1997 Oldsmobile 98
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 1 |
| 1981 | 2 |
| 1982 | 2 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1985 | 9 |
| 1986 | 13 |
| 1987 | 15 |
| 1988 | 10 |
| 1989 | 11 |
| 1990 | 17 |
| 1991 | 49 |
| 1992 | 38 |
| 1993 | 13 |
| 1994 | 16 |
| 1995 | 30 |
| 1996 | 10 |
| 1997 | 30 |
| 1998 | 27 |
| 1999 | 1 |
| 2000 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
53% of complaints: seat belts — 16 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing rear/other and anchorage.
Show complaint excerpts
REA SEAT BELTS UNABLE TO FASTEN THEM TO SECURE PASSENGERS. BUCKLES RECESSED TO FAR INTO REAR SEAT CUSHION. REQUIRES ASISTANCE TOBUCKLES PASSENGERS BELTS. VERY DANGEROUS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20031230
SEAT BELTS STRAPS TOO SHORT.
NHTSA ODI report, 19970424
THE BUCKLE FOR SEAT BELTS ARE TOO SHORT.
NHTSA ODI report, 19970424
10% of complaints: visibility — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing exterior and defroster/defogger/hvac system.
10% of complaints: electrical system — 3 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing wiring and 12v/24v/48v battery.
7% of complaints: suspension — 2 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing rear and stabilizer bar.
7% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 2 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing engine and cooling system.
Show complaint excerpts
I OWN A 1997 OLDSMOBILE REGENCY V6-3800 3.8L, VIN: [XXX]. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD IS LEAKING COOLANT, AND THE COST TO REPLACE IS APPROX. $800~$1000, DUE TO A GASKET FAILURE. I DON'T FEEL THAT THE GASKET SHOULD HAVE FAILED SO SOON. THE SERVICE DEPT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20030512
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES
POWER RACK AND PINION STEERING FAILURE
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 Oldsmobile 98 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for seat belts issues (16 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1997 Oldsmobile 98 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1997 Oldsmobile 98?
The most-reported component is seat belts, accounting for 53% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 Oldsmobile 98 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.