1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue GL 3.5 Shortstar from North America

Summary:

Though it has its occasional problems, my experience with the Intrigue has been superb

Faults:

Recently began experiencing the headlight flickering problem that many other owners have reported.

Very stiff accelerator pedal. Resolved for a few thousand miles by replacement of the assembly, under warranty.

General Comments:

Generally: I really love my Intrigue. It's peppy, responsive and a joy to drive. I'm proud to offer rides to friends and colleagues, and they always comment on how nice the car is.

Interior: The controls are well laid-out, though the general quality of the interior seems a bit laden with plastic. Everything is solid, however, and the buttons are tactile and large enough to be pressed while wearing winter gloves. The driver's door arm rest can be rough on your elbow on long trips. The center armrest in the front could be a bit wider; I tend to bump elbows with my passengers a lot.

Exterior: Exquisite paint job, and very attractive lines in the bodywork. I have experienced some flaking off of paint on the front bumper, which has a painted plastic shell. Use an emulsifying troubleshooter for dark-colored finishes like black (mine), dark blue or forest green, and follow it with a polymer-based wax substitute to avoid swirl marks. Lighter colored paints can be treated conventionally.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th February, 2003

31st Jul 2003, 11:33

I too have had problems with the flickering lights. I originally had the dealer replace the alternator and had no problems with it for a short time. Then again the lights begin to flicker. They will flicker inside and out. I wondered if anyone has solved this problem yet? Has anyone's lights gone completely out?

17th Dec 2003, 09:47

I had this headlight flickering problem as well. After an extensive search, it was determined that the ignition switch was to blame. It has been six months now and they have been working fine since the repair. I hope this helps you out with your Intrigue.

1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue GL 3.8L V6 from North America

Summary:

It's a great car, but it's falling apart fast

Faults:

Rear seat belts replaced twice because they either didn't retract or release.

Fuel filler door solenoid replaced because it decided to stay shut one day.

On third set of tires, but learned to buy non-Goodyear tires for better wear and performance.

The front doors "breathe" when windows are raised or lowered. I have been told by three dealers that this is normal, although I've never seen another car do this.

Traction control system only seems to tell me when I've lost traction, but not assist me in regaining it.

Left outside mirror was replaced four times by three dealerships due to severe vibrations at speeds as low as 30mph. Fourth vibrates too, but at least I can see the images in the mirror.

The headlights "blink" when turn indicator is used or brakes are applied. Current dealership is clueless as to why this occurs.

Climate control system doesn't like cold weather and doesn't work until the car warms up, then the display mysteriously lights up and the system comes to life.

Car drinks coolant/antifreeze. No leaks can be found, under any circumstances, ever. Replacing 1-2 quarts every two months, no matter what time of year it is.

General Comments:

I get great gas mileage, city and highway, averaging 22mpg.

Great handling and performance.

Seat ergonomics are terrible.

Oldsmobile could have had a great car if they had paid more attention to detail and customer service.

Haven't found a dealership/service department that I'm confident is competent, or that understands the car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 7th December, 2002

15th Mar 2004, 21:20

As I have read other reviews about intrigues, try to look at the HVAC central unit's ground wire. check if the screw ground it to the body is loose or detached, that may cause the headlight and thermostat problems.

29th Jul 2008, 19:44

Your coolant loss problem is most likely a leaking intake manifold gasket. This is problem all GM push-rod V-6's (3.1, 3.4, and 3.8) will face around the 100,000 mile mark. Once you take care of that, these motors are an easy 200,000 mile motor.