1989 Oldsmobile Ciera SL review from North America
"Best I've ever owned!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Timing chain replaced at about 197000.
PS went out at about 200000.
Alternator went out at about 250000.
Ball joints changed at about 250000 and 430000.
Fuel pump replaced at about 200000.
Computer replaced at about 300000.
Most standard parts changed (tie rod ends, wheel cylinders, etc.)
General comments?
A great car!
I used to drive 1000 miles between Ft Collins Colorado to Austin TX every few weeks in 1993-1995. It never let me down.
Engine and transmission have not been rebuilt. Trans is reluctant to shift when temperatures are low.
3.3 was a great engine. Typically got 32-34, and sometimes 38 mpg. Still get 25-32 mpg on highway.
Interior is rather ratty now (leather seats) but it starts when the key is turned and it gets me where I'm going, plus my employer pays me 58.5 cents per mile for me to drive it. Employer has bought this car a couple of times at least.
My mechanic thinks I'm crazy when I take it on the road, but I have had less trouble from it than any other car I've ever owned.
Can't believe GM killed Olds. I once had 3 Oldsmobiles at one time with a total of >625000 miles on the 3.
One other person commented on their car having the Energizer in it. Mine is definitely an Energizer bunny if there ever was one!
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  | For 150 bucks, it can't be beat! |
| One of the most reliable used car values |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 1993 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.3 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 140000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 434200 miles |
| Previous car | Oldsmobile Cutlass |
| Date of Entry | 10th August, 2008 |