1988 Oldsmobile Calais
Only 18 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 18 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 3 |
| 1986 | 7 |
| 1987 | 5 |
| 1988 | 18 |
| 1989 | 18 |
| 1990 | 12 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 18 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
7 of 18 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
ENGINE OIL PUMP FAILED. *SKD
NHTSA ODI report, 19950413
4 of 18 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
3 of 18 total reports mention: electrical system.
2 of 18 total reports mention: power train.
2 of 18 total reports mention: electrical system.
SAFETY TIMELINE
QUAD 4 ENG WIRING FAILURE
BRAKE INEFFECTIVENESS
FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY COULD CRACK OR SEPARATE AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: REPLACE FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
Campaign 90V042000 — check if this car was fixed
BRAKE PERFORMANCE
FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY COULD CRACK OR SEPARATE AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: REPLACE FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
Campaign 92V150000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1988 Oldsmobile Calais — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 90V042000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 92V150000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1988 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 1988 Oldsmobile Calais?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:engine, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 Oldsmobile Calais have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.