1997 Oldsmobile Achieva

Introduction:

The 1997 Oldsmobile Achieva was a compact sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and affordable price. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 2.3L Quad 4 engine: 150 horsepower and 150 ft-lbs of torque
• 3.1L V6 engine: 160 horsepower and 185 ft-lbs of torque
• 2.2L Ecotec engine: 115 horsepower and 120 ft-lbs of torque
• 3-speed automatic transmission
• 4-speed automatic transmission
• 5-speed manual transmission

Owners generally appreciate the Achieva’s reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. However, they also complain about its lack of power, poor handling, and subpar interior materials.

Engine

2.3L Quad 4 Engine

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include engine coolant leaks, overheating, and poor engine performance. The intake manifold gaskets need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

3.1L V6 Engine

• Head gasket failure: Symptoms include engine coolant and oil leaks, overheating, and poor engine performance. The head gaskets need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Oil pan gasket leak: Symptoms include oil leaks and low oil levels. The oil pan gasket needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

2.2L Ecotec Engine

• Timing chain failure: Symptoms include engine rattling noises, decreased engine performance, and check engine light illumination. The timing chain and related components need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission shudder: Symptoms include vibrations and surging while driving. The transmission fluid and filter need to be replaced, and in some cases, the transmission may need to be rebuilt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
• Slipping gears: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears and loss of power. The transmission needs to be rebuilt or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• No issues found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears and slipping clutch. The clutch needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front strut failure: Symptoms include excessive bouncing, poor handling, and unusual noises. The front struts need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Rear shock failure: Symptoms include excessive bouncing, poor handling, and unusual noises. The rear shocks need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Sway bar link failure: Symptoms include clunking noises while driving over bumps. The sway bar links need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, difficulty starting the car, and battery warning light illumination. The alternator needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the car or no starting at all. The starter needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Battery failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the car or no starting at all. The battery needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Door handle failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening the doors. The door handles need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Trunk lid latch failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening the trunk. The trunk lid latch needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: Symptoms include cracks and peeling on the dashboard. The dashboard needs to be replaced or repaired. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Seat belt failure: Symptoms include difficulty buckling or unbuckling the seat belts. The seat belts need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Power window failure: Symptoms include difficulty raising or lowering the windows. The power window motors or switches need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window

Recalls:

1. Recall ID: 97V121000 Summary: Throttle cable may stick causing the engine to rev unexpectedly. Refer to Recall 97V121000 for more info.
2. Recall ID: 97V211000 Summary: Door handles may break causing doors to open unexpectedly. Refer to Recall 97V211000 for more info.
3. Recall ID: 97V204000 Summary: Fuel gauge may malfunction resulting in inaccurate fuel level readings. Refer to Recall 97V204000 for more info.

Summary:

Overall, the 1997 Oldsmobile Achieva has several common issues that affect its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and interior. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential problems and to have their vehicles inspected and serviced regularly to prevent or address them promptly.