1988 Oldsmobile Ciera
Only 25 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 25 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 |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 0 |
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 3 |
| 1985 | 8 |
| 1986 | 14 |
| 1987 | 17 |
| 1988 | 25 |
| 1989 | 32 |
| 1990 | 20 |
| 1994 | 46 |
| 1995 | 34 |
| 1996 | 83 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 25 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
6 of 25 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing gear position indication (prndl) and automatic transmission.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK IT STILL DRIFTS BACKWARD IT CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950315
5 of 25 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine and emission control.
3 of 25 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing ignition.
3 of 25 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing buckle assembly and rear/other.
2 of 25 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
THE ACCELERATOR STUCK, CAUSING SUDDEN ACCELERATION, RESULTONG IN LOSS OF CONTROL/ACCIDENT. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19950717
SAFETY TIMELINE
FUEL FEED HOSE COULD LEAK AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY.
Remedy: INSTALL NEW FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
Campaign 88V164000 — check if this car was fixed
BRAKE INEFFECTIVENESS
STOP LAMPS
SUB-FRAME ABSORBER FAILURE
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1988 Oldsmobile Ciera — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 88V164000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1988 Oldsmobile Ciera 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 Ciera?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 24% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 Oldsmobile Ciera have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.