1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass

Introduction

The 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass was a popular mid-size car offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was powered by a standard 3.3L V6 engine with 165 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. The Cutlass was also available with a 3.8L V6 engine with 170 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.0L V8 engine with 170 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a standard 3-speed automatic transmission and an optional 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Cutlass was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and affordable price. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power and performance.

Engine

3.3L V6 Engine

• Blown Head Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6 Engine

• No Issues Found

5.0L V8 Engine

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve covers
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold bolts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips out of gear while driving
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission overheats, causing shifting problems and loss of power
  • Solution: Flush and replace transmission fluid and filter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Sagging Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower than normal, reduced ride quality
  • Solution: Replace springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, decreased handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery does not charge, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on body panels, especially on rear wheel wells
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusty panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass has a number of potential issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. These issues can be costly to fix, and some may require major repairs. However, the Cutlass is still a popular vehicle among enthusiasts due to its comfort and affordability.