Faults:
Wipers would not park in winter of 2002
Wipers would not park in winter of 2003
Wipers would not park in spring of 2004
Wipers would not park in summer of 2005
A.I.R. pump failed 2003
Lights flicker
Triangle in hazard button fell out
Dash rubber appears to be shrinking
Power windows at times don't work
Turn indicators will not work after automatic lights turn on
Rust on bottom of doors and in engine compartment already.
General Comments:
Generally, I like this car. It goes like stink, handles great, has fantastic stereo, can hold a pile of stuff like a monster stroller for the kids and all of our other family junk.
This is the fourth Oldsmobile I have owned. We have always had GM vehicles. Unfortunately, this problem with the wipers and the way GM has handled it, not to mention the way the dealership has handled it will put me into a Mazda 5 at the end of the month.
It is a well known fact that this parking system on the Oldsmobile, also used on Gran Prix, Lumina vans and others, is very unreliable. Next time you are on the road and see wipers sticking straight up and down on these vehicles, you will know what I am talking about. Those of you who are suffering from this, please know it is not because you are not clearing snow from the window or anything you are doing or not doing, no matter what the dealer says... it's not your fault. If your vehicle is out of warranty and this happens, don't be afraid to take the wiper arms off, remove the wiper motor cover and look at this system yourself. You can fix it in 5 minutes and save $150 every winter.
It is unfortunate that GM forgot that Oldsmobile was supposed to mean the same as quality. Anyone buying one of these used, I suggest a different car if you are basing your choice on a prior Oldsmobile success. The old days are gone... it's time to get a Nissan or Toyota.
22nd Jun 2006, 18:46
Found it. Intermetiat shaft. No more clunking. Now have 93000 kl (58125 miles). No light problems, no oil loss and get 27 mpg mixed driving. U.S. gal. Love the car.