1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1997 Oldsmobile Achieva
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1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva
- Price Range: $600 - $1,300
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Steering/handling
- Antilock brakes (optional)
Cons
- Ride
- Entry/exit
Vehicle Highlights
Oldsmobile replaced the Calais with a model it called Achieva--sharing the same front-drive, 103.4-inch-wheelbase platform as the Buick Skylark and Pontiac Grand Am. Achieva was offered in four levels: S and SL in both 2- and 4-door models, plus sporty SC and SCX coupes. Standard on the S was a 120-horsepower 2.3-liter OHC 4-cylinder. Optional for the S and standard on the SL was a 160-horsepower four. Optional on SL was a 160-horsepower 3.3-liter V6. The SC coupe had a High Output 180-horsepower four, paired with a 5-speed manual. A 3-speed automatic was provided as an optional gearbox for both the 160-horsepower four and the V6. All Achievas featured standard antilock brakes.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Oldsmobile Achieva 4-door 3.1-liter Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva.
Year to Year Changes
1993 Oldsmobile Achieva:
Achieva loses a little horsepower to stricter emission controls for 1993, but otherwise enters its second year with few changes. The Quad OHC, basic Quad 4, and the two High Output Quad 4 engines all lose 5 horsepower when paired with the automatic transmission.
1994 Oldsmobile Achieva:
A driver-side airbag is a new standard feature, and a 160-horsepower 3.1-liter V6 replaces the previous 3.3-liter unit. It came only with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
1995 Oldsmobile Achieva:
The lineup is trimmed from three models to just one--the S, available as both a coupe and sedan. There are two equipment groups, however, Series I and Series II. A driver-side airbag, antilock brakes, and an air conditioner are standard on all versions. In addition, two engines are available instead of four. Both the Quad OHC and the High Output version of the Quad 4 are dropped, leaving only the extensively revised Quad 4 and 3.1-liter V6. Horsepower outputs change to 150 and 155, respectively.
1996 Oldsmobile Achieva:
A host of new features are added for 1996, including a new standard engine, a new dash panel featuring revised gauges and passenger-side airbag, an all-new interior, standard air conditioning, and daytime running lights. The new base engine is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, called the Twin Cam, which replaces the 2.3-liter Quad 4.
1997 Oldsmobile Achieva:
Only minor equipment changes were made in Achevia's final year.
Our road test for the 1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Ever since its introduction in 1992, Oldsmobile has been striving to provide a 4-cylinder engine that matches the refinement of its Japanese rivals. The early versions delivered brisk acceleration and strong off-the-line performance, but were noisy and generated annoying vibrations that could be felt through the steering column. So up until 1995 and 1996, the V6 engines are a better choice, providing lots of torque at low speeds and delivering the best all-around performance. Achieva's suspension feels crude compared to Japanese rivals, banging and clanking over bumps that others absorb easily. The Computer Command Ride exhibits little noticeable difference between the soft and sport modes. In either setting, handling and stability were commendable, without any severe impact harshness. Inside, gauges are grouped into four round pods in a concave "wraparound" instrument panel. A center panel holds the radio and climate-control switches, which are clearly marked and easy to reach. Overall, interior appointments are a cut above previous Oldsmobile compacts. Thick rear C-pillars and a smaller rear window tend to restrict visibility rearward on the 4-doors, but interior comfort is generally good, with adequate head room and leg room to go around. Rear doors on 4-door models are narrow at the bottom, so you might have to bend and twist to slip inside.
Value for the Money
While the Achieva is much more competitive than the previous Calais, it has no "stand out" features that make it exceptional. On the plus side, fully equipped Achievas cost hundreds, even thousands, less than comparable versions of Japanese rivals.
While the Achieva is much more competitive than the previous Calais, it has no "stand out" features that make it exceptional. On the plus side, fully equipped Achievas cost hundreds, even thousands, less than comparable versions of Japanese rivals.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Oldsmobile Achieva 4-door 3.1-liter Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Oldsmobile Achieva includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Oldsmobile Achieva .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
TH-125 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1991-94)
Automatic transmission:
4T60E transmissions may drop out of drive while cruising, shift erratically, have no third or fourth gear, or no second and third gear because of a bad ground connection for the shift solenoids. (1994)
Dashboard lights:
The Enhanced Traction Control (ETC) warning light "ETC OFF" may glow and the cruise control stop working. No current fix. (1996)
Engine noise:
A rattling noise from the engine that lasts less than a minute when the car is started is often caused by automatic transmission-pump starvation or cavitation, or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. (1994-95)
Engine noise:
A tick or rattle when the engine is started cold may be due to too much wrist pin-to-piston clearance. (1994-95)
Engine noise:
Ticking on cold startup may be due to excessive piston pin to bore clearance. (1994-97)
Engine noise:
Bearing knock was common on many 3.3-liter engines due to too much clearance on the number-one main bearing. (1992-93)
Ignition switch:
The ignition switch may not return from the start to the run position and the accessories such as the radio, wipers, cruise control, power windows, rear defroster, or heater may not work because the screws that hold the switch in place were overtightened. (1992-94)
Radiator:
Some cars mysteriously lose coolant. The common problem is a bad seal on the pressure cap on the surge tank that is connected to the radiator. (1992-94)
Transaxle leak:
The right front-axle seal at the automatic transaxle is prone to leak and GM issued a revised seal to correct the problem. (1992-94)
Valve cover leaks:
The plastic valve covers on the 3.1-liter engine were prone to leaks and should be replaced with redesigned aluminum valve covers. (1994-95)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $540 |
| Alternator | $225 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,105 |
| Brakes | $240 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $565 |
| Exhaust System | $380 |
| Radiator | $500 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $540 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $325 |
Our price chart for this generation Oldsmobile Achieva details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1997 | |||
| Achieva | $1,400-2,000 | $900-1,300 | $200 |
| 1996 | |||
| Achieva | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1995 | |||
| Achieva | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 1994 | |||
| Achieva | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| 1993 | |||
| Achieva | $1,100-1,400 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| 1992 | |||
| Achieva | $1,000-1,300 | $600-800 | $100 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Oldsmobile Achieva include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.4 | 103.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 187.9 | 187.9 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.5 | 67.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 53.4 | 53.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2738 | 2799 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.0 | 14.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.2 | 15.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.8 | 37.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.3 | 43.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.5 | 37.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 30.9 | 35.0 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Oldsmobile started out with very aggressive plans for the Achieva, providing a smorgasbord of engine options, including a 190-horsepower Quad 4 for its 1992 SCX version. But mediocre sales and the high cost of keeping all those choices on the assembly line led to a simpler and more logical powertrain lineup by 1996. The Quad 4 engine, an early powertrain building block for the Achieva proved potent and economical, but lacked truly smooth and quiet performance until major changes were made in 1995. The following year the engine was dropped for a smoother 2.4-liter unit. Achieva loses a little horsepower to stricter emission controls for 1993. The Quad OHC, basic Quad 4, and the two High Output Quad 4 engines all lost 5 horsepower when paired with the automatic transmission, resulting in 115-, 155-, 175-, and 185-horsepower outputs, respectively. Both the Quad OHC and the High Output version of the Quad 4 were dropped in 1995, with the two remaining powerplants for the Achieva being a greatly revised, 150-horsepower Quad 4 and the optional 155-horsepower 3.1-liter V6. Balance shafts are installed in the Quad 4 for 1995 to address the most common complaints--excess noise and lack of smoothness. The new engine for 1996 is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, called the Twin Cam. It replaces the 2.3-liter Quad 4. The new Twin Cam and optional V6 both come with new 100,000-mile spark plugs, plus the 100,000-mile coolant.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc I4 | 2.3 / 138 | 115-120 | 140 | 5-speed manual: 23/35 3-speed automatic: 24/32 4-speed automatic: 22/31 |
5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.3 / 138 | 150-190 | 145-160 | 5-speed manual: 21/30 3-speed automatic: 23/29 4-speed automatic: 21/30 |
5-speed manual: 25.1 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.4 / 146 | 150 | 150 | 5-speed manual: 23/33 4-speed automatic: 22/32 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V6 | 3.1 / 191 | 155-160 | 185 | 4-speed automatic: 20/29 | 4-speed automatic: 23.6 |
| ohv V6 | 3.3 / 204 | 150 | 185 | 3-speed automatic: 20/29 | 3-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Oldsmobile Achieva include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1997 Achieva |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1992-1997 Oldsmobile Achieva directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1994:
Welds in rear assembly of fuel tank may be insufficient to prevent leakage in certain rear-impact collisions, increasing risk of fire.
1996:
During deployment of the passenger airbag, the airbag can snag on a reinforcement inside the instrument panel. This might cause the airbag to not deploy properly.
1996:
Front and/or rear hazard warning lamps might not work.
1996:
If the key is held in the "start" position for an extended period, high current flowing through the ignition switch can melt internal switch parts.
1996:
Interior lamps might come on unexpectedly while vehicle is being driven.
1997:
Omitted fuse cover could result in short circuit and possible fire.
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