The 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette is a front-wheel-drive minivan, part of the GM U-body platform shared with Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana. Produced from 1995 to 2004, key trims for 2000 included the base GLS and the more premium GL. It stood out for its distinctive styling and versatile interior, making it a popular choice for families seeking practicality and a touch of upscale comfort in the minivan segment.
The Good
The 2000 Silhouette offered a comfortable and spacious interior, appealing to practical family needs. Its unique styling provided an emotional connection for buyers seeking something different. Decent fuel economy for its class and a generally robust platform contributed to its perceived value.
The Bad
Owners of the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette should be aware of potential issues with the transmission, especially if maintenance was neglected. Electrical gremlins, particularly with power window and door lock systems, are also frequently reported. Rusting on the rear quarter panels and rocker panels can be a concern in certain climates.
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette was primarily equipped with a 3.4L V6 engine.
- Horsepower: This 3.4L V6 engine produced approximately 180 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2000 Silhouette were around 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration figures were typically in the range of 9-10 seconds for 0-60 mph, depending on load and conditions.
- Towing Capacity: While not a primary focus for minivans, the Silhouette could tow around 2,000-3,500 lbs when properly equipped with a trailer hitch and wiring.
- Trim-Level Features (GLS and GL):
- GLS: Generally included power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, air conditioning, cruise control, intermittent wipers, rear climate control, a tilt steering wheel, and a rear defogger. It often featured upgraded cloth upholstery.
- GL: Typically included similar standard features to the GLS, often with the option for leather seating, a power driver's seat, and a premium audio system. Both trims offered optional sunroofs and rear entertainment systems. Many models came with second-row captain's chairs and a third-row bench seat, offering flexible cargo and passenger configurations. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and dual front airbags were standard across the board.
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Silhouette |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Van |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | DORAVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3937 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5357 pounds |
| Overall Height | 68.10 inches |
| Overall Length | 201.40 inches |
| Overall Width | 72.20 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 120.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.4-L V-6 OHV 12V |
| Engine Size | 3.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $29,045 |
| Invoice Price | $26,286 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Have?
The 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette, like many vehicles of its era, has a history of commonly reported issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. One of the most significant and frequently cited problems revolves around the transmission. Specifically, the 4-speed automatic transmission has been known to experience premature failure, often manifesting as slipping gears, delayed shifting, or a complete loss of drive. This is a costly repair, and regular fluid changes and maintenance are crucial for longevity.
Electrical issues are another common complaint. Owners often report problems with power windows and door locks failing to operate, or malfunctioning intermittently. The power sliding doors can also be a source of frustration, with motors burning out or mechanisms becoming jammed. The onboard computer system and related sensors have also been implicated in various drivability issues, check engine lights, and erratic performance.
Corrosion is a concern, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Rust can develop on the rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and around the wheel wells. For the 2000 model year, there were some recalls issued, primarily related to safety systems such as airbag inflators or potential issues with the fuel system. It's advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for specific recall information applicable to this model year. Long-term reliability can be somewhat hit-or-miss; while some owners report trouble-free ownership with diligent maintenance, others encounter a cascade of repairs as the vehicle ages, particularly with the aforementioned transmission and electrical components. The overall reliability perception is often tempered by these recurring issues.
Electrical issues are another common complaint. Owners often report problems with power windows and door locks failing to operate, or malfunctioning intermittently. The power sliding doors can also be a source of frustration, with motors burning out or mechanisms becoming jammed. The onboard computer system and related sensors have also been implicated in various drivability issues, check engine lights, and erratic performance.
Corrosion is a concern, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Rust can develop on the rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and around the wheel wells. For the 2000 model year, there were some recalls issued, primarily related to safety systems such as airbag inflators or potential issues with the fuel system. It's advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for specific recall information applicable to this model year. Long-term reliability can be somewhat hit-or-miss; while some owners report trouble-free ownership with diligent maintenance, others encounter a cascade of repairs as the vehicle ages, particularly with the aforementioned transmission and electrical components. The overall reliability perception is often tempered by these recurring issues.
How long will the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette last?
Based on owner data and maintenance habits, the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette can realistically achieve an average of 150,000 to 200,000 miles of service. However, this is heavily contingent on consistent and timely maintenance. Vehicles with meticulous records of transmission fluid changes, regular engine tune-ups, and proactive rust prevention are more likely to reach the higher end of this range. Weaknesses that emerge over time, particularly with the transmission and electrical systems, can significantly shorten its service life if not addressed promptly. Without proper care, many will experience major component failures before reaching 150,000 miles. Long-term durability is therefore a mixed bag, with potential for many good years if well-maintained, but also a risk of costly repairs as it ages.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette offered a modest suite of technology and safety features for its time, prioritizing passenger comfort and convenience. Standard technology typically included a basic AM/FM stereo with a cassette player and optional CD player, along with power windows, power door locks, and air conditioning. Many models featured a tilt steering wheel for driver comfort.
For entertainment, optional upgrades often included a more advanced sound system with additional speakers, and for families, a rear-seat entertainment system with a built-in VHS player and a flip-down screen was a popular, albeit often costly, addition. Remote keyless entry was also an available convenience feature.
In terms of driver-assistance features, the 2000 Silhouette was relatively basic. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard on all trims, helping to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking. Traction control was sometimes offered as an option on certain models. Advanced driver-assistance systems as we know them today (like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning) were not available.
Safety was addressed with standard dual front airbags. Side-impact airbags were not a common feature in this model year.
Crash-test ratings for the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette, which shared its platform with the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana, generally showed them to perform adequately for the era. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically awarded these minivans with "Good" or "Acceptable" ratings in frontal and side impact tests, though specific ratings can vary slightly by year and test procedure. It's always recommended to consult the latest NHTSA and IIHS reports for detailed crashworthiness data.
For entertainment, optional upgrades often included a more advanced sound system with additional speakers, and for families, a rear-seat entertainment system with a built-in VHS player and a flip-down screen was a popular, albeit often costly, addition. Remote keyless entry was also an available convenience feature.
In terms of driver-assistance features, the 2000 Silhouette was relatively basic. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard on all trims, helping to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking. Traction control was sometimes offered as an option on certain models. Advanced driver-assistance systems as we know them today (like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning) were not available.
Safety was addressed with standard dual front airbags. Side-impact airbags were not a common feature in this model year.
Crash-test ratings for the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette, which shared its platform with the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana, generally showed them to perform adequately for the era. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically awarded these minivans with "Good" or "Acceptable" ratings in frontal and side impact tests, though specific ratings can vary slightly by year and test procedure. It's always recommended to consult the latest NHTSA and IIHS reports for detailed crashworthiness data.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
White
Black
Silver
Dark Gray
Dark Blue
Red
Green
Tan
Interior Colors
Gray Cloth
Tan Cloth
Gray Leather
Tan Leather
Neutral
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette typically had an MSRP ranging from approximately $22,000 for the base GLS trim to over $28,000 for a well-optioned GL model. As a vehicle from the early 2000s, it has undergone significant depreciation. Current used market prices for a 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette in average condition with typical mileage can range from $1,500 to $4,000. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, mileage, maintenance history, and the presence of any known mechanical issues, particularly transmission problems. Vehicles with fewer miles and excellent maintenance records will command higher prices. Trim level and optional features like a rear entertainment system can also play a minor role. Overall, it is a budget-friendly used vehicle, primarily sought after for its utility.
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette can be relatively economical, especially when purchased used. Insurance costs are generally modest due to its age and market segment. Fuel costs are average for a V6 minivan, with MPG in the high teens to low twenties. Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is affordable. However, long-term ownership costs can escalate significantly if common issues like transmission failure or electrical problems arise, as these repairs can be substantial. While initial purchase and basic running costs are low, potential major repairs can make it a moderately costly vehicle to own over time, especially if maintenance has been neglected.
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
25.00 gallons
City Mileage
19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
26 miles/gallon
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Recalls & Defects
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date
2001-08-21
Recall no.
01v264000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: 1997-2001 Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana/Transport, and Oldsmobile Silhouette Mini Vans Equipped With Passenger Side Power Sliding Doors That Were Serviced IN Campaign 01013 (01v-067) From April TO August 2001. Also 2001 Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, and Oldsmobile Silhouette Mini Vans Equipped With Passenger Side Power Sliding Doors Assembled IN January Through April 2001. These Vehicles Have Inadequate Front Welds. IF A Front Weld Fails, THE Actuator CAN JAM IN THE Unlatched Position And, When THE Sliding Door Closes, IT Will NOT BE Latched.
Consequence
IF This Happens, THE Power Sliding Door CAN Open While THE Vehicle IS IN Motion, Particularly When THE Vehicle Ascends A Hill, Makes A Turn, or Travels Over A Rough Road Surface. AN Unrestrained Occupant Could Fall OUT OF THE Van and BE Injured.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Required, Install A NEW Power Sliding Door Unlatch Actuator Assembly. Owner Notification Began ON October 22, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737, or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date
2001-03-08
Recall no.
01v067000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Minivans Equipped With Passenger Side Power Sliding Doors. THE Door Closes BUT MAY NOT BE Latched. IF This Happens, THE Power Sliding Door CAN Open While THE Vehicle IS IN Motion, Particularly When THE Vehicle Ascends A Hill, Makes A Turn, or Travels Over A Rough Road Surface.
Consequence
AN Unrestrained Occupant Could Fall OUT OF THE Van and BE Injured.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A NEW Un-Latch Actuator Assembly TO THE Power Sliding Door. This Recall HAS Been Continued Under Safety Recall 01v-264. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737, or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts
Recall date
2000-08-07
Recall no.
00v228003
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles, Light Duty Trucks, Sport Utility Vehicles, and Mini Vans Equipped With TRW Seat Belt Buckle Assemblies. THE Buckle Base OF These Seat Belt Assemblies Were NOT Properly Heat Treated and Therefore DO NOT Pass THE Load Bearing Requirement OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 209, "seat Belt Assemblies."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, THE Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicle's Safety Belt Buckle Assembly Date Codes And, IF Necessary, Will Replace ANY Safety Belt Buckle Assembly.
Notes
Owner Notification Began August 24, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Buick AT 1-800-521-7300; Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020; GMC AT 1-800-462-8782; Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537; Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737; or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
1999-09-29
Recall no.
99v268000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Mini Vans With Extended Wheelbase. Some OF These Vehicles Have Inoperative Fuel Tank Rollover Valves and Fuel Leakage Would Exceed THE Permissible Amount IN A Rollover Test. This Does NOT Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 301, "fuel System Integrity."
Consequence
IN A Vehicle Rollover Accident, IF AN Ignition Source IS Present, A Fire Could Result.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicles TO Locate and Replace Those Fuel Tanks That Could Have Inoperative Rollover Valves.
Notes
Owner Notification Began October 11, 1999. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737, or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date
2004-12-22
Recall no.
04v597000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Minivans Equipped With Second-Row Bucket Seats or Captain's Chairs and A Power Sliding Door ON THE Passenger Side OF THE Vehicle, A Passenger Using THE Interior Handle TO Open THE Power Sliding Door Could BE Injured.
Consequence
IF A Passenger Uses THE Interior Handle TO Open THE Power Sliding Door and Holds Onto THE Handle While IT IS Being Opened BY THE Motor, THE Passenger's ARM MAY BE Pushed Into THE Seat Back or Armrest and A Wrist or Lower ARM Injury MAY Result.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Power Sliding Door Interior Handle ON THE Passenger-Side. IF THE Vehicle IS Equipped With A Power or Manual Sliding Door ON THE Driver-Side, THE Interior Handle Will Also BE Replaced FOR Appearance Reasons. Note: Before THE Vehicle IS Serviced, GM Advises Owners TO NOT USE THE Interior Door Handle TO Open THE Door. THE Driver CAN Open and Close THE Door From Switches AT THE Driver's Position or BY Using THE Remote KEY Fob. THE Driver Should Tell Passengers TO USE THE Switch Located IN Front OF THE Door TO Open or Close IT. THE Driver Should USE THE Override Switch TO Prevent Operation OF THE Power Door BY Children or BY Others WHO ARE NOT Familiar With ITS Use. THE Owner Notification Letter Mailing Will BE Conducted IN Phases With THE First Phase Beginning ON MAY 31, 2005. THE Second Phase Mailing Began ON July 18, 2005. THE Recall Began ON MAY 31, 2005. Phase 2 Began ON July 18, 2005. Phase 3 (Final Phase) Began ON August 24, 2005, TO All Remaining Customers. Owners Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668; or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-630-6537.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 04110.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
Recall date
2007-03-12
Recall no.
07e021000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators, P/Nos. Fp10020-11b1, Fp10026-11b1, and Fp10027-11b1, Sold After January 9, 2007, AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. THE Universal Pressure Regulators (Upr) Were Produced Without AN O'ring and Retainer.
Consequence
Fuel MAY Leak, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy
Delphi Will Notify Owners and Replace THE UPR Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 23, 2007. Owners CAN Contact Delphi AT 877-411-8770.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed BY General Motors.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2008-08-11
Recall no.
08e050000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Steering
Recall date
2009-02-17
Recall no.
09e005000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman IS Recalling 979 Steering Knuckles, Dorman P/Nos. 697-902 and 697-903, Sold Under Dorman's "OE Solutions<sup>tm</Sup>" Brand Name, and Napa P/nos. 7-8502 and 7-8503 Which Were Sold FOR Replacement USE ON THE Various Vehicles Listed Above. A Potential Material or Design Defect Could Result IN THE Steering Knuckle Breaking IN THE HUB Area.
Consequence
A Broken Steering Knuckle Could Result IN Loss OF Steering Control and A Possible Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Dorman Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Defective Steering Knuckles Free OF Charge and Reimburse THE Repair Facility or Owner FOR Labor. THE Recall Began ON February 23, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dorman's Toll-Free Hotline AT 1-800-523-2492 and Press 5.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Dorman Steering Knuckles and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Insurance
Insurance for a 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette Compare to Other Van?
The 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette competed in the highly contested minivan segment against stalwarts like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and its General Motors stablemates, the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana. In terms of performance, its 3.4L V6 offered adequate power, comparable to the base engines of its rivals, though it generally lagged behind more potent optional engines found in the Sienna or Odyssey. Its 0-60 times were respectable for the class.
Features-wise, the Silhouette offered a good balance of comfort and convenience, with available options like rear entertainment systems that rivaled its competitors. However, some rivals, particularly the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, were often perceived as having slightly more refined interiors and a wider array of advanced features for their respective model years.
Reliability is where the Silhouette often falls short when compared to the class leaders. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna have built a strong reputation for bulletproof reliability and longevity, especially concerning their powertrains. The Silhouette, unfortunately, is more prone to issues like transmission problems and electrical gremlins, impacting its long-term dependability compared to Japanese rivals.
Price-wise, the Silhouette offered a competitive entry point and generally depreciated more rapidly than its Japanese counterparts, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers in the used market.
Alternatives:
* Honda Odyssey (late 1990s/early 2000s): Generally considered more reliable, with a refined driving experience and excellent resale value.
* **Toyota Sienna (late 1990s/early 2000s):** Renowned for its exceptional reliability and comfortable ride, often a top choice for long-term ownership.
* **Dodge Grand Caravan/Plymouth Voyager (late 1990s/early 2000s):** Offered a vast array of available features and flexible seating but often had its own set of reliability concerns, though generally less severe than some Silhouette transmission issues.
While the Silhouette offered a distinct style and decent practicality, its long-term reliability often makes the Odyssey or Sienna superior choices for those prioritizing dependability.
Features-wise, the Silhouette offered a good balance of comfort and convenience, with available options like rear entertainment systems that rivaled its competitors. However, some rivals, particularly the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, were often perceived as having slightly more refined interiors and a wider array of advanced features for their respective model years.
Reliability is where the Silhouette often falls short when compared to the class leaders. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna have built a strong reputation for bulletproof reliability and longevity, especially concerning their powertrains. The Silhouette, unfortunately, is more prone to issues like transmission problems and electrical gremlins, impacting its long-term dependability compared to Japanese rivals.
Price-wise, the Silhouette offered a competitive entry point and generally depreciated more rapidly than its Japanese counterparts, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers in the used market.
Alternatives:
* Honda Odyssey (late 1990s/early 2000s): Generally considered more reliable, with a refined driving experience and excellent resale value.
* **Toyota Sienna (late 1990s/early 2000s):** Renowned for its exceptional reliability and comfortable ride, often a top choice for long-term ownership.
* **Dodge Grand Caravan/Plymouth Voyager (late 1990s/early 2000s):** Offered a vast array of available features and flexible seating but often had its own set of reliability concerns, though generally less severe than some Silhouette transmission issues.
While the Silhouette offered a distinct style and decent practicality, its long-term reliability often makes the Odyssey or Sienna superior choices for those prioritizing dependability.
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette a Good Van?
The 2000 Oldsmobile Silhouette is best suited for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and practical minivan for occasional use or as a secondary vehicle. It's ideal for families who prioritize passenger and cargo room over cutting-edge technology or bulletproof long-term reliability. Given its age and common issues, purchasing a used Silhouette is the only viable option.
It is worth buying *only* if acquired at a very low price, with a thorough pre-purchase inspection that specifically checks the transmission and electrical systems. Buyers should be prepared for potential repair costs. Specific trims with lower mileage and a documented maintenance history, particularly the GL with optional luxury features, might offer a slightly better experience, but the underlying mechanical concerns remain. For those who can afford slightly more, Japanese rivals like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna offer significantly better long-term reliability and are generally a safer bet for worry-free ownership.
It is worth buying *only* if acquired at a very low price, with a thorough pre-purchase inspection that specifically checks the transmission and electrical systems. Buyers should be prepared for potential repair costs. Specific trims with lower mileage and a documented maintenance history, particularly the GL with optional luxury features, might offer a slightly better experience, but the underlying mechanical concerns remain. For those who can afford slightly more, Japanese rivals like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna offer significantly better long-term reliability and are generally a safer bet for worry-free ownership.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.