I wish all highway driving could be done at 85-95mph.. To me the Intrigue feels its best at that speed. It is where the steering is finally not too overboosted for my liking, and cracks in the pavement don't reverberate through the passenger cabin. Taking highway sweeper curves is a blast. Just had a great hour long run at that speed.
There's no question the Intrigue "feels better" at high speed. Below 70MPH (120KPH) it feels like it's dawdling along underneath it's power band. In fact, below 65MPH on the highway I often drop it to 3rd gear manually. That way the meat of the torque curve isn't so far away.
I lot of people rave over the "well balanced" transmission of this car, but I'm not so sure. Maybe PCS gearing should have been standard, and even shorter gearing used on the PCS cars.
Indeed I find the car very wanting at this speed unless you are just in that range on the way up to a higher speed. Staying in OD is not an option if you want good acceleration at this speed. I've got a 99 where all the 3.5's had the PCS gearing.
Same deal at 30mph, gotta get it back down to first gear or its a long and not quick way up to the end of 2nd. I hate it when it doesn't downshift for me at certain speeds when I go from gentle throttle to flooring it. Have to get off the gas completely, have it downshift, then gun it.
I agree that the 3.5 Intrigues should have come standard with the shorter gears, the PCS could have dropped the gears even lower. The 3.8 engine works well with the 3.05 gears due to it's stump-pulling torque right off idle. The 3.5 makes it's power up higher and needs shorter gears.
Intrigues 0-60 times would be much more competitive if Olds had done what most other manufacturers do - put shorter gears with DOHC engines. I suspect one reason they did not is to help fuel economy which already took a hit vs. the 3.8, despite the smaller displacement.
I'd love to know how an Intrigue would handle with a 5 speed. (But maybe someday I'll get a used CTS cheap.)
I've been alternating between my Intrigue and my old Mazda Protege (partially employed, cheaper to insure the Mazda.) But I'm gonna sell the Mazda this month and the Intrigue will be my only driver.
So, time to drop the Olds off for the steering lube and air dam replacement, while I still have a backup car. I'm itching to put the STBs on too while it's there...
GM swipe: Why does my Mazda at 265,000 miles still have tight, nimble steering (which has never been touched, even so much as a fluid replacement) while the Olds at 26,000 miles pops and ticks in parking lots at low speeds?? *Sigh*. I have a feeling that steering lube will become a recurring event over the life of my car.
What year is your Intrigue again? The problem with the Intrigue steering IMO is the variable assist was a little ahead of itself when it went into the car. I have not had any problems so far but I think even a 2000 like mine could develop it so I monitor the steering every now and again.
Any of the Toronto area guys know of a good detailing place on the west end? My Intrigue really needs a good clean up.
I think that's exactly the reason no domestic offering has been able to displace the Accord/Camry as the best selling "family" cars. Most drivers are willing to accept rather bland styling (that's subjective anyway) and an unexciting driving experience in exchange for everything working smoothly and trouble-free.
As much as the press has liked the Intrigue concept, most will concede that the execution was flawed. A world-class powerplant mated to a transmission that reacts slowly to driver inputs. A very pleasant interior marred by poorly fitting components. A clunky steering shaft and flickering headlights, etc., etc.
A used Intrigue may be a great value but a new one is overpriced compared to the competition for most buyers.
I got the Dunlop Sport SP A2's put on the car yesterday. The most immediate thing I noticed was how much quieter the ride is. The road noise has been considerably reduced. I guess the Eagle LS's were pretty loud tires. I haven't really pushed the Dunlops yet, so I can't comment on their performance. Also, the grinding noise on the right front that was happening when turning left at low speeds is now gone. It must have somehow been related to my bald tire on the right front.
Since the car is quieter now, I'm noticing noises that I never noticed before. I hear rattles on the front end, kind of like the "yahtzee shaker" that others have described. It's only noticeable when going over bumps. I'm also hearing wind noises from around the windows that I never heard before. But at least now I don't have to turn the radio up when I get on the highway like I used to.
Dindak, it is a GL 3/2000 build. It's got the usual steering bugaboos. Weird ticking noises over bumps and turns, and that PS pump "vibrating" feeling as you rotate the wheel.
They're annoying sensations, that remind me of my old 1974 Plymouth Valiant's overboosted and worn out steering. (Except that I'll cut some slack for the build quality of the 1970's, and a car that needed a new front end after 15 years of use! A Y2000 car should not "feel" like this.) :-(
Oh well. VCJumper: I was looking at the ZZperformance website. Do I just order the front bar kit for $69? Or is this the mounting brackets only-- and I still need to order a GM bar?
Back bar is the #1245-6148 Buick setup.
Air Dam TSB is #00-08-63-003.
I'm *still* thinking about having the windshield replaced to get rid of the distortions... Maybe I'm being a whiner, but they *do* distract me when I drive, and that's a safety issue. 1-800-442-OLDS said I could probably still have it done, even at 26,000 miles.
The Intrigue uses a PPG windshield, a common brand. I could probably stop by the PPG distributor here and select a new one personally, to be *sure* it's free of distortion.
"00-08-63-003A; Replaces 00-08-063-003; Noise at Torsion Bar Location, Cab Difficult to Open, Torsion Bar Broken (Inspect/Replace Cab Pivot Torsion Bar); 1997-98 Chevrolet and GMC F Model TSeries Medium Duty Tilt Cab Trucks"
Hmm, this was the text of the TSB as I have it. I guess I'd better take a copy with me.
----------- Date Aug, 2000 Subject: New Front Air Deflector with Increased Ground Clearance
Models: 1997-2000 Buick Century, Regal - Built Prior to VIN Breakpoint Y1297005 1998-2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue 1997-2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
Part #10442031 TSB #00-08-63-003
A new front air deflector with improved ground clearance is now available if replacement of the production air deflector is required. This new air deflector is a non-hinged design and has approximately 12 mm (1/2 in) more ground clearance than those previously used. In addition, this new air deflector sets back approximately 38 mm (1 1/2 in) further rearward and uses a material and shape that makes considerable less noise if contact with a curb or the ground is made.
This new design front air deflector is a direct bolt-on and should be used if service or replacement is required on the above listed vehicles.
Important: To maintain proper air conditioning performance, vehicle aerodynamics and prevent extreme underhood temperatures, the front air deflector must be properly installed on the vehicle and be fully functional. As a result, operating the vehicle without the front air deflector is not recommended.
installed a little over a year ago. It's helped some but it still scrapes a lot.
my ride is a lot quieter with my new potenza re950s too. But you're also right in that you notice squeaks and rattles more.
I agree that the Intrigue is overpriced as a new vehicle. Though I've yet to drive a 2002, the build quality on the 2001 Aurora 3.5 I test drove was no better than my 2000. I don't know who posted here about the Aurora interior but I couldn't differ from him more. I think the Aurora interior is very VERY handsome, the most handsome I've seen in a domestic product. The center instrumentation is so close to one's fingertips and has a volvoesque quality. The genuine burlwood is handsome and just enough not to be overly powering. I'd say the aurora interior is the epitome of oldsmobile achievement.
The Aurora's interior is more luxurious, refined, and upscale than any domestic or Japanese vehicle on the road, apart from the luxury brands (Cadillac, Lexus, Acura, etc.).
swagled : I have a 2000 and so far I have no problems with 46K on the dial. I don't think it's typical of 2000+. Most of the steering problems were in the 98/99 models. That said, anyone could probably get it, just less likely on the later cars.
jg28 : I don't think the Intrigue is "overpriced" at all. A less equipped V6 Accord was more expensive as was a base Maxima. With the deals these days, the GX is a bargoon for anyone in the know. Unfortunately with very little marketing the Intrigue will make a quiet exit from the market.
I haven't posted here in many months; my family is encountering a health crisis that takes priority. My 2000 Intrigue will be two years old next month with almost 26,000 miles and I thought I would share my experiences. I have not encountered any of the problems reported here. No problems with the intermediate steering shaft, nor with the alternator, and no problems with rotor warpage. I have had only tow warranty related issues. One, the battery cable loosened on its own, and as I previously reported it was not a great hardship in as much as I was at a golf shop. the second warranty item occurred at 16,000 miles when a front hub sensor wire broke. Mileage has averaged 21.5 mpg using ethanol blended regular gas and letting car idle to warm up in winter ( I am seriously considering a remote starter for convienent winter starting here in Wisconsin). Has our friend from Michigan been able to post here or is his banishment permanent? My Intrigue has been in two very minor accidents cosmetic damage only, as a result the front and rear bumper plastic facia has been replaced along with a new hood. The shorter 3.29 gear ratio that comes with the pcs system is a big plus for quick acceleration, but I drive my Intrigue far more conservative than most. I still plan to run the Intrigue to my retirement which I hope will happen in 2011. I continue to run Mobil 1 and change oil along with rotating tires every 6,000 miles. I have not yet changed transmission fluid, but will do so shortly. I did change out the fuel filter at 20,000 miles and I am very proud to report that to date I have had zero door dings. In summation the Intrigue looks great and still runs superbly. Htwired in Milwaukee Drive safe everyone!
I found another car and car related forum. Some of you regulars might be interested: oldsman01,swagled,dindak,lmacmil,redline65,vcjumper,yurakm,jg28,focus,htwired,oscarz,winter9. If you are interested e mail me.
bz4 : I have officially decided to stop watching F1 today. Absolutely the worst "racing" on TV. Definitely not worth waking up as early as I have to if I watch live. CART is really my favorite, but I'm watching more and more NASCAR also. Love Tony Stewart!
htwired : Good report. Sounds a lot like my car. I have only had 2 minor issues, the oxygen sensor and an erratic temp gauge.
At MSRP, the Intrigue is a bit overpriced. Mine stickered at $29,360. It's a nice car, but at that range, I'm within a grand of a Cadillac CTS, already in a basic Infinti G35, and yes our all time favorite the Acura TL 3.2. HOWEVER, at a bit over $24K my Intrigue was a great deal. Even before the annoucement that Olds was being phased out, these cars were selling at pretty big discounts. This seems to be typical of GM as they will price a car high and then offer rebates and discounts. I'd like to see GM get away from this as it hurts resale and also for someone who is shopping sticker prices, $29K is alot for a midsize Olds. Olds actually did this when the Aurora first came out in 1995. An Aurora had an MSRP of $31,995 that year and that was when the V8 was standard. They sold very well that year, then they follow up in 96 by raising the price by nearly $3000 and sales slowed down requiring discounts and then resale began to drop. Cadillac seems to have the CTS priced right, hopefully they won't raise the price substantially when the new V6 comes out next year.
I got my Intrigue GL for $19.5K including Olds and GM card discounts. And probably could have shoved it down a few hundred more if I wanted to be a real hardass, b/c I knew the salesmen were getting a silent $400 spiff that month.
I never ask myself if I should have paid a few thousand more for a Maxima or an Acura. I do sometimes ask myself if I should have paid a few thousand less, and gotten a compact sedan, or maybe even a small convertible.
When I bought my house, it was the same thing. I looked at condos, townhouses, detached housing, and different sizes of each of these. Eventually I settled on "the best use of my money".
That violates the idea of "comparing only comparables", but I think real people look at "what am I getting for what I spend". Not "I'm gonna get size X, so which car will it be?" Consumer's Reports and car mags seem to make the 2nd assumption about buyers.
I paid about C$27K for my Intrigue GL. I also know I could have bought a GX for about C$25K, but I wanted the extras in the GL. For about $28K I could have gotten a V6 Accord less a few features the Intrigue has. For about C$29-30K I could have got a base Maxima which also consumes premium gas. Intrigue was clearly the best car for the money and the best looking of the bunch. No regrets even thought the discounts are much bigger now. The car serves the family well and I love the performance.
Says they have STB kits, but he was waiting for some machining to have the bar "powdered" and he didn't want to rush the shop... it's a low volume part, and he didn't want to inconvenience them.
I'm not sure what this really means to the layman. Sounds like you can get the mounting brackets anyway if you want them.
Talking of Intrigue prices, June 2000 seems so long ago, I do n't quite remember the exact price I paid for my 00 GL, at that time it seemed like a good deal, I was gradually inching towards real GM cars, after a good experience with a Saturn at MSRP, and a couple of Geo Prizm (Toyota with stacked discounts). No regrets at all, still think it is a shame that this powertrain combo is going to be discontinued, without an equivalent replacement in the GM midsize cars except for Saturn L300 V6, ie a dohc v6. Speaking of GM MSRP's and discounts, basically it makes considering a recent used car pointless if you have GM card rebates. And Stacked rebates attract some folks just as stacked headlights attract others, personally I think I am hooked on this cycle of dependence - Aid to Families with Detroit Cars.
Like Dindak,got an Alero at around 6K off MSRP. after 2002,+ usual dealer discount of 1700, + 1500 olds loyalty+ 800 GM card discount which is like 30% off on a 20- 21K sticker, equivalent to a similar 01 car, or a 99 Accord/Camry the hard currency of automobiles. Oh I hope I get my rebates up quickly before the buzz wears off, and the rattles and shakes kick in(in the car that is).
For those of you who have obtained the full text of a TSB, what source did you use to get it? Did you order it from the NHTSA? Use the pay service provided by alldata.com? Thanks.
BTW, according to my window sticker, my Intrigue was equipped with an air cabin filter, but when I went to replace it this past weekend, there was just an empty space where the filter was supposed to be! I've ordered a 'replacement' from Autozone.
That is excellent advice but I'll be only 1 out of 100 do that. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, i.e., it absorbs water. Since brake lines and most caliper internal parts are ferrous material, they will rust after prolonged exposure to moisture.
Water in the brake fluid also lowers its boiling point. Bad news if you are traveling down a long grade and your brakes get really hot.
Lubing the caliper pins should be part of any brake job but with linings lasting 30-40,000 miles (or more on the rear), it's likely to be several years before those pins see any fresh lube. It shouldn't take one more than 10 minutes per corner to do that. Hmmm, sounds like a good Saturday project for my 2000 built in Dec. 1999. I'm past due!
My '99 GL is black and like everyone else, my mirrors were chalky. To make a long story short, I have two words for you, "rubbing compound". It doesn't make them perfect again, but it helped alot, and at only $30 bucks a bottle I'd rather do that than get them painted. Just make sure you only get the medium abrasiveness formula.
This thread has been pretty slow lately. Anyone know when Intrigue production comes to an end? I think it is pretty cool that we will never have the "old style" Intrigue, as there will only be one body style.
I am pretty sure production ends sometime next month as will the 3.5 Aurora and the 3.5L engine itself. Sad.
On the plus side, have you seen the new Saab 9-3 sedan? VERY nice! I may be using my GM points at a Saab dealer next car if it drives as good as it looks.
Haven't seen the new Saab, but if you read the Cadillac CTS thread you know I just drove a CTS and if I had any GM points, that is where they are going. Guys, as much as I like my Intrigue and still think it is a great midsize sedan, the CTS is clearly a different calibur of car! We've had the discussion about small asphalt patches upsetting the Intrigue's ride, not so in a CTS. It just takes them and asks for more. And as much as I like the 3.5 liter V6, the CTS's 3.2 is every bit as smooth and powerful and the 5 speed automatic actually makes it feel more lively(can only imagine what the manual is like). But again, the car is more expensive than an Intrigue so one would expect it to excel in these areas. Olds will have trouble convincing buyers to spend $30K or so on an Aurora in the next year or so(despite it having a V8) when the CTS is now available.
I noticed after cleaning and detailing my Intrigue this week that the exterior mirror housings are a bit chalky. On black Intrigues, I don't think they are painted as they would be on a different color as they seem to be the same ones(on my black GLS) that are on all base model Inrigues. Oh well, CTSs have painted mirrors and thats all I'm interested in now:) Yes, I'm a bit jaded and as much as I like Oldsmobiles, the fact is they are being discontinued and further development and advancements at the brand have come to a stop. But if you want a great car at a great price with a class leading warranty, Olds is still a good bet. Once the Intrigue and Aurora 3.5 are gone though, I don't see how the brand will last long. The Aurora 4.0 is priced in the same league as the CTS(and a host of other great cars) and the Bravada seems to lack the cache of the GMC Envoy or the more attractive price of the Chevy Trailblazer. Leaving only the Alero as a truly unique and attractive alternative. Too bad Saturn couldn't get it.
The Intrigue and CTS are clearly in quite separate market classes and are quite different sorts of cars. The prices reflect that. Having said that, the interior of the CTS is not attractive and both the front and rear ends of the car look a little forced to me. Whereas the Intrigue, while several years old, has always looked graceful and well-designed.
Got the Road Response Silvers on now with new strut bearings in the front. All noises are gone. Not a drastic difference in ride from the Sensatracs; however, they are a little more forgiving (comfortable).
When I get the time, I'll put the sway bars back on to see how it feels.
Just stopped to drop a note (constantly on the 300M board), about my interest in the Intrigue. First, let me say that I'm 16 and have been driving for about 3 months. Now, we used to have a 2000 Chrysler 300M until the end of March when we traded it for a new Chevy Avalanche. The main reasons were because 1)many problems, nothing ever got fixed, 2)rattles, 3)really excessive interior noise, 3)a little too small for us(I know it's a relatively huge sedan, but we still needed more room!), 4)no power. Basically, my mother who owned it hated it and we said it was possessed. But, getting away from that, I drove it many, many times, and while not bad, it certainly wasn't anything spectacular. A real dog when it came to power and a little too soft or loose for my tastes. Our Avalanche drives very nicely, and is like a $50k luxury car compared to the M, and we very much enjoy it. I enjoy driving it, but it's a little too big for me.
Which now brings me to the Intrigue. After having a 92' Pontiac Grand Prix LE sedan, she traded it with 96k miles in August of 1999, for a demo Intrigue. She bought a 99' Intrigue GX with the 3.8, split folding rear seat, and power driver's seat. It's Silvermist with a dark gray cloth interior. It had 5k on it when she bought it, and now has 28k. In the time my grandparents have had it, there's only been two minor issues. First was a bad seal on the oil pan which left a few drops of oil out on the garage floor and then the chrome strip around the back door windows came off and needed to be re-attatched. Other than that, no a single problem or odd noise, even though she tends to drive her cars a bit hard.
Last month we stayed with them on a visit from out of state, and I was able to drive her Intrigue for a day. That's mainly why I like it so much. First of all, it's a very solid feeling car, with no rattles or creaks even over bad bumps. The 3.8 has great power and the acceleration is excellent, alond with the brakes which I loved. I also thought the suspension tuning to be nearly perfect, with a rather firm ride that's also supple, and a lack of body roll. Overall, it just felt very tight and trim, with no excess or float to be found. In addition, the steering also had me smiling, with nearly perfect weight, linearity, and precision. It just "snicks" right through turns, and feels like an extension of the driver. I never had this feeling in our $32k 300M, and felt kind of uneasy driving it. Basically, I love the Intrigue.
Now, being a true car buff and typically car-crazy teen, I hope to get my first car sometime this year, probably late this fall/winter. After driving and loving my grandmother's 99' GX and then seeing how cheap one can be had used, I'm really looking towards it as a very much possible first car choice. I've been reading this board for some time and have yet to see any real uncurable issues with the Intrigue or any multiple owners who have had bad experiences, so that's also a plus.
I already have the perfect vision of an OSV Intrigue clone. Starting with a GX or GL, add an SLP dual exhaust, ground effects kit, new struts, and 17" chrome wheels, probably the same ones used in 19" size on the OSV. I think it'd be one heck of a nice car, but, I just need to work a little this summer and build up some money. Wish me luck!
oldsman01- I read your CTS review on the other board. I must say, you drove on of my favorite cars, a CTS in copper sunburst (or as I like to call my fave color--orange!). They are extrememly nice cars and I'd take one any day! So, any idea when you might be able to afford one? I bet after that test drive, you just can't stop thinking of ways to put one in the driveway, huh?!
I loved my test of the CTS, but the car is out of my reach for now. The Saab 9-3 is also. I will definitely look at both of these when looking for an Intrigue replacement in a few years. I suspect you will see the price of the Aurora V8 come down this year as they will not sell enough of them to keep the plant open if they don't. I think you may even see the V8s going for about the same price as the V6s this year.
Well oldsman solved the mystery of the mirrors on my GL getting chalky. To anybody who has that problem its well worth the shot of a decent quick fix. I don't know if its a permanent fix but I personally wouldn't have a problem doing it every couple of months, and the bottles that the compound come in are big enough to keep you covered for life.
Beach15: Good luck in getting you Intrigue. I love mine.
Just a quick question for everybody, what grade fuel do you use in your Intrigue? I use 94 octane but don't see any real increase in my mileage. I mean I know its supposed to be cleaner and everything, but is it worth it? Same for oil. I haven't changed mine yet but was planning on going with full synthetic. Any comments?
Can you post a link here? I saw a pic once of a new saab and it was handsome. Based on the new epsilon platform. Also had a pic of a new opel based on the same platform that was very handsome too.
Higher octane gas resists better to pings (detonation). Used with higher-compression engines, including supercharged, turbo, and many foreign. Or temporary, with engines needing tune-up.
However, it does not provide more energy / mileage. It even can be worse in this respect, due to higher amount of additives. It does not burn cleaner either - the additives even may cause carbon deposit.
Using high octane with stock engine designed for 87 octane is wasting money.
Comments
If I had to do it again today, the only thing I would do different is have PCS added to a 02.
I lot of people rave over the "well balanced" transmission of this car, but I'm not so sure. Maybe PCS gearing should have been standard, and even shorter gearing used on the PCS cars.
Same deal at 30mph, gotta get it back down to first gear or its a long and not quick way up to the end of 2nd. I hate it when it doesn't downshift for me at certain speeds when I go from gentle throttle to flooring it. Have to get off the gas completely, have it downshift, then gun it.
Intrigues 0-60 times would be much more competitive if Olds had done what most other manufacturers do - put shorter gears with DOHC engines. I suspect one reason they did not is to help fuel economy which already took a hit vs. the 3.8, despite the smaller displacement.
I've been alternating between my Intrigue and my old Mazda Protege (partially employed, cheaper to insure the Mazda.) But I'm gonna sell the Mazda this month and the Intrigue will be my only driver.
So, time to drop the Olds off for the steering lube and air dam replacement, while I still have a backup car. I'm itching to put the STBs on too while it's there...
GM swipe: Why does my Mazda at 265,000 miles still have tight, nimble steering (which has never been touched, even so much as a fluid replacement) while the Olds at 26,000 miles pops and ticks in parking lots at low speeds?? *Sigh*. I have a feeling that steering lube will become a recurring event over the life of my car.
Any of the Toronto area guys know of a good detailing place on the west end? My Intrigue really needs a good clean up.
As much as the press has liked the Intrigue concept, most will concede that the execution was flawed. A world-class powerplant mated to a transmission that reacts slowly to driver inputs. A very pleasant interior marred by poorly fitting components. A clunky steering shaft and flickering headlights, etc., etc.
A used Intrigue may be a great value but a new one is overpriced compared to the competition for most buyers.
Since the car is quieter now, I'm noticing noises that I never noticed before. I hear rattles on the front end, kind of like the "yahtzee shaker" that others have described. It's only noticeable when going over bumps. I'm also hearing wind noises from around the windows that I never heard before. But at least now I don't have to turn the radio up when I get on the highway like I used to.
They're annoying sensations, that remind me of my old 1974 Plymouth Valiant's overboosted and worn out steering. (Except that I'll cut some slack for the build quality of the 1970's, and a car that needed a new front end after 15 years of use! A Y2000 car should not "feel" like this.) :-(
Oh well. VCJumper: I was looking at the ZZperformance website. Do I just order the front bar kit for $69? Or is this the mounting brackets only-- and I still need to order a GM bar?
Back bar is the #1245-6148 Buick setup.
Air Dam TSB is #00-08-63-003.
I'm *still* thinking about having the windshield replaced to get rid of the distortions... Maybe I'm being a whiner, but they *do* distract me when I drive, and that's a safety issue. 1-800-442-OLDS said I could probably still have it done, even at 26,000 miles.
The Intrigue uses a PPG windshield, a common brand. I could probably stop by the PPG distributor here and select a new one personally, to be *sure* it's free of distortion.
Alternatively, they sold me just the bracket for $40 and I picked up the GM bar at the dealer. Cheaper shipping to Canada for me that way.
According to GM data:
http://service.gm.com/techlink/html_en/pdf/200009-en.pdf#dst12
the TSB is about different problems. Quote:
"00-08-63-003A; Replaces 00-08-063-003;
Noise at Torsion Bar Location, Cab
Difficult to Open, Torsion Bar Broken
(Inspect/Replace Cab Pivot Torsion Bar);
1997-98 Chevrolet and GMC F Model TSeries
Medium Duty Tilt Cab Trucks"
-----------
Date Aug, 2000
Subject:
New Front Air Deflector with Increased Ground Clearance
Models:
1997-2000 Buick Century, Regal - Built Prior to VIN Breakpoint Y1297005
1998-2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue
1997-2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
Part #10442031
TSB #00-08-63-003
A new front air deflector with improved ground clearance is now available if replacement
of the production air deflector is required. This new air deflector is a non-hinged design
and has approximately 12 mm (1/2 in) more ground clearance than those previously used. In
addition, this new air deflector sets back approximately 38 mm (1 1/2 in) further rearward
and uses a material and shape that makes considerable less noise if contact with a curb or
the ground is made.
This new design front air deflector is a direct bolt-on and should be used if service
or replacement is required on the above listed vehicles.
Important: To maintain proper air conditioning performance, vehicle aerodynamics and
prevent extreme underhood temperatures, the front air deflector must be properly installed
on the vehicle and be fully functional. As a result, operating the vehicle without the
front air deflector is not recommended.
my ride is a lot quieter with my new potenza re950s too. But you're also right in that you notice squeaks and rattles more.
I agree that the Intrigue is overpriced as a new vehicle. Though I've yet to drive a 2002, the build quality on the 2001 Aurora 3.5 I test drove was no better than my 2000. I don't know who posted here about the Aurora interior but I couldn't differ from him more. I think the Aurora interior is very VERY handsome, the most handsome I've seen in a domestic product. The center instrumentation is so close to one's fingertips and has a volvoesque quality. The genuine burlwood is handsome and just enough not to be overly powering. I'd say the aurora interior is the epitome of oldsmobile achievement.
jg28 : I don't think the Intrigue is "overpriced" at all. A less equipped V6 Accord was more expensive as was a base Maxima. With the deals these days, the GX is a bargoon for anyone in the know. Unfortunately with very little marketing the Intrigue will make a quiet exit from the market.
Sounds like the intrigue is running great.
If you are interested e mail me.
Rutledge
rwebb@prucar.com
htwired : Good report. Sounds a lot like my car. I have only had 2 minor issues, the oxygen sensor and an erratic temp gauge.
I never ask myself if I should have paid a few thousand more for a Maxima or an Acura. I do sometimes ask myself if I should have paid a few thousand less, and gotten a compact sedan, or maybe even a small convertible.
When I bought my house, it was the same thing. I looked at condos, townhouses, detached housing, and different sizes of each of these. Eventually I settled on "the best use of my money".
That violates the idea of "comparing only comparables", but I think real people look at "what am I getting for what I spend". Not "I'm gonna get size X, so which car will it be?" Consumer's Reports and car mags seem to make the 2nd assumption about buyers.
oldsman : Do you have a GLS? I forget.
I'm not sure what this really means to the layman. Sounds like you can get the mounting brackets anyway if you want them.
Speaking of GM MSRP's and discounts, basically it makes considering a recent used car pointless if you have GM card rebates. And Stacked rebates attract some folks just as stacked headlights attract others, personally I think I am hooked on this cycle of dependence - Aid to Families with Detroit Cars.
Like Dindak,got an Alero at around 6K off MSRP. after 2002,+ usual dealer discount of 1700, + 1500 olds loyalty+ 800 GM card discount which is like 30% off on a 20- 21K sticker, equivalent to a similar 01 car, or a 99 Accord/Camry the hard currency of automobiles.
Oh I hope I get my rebates up quickly before the buzz wears off, and the rattles and shakes kick in(in the car that is).
http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2002/05/15/stolen-cars.htm
The Civic-racer crowds are lusting after the motors to hop up their machines.
Better look out folks - next thing you know the Intrigues will become hot as people start stuffing Shortstars in their Sunfires! ;-)
BTW, according to my window sticker, my Intrigue was equipped with an air cabin filter, but when I went to replace it this past weekend, there was just an empty space where the filter was supposed to be! I've ordered a 'replacement' from Autozone.
Water in the brake fluid also lowers its boiling point. Bad news if you are traveling down a long grade and your brakes get really hot.
Lubing the caliper pins should be part of any brake job but with linings lasting 30-40,000 miles (or more on the rear), it's likely to be several years before those pins see any fresh lube. It shouldn't take one more than 10 minutes per corner to do that. Hmmm, sounds like a good Saturday project for my 2000 built in Dec. 1999. I'm past due!
On the plus side, have you seen the new Saab 9-3 sedan? VERY nice! I may be using my GM points at a Saab dealer next car if it drives as good as it looks.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
When I get the time, I'll put the sway bars back on to see how it feels.
Which now brings me to the Intrigue. After having a 92' Pontiac Grand Prix LE sedan, she traded it with 96k miles in August of 1999, for a demo Intrigue. She bought a 99' Intrigue GX with the 3.8, split folding rear seat, and power driver's seat. It's Silvermist with a dark gray cloth interior. It had 5k on it when she bought it, and now has 28k. In the time my grandparents have had it, there's only been two minor issues. First was a bad seal on the oil pan which left a few drops of oil out on the garage floor and then the chrome strip around the back door windows came off and needed to be re-attatched. Other than that, no a single problem or odd noise, even though she tends to drive her cars a bit hard.
Last month we stayed with them on a visit from out of state, and I was able to drive her Intrigue for a day. That's mainly why I like it so much. First of all, it's a very solid feeling car, with no rattles or creaks even over bad bumps. The 3.8 has great power and the acceleration is excellent, alond with the brakes which I loved. I also thought the suspension tuning to be nearly perfect, with a rather firm ride that's also supple, and a lack of body roll. Overall, it just felt very tight and trim, with no excess or float to be found. In addition, the steering also had me smiling, with nearly perfect weight, linearity, and precision. It just "snicks" right through turns, and feels like an extension of the driver. I never had this feeling in our $32k 300M, and felt kind of uneasy driving it. Basically, I love the Intrigue.
Now, being a true car buff and typically car-crazy teen, I hope to get my first car sometime this year, probably late this fall/winter. After driving and loving my grandmother's 99' GX and then seeing how cheap one can be had used, I'm really looking towards it as a very much possible first car choice. I've been reading this board for some time and have yet to see any real uncurable issues with the Intrigue or any multiple owners who have had bad experiences, so that's also a plus.
I already have the perfect vision of an OSV Intrigue clone. Starting with a GX or GL, add an SLP dual exhaust, ground effects kit, new struts, and 17" chrome wheels, probably the same ones used in 19" size on the OSV. I think it'd be one heck of a nice car, but, I just need to work a little this summer and build up some money. Wish me luck!
oldsman01- I read your CTS review on the other board. I must say, you drove on of my favorite cars, a CTS in copper sunburst (or as I like to call my fave color--orange!). They are extrememly nice cars and I'd take one any day! So, any idea when you might be able to afford one? I bet after that test drive, you just can't stop thinking of ways to put one in the driveway, huh?!
Beach15: Good luck in getting you Intrigue. I love mine.
Just a quick question for everybody, what grade fuel do you use in your Intrigue? I use 94 octane but don't see any real increase in my mileage. I mean I know its supposed to be cleaner and everything, but is it worth it? Same for oil. I haven't changed mine yet but was planning on going with full synthetic. Any comments?
spidey : Always go with 87 octane and it's just fine. Don't waste your money.
However, it does not provide more energy / mileage. It even can be worse in this respect, due to higher amount of additives. It does not burn cleaner either - the additives even may cause carbon deposit.
Using high octane with stock engine designed for 87 octane is wasting money.