1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Only 5 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 5 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 | 3 |
| 1981 | 3 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 5 |
| 1984 | 16 |
| 1985 | 18 |
| 1986 | 23 |
| 1987 | 16 |
| 1988 | 74 |
| 1989 | 113 |
| 1990 | 103 |
| 1991 | 193 |
| 1992 | 136 |
| 1993 | 139 |
| 1994 | 148 |
| 1995 | 156 |
| 1996 | 123 |
| 1997 | 96 |
| 1998 | 155 |
| 1999 | 80 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 5 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
ENGINE FIRE (OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT). *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19951109
1 of 5 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
CRASH1 of 5 total reports mentions: seats.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
DRIVER'S SIDE SEATBACK BENT FORWARD/LEFT ANCHORAGE LOOP BROKE. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19961118
1 of 5 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: equipment.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
AIR CONDITIONER MOTOR CAUGHT FIRE.
NHTSA ODI report, 19960923
SAFETY TIMELINE
THE BRAKE PROPORTIONER VALVES MAY BREAK AND SEPARATE FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER. THIS WOULD ALLOW BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK AND WOULD RESULT IN A PARTIAL LOSS OF THE BRAKE SYSTEM.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE ALL SUSPECT VALVES.
Campaign 83V105000 — check if this car was fixed
THE MASTER CYLINDER REAR BRAKE PIPE, WHICH CARRIES BRAKE FLUID TO THE REAR BRAKES, MAY DEVELOP A LEAK DUE TO EXTENDED CHAFING ON THE AIR CLEANER RESONATOR BRACKET.
Remedy: IF UPON INSPECTION THE DEALER FINDS THAT THERE IS INADEQUATE CLEARANCE, THE PIPE WILL BE REFORMED TO OBTAIN THE NECESSARY THREE QUARTER INCH SPACE. ONLY THOSE PIPES SHOWING SIGNS OF WEAR WILL BE REPLA
Campaign 83V106000 — check if this car was fixed
CUTLASS SUPREME BRAKE LOCKUP
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seats issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 83V105000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
- Verify recall 83V106000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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.