The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette was part of the third generation of Oldsmobile's minivan, produced from 1990 to 2004. It shared its platform with the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana/Trans Sport. Key trims for 2002 included the base GLS and the more upscale, feature-rich, Premiere. Its popularity stemmed from its comfortable ride, versatile interior, and the unique styling that distinguished it within the GM minivan family, often appealing to those seeking a more premium feel than its corporate siblings.
The Good
The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette offered a comfortable and smooth ride, a spacious and flexible interior for families, and a distinctive exterior design. Its value proposition as a used vehicle is strong, providing ample practicality and comfort for budget-conscious buyers.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of common issues like transmission problems, electrical glitches (especially with power windows and door locks), and interior trim wear. Rust, particularly in the rocker panels and wheel wells, can also be a concern depending on climate.
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette primarily featured a 3.4-liter V6 engine.
- Horsepower: This 3.4L V6 engine produced approximately 180 horsepower.
- Torque: Torque figures were around 205 lb-ft.
- Fuel Economy: Estimated EPA ratings for the 2002 Silhouette were typically around 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration figures were generally in the range of 9-10 seconds, which is typical for minivans of this era.
- Towing Capacity: When properly equipped with a towing package, the Silhouette could tow around 3,500 pounds, suitable for smaller trailers or recreational equipment.
- Transmission: It was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive was standard.
- Trim-Level Features (GLS): Standard features on the GLS trim typically included power windows and locks, air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, a CD player, and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers.
- Trim-Level Features (Premiere): The Premiere trim often added upgrades such as leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a rear-seat entertainment system (optional on some models), alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and enhanced interior trim. It also often came with features like power sliding doors and a power liftgate.
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2002 |
| Make | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Silhouette |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Extended |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | DORAVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L65 |
| Engine Size | 6.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Have?
The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette, like many GM minivans of its generation, is known for a few recurring issues that owners have reported over time. One of the most frequently cited problems is with the automatic transmission. Shifting issues, slipping, or outright failure have been noted, often requiring costly repairs or replacement. These issues can sometimes be exacerbated by a lack of regular transmission fluid changes.
Electrical gremlins are another common complaint. This can manifest in various ways, including malfunctioning power windows and door locks, intermittent dashboard warning lights, and problems with the power sliding doors failing to operate correctly. The body control module (BCM) is sometimes implicated in these electrical woes.
The 3.4L V6 engine, while generally adequate, can sometimes suffer from intake manifold gasket leaks, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating. Regular inspection for coolant leaks is advisable.
While there haven't been widespread major recalls specifically for the 2002 model year that stand out, it's always prudent for owners to check for any outstanding recalls with the NHTSA. Long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. If well-maintained, these vehicles can reach higher mileage, but the aforementioned issues can become more prevalent as the vehicle ages. Owners who consistently address maintenance and promptly repair emerging problems tend to have a more positive ownership experience. Rust can also be a significant long-term concern, particularly in areas exposed to road salt and harsh weather, affecting rocker panels, wheel wells, and the undercarriage.
Electrical gremlins are another common complaint. This can manifest in various ways, including malfunctioning power windows and door locks, intermittent dashboard warning lights, and problems with the power sliding doors failing to operate correctly. The body control module (BCM) is sometimes implicated in these electrical woes.
The 3.4L V6 engine, while generally adequate, can sometimes suffer from intake manifold gasket leaks, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating. Regular inspection for coolant leaks is advisable.
While there haven't been widespread major recalls specifically for the 2002 model year that stand out, it's always prudent for owners to check for any outstanding recalls with the NHTSA. Long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. If well-maintained, these vehicles can reach higher mileage, but the aforementioned issues can become more prevalent as the vehicle ages. Owners who consistently address maintenance and promptly repair emerging problems tend to have a more positive ownership experience. Rust can also be a significant long-term concern, particularly in areas exposed to road salt and harsh weather, affecting rocker panels, wheel wells, and the undercarriage.
How long will the 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette last?
Based on owner data and common vehicle lifespans for this era, a well-maintained 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette can reasonably be expected to last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. However, this is highly dependent on consistent and proactive maintenance. The long-term durability is often challenged by its known weaknesses, particularly the transmission and electrical systems. Owners who diligently follow maintenance schedules, including timely transmission fluid changes and addressing minor electrical issues promptly, can extend its service life. Conversely, neglected maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan, with transmission failure being a common point of retirement. Rust accumulation over time is also a factor that can limit its longevity, especially in corrosive environments.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette offered a decent array of technology and safety features for its time, particularly in its higher trims. Standard technology often included a basic AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Optional upgrades could include a premium sound system with more speakers, and in the Premiere trim, a rear-seat entertainment system with a video screen and headphone jacks, which was a significant draw for families on long trips.
Driver-assistance features were limited by modern standards. Cruise control was a common convenience feature. While advanced electronic stability control or lane departure warnings were not standard, some models might have offered traction control.
Safety was a priority, and the Silhouette came equipped with standard safety features such as front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side-impact airbags were often optional, especially on lower trims. The minivan structure itself offered a degree of protection.
Crash-test ratings for the 2002 Silhouette and its platform mates (Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally showed decent performance for the era. For frontal impacts, they often received four out of five stars for the driver and passenger. Side-impact tests also typically yielded good results, often four out of five stars. However, it's important to note that crash testing methodologies and standards have evolved significantly since 2002. The structure provided a relatively safe environment for occupants given the technology available at the time. The availability of optional features like rear-seat climate control further enhanced passenger comfort and convenience.
Driver-assistance features were limited by modern standards. Cruise control was a common convenience feature. While advanced electronic stability control or lane departure warnings were not standard, some models might have offered traction control.
Safety was a priority, and the Silhouette came equipped with standard safety features such as front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side-impact airbags were often optional, especially on lower trims. The minivan structure itself offered a degree of protection.
Crash-test ratings for the 2002 Silhouette and its platform mates (Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally showed decent performance for the era. For frontal impacts, they often received four out of five stars for the driver and passenger. Side-impact tests also typically yielded good results, often four out of five stars. However, it's important to note that crash testing methodologies and standards have evolved significantly since 2002. The structure provided a relatively safe environment for occupants given the technology available at the time. The availability of optional features like rear-seat climate control further enhanced passenger comfort and convenience.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette carried a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that typically ranged from approximately $24,000 for the base GLS model to over $30,000 for the well-appointed Premiere trim. As is typical for most vehicles, the Silhouette experienced significant depreciation after its initial purchase.
Currently, the used market prices for a 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette are quite low, generally ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, and trim level. Vehicles with higher mileage and visible wear will be at the lower end of this spectrum, while exceptionally well-maintained examples with lower mileage can fetch slightly more. Factors affecting resale value include the aforementioned condition and mileage, as well as the presence of desirable optional features like a rear-seat entertainment system. The overall market demand for older minivans also plays a role, with practical, family-oriented buyers being the primary interested parties.
Currently, the used market prices for a 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette are quite low, generally ranging from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, and trim level. Vehicles with higher mileage and visible wear will be at the lower end of this spectrum, while exceptionally well-maintained examples with lower mileage can fetch slightly more. Factors affecting resale value include the aforementioned condition and mileage, as well as the presence of desirable optional features like a rear-seat entertainment system. The overall market demand for older minivans also plays a role, with practical, family-oriented buyers being the primary interested parties.
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Cost of Ownership
The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette is generally considered economical to own, particularly in the used market. Insurance costs are typically moderate, falling in line with other minivans of its age and class. Fuel economy, while not outstanding by today's standards, is reasonable for a V6-powered minivan. Routine maintenance costs are also average. However, long-term ownership costs can escalate if the common issues, particularly transmission problems and electrical faults, arise and require significant repairs. These can sometimes be costly, potentially offsetting the initial savings. Overall, it's a budget-friendly vehicle to maintain if major repairs are avoided.
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Safety Rating
NHTSA
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2002-08-09
Recall no.
02v222000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger, Mini Vans, and Sport Utility Vehicles Have AN AIR BAG Inflator ON THE Driver's Side That Could Fracture AT A Weld During A Deployment.
Consequence
Pieces OF THE Inflator Could Strike and Injure Vehicle Occupants and THE AIR BAG Cushion Would NOT Inflate Fully, Reducing THE Capability OF THE BAG TO Protect THE Driver.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect, and Replace, IF Necessary, THE AIR BAG Module Assembly ON THE Driver's Side. Owner Notification Began August 15, 2002. 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, Cadillac AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537, or Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 02032. Also, Customers CAN 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> .
2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Insurance
Insurance for a 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette Compare to Other Minivan?
The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette competed in a crowded minivan segment against rivals like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, and its GM siblings, the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana.
Performance: In terms of performance, the Silhouette's 3.4L V6 offered adequate power for its class, but it was often outmatched by the smoother and more refined powertrains found in the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, which also tended to be more reliable.
Features: The Silhouette, especially in Premiere trim, offered competitive features for its era, including available rear-seat entertainment and a comfortable interior. However, competitors like the Odyssey and Sienna often provided more innovative interior configurations and a wider range of advanced optional features for the time.
Reliability: This is where the Silhouette often fell short compared to its Japanese rivals. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna are renowned for their superior long-term reliability and fewer common mechanical issues, particularly concerning transmissions. While the Windstar had its own set of problems, the GM minivans shared some of the same weaknesses, notably in the transmission and electrical systems.
Price: The Silhouette was typically priced competitively against its American counterparts and often offered a slightly lower entry price than comparable Japanese models when new. In the used market, it remains a very affordable option.
Recommendations:
For those prioritizing bulletproof reliability and a smoother driving experience, the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey from the same era are generally considered better alternatives, despite potentially higher used prices. If budget is the absolute primary concern and a functional family hauler is needed, the 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette can still be a viable option, but be prepared for potential maintenance. The Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana are mechanically similar and offer comparable value and potential issues. The Ford Windstar also faces similar reliability concerns. Ultimately, for a used minivan of this vintage, diligent inspection and a pre-purchase mechanical check are paramount regardless of the model.
Performance: In terms of performance, the Silhouette's 3.4L V6 offered adequate power for its class, but it was often outmatched by the smoother and more refined powertrains found in the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, which also tended to be more reliable.
Features: The Silhouette, especially in Premiere trim, offered competitive features for its era, including available rear-seat entertainment and a comfortable interior. However, competitors like the Odyssey and Sienna often provided more innovative interior configurations and a wider range of advanced optional features for the time.
Reliability: This is where the Silhouette often fell short compared to its Japanese rivals. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna are renowned for their superior long-term reliability and fewer common mechanical issues, particularly concerning transmissions. While the Windstar had its own set of problems, the GM minivans shared some of the same weaknesses, notably in the transmission and electrical systems.
Price: The Silhouette was typically priced competitively against its American counterparts and often offered a slightly lower entry price than comparable Japanese models when new. In the used market, it remains a very affordable option.
Recommendations:
For those prioritizing bulletproof reliability and a smoother driving experience, the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey from the same era are generally considered better alternatives, despite potentially higher used prices. If budget is the absolute primary concern and a functional family hauler is needed, the 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette can still be a viable option, but be prepared for potential maintenance. The Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana are mechanically similar and offer comparable value and potential issues. The Ford Windstar also faces similar reliability concerns. Ultimately, for a used minivan of this vintage, diligent inspection and a pre-purchase mechanical check are paramount regardless of the model.
Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette a Good Minivan?
The 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette is ideal for budget-conscious families or individuals seeking a spacious and comfortable minivan for everyday use without breaking the bank. Its unique styling and comfortable ride were appealing factors in its day.
Whether it's worth buying hinges heavily on its current condition and price. As a used vehicle, it can represent good value if purchased at a low price and has been well-maintained, particularly with regard to its transmission and electrical systems. Buyers should be prepared for potential repairs. It is absolutely not worth buying new, as it has been discontinued.
Buying a used 2002 Silhouette is most advisable if you can find one with lower mileage, a documented service history, and pass a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially for transmission health. The Premiere trim offers more creature comforts and a more upscale feel, which might be worth a slight premium if found in good condition. For those prioritizing long-term, worry-free reliability, there are better alternatives, but for a practical people-mover on a tight budget, it can serve its purpose.
Whether it's worth buying hinges heavily on its current condition and price. As a used vehicle, it can represent good value if purchased at a low price and has been well-maintained, particularly with regard to its transmission and electrical systems. Buyers should be prepared for potential repairs. It is absolutely not worth buying new, as it has been discontinued.
Buying a used 2002 Silhouette is most advisable if you can find one with lower mileage, a documented service history, and pass a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially for transmission health. The Premiere trim offers more creature comforts and a more upscale feel, which might be worth a slight premium if found in good condition. For those prioritizing long-term, worry-free reliability, there are better alternatives, but for a practical people-mover on a tight budget, it can serve its purpose.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma