazards and wondered if I too need the 4-way button on the dash, but I don't know what to get. Is there a part number you could give me? I've searched the internet and couldn't find anything. Thanks.