The starter solenoid is connected to the starter on most vehicles. The 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass is no different in this regard. What is different is the fact that you can remove the solenoid without being forced to remove the starter first. This makes swapping out the broken solenoid a much easier task than on most vehicles. You will know when your solenoid is going bad when the vehicle just clicks when you try to start it. This means the solenoid is not engaging the starter with enough electricity to turn the starter gear.
Locate the starter. It is under the vehicle, on the driver's side. The starter is approximately 10 inches in length and cylindrical in shape. It has a second cylindrical housing connected to it. That is the starter solenoid. Use your replacement solenoid as a visual reference.
Disconnect the wiring harnesses from the starter solenoid.
Remove the two bolts that secure the starter solenoid to the starter housing. Use a socket, ratchet and an extension bar to reach the bolts. It is a tight fit, but the solenoid can be taken off without removing the starter.
Slide the old solenoid out of the starter housing and then slide the new one into place.
Secure the solenoid with the new replacement bolts that come with the solenoid. Reconnect the wiring harnesses to the solenoid.
