1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette
Introduction:
The 1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette is a midsize minivan that offers a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a variety of engine and transmission options. It features a 3.4L V6 engine that delivers 185 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options include a 3.8L V6 and a 4.3L V8.
Despite its positive attributes, the Oldsmobile Silhouette has been plagued by a number of issues reported by owners.
Engine
3.4L V6
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, engine misfires
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
3.8L V6
- No Issues Found
4.3L V8
- No Issues Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slippage
- Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or loss of power during acceleration
- Solution: Replace transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power Window Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Windows do not operate or operate slowly
- Solution: Replace window motor or switch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dimming lights
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
- No Issues Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin when sunroof is closed
- Solution: Replace sunroof seal
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks develop on dashboard surface
- Solution: Replace dashboard
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- No Issues Found
Summary:
The 1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette has a number of reported issues, including engine intake manifold gasket failure, transmission slippage, power window failure, alternator failure, sunroof leaks, and dashboard cracking. These issues range in severity from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical problems that can be costly to repair. Overall, the Silhouette’s reliability is below average, which may be a concern for potential buyers.