1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais

1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais

The 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais is a compact car that was known for its stylish design and comfortable interior. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 2.5L V6 engine with a 3-speed automatic transmission, a 3.1L V6 engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.4L V6 engine with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Drivers praised the Cutlass Calais for its roomy cabin, responsive handling, and fuel efficiency. However, it also faced some issues with its powertrain, suspension, and electrical system.

Engine

• 2.5L V6 Engine:
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: Causes coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, and decreased performance. Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Head gasket failure: Causes coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, and decreased performance. Solution: Replace head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
• 3.1L V6 Engine:
  • Timing chain tensioner failure: Causes engine noise, rough idle, and decreased performance. Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Fuel injector failure: Causes engine misfires, rough idle, and decreased fuel economy. Solution: Replace fuel injector. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• 3.4L V6 Engine:
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Causes oil leaks. Solution: Replace valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Exhaust manifold gasket failure: Causes exhaust leaks and engine noise. Solution: Replace exhaust manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Transmission

• 3-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Shift solenoid failure: Causes transmission slipping and difficulty shifting gears. Solution: Replace shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Transmission filter and fluid contamination: Causes transmission slipping and rough shifting. Solution: Replace transmission filter and fluid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• 5-Speed Manual Transmission:
  • Clutch failure: Causes difficulty shifting gears and slipping. Solution: Replace clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Synchronizer failure: Causes grinding noises when shifting gears. Solution: Replace synchronizer. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Suspension

• Front strut failure: Causes knocking noises, uneven tire wear, and decreased handling. Solution: Replace front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Rear shock absorber failure: Causes bouncing and instability. Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Control arm bushing failure: Causes clunking noises and decreased handling. Solution: Replace control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Causes battery drain and electrical system malfunctions. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Battery failure: Causes difficulty starting engine and electrical system malfunctions. Solution: Replace battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Starter motor failure: Causes difficulty starting the engine. Solution: Replace starter motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Exterior

• Door lock failure: Causes difficulty locking and unlocking doors. Solution: Replace door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Trunk lock failure: Causes difficulty opening trunk. Solution: Replace trunk lock actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Window regulator failure: Causes difficulty rolling windows up and down. Solution: Replace window regulator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Climate control failure: Causes difficulty adjusting temperature and airflow. Solution: Replace climate control module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Radio failure: Causes no sound or distorted sound. Solution: Replace radio. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary

The 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais is a reliable and comfortable car that offers good value for its price. However, it does face some potential issues with its powertrain, suspension, and electrical system. These issues can be costly to fix, but they can often be prevented with regular maintenance and repairs.