Nine problems related to engine cooling system have been reported for the 1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Vehicle started overheating on short trips to the store(1-2 miles). Thought the problem was the thermostat however when taken to mechanic found out that it was the intake manifold that has leaking and had to be replaced. I called Oldsmobile ref to the problem to inquire about TSB # 030601010 or 030601010b and was told that there had never been a bulletin.
Coolant light appeared on the dashboard appeared and remained on. Vehicle experienced slight hesitation when consumer applied the accelerator pedal while driving. The temperature gauge registered hot. Consumer drove vehicle to dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the sensor light needed to be replaced.
While driving coolant light appeared on the dashboard and remained on until vehicle was turned off. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic replaced a sensor, but problem recurred.
Water pump failed, then radiator failed, now engine failed. All seem to be related to dex-cool.
While driving noticed smoke coming from under the hood. Moved to side of road. Checked under the hood ,and noticed coolant was leaking onto the intake manifold. Took vehicle to dealership to check out leakage problem.
Intake gasket leak - radiator full of "mud" at 72,000 miles.
Leaking and cracked lower intake manifold gaskets from coorosion at 30,777 miles. With radiator cracked.
Leaking intake manifold gasket cause engine failure.
While driving engine failed. Vehicle was checked by dealer, who determined that coolant leaked into oil which caused the failure.