1986 Oldsmobile Calais
Only 7 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 7
- Recalls
- 3
- Investigations
- 2
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1986
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1986: 7 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 3 |
| 1986 | 7 |
| 1987 | 5 |
| 1988 | 18 |
| 1989 | 18 |
| 1990 | 12 |
Known problem areas
Only 7 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Electrical system
4 of 7 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing ignition and starter assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving car stalled out and upon starting ignition again engine caught on fire. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1996-01-02
Also filed under Fuel system, gasoline
Engine and engine cooling
4 of 7 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing exhaust system and gasoline.
Show complaint excerpts
I have had nothing but problems with this car. I bought it used 2 years ago for $1000.00 and have spend close to $2000.00 just keeping the thing running.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-04-22
Fuel system, gasoline
2 of 7 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline.
Steering
2 of 7 total reports mention: steering, most commonly citing hydraulic power assist system.
Show complaint excerpts
The steering does not work when it is cold outside. Please explain. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-06-12
Wheels
1 of 7 total reports mentions: wheels.
Safety timeline
3 recalls · 2 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1986-09-15Latches/locks/linkages86V121000 The secondary hood latch may be incorrectly aligned, or may exhibit a binding condition of the latch pivot.
Remedy: The secondary hood latch will be replaced and inspect the primary hood latch pop-up lever.
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R
1987-08-27Structure87V124000 Small cracks may develop in the body pillar around the door striker bolt hole.
Remedy: Install inner and outer reinforcement plate on both left and right body pillars.
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I
1991-07-15Preliminary evaluationClosed 1991-11-07 Safety belt cut at d-ring
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I
1991-11-07Engineering analysisClosed 1992-10-26 Seat belt separation
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R
2006-10-18Fuel system, gasoline06E043000 Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n G3727, with date codes X52911 through X60801 sequentially or X600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing…
Remedy: Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. The recall began on October 18, 2006. Owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (Option 1).
Buy-smart checklist
1986 Oldsmobile Calais — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel system, gasoline: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 86V121000 · Latches/locks/linkages
- Recall 87V124000 · Structure
- Recall 06E043000 · Fuel system, gasoline
FAQ
- Is the 1986 Oldsmobile Calais 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 1986 Oldsmobile Calais?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 57% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1986 Oldsmobile Calais have?
- 3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-20 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.