1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue
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1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue ▼
- Price Range: $1,800 - $5,300
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger and cargo room
- Steering/handling
- Acceleration
- Standard antilock brakes
- Ride
Cons
- Engine noise (early models)
- Climate controls
Vehicle Highlights
Similar in structure to the Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile's new front-drive midsize sedan flaunted an importlike personality. Introduced in May 1997 as an early '98 model, Intrigue replaced the Cutlass Supreme. Styling differed considerably from the Regal and Grand Prix. Intrigue also diverged in its chassis tuning, equipment, and some dimensions. Wheelbase, for instance, was 1.5 inches shorter for the Intrigue than for Pontiac's Grand Prix. Oldsmobile marketed the Intrigue in a single body style with one powertrain, one seating configuration, and one suspension setup. Base and upscale GL editions went on sale, each powered by a 3.8-liter V6 with an automatic transmission. A console-mounted gearshift was installed, between front bucket seats. Four-wheel antilock disc braking was standard, as was a traction-control system. Intrigues rode 16-inch touring tires on aluminum wheels. Rivals included the Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, and Toyota Camry. No conventional Oldsmobile badging was displayed, presumably because marketers wanted the Intrigue to be seen as a distinct, special model.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Oldsmobile Intrigue GX Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue.
Year to Year Changes
1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue:
A sophisticated new V6 engine became available for the midsize Intrigue, to help give Oldsmobile buyers a reason to pick it over a comparable Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. The new dual-overhead-cam, 3.5-liter V6 produced 215 horsepower and ran on regular fuel, whereas twin-cam engines in the Camry and Accord needed premium gasoline. As the model year began, the new engine was standard in the top-line GLS and optional in base GX and midlevel GS models. Later, it became standard across the board, edging aside the original 195-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6. Decklids now wore Oldsmobile script, ending a complaint that some people didn't realize these were Oldsmobiles. All models got a thicker, leather-wrapped steering wheel. GM's OnStar emergency/communications system joined the options list.
2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue:
An antiskid system joined the options list this year. Called the Precision Control System, it was designed to help keep the car on its intended path by selective braking of one or more individual wheels. Though optional on all models, GX buyers had to order optional traction control to get the new antiskid system. Also new this year were standard retained accessory power and an optional gold-trim package. GLS sedans gained standard heated power front seats. As before, Intrigue came in GX, GL, and top GLS trim.
2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue:
Traction control became optional instead of standard on base, and all models gained new standard automatic headlights for 2001. Also newly available this year were Premium Leather and Precision Sport option packages.
2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue:
Production of the Intrigue ended in June 2002 as part of the phaseout of the Oldsmobile brand. There were no significant changes for the 2002 model year.
Our road test for the 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Intrigue comes as close as any domestic sedan to equaling the feeling and philosophy of formidable import designs, such as the Nissan Maxima and Toyota Camry. It's inviting to drive, with little body lean and stable handling along twisty stretches. You also get plenty of "pull" from the 3.8-liter V6. An early GL accelerated to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, averaging 21.7 mpg on regular fuel. Later models with the 3.5-liter engine turned out to be less frugal: in the 17.7 to 19.5 mpg neighborhood. The responsive automatic transmission is smooth-shifting and well-behaved. A solid structure and taut suspension provide a stable ride and comfortable handling, with very good grip and balance in turns. Little floating or wallowing can be discerned over uneven pavement. Intrigue has better steering feel than the Camry, and a more controlled ride than either the Maxima or the Camry. Still, you can get tire and suspension thump over sharp bumps and ridges. The ride remains comfortably absorbent, even with the Autobahn Package--an option on the GL that included firmer tires and larger brakes. Tires in the Autobahn Package provide better grip and crisper cornering behavior. Stopping power is strong, though some drivers might consider brake-pedal feel to be numb. Front bucket seats, which are firm and supportive, have ample fore/aft travel, giving tall folks room to stretch. Some shorter drivers might find the lower cushion a bit long. Others could consider the lumbar support to be too prominent. The rear seat is less spacious, though there's more than adequate head and leg room for most adults and the doors are wide enough for easy entry/exit. Intrigue's driving position is comfortable, commanding, and should suit most people. A tilt steering wheel has been standard, and a power driver's seat might be installed. Lexus could have designed the dashboard, which puts everything within easy sight and reach in a modern, attractive design. One exception: The automatic-temperature control panel on GL/GLS models is too low to reach easily while driving. Even more serious, it has difficulty defogging windows in some chilly, damp conditions. Cargo space is more than competitive for its class. The trunk floor is flat and wide, and there are no bulky hinges to intrude into the cargo area.
Value for the Money
Intrigue is more sophisticated than the brash Grand Prix, and more nimble and poised than a Ford Taurus or Toyota Camry V6. If you're looking for an impressive midsize car with a thoughtful blend of features and performance, don't decide until you've driven this pleasant and surprising Olds.
Intrigue is more sophisticated than the brash Grand Prix, and more nimble and poised than a Ford Taurus or Toyota Camry V6. If you're looking for an impressive midsize car with a thoughtful blend of features and performance, don't decide until you've driven this pleasant and surprising Olds.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Oldsmobile Intrigue GX Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
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 Intrigue includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Oldsmobile Intrigue .
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.
Alarm system:
If the key reminder continues to sound after the key is removed from the ignition and the power door locks do not work, the lock cylinder must be replaced. (1998-99)
Brake noise:
During moderate application, the rear brakes make a moaning sound. New pads are available to correct the problem. (1998-99)
Coolant leak:
Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1998-02)
Coolant leak:
The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (1998-2002)
Engine misfire:
The engine develops an ignition miss because the grease in the spark-plug boots causes them to crack. (1998)
Engine temperature:
Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)
Wipers:
The windshield wipers may not park at the bottom of the windshield because water gets into the motor assembly and freezes. (1998)
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 | $460 |
| Alternator | $220 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $855 |
| Brakes | $390 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $795 |
| Exhaust System | $425 |
| Radiator | $215 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $910 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $220 |
Our price chart for this generation Oldsmobile Intrigue details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2002 | |||
| Intrigue | $4,400-5,200 | $3,700-4,300 | $1,500-1,800 |
| Intrigue GLS | $5,200-6,200 | $4,400-5,300 | $2,100-2,500 |
| 2001 | |||
| Intrigue | $3,600-4,300 | $2,900-3,400 | $1,000-1,200 |
| Intrigue GLS | $4,300-5,000 | $3,600-4,200 | $1,500-1,700 |
| 2000 | |||
| Intrigue | $3,100-3,700 | $2,400-2,900 | $700-900 |
| Intrigue GLS | $3,700-4,400 | $3,000-3,600 | $1,100-1,300 |
| 1999 | |||
| Intrigue | $2,800-3,300 | $2,100-2,500 | $600-700 |
| Intrigue GLS | $3,300-3,900 | $2,600-3,100 | $800-1,000 |
| 1998 | |||
| Intrigue | $2,500-3,000 | $1,800-2,200 | $500-600 |
| Intrigue GLS | $2,900-3,500 | $2,200-2,700 | $700-800 |
|
|
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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 Intrigue include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 109.0 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 195.9 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.6 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.6 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3434 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.4 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.4 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.2 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
First-year models all had a 3.8-liter V6 engine and 4-speed automatic transmission. A new dual-overhead-cam 3.5-liter V6, delivering 215 horsepower, went into upper models as the 1999 season began. That engine then became standard in all Intrigues.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V6 | 3.8 / 231 | 195 | 220 | 4-speed automatic: 19/30 | 4-speed automatic: 21.7 |
| dohc V6 | 3.5 / 211 | 215 | 230 | 4-speed automatic: 19/27 | 4-speed automatic: 19 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Oldsmobile Intrigue include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Intrigue |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 3 |
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 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1998-99:
Some cars were built with rear-seat shoulder belts that could twist, allowing webbing to jam in retractor.
2000:
Internal fluid leaks in brake-control unit of some cars may prevent rear-brake proportioning, ABS, traction control, or stability control from performing as designed.
2000-01:
Some seatbelt assemblies were not properly heat treated and do not pass the load-bearing requirement.
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