1998 Oldsmobile Aurora 4.0 L from North America

Summary:

A true sports luxury sedan

Faults:

The clear coat is peeling, around the trunk and antenna.

The brakes wear too fast, due to weight of the vehicle.

Tune-up is a must at 75000km, or performance decimates.

General Comments:

The car is fast, and handles well.

The ride is smooth, and sturdy on the road.

Noise in the cab is minimal, and the motor idles very smoothly.

The Aurora is very roomy inside, and there is more than enough headroom.

The trunk is large, as long as your items fit through the narrow opening.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st August, 2001

5th Aug 2011, 12:03

Hello All.. My wife owned a 1999 Ford Taurus, which was totaled by a cable company truck. We decided to take the cash given us to replace the vehicle and purchase another car cash.. A 1998 Oldsmobile Aurora with the 4.0L V-8.. The luxury factor was a seller, plus she was able to get it for around $2500.

Before leaving the dealer, we noticed the lights flickering, but the dealer had a mechanic under his hire to take me to a local salvage yard and replaced a few relays. Now everything is working fine.. except two things... An unevenness in the idle of the engine (mechanic today told me that the computer is telling him that cylinder #6 is not firing. Pointed to the coil, spark plug, or wire.. how close is this???)

Also about 2 weeks after the vehicle was purchased, we started noticing power steering fluid leaks.. the reservoir will empty in approximately 2-3 days if left unattended.. Same mechanic told me the rack and pinion was bad. Now I understand these repairs are expensive, but with the amount of money paid in cash for this car, what would you all suggest... Fix it? Or flip it?

6th Aug 2011, 08:43

To 5th Aug 2011, 12:03...

It may not be the rack. It could be a leaking hose, which will be much less expensive than a rack replacement. And if you really like the car, have the repair done.

18th Mar 2014, 15:22

I have a '98 Aurora, had the same problem with power steering fluid a couple years ago. Had the power steering hose replaced and no issues since.