1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Engine cooling Problems

“I have a 97 and 99 Oldsmobile cutlas with v6-191 3.1l VIN m sfi engines. They both leak coolant from the intake manifold at the rear of the engine. I am told this is a common problem with this engine and is caused by the dex cool anti-freeze installed by the mfg. The cost est. From the olds dealer is $850.00 to replace the gasket. These cars each have 50,000 mi. If this is in fact a common problem I should get some relief from the manufacture.”

“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.”

“Dt:the contact stated the intake manifold gasket leaked oil and antifreeze due to the type of plastic that was manufactured for this gasket. The gasket has not been repaired because the manufacturer will not assist in the cost. Updated 11/30/2005 - although the dealer verified the problem as requested by the manufacturer they refused refused to cover the cost of the repair.”

“Intake manifold gasket failed twice. First repaired at monroe service on 11-18-2005 at 76655 miles the cost was $731.16. Second repair was at goodyear gemini on 12-21-2006 at 82274miles. The cost was $642.40. Both facilities were ase certified. I have been an assistant store manager in the past for both procare and goodyear, and rarely saw a failure of an intake manifold gasket, except in early foriegn engines with aluminum blocks or aluminum heads or both. …”

“While driving at 30 MPH consumer heard a loud noise coming through the engine. Suddenly, steering wheel locked . Vehicle was taken to the dealership, and the technician determined that serpentine belt broke.”