1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera SL review from North America

Transmission replaced at 165,000 miles.

Timing chain replaced at 196,000 miles.

Alternator replaced.

Heater core replaced.

This was my first car at 16 years old, and still at 18 years old I am simply satisfied with the life I've gotten out of this car.

The repairs I listed were common repairs everyone will do on their vehicles. I have just been amazed at how long this car has been able to go without repairs. The transmission going for 165,000 miles just amazed me, but I guess if you take care of your vehicle you can expect that. That was the only major repair ($780) I had to do on this vehicle. The timing chain was sort of a pain but it wasn't that bad.

It was about 2 weeks ago that I thought my car was a goner for good. The timing chain started slapping in the housing due to stretching by age and I was convinced it was a bearing in the motor! Well, it was just the timing chain, so I replaced that and she's running like a charm again.

I really like the driver info system in the center console which gives a digital readout of a whole bunch of different things such as voltage, oil life until the next change, tachometer, etc. The car is a pretty basic 4 door sedan with nothing really luxurious about it except for the stuff I've added like tinted windows, ventshades, cool looking alloys, and a CD player, but it is a nice car.

This particular car has the 3.3 V6 in it which I have always liked. This car can't take a Camaro or anything, but it is damn fast!! That C6 has got some darn good quickness!

I have never liked the roominess inside the car. The front driver and passenger have an ample amount of room, but the backseat riders are at a great disadvantage because there isn't a whole lot of room in the back when people in the front move their seats back. I am 6'3" and so I need room when I'm driving, and when I move my seat back to give my legs enough room, there is barely any space for anyone to sit behind me. So, that is a disadvantage to my car.

Overall, if you're looking for a nice 4-door sedan that is fast and by george lasts a hell of a long time, go with Oldsmobile!!