1991 Oldsmobile 98

1991 Oldsmobile 98 Overview

The 1991 Oldsmobile 98 was a full-size luxury sedan that offered a smooth ride, a spacious interior, and powerful engine options. It came with a standard 5.0L V8 engine producing 170 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. A 5.7L V8 engine with 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque was also available. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic transmission for both engine options.

The 98 was praised for its comfortable ride, roomy interior, and strong V8 engines. However, it was criticized for its poor fuel economy and some reliability issues.

Engine

5.0L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, rough idle, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, coolant leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Overdrive Gear Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping in overdrive, loss of power at highway speeds
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises, excessive bouncing, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Wobbly steering, popping noises when turning, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting, electrical system malfunction
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to start the vehicle, clicking noises when starting
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty unlocking or locking doors, doors may remain open
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to open or close windows, slow or jerky window operation
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Panel Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperative climate control system, faulty temperature readings, fan malfunction
  • Solution: Replace the climate control panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belt warning light remains illuminated even when seat belt is fastened
  • Solution: Replace the seat belt sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1991 Oldsmobile 98 is a spacious and comfortable luxury sedan with powerful engine options. However, it suffers from some reliability issues, particularly with its head gaskets, transmission, and electrical system. These issues can be costly to fix, so potential buyers should consider the cost of repairs before purchasing this vehicle.