1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass: problems, recalls and reliability

“Could not turn ignition switch off. Needed to disconnect the cable to the power coil to turn off the engine. After several similar incidents, had to replace the ignition switch at a cost of $147.15. Gm has a recall for a similar problem on several later model cars. Request reimbursement of my costs. *tr”Owner report · Electrical System · Oct 2013

“Tl* the contact owns a 1996 oldsmobile cutlass supreme. While driving approximately 5 mph and turning the steering wheel, the contact heard a popping sound. The contact stated the sound was heard anytime a turn was made. The vehicle was not inspected or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated there was a recall NHTSA campaign id number: 03v527000 (steering: rack and pinion) but the vehicle was not included. The approximate failure mileage was 54,000.”Owner report · Steering · Aug 2010

“Tl*the contact owns a 1996 oldsmobile ciera. While driving approximately 30 to 40 mph she heard a rubbing and squeaking noise in the front of the vehicle. She stated that when she was making a turn, the vehicle made a squeaking noise. She continued to drive the vehicle to a local repair shop. The mechanic looked under the hood and noticed that the strut housing was pushing up against the hood. The dealer told the contact that there were no related recalls. The vehicle was not repaired. She stated that the vehicle was not drivable. The approximate failure and current mileages were 200,000.”Owner report · Suspension · Jul 2010

“1996 oldsmobile cutlass supreme, the rear strut mount brackets are bad, everyone we have spoken to have had them break even those who have purchased there vehicles new have said the brackets failed and had to be replaced within the first year of purchase. If the bracket breaks it can lead the driver to wreck or even the strut being propelled through the back seat. The bolts holding the brackets in place sheered off. We do have the original bracket. *tr”Owner report · Suspension · Sep 2009

“Tl*the contact owns a 1996 oldsmobile cutlass. While driving 30 mph the passenger side rear tire began to vibrate. The dealer stated that the tread was separating and a new tire was needed. This was the third tire that separated. The mileage of the tire and tire pressure were unknown. The tire brand is cooper, cooper lifeliner classic ii, size,p215/60r16. The failure mileage was 98,000 and the current mileage was 105,000.”Owner report · Tires · Aug 2007

“Dt*: the contact stated while traveling 30 mph in dry road conditions, the ABS light illuminated when the brake pedal was depressed. Also, the brake pedal went to the floorboard, and stopping distance was increased. The vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop who performed a diagnostic, but could not determine the problem. The brake pads were replaced, but the problem recurred 5 months later while traveling 30 mph. The dealership was contacted, but never returned a call. The contact expressed concern that the ABS system was defective, and could a pose serious risk if the problem recurred in heavy traffic.”Owner report · Service Brakes, Hydraulic · Apr 2006

“Dt*: the contact stated while driving 40 mph the smell of smoke could be detected. The vehicle was pulled off the side of the road. Within a few minutes the smoke went away and the vehicle was restarted. A few moments later the vehicle was on fire under the hood. Smoke filled the vehicle, the doors would not unlock, and the windows would not roll down. The occupant climbed to the back seat and tried to kick the windows out. Someone saw the vehicle on fire and extinguished the fire. Injuries were sustained, the vehicle was totaled. The vehicle has not been inspected. The manufacturer has not been contacted, updated 05/30/06. *ak”Owner report · Electrical System · Jan 2006