1991 Oldsmobile 88 Royale 3.8 V6 EFI from North America

Summary:

A classic road sedan with a sporty attitude!

Faults:

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.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th June, 2003

5th Mar 2004, 20:14

I just bought a 91 olds 88 royal with 84700 miles thanks for the good comments. i will picking it up in a couple of days. after reading these comments I can"t wait to drive it.

Thanks again.

13th Apr 2004, 06:15

Ours has 214,000 miles on it. Bought it with 119,000 in 1997. Best car we've ever owned. Replaced alternator twice, brake hose in front and calipers- also pads a couple times. New rear brakes. New ignition coil module. AC went bad after converting to new style so I bought a belt for non-AC to stop compressor clutch noise. That was a year ago. I've been told these can go 300,000 miles.

1991 Oldsmobile 88 Royale 3.8 SFI V6 from North America

Summary:

Worth rebuilding and keeping

Faults:

Bought from original owner who parked in on a gravel driveway. Had fuel and brake lines all replaced due to rusted out on moist gravel. Put 215-R14 tires on, which are much better than the 205's.

Unable to remove the spark plugs, may be original and the engine runs fine. Just passed the emission test in IL. Problem now is right when I start the engine, an internal bang and returns when the engine is warm at low idle ~ could be the timing chain.

General Comments:

I have invested $2000 back into the "old man" car and love the front seat. Fits me (230lbs) just fine and the cops don't seem to notice me. Every time I see one around Chicago - an old person is behind the wheel.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th February, 2003