I'm new to posting on this site, but have read many of the posts here, some of which helped me decide on purchasing the Intrigue. I traded in my '90 Legend for a new '00 GL. I think I got a good deal - $24K for a GL w/heated leather seats, power pass. seat, moonroof, CD player, steering-wheel controls, air-filtration system. I know that sounds strange going from an Acura to a GM product. I was considering the Acura 3.2TL, but none of the dealers were willing to start negotiating at invoice - they all started at msrp - and they weren't willing to accept my GM Card rebate points! Yes, they did get me on my trade - wholesale on my '90 Legend was around $5500 and they only gave me $4K for it, but it needed a new tranny ($2K+) so I figure that was a "fair" trade (for me anyway!). Coupled with $6K in Olds and GM Card rebate money, this GL ended up costing me only $18K. I really like the Intrigue - a nice looking car with a smooth and powerfull ride, and lots of versatility with the split-folding rear seats and a decent sized trunk. So far with 600 miles on it I give this car a thumbs-up!
That is a sign of a car that "loosens" a bit with age. Maybe it's a GM thing, not sure. My Cavalier did that after 40K, but it is an entry-level car, unlike the Intrigue. I hear that Cons. Reports rates their reliability low (I know, don't flame me about that one!), and their crash test scores weren't all that either. But I figure with the 5/60K warranty, it wouldn't be a bad deal. Also, is that the whole warranty, or is there a 10/100K powertrain warranty with it too?
Everyone, thanks for your answers to my questions.
Actually, the new Consumer Reports auto issue (came out last month I think) has put the Intrigue back on it's recommend list as reliability has "gone back up" to average now. I'm not a big CR fan, but Consumer's digest also recommends Intrigue as a "best buy". No, it's not the best car in the world, but it is a very good mid size performance sedan and it was obviously my first choice (though I did like the Maxima a lot also). Have you looked at any other cars?
My wife had a Honda, so she's concerned with buying a GM product given the few disasters people have heard about like (fiero, GM diesels, caddy v8/6/4, etc). Her previous GM car was a Vega years ago in highschool! Also, our current car is my Shadow, which has been basically a great reliable car with exception of head gaskets, but the ride and refinement of a shadow is poor.
We also are looking hard at a maxima, and the dealer has both cars (olds/nissan dealer), but still can't decide.
I dislike the flabby damping of the suspension on the intrigue and flat seats, but otherwise I really like the near "muscle car" personality it has, and the seats, features like PCS which I would get.
Do you regret not getting the nissan, or are you happy with the Olds? I think we'd be happy with either one. Its just convincing my wife we won't be taking it back to the dealer all the time for work in the next 5 years.
Another perspective....unless you plan to keep the Intrigue 'until the wheels fall off' I would excercise extreme caution buying the Intrigue or any other Oldsmobile product. Keep in mind that Oldsmobile its history and that the Intrigue model line will be a goner in a couple of years since no replacement is planned for the current W-body based Intrigue. This means that re-sale value in the Intrigue should be pretty lousy even after a couple of years into ownership. Like the earlier linl to the article stated, current Olds owners should not be concerned about parts and service, rather the long term effects on re-sale value.
In other words, Slope, make sure that the Intrigue will be the car that will make you REALLY happy not for 1 year or 2 years but for 4, 5 years and beyond. Think about it really well. Not just what you like about the vehicle today (Its new after all) but if you will be willing to live with its shortcomings, problems, rattles, etc??? Dindak, will tell you that the Intrigue is the greatest thing since sliced bread...good for him as he truly enjoys his car, but what about YOU??? Use good judgement before deciding.
If you think you'll be bored with the car after 3 or 4 years of ownership and might be thinking of trading it or selling it for another future car that might spark some interest to you, then the Nissan Maxima will be the car to choose.
Think about it this way:
Olds Intrigue: Buy it with the mindset that you will be able to put up with its good points and its problems and that you will keep the car until you run it to the ground. Will you love this car after 3 or 4 years of ownership? Forget about trade in or resale value..these cars will be worthless in a couple of years.
Nissan Maxima: Use same criteria as above, but if you get bored with it, you can aspire to sell it on your own or trade it in and still have some money left over in the 'pocket'...you won't be able to get 'bored' with the Intrigue and think you'll have some money to buy something else.
Think about it CAREFULLY. The cure for BUYER'S REMORSE is usually VERY, VERY COSTLY, so choose and proceed with care.
I'll still love mine in 3 or 4 years. I plan on keeping the Intrigue at least until my wife's next car is paid off in 2006 (she won't be getting a new one until 2003). Even though I've had some service issues with it I still feel like it's a great car for the money. And I like the fact that you don't see 2 or 3 of them at every light. If you are concerned about reliability, just buy an extended warranty.
kwf1: Have they replaced the crankshaft sensor yet? It may also be the battery. Mine was starting rough and finally one day it would not start and the battery died. Dealer replaced the battery and it started every time for about 4 months.
Last June I purchased a 2000 Intrigue. Now I'm wondering if that was a wise choice. I now owe more than I could get for the car, even with the double payments I've been making. I had intended to keep the car for quite awhile (at least 4 years) but cannot afford to get NOTHING for it when I'm ready to get a new car. I've recently thought of trading the car in, to see if Olds could give me at least what I owe on it and leasing a new 2001 Intrigue. That way, I won't have to worry about resale value. I always prefer to purchase rather than lease but not this time. Anyone have any suggestions? Advise? Oh, and by the way, it was starting to work, GM. I'm only 28 and bought an Oldsmobile! Can you believe it? My friends still can't believe it's an Oldsmobile.
jg28: What were the terms of your loan? I put about $5K down on mine and financed the rest for 36 months (6.5% apr). I've never owed more than it's worth. The best way to buy an Intrigue is to find one that is one or two years old with 12K to 24K miles. You will avoid a BIG depreciation hit that way and still have a factory warranty. That's what I'm wishing I would have done!! By the way, I'm 26.
If you lease, you will be left with nothing when your lease is up.. You lost the most proportion of the value of the car over the time you have owned it already, might as well keep it now. I would hope an average 5 year old Intrigue would be worth 20-25% of its purchase price. When I bought mine, I knew the majority of the population wouldn't give away a used pair of shoes for a 5 year old Intrigue, and now it is down to the shoes minus the laces. I saved a lot of dough buying a low (6,000KM) mileage 2 month old car. Put 10K Cdn down on the $23,500Cdn pricetag which included tax.
I was 27 when I bought my 99 Intrigue. I would trade its interior for a lot of different competitor car's interiors, but the rest is just right.
No remorse what so ever. While I did like some things about the Maxima, the things I didn't like about it clearly made my choice Intrigue.
1. Maxima is not as good looking. The rear end of Maxima is particularly not attractive. 2. Maxima doesn't have independent rear suspension 3. Maxima requires premium fuel, so add at least 10-15% to your fuel bill and 4. Maxima is no less reliable on average than Intrigue
I had really good luck with my previous 98 Grand Prix (it was totaled in February of last year), and coming from a troubled Honda Accord.. I had few reservations about getting another GM w-body. So far with 20K and almost a year of Intrigue, I am still very happy.
The one item that you have to watch is indeed re-sale. Intrigue is not as good as Accord or Camry because of supply and demand.
1. Intrigue is not as sought after on the re-sale market and 2. There are lots of fleet Intrigues around where there are no Camrys or Accords.
As for Teo's comments on re-sale falling to "worthless", I disagree. Intrigue is part of a family of w-body cars and parts will be around for a long time. The Oldsmobile name is very well known and to most people it is just a midsize GM sedan, nothing more. Is re-sale great, not really. Will it get much worse with the demise of Olds, probably not.
On the other hand Teo is right, buy what you like. Maxima is a great car also and Intrigue is not the greatest thing since sliced bread (so there Teo ;-) Intrigue is also a very good car however. Either way, you won't go very wrong.
I have a 98 Intrigue(yes, one of those "dreaded" first year models) and I've been very pleased with it. My lease is up next summer and despite the fact that Olds is going away, I'm seriously considering another one. If they run the 0.9% for 60 months again, it's almost a sure bet I'll go with the Intrigue. I will do a loaded GL or GLS model time so I will have more features. If you can afford it, your wise to move up from the Alero. The Alero is an excellent car for the price point, but the Intrigue is even better. Especially now with the 3.5 liter DOHC V6 engine. The 3.5 will run on regular. I don't know what kind of real world mileage you'll see, but the sticker is 19 City and 28 Highway. My 98 with the 3800 gets about 20 or so mpg, but thats with probably 80% of my driving "stop and go" and with me nailing the gas pretty hard too at times. I can't comment on the reliability of the 3.5(it's Northstar based if that tells you anything) but the 3800 V6 in my 98 hasn't missed a beat once. Good luck on your decision.
RC52, congratulations on your new purchase. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I've enjoyed my 98.
b4z, sounds like your dealer isn't wanting to sell a new car. I don't know all the ins and outs of leasing and breaking one is hard I'm sure, but if your financing through GMAC I can see them doing it as they will getting your business. You might not get quite as good of a deal if you do this as the dealer will probably have to eat the cost, but if you get a low interest rate, you'll save more in interest over the term of the loan than you would have probably gotten off the car anyway. With $400 for the salesman and $100 to the sales manager directly from GM for every new Olds sold, you'd think they would be more interested in selling you a new car. Even if it meant that they took a small loss on your lease.
Slopedirk, well on the bright side you'll get a loaner whenever your Olds is in for service. Actually, with either the Olds or the Nissan there may come a time when the car has to go in for service as no car is perfect. And remember, Olds is giving you a 5 year 60,000 mile full warranty compared to Nissan's 3 year 36,000 mile warranty.
Aside for Harlan, I wonder if anyoe from Olds has read this board. It's interesting that several people here have cross shopped the Intrigue with the Maxima and are(or have) taken both as serious considerations. And now we have a former Acura owner and several under 30 customers. So you'd think Olds would see that their new product is actually attracting new customers. I seriously doubt you get many cross shopping the Maxima with the Buick Regal or Chevy Impala.
Are you picking on me???? Yes! under some more horsepower I would; but then again it is not in the immediate future.. The Ford rear wheel drive cars are good buys and offer a sound investment for years of reliable motoring..
The biggest loser in the domestic market will be Chrysler I fear..The vultures are flying around and the imports will pick up some along with GM and Ford..
The Asian mafia will continue to riddle our ecomony and I hope China will fade; for it is their goal to dismantle the American manufacturing scene and then we have no way to defend ourselves..Watch the basic industries of steel processing: forgings/castings,any industry where it is labor intensive. I supply shaped metal parts produced by closed dies or patterns.. China is the source that has been buying up all the used metalworking equipment for years. In order to build our army tanks we may have to rely on India or China..
Keep buying those foreign cars; and you may be get surprised some day where we are headed..
If i was given the choice of a $2000 rebate or a lower finance charge I would always go with $2000 rebate.
The deal that i am looking at is a 2001 GL with PCS. If i pay invoice and get the $1500 owner's rebate and the $2000 olds rebate I will be able to purchase the car for about $20,000. If i take the normal intrigue depreciation over 12 months the car would be worth about $15,000. A $5000 hit.
If I don't take the $2000 rebate and go with the 3.9% financing, the car will still only be worth $15,000 after a year. A $7000 hit.
If I pay a higher interest rate like 7.99% over 60 months I can always pay it off early and save a little money.
Definitely keep the car. It looks like you are amortized oever 48 months and you are making double payments. In two years you will own the car and it will be worth at least $10,000. Why would you lose the equity in the car you have now and then lease something and have nothing at the end? It seems to me that you are in a great position right now, especially paying the car off early. I wish I was in your shoes.
I've had some problems withe the suspension making noises and the car not starting the first time. You are 6'3" I would definitely go with the intrigue. It has incredible front seat room.
I get 21-22 mpg in the city, 24 mpg in rural areas, and 29 mpg at 79 mph.
The alero is not much better or maybe worse in the gas mileage department.
I experienced this too, but after reading about the fuel delivery/security feature, I had an idea that maybe the system just needs some extra time to validate the ignition key? Anyway, I no longer have the problem because I turn the key on but before I crank it over I spend 2 - 3 seconds to put my seatbelt on. Then I turn it over and it starts every time!
With the new warranty Oldsmobile is giving, it's just a special they are running until April and not standard-fare now. I read about it on the website (http;//www.oldmobile.com) yesterday.
Also, I think I would go for the Intrigue instead of the Alero because of the room. The Alero has just enough room, but the leg room is a little tight for me. I liked the Intrigue when I drove it about a year or so ago. Guess it's time for another test drive, eh?
Also, I think CR's reliability data improved because the car had to work its first-year bugs out, like any car does. So it should be fine now.
I have 68K miles on my 98 Intrigue and as far as reliability is concerned, it's the best car I've ever owned.
I drive about 100+ miles round trip to work. The "average" miles most put on cars is anywhere from 12,000--15,000 miles/yr. Since mine is a 98 I should have about 36k--45k miles. Taking the low end numbers I have driven my car for the equivalent of almost 6 years. I still enjoy it very much. I have to say that it's easy to take the car for granted if it's the only thing you drive. The times I start thinking about giving it up (everyone does this with any car at some point) I drive my wife's Bonniville. A nice machine. But when I get back into my Intrigue I am quickly reminded why I got it. Another thing to do is to take it on some curves--winding country roads, drives or parkways(if you live in urban areas), or any place where you can really put it through its paces. You'll erase any thought of giving it up for something else. Except perhaps another Intrigue.
Problems: steering shaft, rotors, window motor and fuel door release. The last one really burned me up. The door wouldn't close flush so they replaced the part. Bill came to $23. The part was only FORTY NINE CENTS!!! I wish I had known that and replaced it myself! All except the fuel door were covered (even after warranty in the case of the shaft). I choose to get my own aftermarket rotors and be done with it. All in all, almost 70K later I don't think that's bad at all. Even Toyotas aren't perfect. Just ask the sucker...I mean, guy who bought my Camry after I traded it in on the Intrigue.
Just read over the weekend in the paper here (Chicago Trib) that GM is so pleased with the reaction and success of the Olds 5/60 extended warrantee, that they are seriously considering expansion to more divisions soon. What that does for Olds is unknown of course, as some buyers shopping Olds due to the warrantee as one reason would be able to get same at Pontiac for example. This of course would short circuit GM's premise to offer said warrantee to move Olds inventory as the division is phased out. And so it goes, GM never learns and once again will likely make a bad move in the long run, ending up with more Olds stock than anticipated. Oh and also read the Aztek over at the 'excitement' division (planned 75,000 units, so far for two months, 5000, and 2500 of this forced on GM middle manager's no less) is getting an unprecedented second year makeover to correct some styling gaffaws. No major sheetmetal changes this time, but lots of trim and cladding changes are in the works for 2002. Seems kinda like trying to make over tammy faye, just pass the bag. They attempt to put a candle in this cow pie, but its still not a birthday cake, all the while going forward kill off its best cars across town at Olds. By the way, experts across the auto spectrum agree on that point.
RE: do you plan on keeping the car past 2-3 years or until the wheels fall off?
Well, its hard to say exactly, but I generally keep a car a long time, yes. My current vehicle is a 1988 dodge shadow es turbo 5 speed 4 door, purchased new. Does that answer your question? (laughing)
Of course anyone buying one of these has to consider the cliff like depreciation and make their own decision.
I think of the olds like the older model american muscle cars, not the most sophisticated suspension or design, but the motor and trans are excellent, and the core of the vehicle should last a long time. Of course its not stone age, with PCS and a twin cam 3.5, but hope you get my drift.
Unfortunately, my wife drove the Passat with me last night and she really liked that car a lot, so even though I'd probably take the minor glitches with the olds, she wants the passat. It did drive nicely, but didn't seem to be the rocket that the olds was and seats are on other end of spectrum.
As hard as it was to read, I have to agree with Teo. Truth hurts sometimes. But he's right. I have to either pay off my loan early or carry it out to its duration because of the decision to kill Olds AND the miles I've accumulated. The only real reason I won't keep my current Intrigue indefinitely is because I NEED the automatic climate control! Had it on my New Yorker years back and once you have it, it tends to spoil you. Plus it's not the color I really wanted. My wife likes the Aurora as do I. But I conceeded to my wife's wisdom vs my desire. If we get an Aurora, we'll do it used. Let someone else take the hit. If we get another Intrigue (which I doubt since '02 will probably be the last year and I have 3 to go), I would buy that new. Using Teo's reasoning, I have every intention to keep the car well beyond the norm, if I got it. Heck, I'd even front the difference btwn payoff and trade-in for it (which is actually the way I'm leaning) since I like it so much.
Only other car I'd look at right now is the Regal GS. But something (aside from my wife) is telling me to wait and see what comes off this Epsilon platform. If Buick or Pontiac can pull an Oldsmobile-type rabbit out of the hat (such as Intrigue, Alero & Aurora) with the new platform, waiting might not be a bad thing.
Actually the intrigue's suspension is fairly sophisticated. They went with monotube struts. I believe they are the only wbody car to have that. The problem that i see with the intrigue's suspension is that the shocks are too soft and the struts are valved too hard. It is still not as rough riding as the grand prix.
The passat is a beautifully built car. Did you sit in the backseat of that one? No headroom at all. Remember if you have an engine problem with the passat, they will not replace it. They will give you a rebuilt engine. GM would never do that. Food for thought.
Is the extremely short 'Basic' warranty of 2/24, whichever comes first. Also if you read the small letter, you'll find out that some items the exhibit wear and tear are only covered for 1 year or 12,000 miles. If you opt for the Passat, I would buy an extended warranty just in case. Make sure to understand the terms and conditions of the 10 year/100000 Mile powertrain warranty before you sign on the car order.
The Passat should be a decent vehicle reliability wise, altough Volkswagens are known to be troublesome vehicles. The Passat is manufactured in Germany altough quality and relaibility seems to be the same whether the cars are built in Germany, Mexico or Brazil. I have heard that VW's built in Brazil seem to be better than the Mexican ones in reliability...I don't know. Remember the late 1980's VW Fox? That was a Brazilian designed and built VW. Some people talk wonders about them, others despise them.
I guess VW ownership is pretty much a crapshoot. The cars look sharp and assembly quality seems to be upthere in the best of European tradition; however the thing to watch out with VW's is actual component durability and reliability.
The Passat GLS 2.8L V6 seems to be a reasonably powerful car, but also consider the gasoline powered 1.8L Turbo which can easily be upgraded from 150HP to 200HP by means of an aftermarket chip. It is possible to get a nice Passat 1.8T with the Monsoon stereo (No leather, I think) for around $22 to $23K.
Last, keep in mind that the current Passat model has already beign discontinued and the new Passat 'Plus' version is coming out in about a month. The 1.8T will be rated at 170HP, I don't know the HP increase for the V6. Also expect a price hike and a short supply however.
I like the current model a lot otherwise and I would pick the Passat over the Maxima and mundane Accord V6 any day.
I would factor the price of making that warranty 3 year/36,000M in purchasing a VW. Its something I may think about someday because the amount of improvement they put into their 97-99 redesigns in almost all aspects, they are really on a roll. Up here in Canada they do things like put the cold weather package (heated seats, washer fluid sprayers) on just about every car and is not very expensive.
Unfortunately, Florida residents can't get the vaunted 5/60 warranty from Oldsmobile since it seems to overlap or interfere with state Lemon laws (Per the Olds representative). In FL, Olds will still be sold with the old 3/36 warranty coverage...what a shame!
Does that mean Hyundai's sold in FLA only have a 3 yr/36K mile warranty?
rc52: Good tip for the rough start/no start problem. I will try this on my '99 and maybe it will help. I have a file open with Oldsmobile for this problem, and every time I visit the dealership for an oil change I ask them to fix the problem. They haven't been successful yet. My suspension noises were cured by the steering shaft replacement however.
And what is wrong with the Regal GS suspension? I like it much and do not see any need to fix it.
Concerning the 3.5l: Great engine. The new design already surpassed the 3.8 in high-rpm band. Several years later, after a lot of small improvements, it probably will surpass the old engine in the whole range.
It would be nice to have the engine available as option for Regal (not necessary GS). But currently I would prefer the blown 3.8.
Not including the $1500 to 96 and newer Olds owners, Olds is giving you the option of $2000 off or low financing. As of 2 weeks ago, the low finance rate was 0.9% for 36 months, 2.9$ for 48 months, and 3.9% for 60 months. This isn't as good at 0.9% for 60 months, but still better than what a conventinal loan will cost in interest. I'm also seeing ads for the 0-0-0 promo again. My question is what kind of interest rate do you get after the first year?
Slopedirk, the Intrigue's suspension is pretty modern in terms of design. In fact, the Intrugue has a more modern rear suspension design than the Maxima does. The Maxima uses a beam axle rear suspension while the Intrigue(and nearly all other cars in this class) have independent rear suspension. As for the Passat, I don't know alot about them. Them seem to be more expensive than the Intrigue and I don't know how well VW dealers discount. Also, as previously stated, VW's basic warranty is 2 years 24,000 miles and only the powertrain is covered under their long warranty. Remember, with the Olds the 5 year 60,000 mile warranty is a bumper to bumper.
Teo, I didn't know the extended warranty was not valid in FL. That doesn't make alot of sense. As long as Major Gaurd has a Florida license number for it, it should be valid. Maybe you guys should write Jeb about that:) I'll have to look closely at the fine print next time I see the new Olds ad.
No offence intended at all. I find the Regal's suspension too soft compared with an Intrigue or a Maxima. Makes for smooth sailing, but not such great cornering. Just a personal preference.
Having driven both a 3.8L and a 3.5L for extended periods, I prefer the 3.5L. The smooth operation and highway kick make it the winner in my books.
Thanks folks for info. I didn't make a long post but yes, I know about the new Passat coming out. You can see it on www.passat.com, but everything's in euro's and/or liters and kilos, but you get the idea. The v6 tdi diesel is very interesting. I like the 4cyl TDI -- a very modern diesel with little noise, smoke and it moves out - I had a jetta over 100mph on a test drive (under controlled circumstances with a professionally trained driver of course) and it was still pulling. Quite a motor, and super economical. Only thing is, how much will THAT cost - probably a added cost option.
apparently the new passat is stiffer, roomier, and incorporates a version of PCS standard.
I like that sort of car, but I also like the Olds. Since my wife will be the main driver, she needs to "desire" the car, not just put up with it. She likes the olds, but seems more used to smaller manuverable cars.
Re: suspension - I knew some folks would get excited about my comments. Strut suspension is usually the cheapest engineering way to attach wheels to a car - I'd prefer double wishbones like the accord personally. But struts can work well.
b4z - saying the struts are too firm but shocks are too soft? I didn't look under the car too carefully, but I thought it had 4 struts and no shocks.
Does anyone have suggestions for aftermarket shocks? Should be same as other W chassis cars. I have KYB's on my shadow and they are gas charged, which raises the car a touch but they are firm but streetable. Personally on this car I'd prefer softer than KYB, but not sure what would work well. Maybe bilstein?
RE: passat - Yea, the dang things are not cheap. Wife says the olds would be fine tonight, I guess she can tell I like the car.
RE: intermediate steering shaft -- is there a fix for this? I can't figure a way to search these postings individually or I'd probably know that. Wonder if th car on the lot will need Alternator, steering shaft. If so, hard sell to tell wife it will need some fairly serious repairs in first year!
RE: alternator - I think I read there was a new alternator out that should be ordered if you have this trouble?
Thanks for all help, have fun in your cars. We'll figure out what we're doing eventually!
The "touring" Regal suspension (standard for GS, optional for LS) is a strange beast. It is very smooth, as has to be expected from Buick, but the car does not lean when cornering. Have read an explanation somewhere: a rubber bushing between the suspension and the car body.
Though, the Regal tires are so-so, Goodyear Eagle LS. And with the floating driving you feel somewhat disconnected from the road.
When I drove a 01 GLS, I thought it was one of the quietest cars I've ever ridden in. But I read all about road noise. Are the 01's that much quieter does anyone know? My old car is very loud, so hard to compare but it seem equal to accord/passat/maxima by ear.
I drove on concrete and asphalt roads, at speeds up to 80 BTW.
I believe, the same improved liners go with other 2001 W-cars, including Intrigue. At least, people on the Impala and/or Monte-Carlo boards are discussing the problem of 2000 mud flaps - they do not fit with 2001 Impala.
I meant to say the struts are valved too hard and the springs are too soft.
I would have put slightly heavier springs and slightly softer damping in the struts. This would have given the car less weight transfer and made the car ride more softly over small bumps.
The car actually handles big bumps and dips in the road better than the small ones. A phenomenon that i have never experienced before.
Last summer harlanc said that the 2001 intrigue would be getting wheel liners also. Can anybody verify whether the 2001 is quieter than the previous iterations.
I took a Regal GS out for a spin the same time I took out the Grand Prix GT. While the Grand Prix had the tightest suspension, the GS clearly had the softest. The Intrigue is very close to the GP. As for tires, I really like the Goodyears on my Intrigue. The grip is great though I have nothing to compare with on another Intrigue.
I am pretty sure the 3.5L will get added (at least as an option) to the next generation Regal. If they do, and firm up the suspension.. who knows.
It's good to see fresh names on the board. Usually, this means fresh angles and new motivation. This whole "car thing" can get tiresome at times.
Flicker- Dealer said the new alternators wouldn't be in for a few weeks.
Rough start- I've always waited a few seconds after turning key ail crank (I guess I just thought you were supposed to let the system initialize--It doesn't say anything in the manual so it's probably not important) and I still get the rough start once in a while. It only happens when I've been driving around and engine is hot.
Front end (turning right/braking) noise- maybe on next visit I'll get lucky.
Interior Rattles/vibrations- Old dropped the ball big time in this area. At least on my car they did. Wouldn't bother me if I could find them.
Suspension- I will $$pay$$ for a softer setup if one is available as this will solve the interior rattle and human-body-jarring problem. Most trucks don't even ride as harsh as my car does. Someone please make a Regal suspension fit an Intrigue.
Although Intrigue handles better than Regal, it's not by much. I don't even think it's so much that the Intrigue's suspension is too stiff, but rather it doesn't absorb the road. When OLD said road feel is not sacrificed, they meant any of it.
Intrigue suspension is only effective when enough force is encountered. I know I shouldn't complain about the design because I bought it. But if I'm gonna vent on my Intrigue, this is the place.
I will close with the positives:
looks- excellent, inside and out. leather- excellent. seat comfort- excellent. features- excellent. stereo- Pioneer4100 is excellent with stock speakers and no amp. climate control- excellent. 3.5- excellent. Brakes- good.
Basically, all is good notwithstanding the optional John Deer suspension I unknowingly purchased.
Remember - the Intrigue is "a sophisticated twist on a sports sedan". A firmer ride is to be expected. Still MUCH softer than my wife's '96 Saturn SL. You feel every bump in that car.
RE: oscar - you must really like a soft ride, as I'm used to a rough riding car and thought this was car rode like a caddy - almost too much for me. If you wanted to change the ride and would pay $ for it, the struts from the other W bodies would probably work. I'd try buick if that's the ride you're looking for. But the stock ones I've experienced in the past were not very good quality wise, however the alternative aftermarket ones are probably stiffer. If you go aftermarket, go with the cheapest would be my guess, as you want the least valving you can get.
I was actually thinking of going the other way, putting some nitrogen charged struts for a more "controlled" ride and some bigger sway bars from Addco or Helwig, or maybe the Chevy police version. But I've not purchased a Intrigue yet, so I'd have to live with it and make a judgement after some road time.
For those of you thinking the springs are too soft, a highly charged strut will add a little spring rate. My shadow actually raised up off the ground about nearly 3/4" after putting on KYB shocks/struts. I had to put some aftermarket variable rate rear springs in the car to level it out, it was sticking up a bit in the nose! THe rears were too soft anyway, so it worked.
Every GM car I've driven has understeered quite a bit from the factory, they do that for liability reasons. So, I think a bigger rear anti-sway bar would help nuetral the cornering out quite a bit. I put one on my shadow and pickup truck and it made a world of difference both times. It DOES link the back wheels to a greater extent, so individual bumps will be transmitted more to your behind, but it shoudln't do anything on bumps that hit both wheels. Everything's a trade off in suspension it seems.
Thanks for info on the wheelhousing sound deading. It must work well, as the 2001 was very quiet. Maybe you guys can retrofit something if you're so inclined. I have not one sound complaints after driving the GLS and other cars, if anything the GLS is the quietest, except under heavy foot, when the 3.5 makes some nice noises.
I coleman- understood. I wanted a sports sedan and I don't mind a firm ride.
However, at issue is not the firm ride but rather the inability of my suspension to absorb the road irregularities and small bumps instead of transferring that energy throughout the cabin components (rattles/vibrations) and into the driver. It wouldn't be as much of an issue if the interior components were tight enough to handle it.
That's where Old dropped the ball on my Intrigue. If they're gonna build a car with a rough ride, (and label MSRP at $27k+), then they should design, build, and assemble the inside accordingly. Since there's no way to remedy the latter, my only choice is to remedy the former, i.., hopefully find a suspension that will cut down, if not, eliminate the harshness.
As I stated previously, my suspension (and maybe mine is a fluke) is effective when enough force (large bumps, etc.) is applied to it. But normal conditions (which is most of the time) is another matter.
slope dirk- I asked around a bit last year regarding after market suspension upgrades but it appeared the only upgrades offered result in a staffer ride. I don't think that would help my situation.
I asked my local dealer if Buick regal struts or any others would fit in my Intrigue. The service advisor said no. Maybe he didn't know what he was talking about, I don't know. Maybe I'm beating a dead horse here.
That was the jist of my previous posts too. For instance the dodge intrepid has stiffer springs and softer valving the intrigue. The intrepid corners flatter and has a smoother ride over small road irregularities, but transmits large bumps and dips into the car.
The intrigue has soft springs and stiff valving. Notice how when you floor it the front end rises up? That is because the soft springse are allowing the weight to transfer to the back. The intrigue appears to handle concrete expansion joints okay and is a joy on the highway. But hit a manhole or frost heave or asphalt patch and it is jarring. The intrigue does very well on big bumps due to its soft springs and the fact that larger suspension travel movements are bypassed by the stiff struts.
The suspension should be modified in my opinion.
But i still like the car and prefer it to a lot of the competition.
I've got the Goodyear Eagle LS tires and I'm just about to hit 10k on my car. Not sure how many miles these tires last but if another set will improve the ride, than I'll get new tires and save the current tires for future use (should the ride not change much).
I've got them and if anything it is a bit stiffer. Much better handling than the LS's though.. S rated tires on a "sports sedan" didn't cut it for me. Michelin's 225's are wider than Goodyear's, perhaps they measure differently.
I've noticed that when travelling at slower speeds (50mph and lower) little cracks in the road transmit through the car more than they do at higher speeds, and more than bigger bumps. Our highways took a beating last month with all the snow and cold, there are a lot of new blemishes on them.
Has anyone noticed that their suspension has softened or something as they've owned the car longer? Recently I took my Intrigue on a pretty rough trip (rough roads) about a thousand miles or so. It seems like the suspension isn't as tight now. I notice significant body roll in corners, it seems sloppier and looser. It used to be very tight, very solid, something for which I chose the Intrigue. Is this just to be expected with age/miles? (I have a 2000 Intrigue with about 15.5K miles). Is the suspension covered under warranty?
It's great to have a support network, so when I experience problems with the car, (the lights/alternator, window creaking, rough starts, and wind/road noise) I know I'm not alone. (It's also pretty cool to know that there are guys in their 20s like me driving Intrigues around). To JColeman: I actually did what you suggested! I bought a used 2000 with only 9500 miles on it, and got it for almost 10K less than it retailed for! Quite a steal. The ones I see listed in the paper now are as low as 11K but I think mine probably has fewer miles (15.5K now). I still owe about 10K.
I've been generally pleased with her (does anyone else get attached enough to their cars to name them?) The updated logo is great. I love seeing it on my steering wheel and floormats. I'd like to remove the "Oldsmobile" from the rear of my Intrigue and replacing it with the Olds logo instead. I'm wondering why Olds never switched the font they use to write "Oldsmobile" on their cars to the new and more appealing font they use for INTRIGUE/ALERO/AURORA and the new BRAVADA. Why in the world would they replace the automatic gas door with a manual one? I can't believe they did that.
I'm sure not optimistic about anything from Buick. I test drove the Regal before I bought my Intrigue. That interior was so outdated, I felt like it belonged in the 70s. And the exterior isn't that much better. It looks like a slow car to me, even if it isn't. My Intrigue looks zippy. (And it is). Has anyone seen the new Rendezvous? I'm not that impressed with it either. I can hardly think that Buick will come up with something like the Intrigue.
Has Olds addressed the noise problem with the 2001 Intrigue? My car has lots of road and wind noise. I have a gift certificate/test drive offer and I was wondering if I should bother trying out the 2001 Intrigue (I'd like to see what the 3.5 Aurora is like). I'm sure it's way outta my price range but that Aurora interior is just so sumptuous looking.
Comments
Everyone, thanks for your answers to my questions.
We also are looking hard at a maxima, and the dealer has both cars (olds/nissan dealer), but still can't decide.
I dislike the flabby damping of the suspension on the intrigue and flat seats, but otherwise I really like the near "muscle car" personality it has, and the seats, features like PCS which I would get.
Do you regret not getting the nissan, or are you happy with the Olds? I think we'd be happy with either one. Its just convincing my wife we won't be taking it back to the dealer all the time for work in the next 5 years.
S
In other words, Slope, make sure that the Intrigue will be the car that will make you REALLY happy not for 1 year or 2 years but for 4, 5 years and beyond. Think about it really well. Not just what you like about the vehicle today (Its new after all) but if you will be willing to live with its shortcomings, problems, rattles, etc??? Dindak, will tell you that the Intrigue is the greatest thing since sliced bread...good for him as he truly enjoys his car, but what about YOU??? Use good judgement before deciding.
If you think you'll be bored with the car after 3 or 4 years of ownership and might be thinking of trading it or selling it for another future car that might spark some interest to you, then the Nissan Maxima will be the car to choose.
Think about it this way:
Olds Intrigue: Buy it with the mindset that you will be able to put up with its good points and its problems and that you will keep the car until you run it to the ground. Will you love this car after 3 or 4 years of ownership? Forget about trade in or resale value..these cars will be worthless in a couple of years.
Nissan Maxima: Use same criteria as above, but if you get bored with it, you can aspire to sell it on your own or trade it in and still have some money left over in the 'pocket'...you won't be able to get 'bored' with the Intrigue and think you'll have some money to buy something else.
Think about it CAREFULLY. The cure for BUYER'S REMORSE is usually VERY, VERY COSTLY, so choose and proceed with care.
Good luck.
kwf1: Have they replaced the crankshaft sensor yet? It may also be the battery. Mine was starting rough and finally one day it would not start and the battery died. Dealer replaced the battery and it started every time for about 4 months.
I was 27 when I bought my 99 Intrigue. I would trade its interior for a lot of different competitor car's interiors, but the rest is just right.
1. Maxima is not as good looking. The rear end of Maxima is particularly not attractive.
2. Maxima doesn't have independent rear suspension
3. Maxima requires premium fuel, so add at least 10-15% to your fuel bill
and
4. Maxima is no less reliable on average than Intrigue
I had really good luck with my previous 98 Grand Prix (it was totaled in February of last year), and coming from a troubled Honda Accord.. I had few reservations about getting another GM w-body. So far with 20K and almost a year of Intrigue, I am still very happy.
The one item that you have to watch is indeed re-sale. Intrigue is not as good as Accord or Camry because of supply and demand.
1. Intrigue is not as sought after on the re-sale market
and
2. There are lots of fleet Intrigues around where there are no Camrys or Accords.
As for Teo's comments on re-sale falling to "worthless", I disagree. Intrigue is part of a family of w-body cars and parts will be around for a long time. The Oldsmobile name is very well known and to most people it is just a midsize GM sedan, nothing more. Is re-sale great, not really. Will it get much worse with the demise of Olds, probably not.
On the other hand Teo is right, buy what you like. Maxima is a great car also and Intrigue is not the greatest thing since sliced bread (so there Teo ;-) Intrigue is also a very good car however. Either way, you won't go very wrong.
Good luck!
RC52, congratulations on your new purchase. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I've enjoyed my 98.
b4z, sounds like your dealer isn't wanting to sell a new car. I don't know all the ins and outs of leasing and breaking one is hard I'm sure, but if your financing through GMAC I can see them doing it as they will getting your business. You might not get quite as good of a deal if you do this as the dealer will probably have to eat the cost, but if you get a low interest rate, you'll save more in interest over the term of the loan than you would have probably gotten off the car anyway. With $400 for the salesman and $100 to the sales manager directly from GM for every new Olds sold, you'd think they would be more interested in selling you a new car. Even if it meant that they took a small loss on your lease.
Slopedirk, well on the bright side you'll get a loaner whenever your Olds is in for service. Actually, with either the Olds or the Nissan there may come a time when the car has to go in for service as no car is perfect. And remember, Olds is giving you a 5 year 60,000 mile full warranty compared to Nissan's 3 year 36,000 mile warranty.
The biggest loser in the domestic market will be Chrysler I fear..The vultures are flying around and the imports will pick up some along with GM and Ford..
The Asian mafia will continue to riddle our ecomony and I hope China will fade; for it is their goal to dismantle the American manufacturing scene and then we have no way to defend ourselves..Watch the basic industries of steel processing: forgings/castings,any industry where it is labor intensive. I supply shaped metal parts produced by closed dies or patterns..
China is the source that has been buying up all the used metalworking equipment for years. In order to build our army tanks we may have to rely on India or China..
Keep buying those foreign cars; and you may be get surprised some day where we are headed..
The deal that i am looking at is a 2001 GL with
PCS. If i pay invoice and get the $1500 owner's rebate and the $2000 olds rebate I will be able to purchase the car for about $20,000. If i take the normal intrigue depreciation over 12 months the car would be worth about $15,000.
A $5000 hit.
If I don't take the $2000 rebate and go with the 3.9% financing, the car will still only be worth $15,000 after a year.
A $7000 hit.
If I pay a higher interest rate like 7.99% over
60 months I can always pay it off early and save a little money.
and it will be worth at least $10,000.
Why would you lose the equity in the car you have now and then lease something and have nothing at the end?
It seems to me that you are in a great position right now, especially paying the car off early.
I wish I was in your shoes.
You are 6'3" I would definitely go with the intrigue. It has incredible front seat room.
I get 21-22 mpg in the city, 24 mpg in rural areas,
and 29 mpg at 79 mph.
The alero is not much better or maybe worse in the gas mileage department.
Also, I think I would go for the Intrigue instead of the Alero because of the room. The Alero has just enough room, but the leg room is a little tight for me. I liked the Intrigue when I drove it about a year or so ago. Guess it's time for another test drive, eh?
Also, I think CR's reliability data improved because the car had to work its first-year bugs out, like any car does. So it should be fine now.
I drive about 100+ miles round trip to work. The "average" miles most put on cars is anywhere from 12,000--15,000 miles/yr. Since mine is a 98 I should have about 36k--45k miles. Taking the low end numbers I have driven my car for the equivalent of almost 6 years. I still enjoy it very much. I have to say that it's easy to take the car for granted if it's the only thing you drive. The times I start thinking about giving it up (everyone does this with any car at some point) I drive my wife's Bonniville. A nice machine. But when I get back into my Intrigue I am quickly reminded why I got it. Another thing to do is to take it on some curves--winding country roads, drives or parkways(if you live in urban areas), or any place where you can really put it through its paces. You'll erase any thought of giving it up for something else. Except perhaps another Intrigue.
Problems: steering shaft, rotors, window motor and fuel door release. The last one really burned me up. The door wouldn't close flush so they replaced the part. Bill came to $23. The part was only FORTY NINE CENTS!!! I wish I had known that and replaced it myself! All except the fuel door were covered (even after warranty in the case of the shaft). I choose to get my own aftermarket rotors and be done with it. All in all, almost 70K later I don't think that's bad at all. Even Toyotas aren't perfect. Just ask the sucker...I mean, guy who bought my Camry after I traded it in on the Intrigue.
the reaction and success of the Olds 5/60 extended warrantee, that they are seriously
considering expansion to more divisions soon. What that does for Olds is unknown of
course, as some buyers shopping Olds due to the warrantee as one reason would be
able to get same at Pontiac for example. This of course would short circuit GM's premise
to offer said warrantee to move Olds inventory as the division is phased out. And so it goes,
GM never learns and once again will likely make a bad move in the long run, ending up
with more Olds stock than anticipated. Oh and also read the Aztek over at the 'excitement'
division (planned 75,000 units, so far for two months, 5000, and 2500 of this forced on GM
middle manager's no less) is getting an unprecedented second year makeover to correct some
styling gaffaws. No major sheetmetal changes this time, but lots of trim and cladding changes
are in the works for 2002. Seems kinda like trying to make over tammy faye, just pass the bag.
They attempt to put a candle in this cow pie, but its still not a birthday cake, all the while
going forward kill off its best cars across town at Olds. By the way, experts across the auto spectrum agree on that point.
Well, its hard to say exactly, but I generally keep a car a long time, yes. My current vehicle is a 1988 dodge shadow es turbo 5 speed 4 door, purchased new. Does that answer your question? (laughing)
Of course anyone buying one of these has to consider the cliff like depreciation and make their own decision.
I think of the olds like the older model american muscle cars, not the most sophisticated suspension or design, but the motor and trans are excellent, and the core of the vehicle should last a long time. Of course its not stone age, with PCS and a twin cam 3.5, but hope you get my drift.
Unfortunately, my wife drove the Passat with me last night and she really liked that car a lot, so even though I'd probably take the minor glitches with the olds, she wants the passat. It did drive nicely, but didn't seem to be the rocket that the olds was and seats are on other end of spectrum.
All for now,
Slope
Only other car I'd look at right now is the Regal GS. But something (aside from my wife) is telling me to wait and see what comes off this Epsilon platform. If Buick or Pontiac can pull an Oldsmobile-type rabbit out of the hat (such as Intrigue, Alero & Aurora) with the new platform, waiting might not be a bad thing.
The problem that i see with the intrigue's suspension is that the shocks are too soft and the struts are valved too hard.
It is still not as rough riding as the grand prix.
The passat is a beautifully built car. Did you sit in the backseat of that one? No headroom at all.
Remember if you have an engine problem with the passat, they will not replace it. They will give you a rebuilt engine. GM would never do that.
Food for thought.
The Passat should be a decent vehicle reliability wise, altough Volkswagens are known to be troublesome vehicles. The Passat is manufactured in Germany altough quality and relaibility seems to be the same whether the cars are built in Germany, Mexico or Brazil. I have heard that VW's built in Brazil seem to be better than the Mexican ones in reliability...I don't know. Remember the late 1980's VW Fox? That was a Brazilian designed and built VW. Some people talk wonders about them, others despise them.
I guess VW ownership is pretty much a crapshoot. The cars look sharp and assembly quality seems to be upthere in the best of European tradition; however the thing to watch out with VW's is actual component durability and reliability.
The Passat GLS 2.8L V6 seems to be a reasonably powerful car, but also consider the gasoline powered 1.8L Turbo which can easily be upgraded from 150HP to 200HP by means of an aftermarket chip. It is possible to get a nice Passat 1.8T with the Monsoon stereo (No leather, I think) for around $22 to $23K.
Last, keep in mind that the current Passat model has already beign discontinued and the new Passat 'Plus' version is coming out in about a month. The 1.8T will be rated at 170HP, I don't know the HP increase for the V6. Also expect a price hike and a short supply however.
I like the current model a lot otherwise and I would pick the Passat over the Maxima and mundane Accord V6 any day.
Just be careful with the VW warranty.
rc52: Good tip for the rough start/no start problem. I will try this on my '99 and maybe it will help. I have a file open with Oldsmobile for this problem, and every time I visit the dealership for an oil change I ask them to fix the problem. They haven't been successful yet. My suspension noises were cured by the steering shaft replacement however.
Concerning the 3.5l: Great engine. The new design already surpassed the 3.8 in high-rpm band. Several years later, after a lot of small improvements, it probably will surpass the old engine in the whole range.
It would be nice to have the engine available as option for Regal (not necessary GS). But currently I would prefer the blown 3.8.
Slopedirk, the Intrigue's suspension is pretty modern in terms of design. In fact, the Intrugue has a more modern rear suspension design than the Maxima does. The Maxima uses a beam axle rear suspension while the Intrigue(and nearly all other cars in this class) have independent rear suspension. As for the Passat, I don't know alot about them. Them seem to be more expensive than the Intrigue and I don't know how well VW dealers discount. Also, as previously stated, VW's basic warranty is 2 years 24,000 miles and only the powertrain is covered under their long warranty. Remember, with the Olds the 5 year 60,000 mile warranty is a bumper to bumper.
Teo, I didn't know the extended warranty was not valid in FL. That doesn't make alot of sense. As long as Major Gaurd has a Florida license number for it, it should be valid. Maybe you guys should write Jeb about that:) I'll have to look closely at the fine print next time I see the new Olds ad.
Having driven both a 3.8L and a 3.5L for extended periods, I prefer the 3.5L. The smooth operation and highway kick make it the winner in my books.
apparently the new passat is stiffer, roomier, and incorporates a version of PCS standard.
I like that sort of car, but I also like the Olds. Since my wife will be the main driver, she needs to "desire" the car, not just put up with it. She likes the olds, but seems more used to smaller manuverable cars.
Re: suspension - I knew some folks would get excited about my comments. Strut suspension is usually the cheapest engineering way to attach wheels to a car - I'd prefer double wishbones like the accord personally. But struts can work well.
b4z - saying the struts are too firm but shocks are too soft? I didn't look under the car too carefully, but I thought it had 4 struts and no shocks.
Does anyone have suggestions for aftermarket shocks? Should be same as other W chassis cars. I have KYB's on my shadow and they are gas charged, which raises the car a touch but they are firm but streetable. Personally on this car I'd prefer softer than KYB, but not sure what would work well. Maybe bilstein?
RE: passat - Yea, the dang things are not cheap. Wife says the olds would be fine tonight, I guess she can tell I like the car.
RE: intermediate steering shaft -- is there a fix for this? I can't figure a way to search these postings individually or I'd probably know that. Wonder if th car on the lot will need Alternator, steering shaft. If so, hard sell to tell wife it will need some fairly serious repairs in first year!
RE: alternator - I think I read there was a new alternator out that should be ordered if you have this trouble?
Thanks for all help, have fun in your cars. We'll figure out what we're doing eventually!
S
Though, the Regal tires are so-so, Goodyear Eagle LS. And with the floating driving you feel somewhat disconnected from the road.
When I drove a 01 GLS, I thought it was one of the quietest cars I've ever ridden in. But I read all about road noise. Are the 01's that much quieter does anyone know? My old car is very loud, so hard to compare but it seem equal to accord/passat/maxima by ear.
I drove on concrete and asphalt roads, at speeds up to 80 BTW.
Slope
http://www.edmunds.com/vehicles/2001/buick/regal/gs.html#whatsnew
or
http://www.gmfleet.com/productpreview/car/index.html
I believe, the same improved liners go with other 2001 W-cars, including Intrigue. At least, people on the Impala and/or Monte-Carlo boards are discussing the problem of 2000 mud flaps - they do not fit with 2001 Impala.
I meant to say the struts are valved too hard and the springs are too soft.
I would have put slightly heavier springs and slightly softer damping in the struts. This would have given the car less weight transfer and made the car ride more softly over small bumps.
The car actually handles big bumps and dips in the road better than the small ones. A phenomenon
that i have never experienced before.
I am pretty sure the 3.5L will get added (at least as an option) to the next generation Regal. If they do, and firm up the suspension.. who knows.
Flicker- Dealer said the new alternators wouldn't be in for a few weeks.
Rough start- I've always waited a few seconds after turning key ail crank (I guess I just thought you were supposed to let the system initialize--It doesn't say anything in the manual so it's probably not important) and I still get the rough start once in a while. It only happens when I've been driving around and engine is hot.
Front end (turning right/braking) noise- maybe on next visit I'll get lucky.
Interior Rattles/vibrations- Old dropped the ball big time in this area. At least on my car they did. Wouldn't bother me if I could find them.
Suspension- I will $$pay$$ for a softer setup if one is available as this will solve the interior rattle and human-body-jarring problem. Most trucks don't even ride as harsh as my car does. Someone please make a Regal suspension fit an Intrigue.
Although Intrigue handles better than Regal, it's not by much. I don't even think it's so much that the Intrigue's suspension is too stiff, but rather it doesn't absorb the road. When OLD said road feel is not sacrificed, they meant any of it.
Intrigue suspension is only effective when enough force is encountered. I know I shouldn't complain about the design because I bought it. But if I'm gonna vent on my Intrigue, this is the place.
I will close with the positives:
looks- excellent, inside and out.
leather- excellent.
seat comfort- excellent.
features- excellent.
stereo- Pioneer4100 is excellent with stock speakers and no amp.
climate control- excellent.
3.5- excellent.
Brakes- good.
Basically, all is good notwithstanding the optional John Deer suspension I unknowingly purchased.
I was actually thinking of going the other way, putting some nitrogen charged struts for a more "controlled" ride and some bigger sway bars from Addco or Helwig, or maybe the Chevy police version. But I've not purchased a Intrigue yet, so I'd have to live with it and make a judgement after some road time.
For those of you thinking the springs are too soft, a highly charged strut will add a little spring rate. My shadow actually raised up off the ground about nearly 3/4" after putting on KYB shocks/struts. I had to put some aftermarket variable rate rear springs in the car to level it out, it was sticking up a bit in the nose! THe rears were too soft anyway, so it worked.
Every GM car I've driven has understeered quite a bit from the factory, they do that for liability reasons. So, I think a bigger rear anti-sway bar would help nuetral the cornering out quite a bit. I put one on my shadow and pickup truck and it made a world of difference both times. It DOES link the back wheels to a greater extent, so individual bumps will be transmitted more to your behind, but it shoudln't do anything on bumps that hit both wheels. Everything's a trade off in suspension it seems.
Thanks for info on the wheelhousing sound deading. It must work well, as the 2001 was very quiet. Maybe you guys can retrofit something if you're so inclined. I have not one sound complaints after driving the GLS and other cars, if anything the GLS is the quietest, except under heavy foot, when the 3.5 makes some nice noises.
Slope
However, at issue is not the firm ride but rather the inability of my suspension to absorb the road irregularities and small bumps instead of transferring that energy throughout the cabin components (rattles/vibrations) and into the driver. It wouldn't be as much of an issue if the interior components were tight enough to handle it.
That's where Old dropped the ball on my Intrigue. If they're gonna build a car with a rough ride, (and label MSRP at $27k+), then they should design, build, and assemble the inside accordingly. Since there's no way to remedy the latter, my only choice is to remedy the former, i.., hopefully find a suspension that will cut down, if not, eliminate the harshness.
As I stated previously, my suspension (and maybe mine is a fluke) is effective when enough force (large bumps, etc.) is applied to it. But normal conditions (which is most of the time) is another matter.
slope dirk- I asked around a bit last year regarding after market suspension upgrades but it appeared the only upgrades offered result in a staffer ride. I don't think that would help my situation.
I asked my local dealer if Buick regal struts or any others would fit in my Intrigue. The service advisor said no. Maybe he didn't know what he was talking about, I don't know. Maybe I'm beating a dead horse here.
For instance the dodge intrepid has stiffer springs and softer valving the intrigue. The
intrepid corners flatter and has a smoother ride over small road irregularities, but transmits large bumps and dips into the car.
The intrigue has soft springs and stiff valving. Notice how when you floor it the front end rises up? That is because the soft springse are allowing the weight to transfer to the back. The intrigue appears to handle concrete expansion joints okay and is a joy on the highway. But hit a manhole or frost heave or asphalt patch and it is jarring. The intrigue does very well on big bumps due to its soft springs and the fact that larger suspension travel movements are bypassed by the stiff struts.
The suspension should be modified in my opinion.
But i still like the car and prefer it to a lot of the competition.
Have you tried Michelin Pilots? they might help.
Michelin Pilots are the best for a softer ride?
Perhaps the tires are overinflated?
I've been generally pleased with her (does anyone else get attached enough to their cars to name them?) The updated logo is great. I love seeing it on my steering wheel and floormats. I'd like to remove the "Oldsmobile" from the rear of my Intrigue and replacing it with the Olds logo instead. I'm wondering why Olds never switched the font they use to write "Oldsmobile" on their cars to the new and more appealing font they use for INTRIGUE/ALERO/AURORA and the new BRAVADA. Why in the world would they replace the automatic gas door with a manual one? I can't believe they did that.
I'm sure not optimistic about anything from Buick. I test drove the Regal before I bought my Intrigue. That interior was so outdated, I felt like it belonged in the 70s. And the exterior isn't that much better. It looks like a slow car to me, even if it isn't. My Intrigue looks zippy. (And it is). Has anyone seen the new Rendezvous? I'm not that impressed with it either. I can hardly think that Buick will come up with something like the Intrigue.
Has Olds addressed the noise problem with the 2001 Intrigue? My car has lots of road and wind noise. I have a gift certificate/test drive offer and I was wondering if I should bother trying out the 2001 Intrigue (I'd like to see what the 3.5 Aurora is like). I'm sure it's way outta my price range but that Aurora interior is just so sumptuous looking.