2003 Oldsmobile Bravada
Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 4 on record.
2003 Oldsmobile Bravada at a glance
Included: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.
2003 Oldsmobile Bravada recalls 7
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE DRIVER WISHING TO SIGNAL A TURN BY MOVING THE DIRECTIONAL SIGNAL LEVER, (UP OR DOWN) MAY CAUSE THE FRONT MARKER/TURN LIGHTS AND REAR TURN LIGHTS TO FLASH IN A MANNER SIMILAR TO HAZARD WARNING, RATHER THAN FLASHING ON THE DESIRED SIDE ONLY.
Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SUSPECT FLASHER MODULES WITH A NEW FLASHER MODULE DESIGNED WITH SEALED RELAYS AND MORE DURABLE CONTACT MATERIAL INSIDE OF THE RELAYS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2005. ISUZU BEGAN MAILING OWNER LETTERS ON AUGUST 4, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-80…
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, VIBRATION AND HEAT MAY CAUSE THE TAIL LAMP/STOP LAMP BULB TO LOOSEN IN ITS SOCKET. IF THIS OCCURS, THE BULB MAY FLICKER AND EVENTUALLY BECOME INOPERATIVE.
Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TAIL LAMP/STOP LAMP ASSEMBLIES, AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THEM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 22, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537, BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE WINDSHIELD WIPER SYSTEMS THAT WILL NOT TURN ON, CEASE OPERATION WHILE IN USE, FAIL TO TURN OFF/ON BY THEMSELVES (MOISTURE SENSITIVE WIPER SYSTEM), OR HAVE CONTINUOUS WINDSHIELD WASHER PUMP OPERATION BECAUSE THE PRESENCE OF WATER WITHIN THE WIPER MODULES CAN EITHER CAUSE A SHORT CIRCUIT OR CAN LEAD TO THE CORROSION OF COMPONENTS WITHIN THE MODULE.
Fix: DEALERS WILL COVER THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE VENT HOLE WITH A PATCH. ALSO, THE WIPER MOTOR, CIRCUIT BOARD, AND ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR WILL BE INSPECTED TO SIGNS OF WATER INTRUSION AND/OR CORROSION AND BE REPLACED AS REQUIRED. THE RECALL BEGAN JULY 6, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-6…
CERTAIN MINIVANS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER UNIVERSAL ANCHORAGE SYSTEM.
Fix: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS SUPPLEMENT DESCRIBES AND SHOWS THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE VEHICLE AND ON THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER CUSHION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT…
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH A LEFT-FRONT BRAKE PIPE WITH A CIRCUMFERENTIAL SCORE AT A RANDOM LOCATION ALONG THE LENGTH OF THE PIPE AS THE RESULT OF THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS. IF THE BRAKE PIPE PARTIALLY OR FULLY FRACTURED, BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL WOULD IMMEDIATELY INCREASE AND FRONT BRAKE PERFORMANCE WOULD BE REDUCED.
Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT-FRONT BRAKE PIPE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MAY 29, 2003. 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, GMC AT 1-800-462-87…
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION." THESE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH A MECHANICAL OVERRIDE THAT COULD ALLOW THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WITH THE SHIFT LEVER IN A POSITION OTHER THAN PARK. IN ADDITION, THESE VEHICLES HAVE AN OVERRIDE THAT CAN ALLOW THE TRANSMISSION TO BE SHIFTED OUT OF PARK WITH THE IGNITION IN TH…
Fix: DEALERS WILL ELIMINATE THESE CONDITIONS BY DISABLING THE OVERRIDES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MAY 29, 2003. 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,…
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.
Fix: 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 CONTA…
Source: U.S. NHTSA, checked 4 Nov 2026. A campaign covers the model year; to see whether a particular car still needs the repair, check its VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer.
2003 Oldsmobile Bravada common problems
The most-reported problem areas across all 30 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.
2003 Oldsmobile Bravada safety ratings
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (NCAP), tested as the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada 4-DR. w/SAB. Ratings can differ by body style and drivetrain.
2003 Oldsmobile Bravada MPG & running costs
Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. The EPA lists 2 versions of this model year; combined is shown as a range and the other figures are averages.
Estimated 5-year cost to own
A rough guide to what running a 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada costs over five years and 75,000 miles.
How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.
Dimensions & weight
Manufacturer-reported figures for the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada. Source: Transport Canada vehicle specifications via NHTSA.
Investigations & service bulletins
NHTSA defect investigations 6
Loss of Headlights Closed
The subject vehicles are model year (MY) 2002-2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2004-2007 Buick Rainier, 2003-2008 Isuzu Ascender, 2005-2009 Saab 9-7X, 2002-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR, 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, and 2006-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. This scope includes the Trailblazer/Envoy variants: 2002-2006 Envoy XL/Trailblazer EXT and 2004-2005 Envoy XUV. The original scope of this investiga…
NHTSA #RQ17002 · Exterior Lighting · opened Apr 2017 · closed Mar 2021FUEL PUMP MODULE LEAKS GASOLINE Closed
DURING THE COURSE OF THIS EA INVESTIGATION, ODI OBSERVED THAT THE MAJORITY OF THE COMPLAINTS (88%) AND WARRANTY CLAIMS (94%) WERE REPORTED FOR VEHICLES THAT ARE REGISTERED FOR USE IN THE "SALT BELT" REGION OF THE US. THIS AREA INCLUDES 20 STATES IN THE NORTHEAST, MID ATLANTIC AND THE MIDWEST REGIONS AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. CONSUMERS IN THE SALT BELT REGION REPORTED TO ODI THAT THEY COULD SMELL FUEL VAPORS IN TH…
NHTSA #EA07009 · Fuel System, Gasoline · opened Jul 2007 · closed Aug 2008BRAKE LAMP FAILURE Closed
GM STATES THAT SOME BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULBS CAN PREMATURELY BECOME INOPERATIVE DUE TO MALFUNCTIONING BRAKE/TAIL LAMP SOCKETS. ON MARCH 2, 2004, GM INITIATED A 6-YEAR/72,000 MILE "SPECIAL POLICY" FOR 989,487 SUBJECT VEHICLES TO INSPECT AND REPLACE THE REAR BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULB SOCKET ASSEMBLIES. ON APRIL 4, 2004, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE04-032) BASED ON CONSUMER COMPL…
NHTSA #EA04021 · Exterior Lighting · opened Aug 2004 · closed Nov 2004WINDSHIELD WIPER FAILURE Closed
ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2003, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE03-042) TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED WINDSHIELD WIPER FAILURE IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2002 AND 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER AND TRAILBLAZER EXT, GMC ENVOY AND ENVOY XL, AND OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA VEHICLES. THE INVESTIGATION WAS UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS ON JANUARY 6, 2004, AND THE SCOPE WAS EXPANDED TO INCLUDE CERTAIN…
NHTSA #EA04002 · Visibility · opened Jan 2004 · closed Feb 2004FUEL SPILLAGE DURING REFUELING Closed
THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON THE MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER. BASED ON GM'S INFORMATION REQUEST (IR) RESPONSE, ODI ADDED TO ITS ANALYSIS THE MY 2003 GMC ENVOY AND OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES SHARE THE SAME VEHICLE PLATFORM (GM 360/370) AND FUEL FILL COMPONENTS. INCIDENT SUMMARY NUMBERS REPORTED ABOVE INCLUDE THESE VEHICLES. EPA REGULATES THE FUEL DISPENSING RATES AT FILLING STATIONS…
NHTSA #PE04001 · Fuel System, Gasoline · opened Jan 2004 · closed May 2004WINDSHIELD WIPER FAILURE Closed
THE SUBJECT VEHICLES (CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER (EXT), GMC ENVOY (XL), AND OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA) ARE BUILT ON THE GMT360 AND GMT370 PLATFORMS AND WERE ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH A WINDSHIELD WIPER ASSEMBLY REFERRED TO AS THE ¿FAMILY¿ DESIGN MODULE (P/N 15171306 BASE, P/N 15171307 FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH RAINSENSE AUTOMATIC MOISTURE SENSITIVE WIPERS). THE WINDSHIELD WIPER ASSEMBLY IS LOCATED INSIDE THE PLENUM AT THE BASE O…
NHTSA #PE03042 · Visibility · opened Sep 2003 · closed Jan 2004An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.
Manufacturer service bulletins 605
Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be covered. Showing the 10 most recent of 605.
This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
Bulletin PIP5601C · Jul 2025This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment…
Bulletin PIP5358D · Feb 2025This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Record…
Bulletin PIP4723J · Electrical System · Oct 2024This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures…
Bulletin PIT5099H · Sep 2024This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures…
Bulletin PIT5099H · Sep 2024This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in que…
Bulletin PIT3271P · Sep 2024Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exc…
Bulletin General Communication · Electrical System · Aug 2024This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce c…
Bulletin 16-NA-383 · Fuel/propulsion System, Engine · Jun 2024This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
Bulletin 18-NA-099 · Jun 2024This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
Bulletin 24-NA-098 · Electrical System · Jun 2024Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the BRAVADA. Model-year data, not specific to one car.
Canadian recalls 9
Transport Canada recall campaigns for the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada. Relevant if the car was first sold in, or imported from, Canada.
Other
Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk…
Transport Canada #2019420 · Aug 2019Lights And Instruments
On certain vehicles, the directional/hazard signals may not operate as designed. Actuation of the turn signal or hazard lights will cause them to illuminate and remain illuminated (not flash as intended). Drivers may not be able to clearly signal their intentions to turn, change travel lanes or potentially warn others of an impaired vehicle operating condition. Correction: Deal…
Transport Canada #2005131 · May 2005Lights And Instruments
On certain vehicles, vibration and heat may cause the tail lamp/stop lamp bulb to loosen in its socket. If this occurs, the bulb may flicker and eventually become inoperative. The loss of one or both of the tail lamps/stop lamps could reduce the vehicle's visibility to following drivers and fail to warn others that the vehicle is braking and/or is stopped, which could lead to a…
Transport Canada #2004390 · Oct 2004Brakes
On certain vehicles, the brake hoses are not labelled with a designation that identifies the manufacturer of the assembly as required by CMVSS 106. This non-compliance has no effect on the performance of the involved brake hose assemblies. Correction: Since this does not pose a safety risk, no corrective action is required.
Transport Canada #2004088 · Mar 2004Electrical
On certain vehicles, water may seep into the windshield wiper module. If this were to happen, it could result in windshield wipers that will not turn on, cease operation while driving, fail to turn off, turn on by themselves, and/or continuous windshield washer pump operation. Improper operation of the windshield wiper system in a severe weather situation could reduce the drive…
Transport Canada #2004045 · Feb 2004Seats And Restraints
Certain vehicles do not comply with CMVSS 225 and 210.2. The Owner's Manual does not include the location symbols for the Lower Universal Anchorage System for Restraint Systems and Booster Cushions and an explanation of the meaning of the symbols. Correction: Owner's will receive an Owner's Manual supplement.
Transport Canada #2003172 · Jul 2003Source: Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.
About the Oldsmobile Bravada
The Oldsmobile Bravada is a mid-size luxury SUV that was sold by Oldsmobile from 1991 to 2004. The only SUV ever marketed by Oldsmobile, the Bravada was the first GM light truck since 1924 offered outside of the Chevrolet and GMC brands. Introduced as the flagship GM mid-size SUV, the Bravada was also the highest-content GM SUV prior to the 1999 introduction of the GMC Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade.
From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.