1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass

Introduction:

The 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass is a mid-sized sedan available with a choice of two engines, a 3.1L V6 or a 3.4L V6, and two transmissions, a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual. The 3.1L V6 produces 160 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.4L V6 produces 185 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. The Cutlass received praise for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, but criticism for its uninspiring performance and lack of modern features.

Engine

3.1L V6 with 4-speed Automatic

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.4L V6 with 4-speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

3.4L V6 with 5-speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, no forward or reverse gears
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shifting problems, delayed engagement
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: #99-ST-005

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but does not start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Taillight Lens Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracked or broken taillight lenses
  • Solution: Replace taillight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Control Panel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC controls not working, no airflow from vents
  • Solution: Replace HVAC control panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass has some known issues, particularly with its engine and transmission. The most serious issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and torque converter failure, can be costly to repair. However, many of the other issues are less severe and relatively inexpensive to fix. Overall, the Cutlass’s reliability is below average for its class, but it remains a comfortable and spacious vehicle for those willing to accept its shortcomings.