1998 Oldsmobile Achieva LS review from North America

For the most part I have been very happy with my Achieva. When it runs it runs... excellent highway car, in fact that's why I purchased it. I rented one and fell in love with it's power and road feel.

However, upon purchase the true nature of the beast emerged. Under 90 days, new alternator. Within a year, another alternator. 18 months later... you guessed it, another alternator, and in 2003 I have put in 5 alternators altogether. Fortunately I have an extended warranty and as my mechanic has been replacing with OEM new parts I haven't been out of much money, but a lifetime of hassles.

Now lets move on to the brakes. Maybe it's my driving style, but I think it excessive that I would need new rotors every year.

Power windows? The motors and mounts have ALL been replaced at least once, drivers' and rear passenger twice.

I was really looking forward to driving note-free for a year or so, but that is not going to be possible. There is something definitely funky about the electrical systems.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the AC system has a tendency to go out in the summer, and the third blower I put in has lasted 2 years (so far).

And that the door and trunk hinges and seals allow air and water leaks.

Now on to the good parts. I love the low-maintenance engine and transmission. Regular oil changes and transmission flushes is all it took to maintain it.

The car handles relatively well for its size, as long as you are not trying to make sharp turns at high speed. Very stable on snow/ice, provided you have good tires.