1994 Oldsmobile Silhouette

Introduction:

The 1994 Oldsmobile Silhouette is a mid-size minivan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 3.1-liter V6 that produced 160 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. A 3.8-liter V6 was also available, producing 180 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 1994 Oldsmobile Silhouette generally appreciate its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. However, the vehicle has also been plagued by a number of issues over the years.

Engine

3.1L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the intake manifold, loss of power, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power steering pump failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or squealing noise when turning the steering wheel, loss of power steering assist
  • Solution: Replace the power steering pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Throttle body failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, poor acceleration
  • Solution: Replace the throttle body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water pump failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the water pump, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic transmission:
  • Transmission slipping:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque converter failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining or shuddering noise when accelerating, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear on the front tires
  • Solution: Replace the front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock absorber failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, bouncing or swaying when driving over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, electrical components not working
  • Solution: Replace the battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, clicking noise when turning the key
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on rear wheel wells:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust appearing on the rear wheel wells
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of the wheel wells
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Plastic trim cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Plastic trim on the dashboard or door panels cracking
  • Solution: Replace the cracked trim
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat belt retractor failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belt not retracting properly
  • Solution: Replace the seat belt retractor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: 03V241000 (Front Seat Belt Webbing)

Summary

The 1994 Oldsmobile Silhouette is a minivan with a number of issues that can range in severity and cost to fix. Some of the more common issues include intake manifold gasket failure, transmission slipping, and front strut failure. Despite these issues, the Silhouette remains a popular choice for families who need a spacious and comfortable vehicle.