2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue

The 2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue was a mid-size sedan offering a blend of comfort and sporty handling. It was available with two engine options: a 3.5L “Shortstar” V6, producing 215 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8L “Series II” V6, producing 200 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4T65-E 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Intrigue for its smooth ride, comfortable seats, and distinctive styling, while common criticisms included its somewhat dated interior, occasional reliability issues, and relatively low fuel economy compared to some competitors.

Engine

3.5L “Shortstar” V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets, often replacing the upper and lower gaskets at the same time to ensure a proper seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips on the ground, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L “Series II” V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, rough running engine. The 3.8L is known to leak from the plastic intake manifold where it meets the aluminum heads.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets and often the intake manifold itself, as the plastic can warp.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crank Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crank position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E 4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Shift Problems/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifting, slipping between gears, difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement might help. More serious cases might require a valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $3000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, stalling at idle, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild may be recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when going over bumps, especially from the front. Poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits low in the rear, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replace worn out springs or shocks, or add spring spacers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500+ depending on the chosen solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light on, loss of ABS function.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows operate slowly, get stuck, or fail to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in Northern Climates)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats do not adjust properly.
  • Solution: Replace the power seat motor or the entire seat base assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioner not blowing cold, heater not blowing hot, or erratic temperature control
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the climate control system, possibly replacing the blend door actuator, compressor, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue, while appreciated for its ride and styling, is prone to several issues as it ages. The most common and potentially expensive problems relate to engine intake manifold gasket failures (both engines) and transmission issues. Suspension and electrical problems are also frequently reported. Rust can be a significant issue, especially in areas with road salt. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into the cost of ownership. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, particularly transmission overhauls.