Used 2002 Oldsmobile Bravada Consumer Reviews
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100K review
Bought mine New in 02. I'd give this an 11 on Comfort and Performance. Regularly drive this 120 miles for work and its a better ride than a Lexus. Acceleration is great and turning radius is tight. I am on the original brakes at 100k! Eight yrs in Florida sun and the ac is still going strong. Had to replace the air suspension bags in the rear. Buy parts online and find a truck specialty shop to install, it's half the dealer cost. The eng is strong but has always been too loud. Had strange elec problems and replaced a box, think it was body control module. The depreciation is horrible, but this makes it a GREAT used car buy! Will keep this until 200k!
Olds Bravada
I have the AWD with full package. The car handles great, no problems with snow or rain, it's comfortable. Size is good,gas mileage could improve (14 around town, 19 on highway trips). The computer has worked fluidly, it has too many features to list. The seats fold into several useful positions and there is good room in back. My husband is 6'7 and fits with no complaints It's not a common car compared to the counter parts (Trailblazer and Envoy), it gets all kinds of looks and compliments. If Olds wasn't discontinuing their line, I'd get another one.
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,49556 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,950586 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,900825 mi away
Great Ride!
Bought used with all the options. I travel often and this vehicle is very forgiving to my back; due somewhat to the lumbar adjustements. This is my 4th SUV and by far the best. All have been American made, however, I think the Bravada has a European flare to it.
The best I've driven new and used!
We were shopping for a replacement for a conversion van and a small pickup. We tested many new vehicles and found the used 2002 Bravada with 37,000 miles on it was the best choice. It is a very classy sport utility that says I AM AN OLDSMOBILE. It is very capable of doing every job that needs to be done and still be fun and luxurious. We wanted it to use to carry additional passengers comfortably. We needed it to pull a utility trailer with a Large riding lawnmower. We needed better gas mileage for both around town and long trips. To me this is the total package. I'm sorry to see the Oldsmobile line go. I think GM should have scrapped the GMC line instead.
A midsize SUV with a small foot print
I originally was looking for a Tahoe or Yukon size vehicle, but gas mileage and garage size played heavily into the equation. I found a 2002 Bravada with every option (sunroof instead of LCD TV). The gas mileage (20-22 on the highway) is far better than a Tahoe would ever be and it tows boats very well. I pulled a Ski Natique a couple hundred miles and got 15-16 mpg. That's about what a Tahoe would do without a boat in tow and the Bravada fits in my garage!!
Nice SUV
Have owned my Bravada for six months. I bought it with 64,000 miles on it. The only probems are the memory for the mirrors doesn't work, and the bottom passenger seat heater is not working. I paid only $12,900 for it and it has every option. I have been getting about 17 mpg.
WHY DID YOU STOP
Excellent SUV, BEST BRAVADA made,2nd one I have leased,friends in past had earlier models, VERY Comfortable,Rides great,I get about 17 MILES PER GALLON WHICH IS ACCEPTABLE FOR THIS TYPE OF SUV, BUY AMERICAN LOVE THIS VEHICLE..
about the air bags
I am writing about the rear air suspension air bags. Just replaced mine at 91000 miles. Dealer wanted $744 not incl compressor. I had a truck shop that specializes in raising suspensions and custom jobs install them for $125..Now my Bravada doesnt hav sagging rear end anymore!
I Love This Car
This is the best car I have had in my life. I totaled my first Bravada by hitting an elk and didn't have a scratch on me. So, I got another one and have been completely satified with it ever since. It is approaching 60,000 miles and I hate to give it up. Will probably buy an extended warranty to keep for another two years. Maybe by then, GM will come up with another one like it.
riding on a cloud
it has been garage kept from when it was new
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great SUV
Bought this Bravada used loaded with all the options except running boards, with 28K on the odometer. This is our 4th SUV and we couldn't be happier. I think the Bravadas' have a very classy look that makes them feel at home with higher prices SUV's. The gas mileage is average for this sized SUV.
Lemon
My wife and I purchased this vehicle for peace of mind. We were so wrong. In 1 1/2 years of ownership our Bravada has spent over 100 documented days in the service shop. Here is a list of our problems. Doors racked, bad A arm, bad heated sets, air and heat not working, replaced throttle body, worn weatherstrip, hesitation, bucking, bad transfer case control module affecting the AWD, fading rubber trim, replaced brake pads and rotors at 20,000 mi. You name it, it has happened to this vehicle. I will never buy another GM vehicle. We took our case to court and won. Don't be afraid to go for it if you have problems.
Great Car
Really love this car. For an SUV, is very quick with plenty of power. Has a much better feel than other SUVs I tested and the two things that are superb on this car are the brakes and the very small turning radius. The brakes just grab real good and you can stop on a dime.
First time SUV buyer
Olds has always had upper level vehicles and discontuing the line is undoubtly a mistake. The Buick limited line of vehicles, would have been the logical choice. Anyway, this is a well built luxury type of SUV. All the bells and whistles, plus pure quiet. Tight, solid and totally quiet. Plenty of power and easy to work on. Where was a vehicle like this when our family was growing up?
The Best
My wife and I have really enjoyed this car. We bought used and did have a problem very early with AWD, but fixed under warranty, no further problems. Mirrors are screwy. Otherwise, a great car to drive. Very comfortable for long trips (wish mpg was better on hwy and town.) This is a large vehicle, yet handles very well and acceleration is far better than any SUV I have ever driven, yet ride is almost as comfortable as luxury sedans. GM's decision to end Olds line was based on misconceptions. Given this was Olds' last new design, they clearly still knew how to build a car. If GM wanted to cut a line, they should have considered Buick or Pontiac. If I could buy another, I would!
Absolute Junk
I have owned over 40 vehicles, including 3 Bravadas. This is absolutely the worst vehicle I have ever owned. I bought it used with 8K miles on it and drove it for a year. I had nothing but trouble with it from day one, when the fiberglass fan disintegrated and took out the radiator. Little did I realize that this was the just the start of a long and meaningful relationship with my GM service department. Fortunately my dealer thought we were seeing a little too much of each other and worked with me to make me a fair deal on a Buick Rendezvous (great vehicle). I can see why GM dumped the line.
An overall excellent SUV
A very attractively designed vehicle. The overall comfort and ride is vastly improved over the mid-1990's GM SUV's of which I owned one. My experience on reliability for this vehicle has been excellent. The selection of options at time of purchase, in my opinion, was more flexible and superior to many of the competing foreign makes. It is unfortunate that the Oldsmobile division of GM is being discontinued. I recently purchased a new 2004 Bravada.
Don't drive this Bravada SUV in snow!
The outside and interior of the Bravada is what sold me. However, from day one, there is a vibration as the car shifts into gear. The dealer could not duplicate the vibration. I live in snow country and my front bumper popped loose as I backed out of my driveway over approximately 6" of snow! This is an SUV and it cannot withstand normal winter driving! I am very disappointed and after owning the vehicle for four months, I am ready to trade. My AWD light came on, but the next day the mechanic said the AWD was in working order.
Brilliant Bravada
I've owned the car since 2004 - I purchased it from CarMax with 24,000 miles on it and now have 60,000. I've haven't had single problem with the vehicle. I've kept up with regular maintenance. It's been a remarkably safe, reliable, and strong vehicle. The exterior looks like new. I haven't used it to tow anything, however, it has a strong engine that will move quickly at all speed ranges. It's great on snow and gravel roads. I haven't taken it off road, but in 6 inch mud it crawls along fine. I wish Olds didn't fold - they are the highest quality GM make aside from Cadillac in my eyes.
One of the best vehicles I've ever owned
I've owend foreign cars (e.g., Triumph, Fiat, BMW, Mercedes) and American cars (of many makes and models) and my 2002 Bravada is one the best vehicles I've ever owned. A joy to drive and own.
Very Satisfied
After reading other reviews, I was stunned that people were disappointed after owning this vehicle. Mind you, this vehicle is not for everyone. But my wife and I were looking for a comfortable midsize SUV that did not have a third row. The Bravada is extremely comfortable and easy in its ride.
Great One
Excellent vehicle, exceptionally comfortable on long trips. Not off roader but great on snow or ice.
So Reliable!!
Bought this truck in 09 with 98,000 miles. Now at 139,000 and the only thing, other than regular maintenance, I’ve had to do is replace the rear air bags (not compressor) and a wiper motor last year. It starts every time, even when it’s 5 degrees outside. I’ve never charged the A/C. Fun to drive and so smooth on the highway. On long road trips I was tracking 22mpg! In town mpg nothing special at 16. Paint still shines and no rust even though I drive in snow and it sits outside all year.
- Safety
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Review of 2002 /2WD Olds. Bravada 1-yr.
I have had my Olds 2002 Bravada for one year and have had no problems. The Bravada with taxes cost me about $35,000. dollars, has every thing except 4WD/, don't need it in Georgia. The ride is as good as any 4 door sedan made by GM. Its turning radius is super. I love the Engine, Quiet and will, give power when needed. The gas mileage is poor, with air on the best is 15--to 16 miles to the gallon in town. On the interstate, I - 75 the best mileage at 60---65 was 20 to 21. Steering is very quick the smallest movement of the steering wheel will make you over steer. All and all I give it a 9 on a 10 pt scale. Bob McElroy Macon, Ga.
My best vehicle so far!
I purchased my Bravada in October. I went to buy a Trailblazer but it took only one test drive to decide on the Bravada. The excellent ride, perfect seating, and outstanding engine sold my wife and I. Then, I found out that it has a better warranty than the Trailblazer. I drove it home that day. I have now had the Bravada for over 6000 mile and 4 months and have not been back to the dealer. Buy it! You will not regret it.
2002 2WD Bravada
The overall vehicle is great! If your in the market for a mid size SUV, look no further, this one is for you. If you do like I did, shop around, but I'm sure you'll find yourself signing the papers on a new 2002 Bravada. The inline 6 is so smooth, its easy to mistake as a V8. For an 6 cylinder, it produces torque and horsepower so low in the RPM range. Very well engineered and manufactured. Smooth ride, thanks to the air ride suspension.
Why did I wait so long?
Powerful, smooth powertrain. Rides like a luxury sedan. Drop dead gorgeous, gets lots of looks. Equiped with all the creature comforts you'd ever want. This is my first SUV. Why did I wait so long? Unique and stylish so it does not blend in with all the boxy looking Ford's out there.
Bravada Review
This is my third Bravada (1997, 2000, 2002).I really like the styling and performance. Three problems to date: The memory mirror sometimes get forgetful, bad paint job on the hood when I took delivery and now having paint problems with lower panel behind the back door, and now have an intermittent shrill whistling sound from the passenger side front wheel area. Dealer says it is not the brakes???, but the owners manual sure indicates that is the problem. Have 3200 miles on the vehicle. Anyone else have this problem??? I am concerned about a safety problem here.
75,000 miles and still enjoy it!
Bought it new and 5 years and 75,000 miles without any major problems. I tow a small boat, haul items and often flip down the rear seats. Use it as a comfortable ride when out on the town with friends. Very comfortable.
Best Rounded Luxo SUV
I did a full round search of all of the brands, and surprisingly enough the Olds was the most appealing in nearly every category. It had the most powerful powertrain of any vehicle in it's class, including the V8's, not to mention the better gas mileage of an inline 6. Ride quality is superb on the air-ride rear suspension and Bilstein Shocks. The leather seating is superb, and yes even compared to it's foreign counterparts.
Great if only it was reliable
have my bravada nine months, three times had vehicle towed to dealership after engine and all power lost while driving along. FIRST, change wheel-speed sensor; SECOND, gave me new engine; THIRD, told me could not find anything wrong;. Next stop, Trade-in unless Oldsmobile/GM can rectify my problem
super car
this is my first SUV, it is awsome to drive although i quickly found out how much Gas an SUV will run through. the only problems are the gas and the ride. the ride is smooth and awsome, although on longer trips i soon get annoyed by the slight sway of the vehicle. any pothole, bump, or crack in the road causes the car to sway mildly. the wind roar isnt any thing to brag about either. as for exterior it is good, just like a trailblazer which i love. the headlights are ugly but it doesnt matter to me. i love this car, it is luxurious yet competitive. great car.
Never buy a discontinued brand!
Bought this car with 80,000 miles. Needed a car that was not so low to the ground because of my back. Wish I would have bought an old 9 Taurus. This car has fallen apart on me, the transfer case got a hole blown in it. So now its going to cost me $1700 dollars to replace, not including labor. I cant drive it because the drive shaft is laying in my garage and now I have no car because I'm on a fixed income. I will never buy a discontinued brand again. The devil in mechanical form!
Ode to Olds
I will never understand why GM canned the Olds division. It was always my favorite. I turned in an ALero for a Bravada. Both are great cars. I didn't want an SUV at first but it drove like a car. It's sharp, sporty and versital. I love it!
Great Vehicle
The '02 Olds Bravada has been a pleasure to own and drive. I have had no major problems and with the air suspension it provides a very smooth ride. The gas mileage has averaged 19.1 MPG city/hwy combined. Parts and service are not a problem since so many mechanical parts are interchangeable with the Chev Trailblazer and GMC Envoy. I highly recommend this vehicle.
Bravada
It's a great vehicle. It drives smoothly, is sharp, and has a great turning radius. It also is very comfortable.
This Car is GREAT!!!!
This has got to be one of the nicest suv's I have ever had the pleasure of driving. I like it so much I am looking to buy second one for my wife.
I love my Bravada!!
This is our first SUV. I was hesitant because I expected it to ride like a truck. It rides better than a car! Such a smooth, quiet ride. I feel so comfy in the soft leather seats. My co- workers always ask me to drive when we go to lunch because they love it too!
2002 BRAVDA
THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN SUPERB. ABSOLOUTELY NO DEFECTS HAVE BEEN FOUND SO FAR AND I AM QUITE PICKY. I CHOSE THE BARAVADA OVER THE ENVOY & TRAILBLAZER DUE TO ITS BETTER LOOKS, NICER SEATS, AIR SUSPENSION AND BETTER WARRANTY.
Excellent Ride
My Bravada has been a smooth ride and reliable throughout. The luxuries and comforts make long drives less of a burden and with all of its cargo space packing for 5 adults is easy. Any complaints about the off road ability are ridiculous as the company never claims to compete with off-road S.U.V.'s. However, I have found that my Bravada is more than capable off road and has been the savior of more rugged trucks on our adventures. It is a perfect balance on the luxury vs. Sport- ute scale. I loved it so much I just bought my second Bravada for my wife.
Love my Bravada!
I've been very happy with my Bravada. I think it looks like a more expensive car (Lexus?) and rides like a more expensive car (BMW?) I adore the DVD player for our daughter.
Nice Job, Oldsmobile!
Comfortable, quiet, floats down the road, handles nicely, excellent brakes, sharp looking, powerful, solid feel. I took the car out the door at invoice, less over $3k in rebates! Overall a fantastic job by Oldsmobile!
THE BEST BUICK IS GETTING BEST DEAL
I THINK ITS THE BEST OF THE LAST THREEI HAVE OWNED.
great suv
This SUV is a pretty good unit. I would hope that GM would write the owners manual and then bring one of the cars into the shop and have the engineers actually see if the owners manual has been correctly written. When you find so many errors in the owners manual you start worrying about the engine, transmission and anything else complicated.
O2 bravada
This was my first vehicle and I've gotta say I'm really impressed with how easy it is to drive. Runs smooth with no problems what so ever besides the fact that the steering could be a little better. All around great car to burn gas in, 5 stars!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Good Vehicle Drastically Improved
This vehicle is much better than the 1996-2001 model. It truly has a luxury feel to it. I love my new Bravada.
great suv
great power, excellent ride, good radio, good deal with a great warranty
Luv my Olds
Super vehicle, runs great, looks great, all the toys, and I received 5 years 100,000 km warranty - a nice bonus compared to GM's anemic usual 3 year 60,000 km.
Still running
Bought vehicle new on no interest program. Had a few minor problems, all covered. At 79,000 left front hub failed. At 81,000 right front hub failed. Dealer repair on left for $550. I repaired right for $180. Watch brakes. Replaced at 80,000, needed new rotors all around. Was told at each inspection that they were getting close. They did not check the inside pads which were worn much more than outer. Should have replaced between 60-70,000. Sun roof track disintegrated in year 6 but still works. Will try to get 80-100,000 more miles.
Lemon of all time
I have owned quite a few vehicles over the years. I used to be a hard line GM man. But due to this lemon, I am now considering something other than GM. The Bravada has cost me more in repairs than all the vehicles combined I have owned, in excess of $4000. I have fixed or repaired almost every thing you can imagine. You just finish having something fixed and something else breaks down. It is justice that the Big Three go down. As much as I hate to say it, if you build junk eventially the consumer will have his day. Goodbye GM