1991 Oldsmobile 88 Royale review from North America
"A classic road sedan with a sporty attitude!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Computer Module replaced at about 189,000 miles. Replaced by a used computer by a Mechanic. A $165.00 repair.
Passenger side window takes days to roll up, others slow.
Cruise Control went at about 193,000 miles. It's being fixed.
Starter Replaced after 196,500 miles. Bought a lifetime warranty starter from Autozone for $70.00.
After starter replacement, ICM (Ignition Control Module) went out. Fixed myself easily for $120.00.
Air Conditioner lower vents not blowing air, replacing fan motors soon.
Just replaced the Ignition Coil Module, plugs and wires. Relatively low cost of about $100.00. Did the work myself and it was fairly easy to do.
Regular maintenance such as oil changes and lubes. Very few problems with this car considering the heavy use and high miles on her.
General comments?
This is one of the finest cars we have ever owned and we have had some really nice rides in the past.
For a family type 4-door sedan, it has a peppy attitude and it has a quick step to go with it. It will serve your needs whoever you are, whether you have a family or your cruising by yourself.
This car is surprisingly fast and powerful and it still gets really decent fuel mileage. This is not a vehicle to be taken lightly.
Very comfortable for long trips and can seat 5 in comfort. Decent leg room front and back and the seats are comfortable.
Considering the things that have went wrong with the car, most problems I was able to fix on my own fairly easily and at relatively cheap expense and the car always ran no matter what.
This car handles like a dream for its size and weight and glides down the road like your on air, even at higher speeds on rough roads and corners very well with little rollover.
Anybody who has ever owned this model of ride will tell you not to mistake its passive looks for poor performance and no power. This car, even with the V6 could take many a V8 in its class.
Overall, this is a very well built, durable, and economical car to have. Despite the mileage, this car still drives like new and should give its owner years of service and reliability. This car is a joy to drive.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | Buy this if you have the opportunity. Do not expect to find replacement body panels! |
![]() ![]() | 1991 - 88 Royale 3.8 Series V6 A durable, multi-functional, cruising machine |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 V6 EFI Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 180000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 196600 miles |
| Previous car | Chrysler New Yorker |
| Date of Entry | 5th June, 2003 |

