1998 Oldsmobile 88 LS review from North America

MECHANICAL.

Recall had two alternators replaced within 500 miles of receiving the car. (under manufacturer warranty)

A few months later the manifold (constructed of plastic) ruptured inside, mixing oil and anti-freeze. This was repaired at the dealer for $500.00, the cost of the part, labor was free... (should have been a recall)

An accident at 40k miles, in my opinion, fixed most of the problems that might have happened to this car soon afterwords.

A faulty accident repair was the passenger door panel (where the car was struck) wasn't aligned properly leaving a hissing noise from wind entering the top of the door panel at speeds of 70+ mph. This was remedied with aftermarket weather stripping.

A later known faulty accident repair left the spark plug wires directly on the block which led to the car stalling randomly, this repair was $270.00 at the dealer.

Front and rear shocks were replaced to stiffen the "boat" at 68,000 miles this cost over $600.00. although the rear springs need replacing...

Recently 80,000+ miles oil leaks developed in the oil pan and head cover gasket. These repairs are estimated at $400.00+ although they have not been completed.

Along with the discovery of the oil leaks the steering fluid reservoir OR line is slowly leaking and the dealer can't tell if it was from a faulty repair over time (you guessed it, the accident) OR if it is the unit itself... $163.00 dollars.

Lost the starter only once and it was locally $450.00+ (I think) at 70,000+ miles.

Exhaust is perfect.

Air conditioning still runs cold.

Power windows still functional.

Power antenna still functional (IMPORTANT: this has stayed functional by giving it a cleaning with WD-40 every 2 months).

Driver side fog lamp enclosure needs replacing (intermittent), I haven't gotten a quote for this, although it is just cosmetic to me so it stays.

INTERIOR.

Again the accident destroyed the front cup holder (never replaced) that's annoying.

The leather hasn't faded although it has become unsightly with dirt filling in the wrinkles.

Along with the cup holder, the center console is turning brown from filth and the leather from it is starting to tear away from the threading.

So far I haven't spent more than $3,000.00 in "extra" repairs (those beyond the usual oil changes/brake jobs.)

Ride has become sloppy again (most likely because I haven't replaced the springs.)

The car new and till today has been a dream, fast and furious. Although it could use a tune up =D.

For those looking for a decent full size car this would be the way to go, although I'd get one with much fewer miles, saying all the problems with American cars in the 100k+ miles category.