2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue

The 2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue was a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and relatively sporty handling for its class. Engine options included a 3.5L “Shortstar” V6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. People generally liked the Intrigue’s styling and smooth ride. Common dislikes included some reliability issues and a perceived lack of prestige compared to other GM brands like Buick.

Engine

3.5L “Shortstar” V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, coolant loss, and possible overheating. The plastic intake manifold gaskets are prone to cracking and leaking coolant.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets with updated gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak at Water Pump
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump area, overheating, and low coolant levels.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and associated gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per leak location
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or complete failure of the transmission. Can be caused by worn torque converter clutches.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Problems / Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, or failure to shift into certain gears. Can be caused by worn solenoids or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body, or replace faulty solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn or broken strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear. Worn control arm bushings.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that operate slowly, erratically, or not at all. Caused by a failing window regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functioning headlights due to corroded connections or a faulty headlight switch.
  • Solution: Clean or replace corroded connections, or replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, loss of ABS function. Faulty ABS module.
  • Solution: Replace the ABS module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or non-functional heating and cooling due to a faulty blend door actuator or climate control module.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator or climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Speaker Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of sound from speakers or complete radio failure.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty speaker(s) or radio unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$300+ depending on component
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue can be a comfortable and affordable used car, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The most prevalent problems tend to revolve around the 3.5L V6 engine, specifically intake manifold gasket leaks and water pump failure. The 4T65E transmission can also experience problems, mainly related to the torque converter and valve body. Suspension issues, electrical problems, and interior trim pieces can also occur. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission rebuilds or ABS module replacements, can be costly. Inspecting a potential purchase thoroughly and checking for maintenance records is highly recommended.