Used 2001 Oldsmobile Bravada Consumer Reviews
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Terrific Used Car Purchase! Really Impressed!
I bought my 2000 Bravada used in the winter of 2008 with 65,000 miles, and was terrified about all the bad reviews I'd read. Luckily this has been one of the most reliable cars I've ever owned - I replaced the ABS on one of the wheels a few weeks ago. Other than that, its just been routine maintenance! My recommendation - try one out for yourself. I think it all depends on the vehicle. Mine has been terrific to drive - in snow and rain, and has cargo space like crazy! Wish it got better gas mileage but I can't think of any other complaints! It's such a fun car to drive and own!
Bravada Going Strong 18 yrs and 235K miles
I bought my 2000 AWD Olds Bravada as a left over in November 2000. Over the years it has had the normal repairs (brakes, shocks etc.) but overall has been an extremely reliable vehicle. I have had two 4WD Blazers before this vehicle and they could not begin to compare. Even after 235K miles this car stills handles and rides like a new car and, most importantly, when I leave home I know I will get back home safely in all kinds of weather. The only problems I am encountering now are due to its age and the fact that this vehicle has been used through 18 winters in NE PA and has been exposed to tons of road salt especially on the PA Turnpike. After last winter I had to have the brake lines all replaced because they had rotted but I certainly can't blame the vehicle given the mileage and heavy winter use it has had. I really love this car and don't look forward to the day I have to replace it. If I had to pick one negative aspect of this car it would be the gas mileage. Usually around 13-14. The best I ever get is maybe 20 on a trip.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
will keep until body falls off
I bought mine two years old. I have had 8years now. very little maintence ever needed. had to change fuel pump and both front wheel bearings but those are common for gm products. I wish it could get better mpg {15} but its a beast here in ohio winters. never gets stuck or never any troubles driving on icy roads. I have pulled a loaded car trailer without any troubles. I love this vehicle. I will keep for ever.
Take care of stuff and it will last
I am not sure why people are writing bad reviews on this vehicle. I bought my 2000 Bravada in 06 with 120,000 miles on it. the truck was very well taken care of and in good shape. The only thing I have had to do to it was replace the fuel pump. I am currently at almost 140,000 miles and still running strong with no problems. I am a firm believer that if you take care of something it will last. Maybe they bought one that was not properly maintained or really dont know how to take care of a vehicle. There is more to it than just changing the oil. So in closing, I have loved my Bravada. Kind of a poor man's Escalade.
Not so good
Having own mostly GM vehicles Chevy Cavalier and S10 PU was very disapointed in this vehicle constanliy repairing vehicler new hubs upper and lower ball joints about 80,000 miles at about $12000.00 to fix parts and labor (GM)encoder sensor and crossmember beam that had rotted out about $1000. to fiz (GM) Raditior blower moter for heater and ac went $$200.00 fixed myself.Wouln'd use aftermarket parts. Raditor went after 1st year no warranty had it fixed at dealer about $500.00. Had tp replace fuel pump 3 times after original wnet (again don't use cheap aftermarket parts better off with brand names.they were covered under warranty Amen still cost about $800 for replacing the 3.
good buy
i Purchased my 2001 bravada with 101,000 miles not too long ago and Boy am i happy!, other than a few squeaks when hitting a bump man is this thing nice, power everything Moonroof, its a college kids dream, not to mention i have a sound system that is certified at 153DBs at the headrests from two FI BTL 18's, this SUV takes the abuse like a champ, i would recommend this suv to anyone needing a reliable daily driver, little laggy on acceleration, but overall the smartrak is an awesome feature, this is my 2nd bravada (1996) which drive through 198,000 before cash 4 clunkering it, and it was still going strong, i look forward to having this SUV for many years into the future
Very Nice SUV!!!!
This has been a great vehicle, very dependable only expenses has been tires,and tune ups little else has gone wrong. Very comfortable to drive. SmartTrack is great for winter driving. Sound system still sounds great!! Paint and Interior still looks like new.
Decent For the Money
Paid $3000 for it with 150K miles. For the most part it has been good. I wasn't looking for a luxury vehicle for winter use but the price was right. So many bells and whistles that I'm not used to. Engine is a little sluggish and the tranny has its quirks... fluid change helped. I get around 15MPG which isn't bad for this type of vehicle. AWD works seamlessly, no buttons or levers to worry about. I don't think I will ever get it stuck. I was able to fit around 35 large size computers from the early 90's in the back with the seats folded. I know sometimes Bravadas are troublesome, hopefully mine stays reliable. So far, the driver's window motor just died and the CD changer never worked.
Why GM is failing
This has been the absolute worst car I have ever purchased. A complete money pit and lemon since day one. A car that was bought with only 60,000 miles has had these problems all within a few months of purchase: A/C failure, alternator/belt tensioner failure, wiper motor failure, emergency belt failure, transfer case leak, excessive belt squeal, CV joint failure, and numerous other problems. Save your money and buy a reliable and dependable Japanese car. At least the Japanese take pride in there work. I am now only going to buy Nissan, Toyota, or Honda vehicles.
Bravo 4 my Bravada!
I usually don't get anything but base model cars, so when I found this Platinum Edition Bravada, I wasn't sure if I should buy it, until I drove it! It handles great, and is so very comfortable! I had a Chevrolet Suburban before this and I am loving the gas mileage that I'm getting! Especially since I'm still getting all the good things I needed out of a vehicle, like 4 doors and loads of cargo room..and the heated leather seats. They are a very welcome addition in winter here in New Mexico! My a/c goes from "sahara" to "icicle" in less than 2.5 mins! yes.."Bravo 4 my Bravada" !
WOW! I Love This truck!
I had to literally "break down" and buy another vehicle after my Blazer held up a Do Not Resuscitate sign after 14 years! I was offered SUCH a good deal on this Bravada I couldn't pass it up. I'm SO glad I didn't! This is a beautiful vehicle inside and out. I am the second owner and it had 80,000 miles on it when I bought it. I have put 40,000 miles on it myself in one year and have only had minor issues. The rear wiper motor went about a week after I got it but the dealer was awesome and replaced it at no cost. The AC needs to be charged but that is to be expected. I did have to replace a headlight (VERY easy switch there!) and the right front wheel bearing but that is the only major issue I have had.
Danny
I bought my Bravada used with 55K miles on it. I enjoyed driving it. My complaints concern problems with electric system, in that various warning lights come on for no reason, especially the "ck all wheel drive" light and the "check engine light". It is fine to drive in winter but, even with all wheel drive, I wish I had not bought it.
Smart track? I call it stupid track
I bought a n01 Bravada from a dealer for around 8 grand. Great motor no troubles at all in that department. But the smart track is junk. Always in 4wd. Tore up a lot of tires.They became the slip. Cost alot to have fixed. Better off changing the transfer case which runs about 3 grand
no no no dont buy this car
500 miles passed warranty my transmission went bad. Then the sungear went bad. wheel bearing went bad. Had to replace the computer. worst vehicle ive ever owned
Money Pit
I bought this from a bank repo. It was pristene with 39k miles. First year had to replace the ball joints, pitman arm and idler arm. Figured poor maintenance by previous owner. AWD started to chatter, serviced at dealership, along with shocks $1300. Wiper pump shot ($16). Fixed it myself. Catalytic Conv ($550) AWD malfunction, shift motor and sensors ($1400). 86k miles, transmission out with no hint of trouble ($2000). Door hinges @ 60k ($500,)MPG about 16 on the highway, 8 in town. Brake service about once a year ($400). Defrost malfunction last 2 years ($100 x 2) Starter ($600). I've had to repair things on this vehicle that I've never had to repair on any other vehicle I've owned. Unreliable.
Could have been designed better
Bought this vehicle (for wife)used with 20k miles on it. Reportedly an off-lease vehicle. The vehicle is a gas hog. It gets slightly better mileage than my Quad-cab Doge Ram 1500 that weighs 4500 pounds. The Bravada's transmission gave out at 42000 miles. My wife's last GM had a transmission replaced at 30K miles and my last GMC Sierra had tranmission rebuilt at 37000 miles. The vehicle is underpowered. You have to floor-it to get out of your own way. With a little ingenuity, this car should have been GM's flagship. This car should have a V-8 rather than the 4.3 V-6. Climate control should have been digital - instead of knobs.
Worst car ever!
This has been the worst car I've ever owned. I'm finally getting rid of it and going back to foreign. I seem to have to get it to the shop every month for work. To date, I think I've put about $6-7k into it to keep it running and it still won't run right. Wants to hesitate and die when I give it gas, and you can't floor it or it dies completely. GM should be ashamed for producing garbage like this.
Love driving but it has many problems
I bought this truck as a family vehicle and it's not reliable at all. I bought the truck for 7 grand and I've replaced almost everything in it. The transmission went, then the gas pump, then the radiator and so on. I've had this truck for a 2 years now and I've driven it only probably 4 months
Best SUV I've owned!!
I have very much enjoyed the "luxury-style" ride and comfort even on a long ride. This is my second SUV (first a '97 Blazer) and I've noticed it does not have the rolling effect on turns and curves, very nice! Pleasure to drive, easy steering, good response to the gas pedal, great sound system (cassette and CD). I like the wood appoitments in the console, all options are within easy reach and practically placed. Drink cup holders a little small.
Loaded Winter Beater
Bought this truck with 150K for $3000. Didn't want anything this loaded but the price was right. The only thing I have done is change the tranny fluid/filter. Driver window just went out and the CD changer never worked. So far it has been great in the winter. I love how the AWD doesn't require any driver input. This can hold a lot of cargo. I once fit 35 large PC's in back. Interior is laid out nicely with the exception of the CD changer which eats up the console. There are plenty of squeaks and rattles but it is 9 years old with 153K miles. I get around 16MPG on dry pavement but mileage drops a bit when the AWD is being used a lot. The heated seats are a blessing in the cold PA winters.
Junk
Too many problem s!! Front axel replaced 3 times
A good value
It would be hard to beat this vehicle for the price. We had always driven Subarus and Hondas before buying the Olds. It has had more problems than the Hondas but not the Subaru. None of the problems have been major but have been annoying, like a latch for the back window that has had to be replaced twice and a plaster cover for the window/lock buttons that came off. With 80k-plus miles on it has been very reliable (with consistent oil changes and so on). Frankly, we expected to have more repair expenses with it because of the reviews we'd seen but went with it because we thought the purchase price was great.
Poor choice
I live near Lansing, MI where olds is touted as the king of GM... it's the luxury priced mid- size SUV with luxury priced repair bills. I've spent over $2000 in repairs. I still have to replace gas gauge sensor, weather stripping/seal. At 62,000 mi, the transmission was rebuit to the tune of over $1000, at my cost. I've never been in an accident or in the ditch, yet had to replace both front wheel bearings. 3 months after the tranny went bad, yet another expensive gas fuel senser went bad.... sorry...but I've had it with this one...poor investment for a $38,000 vehicle.
Stay away
I bought this car new, at the time when olds was thinking of discontinuing the line. From year four (after the warranty - mileage over)to present, it has cost me $5K to $7K per year in repairs. It is a sink hole. Everything from not starting when it feels like it to not being able to turn the wheel without major vibrations. Everything was changed. I should have given up a long time ago.
Not my fave
I only owned my Bravada 18 months because we had to frequently replace the ignition sensor. Fortunately the warranty covered it so I only had to pay the deductible. We had bought other used cars from the dealer and decided to trade it in. We really didn't want to have it go out again (that would be the 4th time) and it would have quaified for the Missouri lemon law.
Junk
I bought this truck with only 60,000 miles on it and of only owning it for 3 months the starter, the fuel injectors, all the lights, and my turn signal swith went out on me. This has been the only and last GM product i will ever own. Love my FORD
Best SUV EVERRRR
This SUV is by far the best truck ever. Unlike some of the others on here I have not had to put lots of money in to the truck nor have I had to replace anything other than normal maintenance. Again some of the reviews that have been posted I would like to say to the commenters, Oldsmobile got bought out they still made Bravadas after they were bought out. This truck is not for everyone honestly. It is the luxury model of the Jimmy & Blazer, if you do not care for those trucks you will not love the Bravada either. If you take car of your car and don't beat it to crap you should not have any of these problems.
Dad's Work Horse
Beats all three Cadillacs I drove before. In fact it feels more like a Cadillac than they did. I like the "command" seating position. My wife loves the heated seats. A year ago when my mother moved into a nursing home we loaded as much of her stuff into a 12 foot UHall trailer and made the 400 mile trip home without incident. My only "complaint" is the gas mileage with the out of control price rise. In the city I get 16 on the road 21 which is about what I expected and considering what I am getting well worth the price. But the $2.25/gallon gas is getting me. We are driving my wife's 04 Impala and getting 31.25 mpg without holding back on the horses. Another Impala is looking attractive.
Ups and Downs
I won't say this was worst car I have ever purchased. I purchased in 2007 finished my last payment January 2010. And no problems while i was making payments. As soon as i paid it off, the fuel pump went. No problems, a friend helped me change it, i was back on the rode. Then in Feb. the Radiator busted on the highway. No problems, got it fixed. Then in April, the CV Joint broke, its good it broke as soon as i got home. fixed, abs broke, when CV broke. and i didn't know that you have to replace arms as well. And no one new that the wheel bearings were bad. so this year along I've paid $1545 in repairs. I just have small things to fix. Other then that its a good vehicle.
Pass It Up
Definitely purchase an extended warranty if you get this car(luckily I did)! At 66,000 miles, I have made over $7,000 in repairs. The SmartTrak 4WD first didn't engage when needed, then always engaged. I also had the crankcase replaced, U joints, electrical problems, body problems (door hinges all became loose!) My 2002 Dodge Neon did much better in light snow that this! Never risk this purchase.
Bravada Fan
I have enjoyed my Bravada since the day I bought it. I bought it with 23000 miles approximately and it now has 60000 miles on it 6 years later. I love this car.
suv for the older couple
This is a good all purpose vehicle for the older couple who want something other than a van or car. This vehicle handles well and has four wheel disc brakes for added safety. This vehicle handles well in traffic and parks easily in crouded parking lots.
Great For Mountain Use
Got a good used price on this luxury SUV when we needed something tuff for mountains. The parts man laughed when I tried to get skid plates for under carriage protection. Short wheel base makes for stiff ride in town, but it makes mountain trails ride like a cloud. SmartTrak has been very nice both on slick city streets and mountain paths. At 50,000 miles the AWD selector(?) motor failed & cost over $1,200 to replace. SmartTrack definately did not work without it. Poor mileage (16 city- 21 Hwy) is expensive for relatively small passanger capacity (4.6 adults). Great luxury features in solid vehicle. Too bad Olds stopped production.
Get a Warranty
I purchased my Oldsmobile Bravada in April of 2005, 2 months later it was completely immobile. I'm finally getting it back now after a $2,000 transmission repair (at 85,000 miles). I love the vehicle, but there is a vast history of transmission problems - be sure to purchase a warranty.
Bravad Review
All in all, I really enjoy driving my Bravada!
Never Again
I was really excited about purchasing my Platinum Edition Oldsmobile Bravada until I started having problems with it. At 36,000 miles my transmission, rear wiper motor and A/C system all went (glad I bought the extended warranty). Since then, I have replaced the brakes twice, redone the front end, and keep getting water in my transfer case (car has been in the shop at least six times for this alone). I never drive in water and they can't figure out what the problem is. Also, it has lots of rattles. My ignition shorted twice as did my radio. My transmission is going again and the roof rack paint is peeling. The jack they provided could not hold the vehicle weight. Oldsmobile refused to replace a $50 jack free of charge. I would never purchase an Oldsmobile again.
bravada
its been a great vehicle. the smart trac is really nice. could be a little better on gas fuel economy, city 16 and highway 18.
The True Olds Bravada
The Body integrity is very bad and the Auto is a gas guzzler. The SUV has very little acceleration ability.
Love The Look
I purchased a 2000 Bravada about three months ago. It only had 55,000 miles on it and was a good deal (so I thought). It looks and drives good but I can't depend on it at all. I just had 2,000 in repairs for the differential, and now the air conditioner is going bad. I love the car but I should have known better then to buy it, I just didn't want an Explorer or a Mountineer.
Bravada After a Car Wreck
I love my Bravada. It is a nice vehicle, but it has it's drawbacks because when I got in my car accident it started having problems and it wouldn't start sometimes. I had to replace my computer in the vehicle and now it runs fine. I am getting ready to replace my shocks and tires, that way it will ride a lot nicer but it is real quiet and I can barely hear the engine when driving or accelerating. It has a nice 4.3L V6 engine and it has enough torque but I wouldn't mind more and maybe a better sound system.
Don't Buy It
Bought the vehicle for my wife with 36,000 miles on it, and all I can say is thank God for the extended warranty. The all wheel drive started acting up soon after we got it. I have had to replace the whole front end, rear leaf springs, differential seals, crank seals, and they still can't figure out what is wrong with the electrical system or the A/C system. I have always been a GM guy but I must say if they keep building them like this I may have to switch. Looking forward to getting rid of this lemon. Take my word on this don't ever buy one of these SUVs. This thing also sucks down the gas, I get better economy out of my full size pick up truck.
Awesome
I cant believe the bad reviews for this vehicle. I have owned this Bravada for almost 8 years. I havent experience any problems. Last year the fuel pump went out but it had 148000 miles on it ( bound to happen eventually). now I have 158000 and would love to buy another Bravada. Just been lucky I guess.
so so
I have wo main issues with this Bravada: 1)The turning radius is quite large for a smaller suv. Don't like it. 2) The exterior desiegn with all the molded rounded corners make washing it difficult. It is always a 2 time wash over. On the flip side, the interior is very comfortable, easy to reach for us shorter people and has a good sound system. Wish resale was better!! need to sell and hard to a find buyer, and trade in is terrible.
Perform maintenance and it will be fine
Vehicle drives nice, some interior creaks from the back when off-roading. Purchased used with 66,000 miles, still running great. Maintain these like the owner's manual says and it should last you a long time. You need to change transmission fluid at least every 50k miles, as stated in the manual. You also need to have the chassis greased every 10k or so to prevent front end repairs (balljoints, steering joints, etc.). Most people ignore the maintenance schedule, then complain when things break. Every GM vehicle I have owned has had over 200k and ran fine when I sold them, proper care of vehicles makes all the difference. Read and follow maintenance schedules!
Oldsmobile Bravada 4.3 AWD
I've had ups and downs with this car. I love the car because of all the memories I have had with it. It actually has help up pretty well I guess you can say. But the quality of this car. I have to say GM did a very poor job. I have had to replace so many things on this car, it was probably not even worth it. I could of probably paid off another car with that money. the most stupid feature that I hate is the air pump that apparently is defective in all Blazers and Bravada models 96-01.
DON'T GO HERE!
SVC AWD Light has stayed on since 1 week after purchase. Made numerous trips to dealership. Purchased 2000 Bravada in April 2001 with only 18k miles and it's been a nightmare. Replaced Radiator/Radiator Fan, actuator, computer modules, steering column switches...on and on...DON'T BUY ONE! One year later it is only worth $11-12k and I'm going to lose my shirt on this one!
Headache
I go through wheel bearings every year on this. The gas gauge has not worked since it had 65,000 miles. At 70,000 miles the door hinges needed replaced over $500 for that. Now at 94,000 miles the 4 wheel drive is not working. This vehicle has cost me nothing but money. I would not recommend it at all. Numerous other small things has gone wrong with it. and i keep it well maintained and i still have nothing but problems with it.
Dad Sold Me a Lemon!
I know he didn't mean to, but it's been one headache after another with this one! Fuel injection, brake lines, fuel lines, alternator, ball joints and the transfer case may be next - all with less than 50,000 miles on it (I work close to home and don't take lots of trips so the mileage on this is EXCEPTIONALLY LOW)! When it's running properly, it IS fun to drive, it makes New England winters a breeze in the snow and ice. Thank Goddess I live next door to my auto mechanic, I've been keeping him very busy. My only hope at this point is "Bank of Dad" will "write off" the loan on this vehicle till he's ready to sell me his new Cadillac!
Good Car for the price
Nice car for the money but the styling is a little outdated
Love My Bravada
I love this car. I shopped around for a new car this year (2003) and couldn't fine a vehicle in its class that could compare. I like the looks inside and out. Handles better than the newer SUVs that have replaced it around corners. Plush interior stays clean and looks brand new 3 years later. Have had minor problems, but were all fixed by Dealer under warranty so who cares!