1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Electrical system Problems

“I own a 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass and I have been having problems with the passlock anti-theft system on this vehicle for some time. Sometimes when I try and start this vehicle, the theft system light starts to blink on and off. When this happens, the vehicle can not be started for at least 10 minutes. This is very frustrating as it usually happens at the worst of times, like in the cold winter weather, at a gas station, or in a loading/unloading zone at a hotel. Sometimes the theft system light will come on while driving and then I wonder if the car will start when I am ready to leave again. …”

“Since I purchased the vehicle in 1997, there have been numerous problems. The front brakes have been replaced 3 times, once while still under warranty. The air conditioning unit failed, an $800 repair. The motor on the driver side window malfunctioned, a $400 repair. Today, while driving home the battery light came on, I was within a mile of home, so I just kept going. As I was turning into my driveway, all of the controls on the dashboard failed, speed limit, gas gauge, etc. I also apparently had no lights because the car behind me almost ran into me when the turn signals didn't work.”

“The vehicle's iac sensor connector wire was too short which caused engine failure while driving. Technical service bulletin 634780 is related to this issue.”

“1) after purchasing the car I had it to the dealer at least 4 times for a body module malfunction. 2) ignition switch went bad could not start car, had to be towed, took two attempts to fix correctly 3) air-conditioning button quit working 4) smoke came from steering column 5) when using cigarette lighter, blows auxiliary power fuse 6) passenger side fog light keeps blowing about every three months 7) windows jump track and back windows gradually go down themselves. 8) windshield wipers break when in use, whole arm disconnects leaving them useless, occurred three times within six month.”

“This car has had all of its scheduled maintenance performed at the dealership. During the first year that I owned the car, a) the cruise control stopped working and the cable from the cruise control power unit to the throttle body had to be replaced, and b) the carpet started balding in an area where there normally isn't any contact with my feet. …”